About Plasma TV Stands

Plasma television stands are a new twist on an old idea. Television sets have long required a stand, especially since the transformation away from cabinet style floor models. As such, plasma stands are similar to older style stands with some new twists and features. With a wide variety of styles and features available from different manufacturers, there is a plasma television stand to match just about every need and decor.

Significance

Stands for plasma televisions may be very significant components of a home theater system. Unless they are to be wall mounted, plasma TVs require a stable and secure platform for support because they have viewing screens up to 50 inches or more and cabinets with a very thin profile, sometimes only a few inches deep.Also, plasma's are high-end video units that cost a thousand dollars or more, and the potentially unstable size combined with the high price of the TV requires a solid support unit.

Features

Plasma stands are available with a variety of features designed to enhance the overall look of the system as well as convenience of use. First and foremost the stand is designed to provide a stable platform on which the TV sits. Stands may also feature enclosed cabinets beneath, to the side, or above the unit for storing video material and system components such as video players and receivers. There may also be access holes and features for running and managing video and electrical cables.

Size

Plasma stands are available in a wide variety of sizes. The size of the unit needed will depend upon different factors. The size of the TV itself will determine the size of stand needed. It is recommended that the stand be wider than the set itself to keep the unit stable. Size will also depend upon the features desired. If you only want a basic stand, the unit will be smaller than a unit with storage, especially on the sides. Decor may also come into play, especially in regard to design and purpose. If a home features larger furniture with heavy wood features, a matching stand may be larger to complement the home's overall style. Stands are also available in large wall units, which transform the plasma TV space into a room-filling piece of furniture.

Considerations

Budget may play a large role in selecting a stand: The cost of units range from just over $100 to over $1000. Also consider the decor of your room or home. With a variety of styles and designs available, along with a many different materials from which to choose, selecting a piece may not be as simple as merely buying a stand.

Benefits

Other than providing a convenient place for setting a TV, plasma stands offer design features which help tame the video jungle. With the ability to house and store a myriad of receivers, players, cables and wires, stands can help transform a messy and unkempt area into a functional and attractive space. Stands also have the benefit of adding to the overall appeal of a room or home by using attractive furniture designs and materials.

Expert Insight

Take your time when shopping and considering a plasma stand. You should consider the stand an investment, much as you did when you bought the plasma TV itself. There are many stores that have stands available for purchase, including big box stores, home appliance and electronics stores, and home furnishing stores. There are even more options available from on line outlets, which feature only stands and units for plasma televisions. Make sure the plasma TV stand will accommodate not only the TV but any accessories including home theater components.

Uses for an Old TV Stand

A television stand may have one obvious use, but to someone with an inventive mind, it has a broader range of uses. You may even want to dismantle the stand and reuse the building materials. Most of the time, though, you can keep the stand in one piece and still make it useful.

Bookshelves

A television stand with built-in cabinets and shelves makes an interesting bookshelf. You may have to add some shelves to get the most out of the available space, but shelf installation is usually a simple task. If the television stand is sturdy, you can attach pegs to the sides of the stand and set shelves atop the pegs. Evaluate your books to determine if the stand is wide enough to house your books.

Display Hutch

Your old television stand can also be an attractive place to store your delicate knickknacks. Television stands with transparent cabinet doors and open shelves work best for displaying delicate items. You can set the knickknacks on top of the stand or store them safely on shelves and in cabinets. Enhance the appearance of your television stand by placing a decorative cloth or doily over the top so it looks more like a small decorative table than a television stand.

Serving Cart

Lightweight television carts with casters can make a serviceable cart. You can use the cart to transport food from the kitchen to the dining table. You may want to attach wooden handles to the top or side of the cart to make it easier to move. If you use the cart in the kitchen, apply a clear coat of varnish to help protect it from stains and moisture damage.

Children's Play Sets

With a little creative designing and the right tools, you can convert your old television stand into something for your children to enjoy. For example, Sutton Grace --- a blogger -- converted an old television stand into a small play kitchen for her daughter. The cabinets on the stand became an under-the-sink cabinet and a small oven. There was even a fake fridge on the side of her creation. With a little planning, you can make your television stand into something just as elegant and detailed.

How to Convert a Coffee Table into a Dining Table

Converting a coffee table into a dining table can give new life to a piece of furniture. You might have or find a coffee table with great lines in the perfect style, but it stands too low to use as a dining table. Adding height to a coffee table to turn it into a dining table requires knowledge about furniture joiners and a few woodworking tools. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Determining Table Leg Joinery

1

Spread a blanket or large tarp over the floor to protect the coffee table's surface from scratching.

2

Turn the table over on the blanket or tarp to inspect its joinery.

3

Examine the joint type. Braced table joinery means that the legs are attached to the table's frame with metal or wood corner braces joined with screws. Bolted legs screw into a threaded piece that sinks into a wood block. Mortise-and-tenon joints have wood dowels or rectangular wood pieces that fit into a hollow section with glue holding them in place.

Braced Legs

4

Back the screws out of the corner braces holding the legs in place with a screwdriver.

5

Pull the legs out of the holes. If the legs are difficult to remove, glue might be holding them in place. Grip a table leg as near to the underside of the table as possible with an adjustable pipe wrench and twist to remove the leg.

6

Clean old adhesive or bits of wood out of the hole with 220-grit sandpaper.

7

Apply wood glue to the top of a commercially available table leg. A standard dining table stands 30 inches tall from floor to tabletop. Measure the thickness of the table top and subtract that number from 30 inches to determine the length of the table leg needed.

8

Fit the table leg into the hole. Insert screws through the brace and into the leg. Tighten the screws with a screwdriver. Wipe up glue from around the leg with a damp rag. Repeat for each table leg.

Bolted Legs

9

Turn a table leg counterclockwise to loosen and remove it from the underside of the coffee table.

10

Position a commercially available table leg with a protruding screw over the sunken threads found on the underside of the table. Subtract the thickness of the table top from 30 inches to find the length of the table leg.

11

Turn the leg clockwise to tighten it in place. Repeat for each table leg.

Mortise-and-Tenon Legs

12

Grip the table leg as close to the underside of the table top as possible with an adjustable pipe wrench. Twist the leg forcefully to loosen and remove it. If a square or rectangular mortise-and-tenon hold the leg in place, position a chisel at the seam of the leg and underside of the table. Strike the chisel with a mallet to cut the leg out of the mortise. Chisel out remaining pieces of the tenon.

13

Use 220-grit sandpaper to sand old wood glue out of the mortise.

14

Apply wood glue to the tenon or dowel end of a commercially available table leg and insert it into the holes. If the new table legs do not have a dowel joint, drill a hole in the same size as the dowel removed 2 inches deep in the center of the table leg with a power drill. Apply wood glue to a 2-inch section of a 3-inch long dowel. Tap the glued end of the dowel into the hole to create a dowel-jointed leg. Subtract the thickness of the table top from 30-inches to determine the leg length.

15

Place a hand-screw clamp over the new joinery and tighten it to hold the leg in place.

How to Mount a Soundbar to a TV Stand

A soundbar provides a set of speakers in a horizontal enclosure with greater amplification than those built into a flat-panel TV. You can attach the sound bar to the TV stand at the base of the TV so that dialogue projects naturally to the viewer. Tools that most homes have on hand will be needed, as will supplies from a hardware store.

Instructions

1

Cover the surface of a table with bath towels. Place the soundbar face down on the towels so that the text on the back is facing up.

2

Hold one of the two brackets so that the curved end is upright and facing right. Place the slot on the curved end over one of the mounting holes on the left side of the soundbar. Place a metal washer over a metal screw. Insert the screw into the slot. Screw the metal screw into the mounting hole with a Phillips screwdriver.

3

Hold the other bracket so that the curved end is upright and facing left. Place the slot on the curved end over one of the mounting holes on the right side of the soundbar. Place a metal washer over a metal screw. Insert the screw into the slot. Screw the metal screw through into the mounting hole with the screwdriver.

4

Place a C-clamp on the table with the protruding tab facing up. Line up the hole in the tab with a hole on the bottom of the bracket to your left. Place a metal washer over a metal screw. Insert the screw through the holes in the clamp and bracket. Twist a nut over the screw on the other side of the bracket. Tighten the nut with pliers. Repeat this procedure with the other C-clamp and the bracket to your right.

5

Hold the soundbar horizontally so that the two C-clamps are facing facing up.

6

Squeeze the handle of the C-clamp to your left so that the jaws open. Place the jaws around the front left edge of the TV stand. Repeat this procedure with the other C-clamp and the front right edge the TV stand.

DIY Aquarium Stands

When you have an aquarium, it is going to be necessary to have a stand for it. Aquariums shouldn't sit on the floor, and most regular tables aren't going to be strong enough to hold one. Aquarium stands can be expensive, so it is important to have some idea of how to do it yourself. With a little bit of thought and planning, you can have great DIY aquarium stands.

Existing Furniture

By far the easiest type of DIY aquarium stand is going to be a piece of furniture that already exists, which you can simply use to place your aquarium on. This is the easiest because you don't have to modify it. You do, however, want to make sure that it will work for a stand. First, make sure that it is big enough to accommodate the stand. The base of the piece of furniture should be larger and longer than the aquarium itself. The piece of furniture should be sturdy and should be solid. Tables with legs aren't a good idea but sturdy dressers, night stands or desks will work. Make sure that the piece of furniture will hold hundreds of pounds, because that is the weight that you'll be looking at, depending on the type of aquarium you use. Lastly, make sure that the piece of furniture can be attached to the wall. Before you put your aquarium on it, make sure the furniture is placed where you want it, and make sure that it is securely attached to the wall.

TV Stands

Another type of furniture that you can use with minimal changes is going to be a TV stand, because most TV stands already are made to hold heavy things. You also can attach a TV stand to the wall with screws in order to keep it secure.

Building a Stand

Another way that you can create a DIY aquarium stand is to build one yourself. You can make a stand in any style but the best style is a simple, solid wood style. Do not use legs; instead use strong pieces of wood to create a solid stand.

Attaching the Stand to the Wall

No matter what type of DIY stand you use, it is important to remember to secure it. Aquariums can easily tip over if not balanced correctly, so attach your stand, no matter what you use, to the wall with furniture screws. Use a website with a great plan to make sure that you have the perfect stand for your needs, depending on the type of aquarium stand you have.

What Style of Table Can Be Used With Corner Booth Seats in Dining Nooks?

Booth or banquette seating is a favorite option for a kitchen in which you'd like to make the best use of a corner space. The style of table that you use to outfit this setup may vary, but each of these tables has a few elements in common, which allows the table to fit into this space and allows you to make the best advantage of this kitchen table setup. Does this Spark an idea?

Shape and Size

Because of the position of the booth in the corner of the kitchen, one of the best ways to make maximum use of this space is to find a table that conforms with the square shape that the booths against the wall form. Look for rectangle-shaped tables that are slightly shorter than the end of the bench. which allows the table to fit within the framework of the booth while keeping the table and any chairs you place around it in addition to the booth seats from taking up extra floor space. Additionally, ensure that the table you choose is high enough for you to sit and eat comfortably. Sometimes booths can be quite low. Measure the height of your booth before going out to shop for the table.

Materials

The materials from which your booth table is made should be influenced by your kitchen decor. If you've chosen a retro 1950's style for the dining nook, choose a chrome table. For the bistro-style nook, gravitate toward a wooden table along with wooden benches. Often these booth table sets come with a table already, matching the style of the table with the booth seating surrounding it easier.

Considerations

In many instances, the booth seats are not the only seating that you have around the booth table. Often there are chairs placed on the side of the table opposite the booth. That being the case, look for a table that allows you to comfortably move your feet and push in the chairs. Test your chairs by pushing them under the table if possible. See that they fit between the table legs and not outside of them.

Unconventional

While the rectangle-shaped table offers the best use of the dining nook arrangement, you don't necessarily have to choose a rectangle-shaped table. If your decorating preferences dictate that you choose a rounded table instead, look for one that's oblong in shape. Pulling this look off is easier if the end of the table is pressed against the wall and there is a booth on only one side of the table instead of the "L-shape" that often features prominently in booth or banquette seating.

Handmade TV Stands

Building your own handmade TV stand is ensures a well-coordinated television setup. By custom designing your TV stand, you can tailor this piece of furniture to fit your room exactly. You can easily alter its dimensions to fit any size screen, and to fit and store any amount of related video devices underneath. Picking a specific wood type, paint color or wood stain enables you to perfectly match your new piece to the rest of your living room or bedroom decor. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Position one of the 2-by-1 side boards horizontally on the working surface with the long, thin side touching the surface. Place one of the 2-by-2 support boards parallel to the first board and on top of it, with the long, wide surface touching the first board. Arrange the boards so the long edge of the support board is flush with the edge of the side board and the two boards form a smooth L shape.

2

Predrill four evenly spaced holes down through the top of the support board and into the side board, so that the holes are directly in the center of the side boards. Secure the boards together using the 1-inch wood screws drilled through the predrilled holes. Repeat the previous steps for the other side and support boards.

3

Arrange the two sides on the top of one of the surface boards, with the outer sides of the side boards flush with the outside edge of the surface boards 2-foot sides. Ensure that the section of the side board with the support board attached is touching the surface board and that the support board is facing inward. Predrill four evenly spaced holes through the center of each of the exposed support boards and into the surface board.

4

Set the legs in the four corners of one of the 3-by-2-foot surface boards. Mark the location of their screw attachments according to their specific bracket holes. Predrill the holes in the marked locations, then attach the legs to the corners using the included hardware or 1-inch wood screws.

5

Place the bottom assembled surface board on top of the assembled side boards. Line the outer edge of the side boards up with the outer edge of the bottom surface board and predrill four evenly spaced holes down through the bottom surface board and into the center of the side boards. Drill a 2-inch wood screw down through each predrilled hole and into the side board.

Do it Yourself Pool Table

A pool table can be a fun addition to anyone's game room. While many types of commercial pool tables can be purchased and assembled, it's also possible to save some money and have the self-satisfaction of building a table yourself. It doesn't have to be as fancy as some other tables, and you can also customize its size to fit the dimensions of your room. You will, naturally, still need to get a set of pool balls and cues. Does this Spark an idea?

Size, Dimensions and Materials

A standard size pool table used in pool halls measures 9 by 4.5 feet with 30-inch-high legs, but home pool tables usually measure 8 by 4 feet. You can make your table a different size, but a general rule is to make it twice as long as it is wide. The tabletop has the playing surface placed on top of it with that surface covered by the cloth. The surface is usually made of slate, although wood can also be used, and needs to be 4 inches shorter than the table's length and two inches shorter than the width. Billiard cloth is made of wool or a wool/nylon blend called worsted cloth. A full-size table needs 21 to 24 ounces of cloth. The six pocket holes in the tabletop--four for the corners and two for the center pockets--are 3.5 inches in diameter with each hole's center 2 inches away from the table edge. The wooden rails that surround the table edges are covered with vulcanized rubber and billiard cloth on their inner edges. These rails should be long and wide enough to cover all of the table top not covered by the slate and also be 1.5 inches higher than the slate surface.

Construction

Cut the tabletop to the correct length and width, drill the pocket holes and attach the legs before you attach the slate. Position the legs so they are inside the circumference of the holes; start by gluing them to the underside and then nail or screw them from the top. Attaching side boards in between the legs will give them more support. Glue the slate board to the tabletop, centering it properly, and carefully cut away the parts of the board that overlap the pocket holes. Now apply the cloth. Glue it to the surface, stretching it tightly across one corner at a time, and then staple it to the edges of the tabletop not covered by slate. Attach the rails to the table edges, bolting or screwing them in place from the table's underside. Attach nylon or leather netting to the holes to make the pockets.

How to Rate Pool Balls

Many people enjoy the game of pool, or billiards as it is more formally known, and many people invest thousands of dollars into buying sleek oak pool tables. No luxury pool table is complete without a great set of billiard balls to accompany it. You want to choose a set of pool table balls that will perfectly suit your table and your personality. There are some criteria you should consider to rate a set of billiard balls before you make a purchase.

Instructions

1

Draw a five-column table with the following headings: brand, used or new, traditional or novelty, composition, and price. Use this chart to rate and compare the billiard balls that you are considering purchasing. As you look at billiard balls, write down information in these columns under these headings.

2

Rate based on brand. Only a few brands of billiard balls are available. The top choices are Action and Aramith. If you find a set of billiard balls from these brands, it is probably a very good set and should be ranked highly (5 of 5, 10 of 10 or however you want to rank them). If the billiard balls are not one of those two brands, then you might want to weigh in other factors.

3

Rate based on used or new. New billiard balls are definitely going to perform better on the pool table because they are less likely to be damaged. New balls, of course, will usually be more expensive. Used billiard balls, although cheaper, may not give you the same results as newer balls because they are more likely to be scratched or damaged. New billiard balls should usually be rated higher than used balls.

4

Rate based on traditional or novelty. A traditional billiard ball set includes seven striped balls, seven solid balls and one black eight ball. Novelty billiard balls may have various colors and styles, including sports themes or artistic designs. Novelty balls may also be made of different materials, such as stone or clay. Traditional balls are always best for traditional billiards. Novelty billiard balls are better for collections than for regular play. Traditional balls should be rated higher than novelty billiard balls.

5

Rate based on composition. The best billiard balls are made of synthetic materials, specifically phenolic resin. These materials give the best performance when the balls are struck by the cue. Rarely, you will come across billiard balls made of stone, clay or acrylic. These materials are no longer used widely because they are more prone to damage and do not last as long as balls made of synthetic materials. Billiard balls made from some type of synthetic material, such as Bakelite or phenolic resin, should be more highly rated than stone or clay billiard balls.

6

Rate based on price. A more expensive billiard ball does not always equal a better billiard ball, but more expensive balls are more likely to be made of quality materials and are more likely to be durable and undamaged. If you want to save money on billiard balls, look for used sets made of synthetic materials that show few signs of wear. Usually, a more expensive set should be rated higher than a cheaper set, although the other factors should always be incorporated into decision making.

How to Mount Television Stands

Flat screen televisions are quickly taking over homes across the country. Not only do most flat screens pride themselves on vibrant picture quality, but are also slim, making them easy to put on a shelf or TV stand. Another benefit to flat screen televisions are the fact that they can be mounted to the wall of your home to be even more space efficient.

Instructions

1

Measure your television using a measuring tape. Once you have done this find a place within your home that will fit your television's measurements. Use a stud finder to locate a stud on which you will mount the television in the area that you have chosen. A stud on the inside of the wall will allow the hanging of the television mount to it, otherwise without the stud, you'll need to find another appropriate area. Make a mark using a pencil when you have found the stud.

2

Choose an area close to an outlet. Some people are concerned that wires hanging from their television to the wall outlet can look cluttered or sloppy. Purchase a cord cover or some other type of cord concealment or hire an electrician to run the flat screen's cord through the inside of your wall to an outlet.

3

Attach the mount to the flat screen television. Each television mount will have its own specific directions--screws and a screw driver, or alternately a drill, are needed to install the mount. Most television mounts require the installation of two short beams to the back of the television.

4

Attach the television mount to the wall. Before screwing the mount to the wall, have a friend hold it up against the wall, while you stand back and ensure that the position is where it is preferred. Ideally the mount should be at eye level from the position you view the television. Ensure that the area in which you install the mount is on the stud mark that was made earlier. Once satisfied with the placement, trace the area with a pencil.

5

Put the mount back on your wall and hold it there as your friend checks for level. Adjust the mount accordingly if it is not. Screw the mount into the wall. Check again to make sure it is level. Hang the television onto the wall mount with the assistance of your friend. The television should easily connect with the mount because of the two beams that were installed earlier onto the back of it. After mounting the television, check once again for level. If all is well, put away the tools and enjoy your new wall-mounted television.

What Is the Best Height for a Flat Screen TV?

Flat screen TVs are designed to be mounted on walls like a picture frame, which frees up shelf space for other items and makes an intriguing centerpiece to the room. But like a painting, a TV needs to be mounted with the overall aesthetics of the area in mind. Moreover, a TV will probably be watched far more often than a picture and the height at which you mount it needs to take the viewer's comfort and relaxation into consideration.

The Position of the TV

The TV needs to be at a height which allows for comfortable viewing. This can be tricky when you're mounting a flat screen TV on a wall: The urge may be to place it high up, the way you might a picture frame. But when viewing a TV, you want to be able to look at it from a level angle, without craning your neck to see it. Sit down at your chosen viewing position and find a spot on the wall that is parallel to your gaze. That should more or less be where the center of the flat screen TV should go. You can make it a little higher or lower if you wish, but more than 6 to 12 inches variance means you risk placing it in an uncomfortable position.

The Area Around the TV

Experts suggest maintaining a space of at least 6 inches around any flat screen TV free of pictures, windows or anything which may compete with the image onscreen. Measure the space accordingly and pick a location for the TV that provides plenty of space around it. If you're using an entertainment center or similar piece of furniture, you needn't worry about the surrounding space, so long as the TV fits into the cubbyhole allotted for it. When measuring the space for your TV, include data on the distance between the set itself and the place where you intend to sit. Most flat screen TVs allow for a very wide viewing angle and don't lose their picture clarity if you view them obliquely. But many are also high definition, which can give you a headache if you sit too close. Experts suggest a distance of 2 to 3 times the diagonal width of the screen, or 4 to 6 times the height of the TV, for optimal viewing.

Wall Studs

TV screens can be very heavy, particularly plasma screen TVs, which contain a lot of components inside. While TV mounts are built to support such weight, the wall itself may not. When choosing a height for your TV, consider mounting it onto the wooden studs within your wall. The studs can support a lot more weight than drywall and provide an additional level of stability for your TV. Use a stud finder to locate them and try to find a stud that matches the ideal location of the TV as closely as possible.

How to Install Felt on a Slate Pool Table

Quality pool tables and billiard tables have a slate bed covered by a thin layer of felt fabric. This felt helps cushion the balls on bumpers and allow them to roll evenly on the slate bed. If the felt is worn or torn, the play on the pool table will be affected. Replacing the felt on a slate pool table will help improve the play on the table, and will give the table a fresh, new look as well.

Instructions

1

Remove the nuts from the bolts under the table that hold the rails onto the table. Lift the rails off of the table, and keep track of their original positions.

2

Pull all of the staples that hold the felt onto the perimeter of the table. Fold the damaged felt, and set it aside.

3

Lay the new felt over the table, and attach it to one end of the table with a staple every two inches.

4

Pull the felt taut in the center of the other end of the table, and tack in place with a staple. Work outwards from the center, pulling and tacking evenly every two inches.

5

Move to one side of the table and tack the felt in place with a staple every two inches. Be sure to avoid pulling the felt, causing wrinkles in the fabric.

6

Pull on the felt on the opposite side in the center until the felt is taut, and tack in place with a staple. Move outward from the center, with a staple every two inches.

7

Trim the excess felt with a pair of scissors or a utility knife.

8

Cut three vertical stripes in the felt in each pocket, making sure to start the cut 1/2 inch below the bottom of the slate in the pocket. Tuck the felt slits underneath the slate and secure to the bottom of the slate with felt cement.

9

Poke a screwdriver through each of the bolt holes in the slate for the rails. Position the rail bolts through the bolt holes. Tighten the nuts under the table to secure the rails.

DIY Wedding Linens

Wedding linens are one of the first things guests notice when they arrive at a wedding reception. The linens cover each table, and serve as the backdrop for your party. Choose the wrong type of linens, and the color or fabric might overwhelm the centerpieces or clash with your decorations and wedding colors. While many companies rent wedding linens, you can easily make them yourself so that the color, look, and feel matches perfectly with your decor.

Instructions

1

Assess the colors of your wedding, including the color of the bridesmaid dresses and the color of the flowers on each table. Pick a color for your tablecloths that complements those colors and does not clash. Shades of ivory and white are a classic pick for weddings because they work with most other colors, but you may want a brighter or darker color.

2

Measure all the tables carefully with a measuring tape and then double check your original measurements for accuracy. You'll need the measurements when you start looking for fabric. Check the size of every table, especially if you have a separate, larger table for the wedding party.

3

Visit bedding stores as well as fabric stores as you look for fabric in your chosen color. Bedding stores have a wide selection of sheets that you might be able to alter for your needs. At fabric stores, you have the option of having the pieces cut to your specific sizes.

4

Cut the fabric to the specific size needed for your tables. Use the sewing machine to hem the edges of the pieces and hide any imperfections on the edges of the fabric. Fold one-half to one inch of fabric over on all sides and run through the sewing machine, using the same color thread as your fabric.

5

Add embellishments or decorations to your wedding linens, if you like. Attach a piece of ribbon along the edge of the fabric and hold in place with pins. Run the fabric through your sewing machine, removing the pins as you go.

How to Buy a TV Turntable

A TV turntable is a unique device that provides you with the ability to change the viewing angle of your television while keeping your entertainment center stationary. A turntable is ideal in rooms where the seating may not be suitable for proper viewing at every angle. Instead of moving your seating or entertainment center around, you can simply swivel the television. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Measure your television to make sure you know what size of turntable to buy.

2

Match your turntable to the type of TV you have. Some models are intended to be used with newer flat-screen televisions, while others will have enough depth to handle older, larger televisions. Make sure that the turntable will be sturdy enough to hold the television.

3

Consider a space-saving TV turntable. While many turntables are simply swiveling platforms, others include space for DVDs or videos. This is a great way to store frequently watched movies where they will be easy to find while reducing clutter around the television.

4

Select a style to match your decor. While a TV turntable is a simple unit, they do come in many different finishes and styles. For example, a glass and brass turntable will be appropriate for a contemporary home, while a plain wooden turntable is ideal for those with more traditional decor. Typically, it is best to match the style of the turntable to the style of your entertainment center.

5

Choose a turntable with a padded base. In order to prevent scratching on your entertainment center, select a TV turntable with padding or non-skid material on the bottom.

How to Get More Serving Tables in Cafe World

"Cafe World" is a Facebook game that lets you build your own restaurant from the ground up. You'll have to keep customers happy in a variety of ways while producing quality recipes and constantly expanding your restaurant. Serving tables are a critical part of any cafe, and you can purchase extra tables as you collect enough coins and level up enough to have waiters available to cover all of the extra serving tables.

Instructions

1

Purchase tables for your cafe under the "Customize" tab. These cost around 500 coins each, depending on the style of the table you want to buy. Always buy a new table if somebody comes into your cafe and has a clock symbol over their head, because this indicates they are impatient at having to wait for a seat.

2

Purchase your first expansion when you have earned 500 coins. You should be able to afford this by the time you reach Level 4. The expansion will let you use as many as nine serving tables. Keep a clear path for your waiter; he will need easy access to all diners to keep them happy.

3

Collect a second waiter once you reach Level 8. This will let you add more tables to your cafe and be able to service them with more efficiency. Keep adding tables to your preference as you level up, taking care to only use as many tables as you're able to service effectively.

Ideas for an Inexpensive Table Cover

You probably already have everyday tablecloths for family use (never mind that tiny gravy or wine stain) and the fancy cloth you use for dinner parties is carefully packed away for the next special occasion. What do you do for those times when you need something more than a bare table, but the everyday family cloths and the fine dinner cloth will not do? Try these inexpensive ideas instead. Does this Spark an idea?

Sheets

Use a twin sized sheet unless your table is extra large, or simply cut and hem it to the correct size. Sheets come in a variety of patterns, colors and textures, and most are highly washableexcellent where the possibility of food stains is almost guaranteed at some point. Accent with colorful coordinating fabric scraps cut with pinking sheers and layered on top of sheets.

Stenciled Cloth

Purchase white linen or cotton broadcloth (or a white sheet) and cut and hem to fit your table. Use purchased or homemade stencils to create a pretty pattern on corners or border with fabric paints. Use iron on transfers as an alternative to stencil patterns, and fill outlines using a brush and fabric paints.

Quilts

Give your table country charm with an old-fashioned quilt as a cover. You need a light weight quilt or quilt top only (ironed flat) to avoid lumps that may cause instability of objects placed on top of the table. If you have fabric scraps available and enjoy sewing, you can custom make the quilt to fit your table and incorporate a pattern to compliment the shape of the table. For example, add a rosette, sundial or flower for a round shape; or sew a ribbon border to the size of a square or rectangular top.

Decorated Cardboard

For an informal or childs table, cut a large piece of cardboard, (foam board or poster board work well too, but may need to be taped together to be large enough). Let the kids glue colorful images, stickers or random bits of paper on top. Finish with non-toxic decoupage glue and let dry. The final covering will be semi-washable and durable for several uses. Check out Kids Birthday Party Decorations for more kid-proof table topper ideas.

Disposable

Buy an inexpensive paper table covering and top with a clear piece of plastic, such as those used by painters to protect furniture. The pattern will show through and the plastic will protect your tables finish. This is another idea that works well for kids, or use it at your next picnic. When the meal is over, roll the whole thing up and toss in the trash.

Shower Curtain

Buy a clear vinyl shower curtain. Trim it to the size and shape of your table (allowing for overhang). Put a couple of inches of hot water in the bathtub; push the curtain into the water for several minutes to soften the vinyl and remove fold marks. The clear vinyl lets you see the wood of your tabletop (or expensive cloth table covering beneath) while simultaneously protecting it from spills.

TV Stand Assembly Instructions

When assembling a TV stand, it's important to read the instructions that came along with it, as they vary. The stand will use multiple panels and fasteners auch as screws, pins and small dowel sticks. Make sure you have all of the fastenera and panels you're supposed to have and know where each one goes. Keep in mind that many newer stands may be designed for lighter LCD TV sets, making them unsafe for larger tube-based sets.

Basic TV Stands

A basic TV stand can contain multiple open shelves to store other components. The "legs" of these stands are typically divided into parts. Connect the bottom "foot pieces" to the bottom shelf using foot bolts. Shelves are then connected by inserting I-shaped bolts into the assembled leg pieces, then repeating for the next level of shelves. Once the final top shelf is assembled, the bolt ends that stick out are covered with plastic or rubber caps for safety and appearance. The stand may also have a rear plate, which is sometimes called a "cable tidy," since you can route the TV cables through it. The way to Install this piece depends on the stand, but it often involves inserting screws or pegs into the panel to balance the middle shelves and bolting it to the top and bottom shelves.

Stands with Cabinets

Assembling a TV stand with cabinets is much like assembling a set of cabinets themselves. The rear and side panels are often the first things you connect. They can be screwed on or they may also have brackets on the side panels that slide into slots on the rear panel (or vice versa).
Attach the front panel to the side panels in the same way you connected the rear panel. If the front panel's doors are already connected, attach the knobs to the door. The bottom panel goes next; it may have hooks that fit onto brackets on the bottom of the front and rear panels. The dividers for the cabinets then go into the stand. These can be held by grooves in the front or rear panels. The top panel is now placed onto the assembly, often by inserting retainer pins in the side panels for balance and small dowel sticks in the corners to hold it in place. Any shelves within the cabinets are then installed by balancing them on shelf pins inserted into the side panels.

How to Remove a TV Stand

A TV stand is a great addition to any home, it provides organization for the television and its components, such as DVD player, audio system or cable set up. However, TV stands tend to be large and take up a lot of space. Removing a TV stand from a room takes strength and organization. Most TV stands weigh between 40 and 70 pounds so its best to have someone help you remove the TV stand. Once the TV stand is removed, it can be taken apart or stored elsewhere leaving you with extra space in the original place.

Instructions

1

Disconnect all components from the electrical outlet.

2

Carefully remove all of the components and place in a safe place while the TV stand is removed. Ask for an extra person to help to ensure the bigger, heavier components are not damaged or dropped.

3

Wipe the TV stand down with a wet cloth to remove excess dust and prevent the dust from falling on the floor.

4

Remove the TV stand from its location by having someone help you push the TV stand out of the current location. If the stand is light enough, your helper and you can also lift it up to remove it.

How to Size a TV Turntable

Your television can provide more convenient entertainment when it sits on a turntable that is easily swiveled. This way, if you have a large group of people watching a football game, you can adjust the TV so everyone can see. Turntables are also helpful when you need to hook up new electronic equipment to the back of your TV.

Instructions

1

Measure your TV's screen from the top left corner to bottom right corner if you have a standard cathode ray tube (CRT) television. Turntable and swivel products will state which televisions they accommodate based on this measurement. For example, a turntable will say it's designed for a 40-inch television or smaller. Also measure the bottom of your TV from side to side and front to back. Only buy a turntable that is larger than these measurements.

2

Measure the stand of your flat screen television from side to side and front to back. The turntable only needs to be larger than the stand the TV comes on, not larger or wider than the actual flat screen. Note the weight of your television, and make sure that the turntable accommodates the weight of your television.

3

Place your turntable on existing furniture or a counter-top that is larger than the size of the turntable. You can also purchase stand-alone shelving units that have turntable tops if you prefer not to use existing furniture as a base to display the TV.

How to Make My Own Dining Room Table Tops

Learn how to make a tabletop to build a custom dining room table for your home. Apply the knowledge to other furniture projects such as side and coffee tables for other rooms. An attractive and functional tabletop can be made from any species of furniture grade plywood. Birch, maple and cherry are common options for furniture grade plywood. The builder cuts the plywood to the desired size and shape, and sands and finishes the edges. After making a basic top, apply the principles to make an endless number of tabletop designs. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Adjust the depth table saw to cut through wood that is 3/4-inch thick. Set up the fence on the table saw to cut the plywood panel down to 36-by-96-inches using a tape measure. Run the plywood panel through the saw to make the cut.

2

Adjust the fence on the table saw to cut the panel down to 36-by-72-inches using a tape measure. Run the plywood panel though the saw to make the cut. This is the tabletop.

3

Sand the 3/4-inch thick edges of the tabletop using a edge belt sander. Run the edges through the sander until they are completely smooth.

4

Place the tabletop on a work surface. Apply the edge banding to each 3/4-inch thick edge of the tabletop using a flat iron to secure it into place. Make sure the edge banding is even with the edges of the plywood as you run the iron over the banding.

5

Use an edge banding trimmer to trim the top and bottom edges of the edge banding to create a perfectly flush edge on the plywood tabletop.

6

Sand the surface of the tabletop with fine grit sandpaper. Be sure to sand with the grain to avoid scratching the surface.

7

Apply a wood finish to the tabletop. Allow the finish to dry prior to using the tabletop in your woodworking project.

How to Select a Stand for an LCD TV

LCD TV stands for liquid crystal display television. LCD screens offer a better quality picture and more intense colors than regular TV screens. This type of television tends to be lightweight with a thin screen. Because of its sleek design, LCD TVs are easy to fit in even very small spaces, such as dorm rooms and studio apartments. Before you can start enjoying your new LCD TV, however, you do need to select a stand to put it on.

Instructions

1

Measure the area of your home where you're planning to put the stand. This will help you determine how large a stand you can select for your LCD TV.

2

Research the difference between a traditional TV stand and an entertainment center. Traditional stands sit close to the ground and the TV sits above one or two cabinets or shelves. Entertainment centers are much larger and have multiple shelves and cabinets. In an entertainment center, the TV sits inside the stand. Entertainment centers can offer your LCD TV more protection from damage, with walls that can keep your TV from getting bumped into and a surface on top of it that can limit the amount of dust that gets in. However, entertainment centers do take up more space.

3

Pay attention to the style of the TV stand. You want it to match the overall dcor of your room. For example, if you have all modern, black furniture, don't choose a traditional wooden hutch-style stand. Instead choose something more sleek and modern. Also consider matching the stand to your LCD TV.

4

Look for high-quality stands. Your LCD TV was a significant investment, so you don't want to put it on a flimsy stand that doesn't offer the protection it needs. Push down on the stand to test its stability before you put your TV on it. Some high-quality materials include hardwoods, softwoods, stainless steel and brass. Hardwoods include oak, maple and mahogany and are more expensive because they have more density. Softwoods include cedar and pine. While these are less expensive and not as sturdy as hardwood, they are still a much more long-lasting choice than plywood, which is just wood that's been shaped together from wood fragments.

DIY Wood TV Stand

Buying a TV stand can set you back a pretty penny, so if you have a bit of woodworking experience, making a do-it-yourself TV stand will be more economical. A DIY TV stand can be a simple project, and if you use a router to cut dadoes (grooves) to join the wood, the TV stand will be a solid piece of furniture. Take the TV stand measurements to the lumber yard and save time by getting them to cut the lumber to size for you.

Instructions

1

Place the 1-by-6 plank flat on the work surface, then place the 1-by-2 plank centered on top of it, flush with one end. Ensure that the 1-by-2 plank is at exactly 90 degrees to the 1-by-6 plank, using the set square. Drive four 1 3/4-inch wood screws through the top of the 1-by-2 plank into the 1-by-6 plank. This is the router jig for making straight cuts with the router.

2

Lay the two lumber 40-inch planks next to each other on the work surface, 40-inch sides touching. Measure in 2 inches from either end of the planks and mark a straight line across the faces of both planks, parallel with the 24-inch side. Make a third line centered between the first two.

3

Lay one of the planks with a 40-inch side flush with the edge of the workbench. Clamp the jig over the top, with the 1-by-2 part of the jig flush against the 40-inch side on the edge of the workbench and the 1-by-6 side going across the plank, parallel with the lines marked earlier.

4

Adjust the jig so that the 1-by-6 plank is far enough away from the first line on the plank that when the router blade is on the line, its edge rests against the edge of the 1-by-6 plank, which will guide it to make a straight cut.

5

Measure the exact thickness of the 24-by-24 inch planks (it is often a little less than the stated thickness) and attach a router bit of this thickness to the router.

6

Cut a 1/4-inch-deep dado groove with the router across the 40-inch plank at the position marked, using the edge of the jig to keep the router straight. Do this for all the lines marked on the 40-inch planks, so that each has three dado grooves. Sand all the components of the TV stand.

7

Lay one 40-inch plank flat on the work surface, dado groves up. Bead a line of wood glue into each dado. Insert the three 24-by-24 inch planks upright in the dadoes. Bead a line of glue onto the tops of the upright 24-by-24 inch planks and put the remaining 40-inch plank on top, the dadoes on that plank encasing the ends of the upright 24-by-24 inch planks.

8

Check that the upright 24-inch planks are on square with the set square, then clamp the 40-inch planks to hold the structure tight while the glue dries; around 2 to 3 hours.

9

Drive six of the 2-inch wood screws through the top of each 40-inch plank into the ends of the 24-inch planks to secure the stand together. Scrape a small amount of wood putty into the screw holes, then patch-sand once dry.

10

Paint or varnish the TV stand as desired and leave to dry for the time specified on the paint or varnish can label.

How to Build Wooden Tables

Having an easily accesible table in your living room can make a lot of things more convenient. For instance, having the television remote or your keys handy on a table can eliminate the frustration of digging through the couch cushions trying to find the lost items. With a few pieces of wood and some inexpensive building materials, you can build a table to place items on or even eat a small meal off of. Building this table is a fairly easy project that will provide you with a piece of furniture that will not only be functional but beautiful.

Instructions

1

Cut the piece of hardwood plywood into a 24-inch-by-48-inch panel, using a circular saw. Cut that piece into two pieces, one measuring 11 inches and one measuring 13 inches. Crosscut the 11 inch piece at 24 and 1/2 inches. This will be the side panel. Cut another 13 inch piece to be the bottom panel. The remaining 13 inch piece will serve as the top.

2

Crosscut the 13 inch top panel at 19 and 1/2 inches.

3

Cut two equal sizes triangles out of the hardwood, creating two triangular braces.

4

Drill four kreg holes on the back side of the bottom of the bottom panel, using a power drill. Also drill three 1/8 inch holes along the center of the panel, which will be used to attach the brace. Along the top, inside edge of the side panel, drill four kreg holes to attach the top panel to the side panel.

5

Drill two kreg holes on either side of the top brace and one hole on one side of the bottom brace.

6

Center the bottom brace onto the pre-drilled holes in the bottom panel, then attach the brace using wood glue and three woodscrews.

7

Attach the side panel to the bottom panel by using wood glue and four kreg screws. Attach the bottom brace to the side panel by using a kreg screw.

8

Attach the top panel to the side panel by using four kreg screws and wood glue.

9

Attach the top brace to the top and side panels by using four kreg screws and wood glue.

10

Cut the 3/4 inch edging trim to fit all exposed plywood sides. Attach using wood brads and wood glue.

11

Sand all rough spots and edges, fill all holes with wood filler. Afterwards, stain the table using wood stain and a medium paint brush.

Assembly Instructions for a Sauder 42 Espresso TV Stand

The Sauder 42-inch espresso television stand is a wooden TV stand manufactured by the Ohio-based Sauder Woodworking Company. Sauder manufactures a very wide selection of prefabricated furniture, including entertainment centers, TV stands, and bedroom and office furniture. Sauder furniture is available at thousands of retailers including Office Depot and Wal-Mart. It will take approximately 20 to 30 minutes to completely assemble a Sauder 42-inch espresso TV stand. No tools are required for assembly.

Instructions

1

Slide the top and bottom cross boards into the assembly slots on the right table leg. You will hear them click into place.

2

Stand the unit up. Slide the top and bottom cross boards into the assembly slot on the left leg. Be sure they click into place.

3

Insert front cross board into the holes on the legs.

4

Place the bottom shelf onto the dowels on the legs and bottom cross board by pushing the shelf in from the side. Push down to secure the shelf. Repeat this process to install the middle shelf.

5

Insert the middle cross board into the hole on the front cross board.

6

Insert the middle cross board into the interconnect slot on the top cross board.

7

Insert the stand's front drawers.

8

Secure the top shelf into the legs by inserting the locking pins into the holes underneath the top shelf. Adjust floor levelers, if needed, to even out the unit.

Ruidoso, New Mexico Cabins With Jacuzzis & Pool Tables

Ruidoso, New Mexico serves as a popular year-round resort in the Southwestern U.S. Located three hours south of Albuquerque, the town boasts attractions such as a race track, casino, dinner theater and center for the performing arts. Ruidoso also offers a winter park in which tourists and locals can engage in skiing and snowboarding.

D's Property Management

D's Property Management has four-bedroom cabins with two bathrooms that sleep up to 10 people. Pool tables are located in the lounging room, on the first floor. There is a hot tub on the premises as well. Pets are also welcome, but an additional deposit applies. There are nine different restaurants within one mile of the office. Each rental offers linens and kitchenware.

Hummingbird Cabins

Hummingbird Cabins located in Ruidoso offers one to five-bedroom cabins available nightly or weekly. Most of these cabins include high-speed Internet access, TV, washer/dryer and microwave. The property offers hot tubs in some cabins, but not all. If you want one, it's wise to ask ahead of time. There are restaurants within two miles of the Buena Vista cabin. Pool tables are available in some cabins as well.

White Mountain Majesty

Casas De Ruidoso offers a cabin named White Mountain Majesty. This is a four-bedroom cabin with a pool table, as well as a ping pong table. There is also a hot tub available. Three full bathrooms, two big-screen TVs, decks with gas barbecue grills and a view of the nearby mountains are included.

AAA Escape

Casas De Ruidoso also offers AAA Escape, which is a cabin with three king bedrooms, two full bathrooms, a full kitchen and TVs in every bedroom. Also offered with these cabins are a hot tub and a game room with pool table.

How to Assemble a Stratford Pool Table

Stratford fold-away pool tables are well-known for being a good compromise between a full weight pool table and a convenient table that you can set up in your home. With its relatively light weight and simple fold-away storage solution, a Stratford pool table is an ideal way to have fun with family and friends in the comfort of your own home. Set to league dimensions with regulation cushions, a Stratford table will enable you to practice and play whenever it is convenient for you.

Instructions

1

Read the instruction manual. Given the fold-away mechanism, your Stratford pool table is likely to have a specific and unique method for setup.

2

Unpack your table and check that you have all the parts. Many tables include basic tools, such as an Allen key. Check the instruction manual to make sure you have all the items necessary and contact the supplier if there are any parts or tools missing.

3

Set up the legs and slate by screwing each leg to the base of the slate and standing the basic frame of your table upright. Ensure that the table is flat using a spirit level, and make sure each screw is tightened and secured on each leg. Apply gentle weight and wobble each corner of the table's frame and then repeat the spirit level test to ensure your pool table will stand up to the rigors of real-life use. If, after this test, the table is not sitting flat, or any of the legs are loose, re-tighten the necessary screws until your table is flat and sturdy.

4

Apply an industrial-strength adhesive to the table leg seams to further stabilize your table. Use a glue gun, if you have one, or a spatula to ensure an even coverage of adhesive. Glue will be included with your Stratford pool table kit but many users find that it is not strong enough to form a durable seal. Purchase an industrial-strength glue and clamp for a period of no less than 24 hours for the strongest bond.

5

Lay your felt (baize) playing cloth down onto the table. Second only to making sure your table is flat, ensure the cloth is flat and kink-free without any disruptions or ructions to the playing surface. Start in one corner of the table and pull the cloth tight before stapling it down underneath the pocket on the underside of the table. Repeat this process for each of the six pockets, always ensuring the cloth is tight, flat and smooth. Once the pockets are in place, staple along the edge of the table making sure that no staples interfere with the faces of any of the cushions or any other area where the balls can conceivably strike when in play.

6

Apply the pockets over the top of the cloth in each corner and the two sides of the table. Pull the cloth tight as you affix the pockets to the table before stapling the pockets down, making sure the cloth remains flat and smooth. When correctly assembled, the pockets should cleanly catch the ball when potted.

How to Make a TV Swivel Stand

Having problems seeing the television from another part of the room? If you're tired of fighting for the best seat in the room, installing a television swivel stand under your television is an inexpensive way that will allow you to rotate it for viewing at all angles. Television swivel stands can be made to fit all types of sets from the largest to the smallest. Now all you have to fight over is the remote.

Instructions

1




Measure the base of the TV and get the proper size wood. Make sure the wood is thick enough to hold a television. Get two pieces of the same size and cut them into even squares.

2




Place the lazy susan swivel on one piece of wood. Measure all sides to make sure it is centered. Mark all four holes of the swivel base onto the wood. Do the same for the other piece of wood, then rotate the top part so it is crossed. Keep the new markings and x out the old one's.

3




On one piece of wood, drill a hole where the markings are for the lazy susan holes.

4




Place the lazy susan swivel on one of the pieces of wood. Make sure the holes line up with the markings and secure with screws. You will need to turn the top part of the lazy susan to reach them. When the screws are attached, and the swivel is rotated, mark one of the holes that does not have a screw in it. It will be the top part of the swivel. You will need a longer point on the pencil.

5




Rotate the lazy susan so it is in a square and the marking made in Step 4 is visible. Drill a hole 1/4 inch bigger than the screw head.

6




Place the other piece of wood on a flat surface making sure the screw hole markings are face up. Take the other piece of wood with the lazy susan attached, flip it over and put on other piece of wood. Make sure one lazy susan screw hole is visible through the drilled hole. Line the hole up with one of the markings on the bottom piece of wood. Be sure not to use the holes with an x on them.

7

Slowly rotate the top piece of wood and install the other three screws. When finished you should be able to match up the top and bottom.

Backyard Picnic Ideas

Backyard picnics are both convenient and fun. Whether on the grass or at tables, your picnic will bring laughter and fun to the meal. Picnic food can be as hassle free as putting a sandwich in a brown lunch sack and finding a shady corner all the way to hanging decorations, party lights and creating gourmet picnic fare. Does this Spark an idea?

Cafe Style Picnics

Place several tables in your yard and cover with tablecloths. If you do not have enough tables or cloths, ask to borrow some or rent them from a local party store. After you have the necessary number of seats, decorate each table with a mason jar of flowers, a napkin and cutlery. If the picnic is in the evening add a few tea light candles for ambiance. Hang white Christmas lights to create an even more magical feel to your cafe style picnic party. Prepare a buffet area--preferably indoors to avoid having insects disturb your picnic foods--then guests may dish up and return as necessary. This will keep the tables clear from the clutter of all the food.

Picnic on a Quilt

Lay enough quilts or blankets on your lawn to accommodate your guests. Use throw pillows to add comfort. Place a serving tray, large platter or plate in the center for a vase of flowers, salt and pepper shakers and any other condiments or decorations. Give each person an extra salad or bread plate to put his beverage on, helping to minimize spills.

Sack Lunch Picnic

Everyone loves sack lunches, especially children. Make a simple lunch of sandwiches, sliced apples and a bottle of water or juice. Place each lunch in a sack, label the sack with the guest's name and have everyone take a walk around your neighborhood. Upon your return enter the backyard and find a shady spot to eat lunch. The walk will build up an appetite, relax everyone and then enjoy your lunch in the peacefulness of your own yard.

How to Rate Billiard Table Quality

When it's time to buy a new pool table, it may be difficult to tell what to look for in quality. The billiard table is the entire playing field for its sport. Knowing how to rate quality helps find that diamond in the rough, or saves you time and money on a clunker.

Instructions

1

Bring someone familiar with woodwork along if the table is labeled as a "fixer-upper". Look for major damage including water marks anywhere on the table. Check any intricate woodwork for breakage, chips or cracks. Look for mold in crevices. Mold may be set deep within the wood, so scrape away any residue on the wood to get a good look.

2

Check all inlays on the billiard table, including the diamonds along the rails. Look for missing and broken pieces. If there are missing pieces, look at the condition of the wood underneath. Ask if the inlays are made of real mother of pearl or other fine substances.

3

Look at the condition of the felt on the table, especially if it's to be played on immediately. Look for small tears or drink stains on the main playing field. Check the condition of the felt on the rails. Rub your hands over the felt. A cotton felt is generally of a cheaper quality than a silky felt. Ask what brand of felt was used to cover the table. Roll the ball on the table to check for bumps and dirt on the playing field. Ask for a receipt showing the last time the billiard table was re-felted. A receipt may also tell the thickness and condition of the slate.

4

Peel back a small piece of felt in a corner pocket to check the thickness of the slate. Use the spray adhesive to replace the felt afterward if necessary. Rub your hands over the felt-covered slate to feel for dings and dents.

5

Check the rails for bounce and dead spots. Use the cue ball or billiard ball to bounce on the rails in a normal stroke speed. If the ball rolls off the rail at a comparable speed, then the foam is good inside the felt. If the ball hits with a thud and rolls slowly off, then that part of the rail may be dead. It may only need tightening, so check the construction before assuming a replacement is necessary.

6

Look for a nameplate or maker mark on the ends of the table or around the corner pockets. There may even be one underneath or in the inner workings. While the table may be in a lesser condition than you anticipated, if made by a good maker it will likely be worth the work to fix.

7

Look under the table if the inner workings are readily accessible. Place a ball down each pocket individually and make sure the ball is returned to the proper place. Keep in mind that a red dot cue ball may come down in the regular ball return due to its smaller size.

8

Check the feet or pedestal of the billiard table. The feet must be in good to perfect condition to support the table and remain level. Jack up one end slightly to check the bottom leveling feet. The feet should turn in both directions for easy leveling.

How to Choose Plasma TV Stands

Buying a TV stand specifically designed for a plasma television can be a great way to aesthetically add to your home entertainment setup. Before spending your hard earned money, however, there are a few important considerations you have to make. All plasma television stands are not created equal and you need to make sure you're choosing the one that best fits your needs.

Instructions

1

Consider the space you have available. Measure the area in your living room or bedroom in which you want the TV stand to go. Write down these measurements and take them with you to the store to make sure you're not buying a TV stand that is too big for the room you want it to go in.

2

Consider the size of the plasma television. TV stands are often designed with specific sizes of televisions in mind. Look at the technical specifications of the TV stand and see what sized TV it was designed for. You don't want to buy a TV stand that is too small for your plasma TV and risk it falling off the stand and onto the ground. You also don't want to buy a TV stand that is too big for your plasma as it will look aesthetically off and bring down the visual quality of your entire room.

3

Consider the type of TV stand. Some plasma TV stands provide a simple flat surface for which to place your plasma TV. Others come with attached shelving designed to hold things like DVD or VHS tape collections, cable boxes, video game consoles and home theater systems. The more shelves the TV stand provides you with, the more money it will ultimately cost. Consider exactly what you need your TV stand to provide for you.

4

Consider whether you want to mount your plasma TV to the TV stand. Certain types of TV stands come with a large, sturdy vertical metal bar attached to their rears. This is for the specific purpose of mounting the TV so that it doesn't physically touch the top of the TV stand, providing an extra shelf for equipment storage. You cannot do this with just any plasma TV stand, so if you want this added feature make sure the technical specifications of the TV stand indicate that it is compatible with mounting.

How to Build a Flat Panel TV Stand

Building a flat panel TV stand is a project you can accomplish with confidence. Measure the depth and width of the TV to determine the size of the stand. Be certain to include any components you plan to store on the stand as well. The next thing to consider is the material for the stand. The profile of a flat panel TV is thin enough to use 2 by 12-inch lumber giving the stand a custom-built look.

Instructions

TV Stand

1

Put the two 60-inch pieces of lumber on their 11 1/2-inch sides (top and bottom) on a worktable. Position them so the long sides are touching and the ends are even. Measure from one end and make marks at 12, 13 1/2, 29 1/4 and 30 3/4-inches. Next, measure from the other end and make marks at 12 and 13 1/2-inches.

2

Place the framing square on the marks and draw lines across the material. Drill three pilot holes between the lines with a 1/16-inch drill bit. Drill one about 1-inch from the edges and one in the center.

3

Turn the two pieces over so the lines are facing down. Drill countersink holes on top of the pilot holes. Make them about 3/8-inch deep. Apply glue to the 11 1/2-inch edges of the 18-inch lumber (dividers).

4

Stand the top and bottom pieces on their long edges so the lines are facing each other. Align the ends of the dividers on the lines. Secure the dividers to the top and bottom with the drywall screws. Clean up the excess glue immediately with a damp cloth.

5

Lay the TV stand over so the openings are facing up. Run a bead of glue on the edges of the three dividers and the top and bottom between the dividers. Secure the 36-by-21-by-1/4-inch plywood to the stand with the box nails. Clean up the glue as before.

6

Set the 17 7/8-inch plywood (insert sides) on the worktable with the 11-inch side facing up. Measure from one 11-inch end of the side (becomes the bottom) and make marks at 5 3/4, 6 1/4, 11 1/2 and 12-inches. Place the framing square on the marks and draw lines across the material.

7

Apply glue to the 1/2-inch edge of the 11-inch ends of the 14 5/8-inch plywood (insert shelves). Stand the sides on their long edges and secure the shelves at the top, bottom and between the lines with the finish nails. Clean up the glue as before.

8

Brush glue on the 3/4-inch edges of the 3-inch ends of the 14 5/8-inch lumber with a small paintbrush. Insert the stabilizer between the sides and the bottom of the top shelf. Secure it with the finish nails. Slide the inserts in the TV stand to the left and the right of the middle divider.

How to Buy Steam Tables

Whether you are running a buffet restaurant, supervising an institutional lunchroom or catering events, a steam table will be one of your most important investments in food service equipment. Steam tables have come a long way from the school cafeteria monsters of the past. Today's models are sharp looking and full-featured. They're also expensive, so scout out the best bargains on the steam table menu.

Instructions

1

Get a handle on your usage. All steam tables perform essentially the same function: they keep prepared hot foods hot and available for self service or hosted presentation to a crowd. Your food service setting-hospital, school, buffet restaurant, mobile catering service-will determine important considerations such as capacity (most have bays for two to five pans), portability and desired features. Jot down your steam table needs and wants before exploring the bewildering options.

2

Choose from the basic menu. Steam tables need a power source to maintain the temperature of the hot-water bath or steam cabinet that keeps the food hot. You can choose an electric steam table or a gas steam table, and further refine the gas choice between natural gas and liquid propane. Factor in utility costs in your area, along with needs for portability (electric and propane-powered steam tables being easier to move than those connected to natural gas lines) when budgeting your purchase.

3

Buy from a restaurant supplies dealer like Steamtable World, The WEBstaurant store or Chef's Choice Foodservice Equipment. They carry steam tables from the full array of top manufacturers-Delford, Duke, Eagle, Vollrath-at costs well below list price. If you're just starting up and your equipment budget is tight, consider used and reconditioned steam tables; look for listings at DealTime.

4

Customize with features. You can find steam tables with legs that adjust to various heights, as well as models with casters for moving. For convenience, look for removable tops and sealed elements for easy cleaning, under-table shelving or cabinets for storage, individual controls for keeping a variety of foods at optimum temperature, attached cutting boards for buffet carving stations and sneeze guards for protection from contamination. Remember that adding optional features also adds to cost, so keep to what you really need.

5

Buy steam table pans when you purchase your steam table. Most online restaurant supply dealers carry a full line of pans, too. Stainless steel pans are the industry standard, but you can find souped-up models that feature anti-jamming lugs to keep pans from sticking together when stacked and built-in finger slots for easy removal from the table. Newer plastic and polycarbonate food service pans are better for cold foods, but some plastics can be used with steam tables at low heat settings.

DIY Tablecloths

When it comes to making your own home accessories, tablecloths are one of the easiest items to make yourself. Anyone who can handle a pair of scissors and sew a straight stitch on a sewing machine can easily create a tablecloth in one day. The biggest challenge most people encounter when making a tablecloth lies in determining the proper size to cover your table. Fortunately, you can use a simple formula to ensure that your homemade tablecloth fits perfectly. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Measure the length and width of your table with a measuring tape.

2

Hold the end of the measuring tape against the edge of the table and measure down to the point where you want the hem of the tablecloth to rest. Multiply this number by two. For example, if the measurement is 18 inches, your final number is 36.

3

Add the final number from Step 2 to the length and width measurements from step one. For example, if your table is 20 inches in length by 40 inches in width, you would end up with the measurements 56 inches and 76 inches.

4

Add 2 inches to the final measurements from Step 3, to add seam allowances to your table. In our example, the measurements become 58 inches and 78 inches.

5

Cut a piece of fabric using the measurements from Step 4.

6

Fold the edges of the tablecloth under 1/2 inch and iron the fold to set a crease.

7

Fold the edges under another 1/2 inch and iron the new fold. This hides the raw edge of the fabric to create a neat, clean edge.

8

Sew along the sides of the tablecloth with a sewing machine, keeping the needle approximately 3/8 inch away from the outer edge.