How to Make an Easel TV Stand

Building an easel stand for a television and additional media components is an interesting and creative way to store your flat-screen television in an open method. Open storage such as this shows off high-quality equipment and helps make smaller spaces appear more open. This job requires a high familiarity with furniture construction and an appreciation of the angles involved to create a solid base for the television to rest against. Only minimal tools and equipment are required for the project. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Set a 1-by-9 1/2-by-54-inch board down with its largest surface against the working surface. Position two 42-inch 2-by-4 boards on top of and parallel to it, with one end flush with the same end of the larger board, and one long side parallel to a different long side of the larger board. Viewed from the end, the arrangement should look like a wide, flat U.

2

Position a 3-inch heavy-duty hinge between the large board and each of the smaller boards, right at the end of the boards. Mark the location of the hinge attachment screw holes, lifting the boards if necessary to access the hinge holes. Drill holes in each marking, then attach the hinges to the boards with 1 1/2-inch wood screws. Stand the boards up on their other ends with the large board in the rear and the smaller boards in the front.

3

Position a 36-inch 2-by-4 at the desired height of the bottom of the flat-screen TV with its thin edge against the two long boards, which are the small legs of the easel. Position a 1-inch metal L-bracket underneath the 36-inch board, which is the TV support board, and drill 1 1/2-inch screws into each of the bracket holes to secure the board in place. Drill two holes through the back of each small easel leg and into the TV support board as well, and attach them in place with 3-inch wood screws.

4

Adjust the easel legs so that the TV-supporting legs are nearly vertical and the longer leg is at a steeper angle. Position a 1-by-18-by-24-inch plywood board within the legs at the most convenient position where the sides of the board touch all three legs and the board separates the legs by 18 inches. Set 1-inch metal L-brackets underneath the plywood board and against each leg, with three on the rear leg. Attach them in place using 1-inch wood screws drilled through each hole. Repeat to add a 1-by-24-by-24-inch plywood board beneath the first one.

The Best Chair Height for a Bar Table

Different table heights require different chair seat heights. In order to sit and eat or work comfortably at a table, the chair seat height must be approximately 10 to 12 inches shorter than the tabletop height. If the chair is taller, the tabletop will be too close to your knees; if it's lower, the tabletop will feel as though it's at your chin. Luckily for consumers, furniture manufacturers have standardized the table heights and the chair seat heights that correspond with them. Does this Spark an idea?

Chairs for Bar-Height Tables

The eating and working surface of a bar-height table is approximately 40 to 42 inches from the floor. Bar-height chair and stool seats measure 29 to 30 inches from the floor, which falls in line with the 10-to-12-inch rule of thumb. If the bar chair has armrests, make sure they're low enough to fit under the table rather than bump into it.

Chairs for Extra-Tall Bar-Height Tables

Though not as commonly used as standard bar-height tables, extra-tall bar-height tables are about 48 inches from the floor. Therefore, the seat height that works for them is about 36 to 38 inches from the floor. Extra-tall tables and chairs may be difficult to find. Look for them at specialty bar stool shops and restaurant supply companies, or try an online search.

Chairs for Counter-Height Tables

Counter height is typically 36 inches from the floor. If you have a counter-height bar or counter-height table, sometimes called a "gathering table," you'll need counter-height chairs, which have seats that are about 26 inches from the floor. At furniture stores and especially in garage sales or online used furniture sales, counter chairs and stools are sometimes mistakenly marked as bar stools. Measure the seat height to be certain you're purchasing the height you need.

Other Considerations

Standard dining tables measure about 30 inches from the floor; the correct chair seat height for a dining table is around 19 to 20 inches from the floor. Because the seat heights of dining chairs, counter chairs and bar chairs rise incrementally, it can be difficult to tell what you are buying if you go solely by sight. Be safe rather than sorry and bring a tape measure with you on your shopping trip.

How to Make a Floor Plan of Restaurant Tables for Seating

Making a spot-on floor plan for your restaurant is essential for success. Overcrowding can result from tables shoved too close together, while a restaurant with lots of large tables may seem out of sync if the business typically caters to parties of two or three. Determine the type of restaurant you operate -- a small bistro or family style business, for example -- and follow steps to match a floor plan of tables and seating that is right for you. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1

Take a weekly tally of standard party sizes. Identify how many couples -- or two-tops -- as well as parties of three, four or larger frequent the restaurant.

2

Tabulate percentages. Divide how many two-tops you had by the total amount of weekly guests. For example, take 100 two-tops and divide by 300 total guests. The calculation determines that 33 percent -- or one-third of your total standard weekly guests -- are parties of two. Take the 40 -- hypothetical -- three-tops you had and divide it by 300. The calculation determines that 13 percent of your total standard weekly guests are parties of three. Continue these calculations until you have all necessary percentages.

3

Identify how many two-top tables, four-top tables -- and so on -- you have in your restaurant to determine if you need to increase or decrease table sizes to suit your customers' needs. For example, while two-tops can often be pulled together to make a large table, your business may benefit from purchasing more large tables -- and reducing the amount of two-tops -- if it typically caters to larger parties.

4

Line the perimeter of walls with smaller two-top tables and situate standard four-tops in the center of the room for ideal movement between customers and staff. Situate larger tables at the back of the floor or in specialized alcoves to keep the main area from feeling overwhelmed.

5

Make sure all tables have enough room for people to maneuver. Leave at least two feet of aisle room for servers and patrons to move comfortably. Ensure that each table setting accommodates a minimum of 300-square inches of personal space for each seated guest. Additionally, allow between 22 inches of space between seat backs and 36 inches of space between a seat back and a fixed wall.

How to Paint a Logo on a Pool Table Cloth

A pool table can be the marquee game piece in any game room. To complete it, you can add a logo to the felt for a customized look all your own.

Instructions

1

Remove all debris and dust from the pool table felt with a handheld vacuum.

2

Position the stencil on the felt where you want the logo painted. Secure it with weights so it doesn't move.

3

Mix the Versatex printing ink with the Versatex no-heat fixative as directed on the bottle. This will prevent the need for heat setting used in silk screen printing.

4

Apply the paint through the stencil with a roller. The more coats you put, the thicker the paint will be, making the logo raised and slick on the felt. If you have access to airbrushing tools, this will maintain the thinnest paint layer.

5

Allow to dry for 5 days before using the table.

How to Remove Billiard Table Rail Cushion Rubber

The rail cushions, or rail rubbers, on your billiard table are made of long-lasting material that should not need replacing for years. However, if they have become worn, they may affect your billiards game. Or you may be refurbishing an older table and need to remove the cushions to replace them with new ones. You'll find this an easy task to do.

Instructions

1

Unscrew the rails from the billiard table and carefully remove them. Remove the staples from the undersides of the rails using the staple remover and pliers, being careful not to damage the felt. Fold the felt up and out of the way of the cushion.

2

Wedge the craft knife between the cushion and rail where the cushion is glued on. Gently work the cushion loose by pulling the cushion and working the craft knife along the gap between the cushion and rail.

3

If you're planning to replace the cushion, sand the gummy buildup off the rail to prepare the surface for the new cushion.

How to Design Your Classroom Like a Cafe

"I hear and I forget. I see and I remember. I do and I understand," goes the Chinese Proverb. Educate the mind by feeding the stomach with a classroom designed like a street-side cafe. Incorporate old and new materials to make a boring old classroom into an ideal learning place for students. Learn about food from other cultures, traditions from different societies and proper manners at a table with a cafe-themed classroom. Get students involved in learning by using a cafe as a backdrop for education.

Instructions

1

Lay out bed sheets on a large flat surface. Discuss with students themes and backdrop ideas to paint on the bed sheets. Backgrounds with buildings, people walking by on a sidewalk or a view of a park make pleasant scenes for a cafe. Help students sketch in ideas with a dark colored pencil on the sheets.

2

Set up various colors of paint and lay out paintbrushes, water cups and paper towels. Have students fill in the drawn scene with paint. Use disposable pie tins as paint palettes to make maneuvering around the large work easy. Use damp paper towels to clean up spills and drips. Allow paint to dry.

3

Attach bed sheet scenes around the classroom with duct tape. Arrange desks to allow room for a comfortable table and chairs for students to lounge in. Turn off the overhead lights, and bring in some lamps for soft, indirect lighting.

4

Cover a large desk or table with a checkered tablecloth. Fill glass jars with coffee beans, fragrant teas or spices for an enticing aroma. Place the jars on the desks and around the room. Disperse reading materials of culturally appropriate materials to help engage students in the learning topic.

5

Pick a culture for the week and have each student bring a dish centered around the culture to share with the whole class.

1950s-Style Kitchen Tables

Mid-century and 1950s design is increasingly popular in the 21st-century, and the kitchen is no exception. The post-war 1950s was a time when the kitchen truly became the heart of the home. In addition to meals, the kitchen was a gathering spot and center of other family activities, so seating of various kinds was vital. Does this Spark an idea?

Dinette Set

The dinette set is the 1950s version of today's kitchen table. In previous decades, the meal was prepared in the kitchen and served in the dining room, but as more families gathered in the kitchen for meals during the 1950s, the kitchen table became known as the mini dining room table, or "dinette" set.

Dinette tabletops were made of Formica, which was available in the vibrant array of colors and patterns of 1950s kitchen counter tops and appliances, with chrome trim and legs. Generally seating four to six people, the chairs also had chrome trim and legs with vinyl seat cushions and backs to match the Formica tabletop.

Pub Set

The 1950s pub set, also known as a cafe set, is currently known as a bistro set and sat much higher than a traditional table. The pub set was used in smaller kitchens with little dinette space and comfortably sat two to three people, although four could be seated in larger spaces. The pub set brought the feeling of the popular 1950s diner and soda shop to the home kitchen and encouraged gathering and meals, even if the kitchen didn't accommodate traditional seating. Other than its height, the pub set was designed with the same 1950s Formica top, chrome trim and legs, and the seating -- stools -- also had chrome trim and legs with vinyl seat cushions, but no back.

Diner Booth

Today's breakfast nook is a modern version of the 1950s diner booth. Many 1950s kitchens mimicked the popular diner and soda shop hangouts of the time to encourage the youth to stay home during the post-war era but give them the same "hangout" feeling. Ideally nestled in a corner of the kitchen by a window, the diner booth utilized the same Formica top with chrome trim and legs as the dinette table, but instead of movable chairs, cushioned vinyl-covered benches anchored the table in a fixed "L" or "U" shape or had two separate benches on opposite sides of the tabletop.

Kitchen Island

In the 21st century, the kitchen island is on many wish lists, and it was borne in the 1950s to accommodate the increased activity and need for counter space. Though the island was not designed specifically as a table for seating, 1950s kitchens with a pub set had an easy conversion by using its pub stools at the island and using it as a table for quick meals, or pub stools were purchased specifically for this alternative purpose.

Dining Room Table Styles

A dining room table is often featured as the main focal point of a dining room. There is a wide array of styles of dining tables to choose from. When shopping for a new dining table, it is best to research the variety of shapes, styles and sizes available to you to ensure that you find the table that is perfect for your home. Does this Spark an idea?

Traditional Dining Room Tables

Traditional dining room tables have been featured in homes for many years. These tables can be found in various shapes and sizes, and are usually made of wood. They may be made of oak, cherry, mahogany, pine or even a combination of more than one type of wood. Traditional tables may be round, square, rectangular or oval. Some may even be custom-made with intricate designs added around the tables' edges or legs. The type of legs a traditional table has depends upon the size and shape of it. Round and oval tables tend to have one large single pedestal-style leg located in the middle of the table. Square and rectangular tables usually have four slim legs, with one leg situated at each corner. The chairs for a traditional dining table are usually made of wood and in a style that complements that of the table.

Contemporary Dining Room Tables

Another popular style of dining room table is the contemporary style. These tables can also be found in various shapes and sizes. They may be made of wood, metal or even a combination of more than one material. This style of dining room table may feature a glass or wooded tabletop with wood or metal legs. The chairs are usually made of the same material as the legs and table's base. This style of dinette set may be more commonly seen in modern homes or cafe-style restaurants.

Casual Dining Room Tables

The casual dining room table is a simple design. It may be made of wood or metal and often features matching chairs. Wicker is a commonly seen medium for casual dining sets. This type of dining table is more often used as a place to enjoy meals than as an addition to the decor of the room. However, these tables can complement a smaller home or apartment very well and do not require extravagant decorating. This style of table may also be used as a breakfast set in a kitchen or for quick meals that do not require a formal setting.

DIY Pub Table

Plans for authentic pub tables can be hard to find. In addition, it seems as if everybody has a different idea of what a pub table is. This makes it even more difficult to find what you need. However, it is not hard to design and build your own pub table. With a little effort, you can have a pub table that fits your needs perfectly. Does this Spark an idea?

Tradition

Although you will see many kinds of tables that are called pub tables, the traditional version is about waist-high, or around 42 inches tall. This is so drinkers have a choice: They can lean comfortably against the table while they drink, as they would around a bar, or they can sit on a stool and socialize; a 30-inch stool is the standard size.

While a pub table can have four legs, the traditional version is built on a central pedestal; this allows drinkers to move around it without bumping their legs against the tables legs. Pub tables can be either square or round, but the traditional shape is round; again, this is to make it easier to move around in the pub without catching the edge and jerking the table around (and spilling the drinks). A good size for a pub table top is from 30 to 36 inches in diameter.

Base

Because pub table plans are difficult to find, use plans for a pedestal dining table and adjust the measurements.

The base of a pub table should be heavy and sturdy. Glue and clamp four 4-by-4s, each 39 inches long, to make a thick, square, central post. You can turn this on a large lathe for a shaped pedestal, carve designs into it, or simply leave it as is. If you choose to turn the pedestal, leave a square area at least 4 inches high at the bottom for mounting feet, and about the same at the top.

Create feet around the base of the pedestal with 4-by-4s as well. Make them long enough that the table will not wobble. With such a thick pedestal, you will have a lot of surface area to support wide, sturdy feet; just attach each foot to it with both screws and glue, or you might use some leg-mounting hardware instead. In either case, round off the top edges of the feet so they look nicer and are less likely to catch someones foot, and use levelers under the feet and pedestal if necessary.

Top

One way to make your pub table's top is with two circles cut from 3/4-inch plywood, glued together to make a thick top. Cover the edges of the plywood with edge veneer tape, or fill them with wood putty.

Mounting the top is simple. Fasten 2-by-4s to the pedestal, then attach the table top to the 2-by-4s using long wood screws. Angle the bottom ends of the 2-by-4s so they do not stick out from under the edge of the table and hit peoples legs. Alternatively, use commercial hardware to mount the top to the pedestal.

Now all you need to do is finish the table with your choice of stain or paint, and you are ready to entertain.

How to Build a Cabinet Stand for a Stock TV

Building a cabinet stand for a stock TV, such as a tube style TV, is a project done to match the style of room where the TV is located. You can construct this furniture from various types of wood including Birch plywood. Attaching optional rollers provides a way to easily move the cabinet around on the floor. The size of cabinet stand to build will be dependent on the total size of television that you have in the room.

Instructions

1

Measure the width, height and depth of the television with the tape measure. Make a note of the measurements on a piece of paper. Add four to five inches to the measurements in step 1 to allow enough clearance for the television and for air circulation.

2

Calculate the size of the cabinet stand. Use the width and depth measurements in step 1 and then decide how high the cabinet stand will be, such as 8 inches.

3

Transfer the measurements for the cabinet in step 3 to the birch plywood. Cut two pieces the width and depth and two pieces the depth and height with the table saw.

4

Apply wood glue to the edges of the pieces that were cut for the depth and height. Assemble the cut pieces of plywood together to create a box. Secure the box with finish nails using the nail gun.

5

Secure casters to each corner of the cabinet stand, if you want to be able to roll and move the cabinet.

6

Cut two additional sheets of plywood the depth and height in step 1 for the sides of the cabinet enclosure. Cut the top piece to the width and depth measurement in step 1.

7

Apply wood glue to the top edges of the side pieces of plywood. Set the top piece on top of the side pieces and secure it with finish nails using the nail gun.

8

Measure the sides of the cabinet stand and make a mark every eight inches with the pencil. Turn the cabinet enclosure on its side and repeat this step.

9

Drill a -inch hole on each of the marks you made in step 8 with the power drill. Insert a 1-inch dowel into the holes on the cabinet stand.

10

Measure the width and height of the cabinet stand and then cut a piece of -inch plywood. Attach the piece of plywood to the back of the cabinet stand with the nail gun. Drill a hole in the back of the cabinet stand with the power drill for the cables.

How to Decorate a Church Cafe

Many churches build a cafe where church members can go after the service to visit with each other and discuss the weekly sermon and lessons. If you're looking for decorating inspiration for your church cafe, look no further than your own church. The furniture and accessories that most churches use have a distinct look that people associate with church life. Incorporating some of these elements into your cafe decorating tasks allows you to use up some of the items that you might have sent to the second-hand store and gives the church cafe a more authentic atmosphere.

Instructions

1

Paint the walls. Use a faux Venetian plaster technique to create the look of stone. This creates the feel of an old stone church in your cafe.

2

Use old pews as booths. Wooden pews with the prayer bench look the most authentic; however, pews with cushions may be the most practical. Cut the pews down in size so that they fit two people.

3

Hang old stained glass windows from the ceiling as dividers between the booths. Screw hooks into the top of the windows and into the ceiling; make sure to screw the hooks in the stud. Hook the windows to the ceiling using heavy chain. Add more hooks to the bottom of the window and to the backs of the pews. Secure this side with chains as well.

4

Set up a pulpit for the hostess stand. Store menus, paper, pens and crayons for kids in the space below. Place this at the entrance of the cafe.

5

Hang chalkboards on the wall with the daily specials written on them. Include some that have a Bible verse on them. Use script handwriting to make them look like manuscript pages.

6

Display religious art on the walls and around the cafe. Hang prints by religious artists such as Thomas Kinkade and Greg Olsen. Place religious sculptures on pedestals throughout the cafe.

7

Hang crosses on the wall. Choose some made of iron or stone to give the cafe a Medieval look and feel.

8

Build counters and tables from old church paneling. This material will coordinate well with the wooden pews you'll use for seating.

9

Set the tables with accessories such as goblet glasses, linen napkins and menus shaped like The Ten Commandments.

How to Make an Inexpensive Coffee Table

If you've shopped for a coffee table lately, you're aware that the price can go off the charts. Here are some ideas for a less-expensive stand-in while you wait for your ship to come in. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Build a platform of glass blocks; two blocks high (about 16 inches) is about right. Top the blocks with a sheet of thick, ground-edge glass for a slick modern look. Join the blocks with silicone caulk.

2

Cover any type of sturdy base - a footlocker or two same-size broken stereo speakers, for example - with a rich-looking wallpaper such as faux leather, faux marble or faux granite; you might want to paint any exposed hardware a coordinated color or special metallic. Top off your creation with a glass top or a wood top from a home center (apply stain and a clear-coat to the wood or paint it).

3

Put clay flowerpots (can be inverted), sturdy wooden trash cans (inverted), cement urns, porcelain fish pots or a chicken coop to work as a table base. Use the bases singly or in pairs, and top them off with glass or wood.

4

Cut down the wooden legs or pedestal of an old - but not valuable - table to suitable coffee-table height.

5

Purchase an unfinished coffee table and finish it yourself. Unfinished-furniture stores and home centers may offer classes or easy finishing products such as spray-on or sponge-on faux finishes.

6

Purchase furniture legs (sold at home centers) and screw them in to a wooden table top. Finish as desired.

7

Put a couple of stacks of coffee-table books to work as a table base that you can top with glass.

8

Haunt thrift shops and tag sales for a secondhand piece that will work. It doesn't have to be a coffee table per se; consider a cedar chest, rustic toolchest or a flat-top steamer trunk.

Bumper Pool Strategy

Pool games are popular in bars, but one pool game is so different it requires a different table. Bumper pool has only two pockets on each end of the table, one hole in the center and twelve bumpers on the table. Each player or team gets five balls apiece. Two players can play at a time or two teams. Players must serve one ball at a time and sink them all in their hole.

Defense

Bumper pool is a game primarily of defense. A carefully played shot can place one of your balls directly in the way of your opponent. Your opponent can never shoot your ball or he will receive a penalty. Consider this as you play. For example, let's say your opponent makes a good shot and is near their hole on your side. You haven't served yet. Since you haven't served yet, you shoot your ball to knock your opponent's ball back away from your hole. With careful aiming, you can even knock your ball down the table and toward your hole.

Use Bumpers Offensively

The bumpers in bumper pool can create quite an obstacle to the beginning player. A pro player knows how to use the bumpers to create obstacles for his opponent. For example, his opponent has a ball within shooting distance of her hole. However, there is a bumper a few inches to her right that would block her off from shooting. Her opponent shoots his ball so that it lightly reflects of hers to head down the table. Meanwhile, her ball slowly rolls behind the bumper and sits snuggly against the table. Getting her ball out will be incredibly difficult.

Use Bumpers Defensively

Getting stuck behind a bumper will cost you valuable turns as you struggle to get the ball out. However, you can use the bumpers to your advantage. For example, let's say your opponent has a ball in position that could knock your ball back. You're not in a very good position to serve upward. However, you can shoot your ball up the table a few inches to place it right in front of a bumper. Your opponent can't knock your ball back, as it will just knock it into a bumper. And you may even have a straight shot toward the hole.

Center Hole

The center hole in a bumper pool table is large enough for a ball to fall inside. Knocking a ball into the center hole takes it off the table to be re-served. Use the center hole to your advantage in bumper pool. Knock your opponent's balls into the center hole as often as possible. This is an especially good strategy when your opponent is winning. Successfully knocking his ball into the hole will negate all of his previous shots with the ball and can buy you time to catch up.

Psychological Penalty Play

Try to frustrate your opponent into committing penalties. Winning a penalty can be incredibly advantageous. A player cannot make a ball leave the table, nor can he sink his ball into the opponent's hole. The player can also never jump his ball off of the table. Committing a penalty allows his opponent the chance to place the offending ball wherever he likes and remove two of his own balls from the table and put them in his pocket. Playing in an annoying manner, such as knocking his balls back with every shot you make can frustrate any opponent.

DIY: Pool Table Felt

When your pool table felt's torn, don't worry, it can be fixed in a jiffy. With some help from your friends, a kit and some funds, you'll get it back in shape in no time.

Take Apart Your Pool Table

This task is made simpler with a little help from your friends. Take off the pockets, then undo all the bolts that secure the "picture frame" to the top of the pool table. With a person at each side, lift the picture frame up, turn it over, and place it on the ground away from your work space. Use pliers or a staple remover to take out all the staples securing the felt to the table and remove the torn felt.

Reseal the Slate's Seams

To be on the safe side, it's always a good idea to reseal the seams of the slate--especially since it's exposed and you can get at it easily. You'll be able to see that the slate actually consists of three large pieces of slate that lie end to end over the top of the table. Melt some beeswax and pour it into the seams to seal them. Judicial use of a torch helps in this process. After the wax dries, scrape off any excess with a knife.

Get that Felt and Put it On

Buy replacement felt kit. Companies like PoolTableRefelting.com include not only the felt but a pre-cut bed, rail cloth, tools, featherstrips and instructions. Lay the felt on the slate. Cut holes to accommodate the pockets, and install a featherstrip to secure the felt to the rail with staples. Make sure you keep the felt tight as you do so, preventing any unwanted bumps from forming.

Put on the Picture Frame and Pockets

Carefully lift up the picture frame and turn it over, then set it back in place over your pool table. Use an extension wrench to tighten the bolts that secure it in place. Insert the pockets into their holes.

How to Attach a TV to the Back of a Stand

Attaching your TV to the back of a stand not only prevents your TV from falling, it makes the area around your TV safer. Special straps and fasteners can be bought to anchor TVs to stands. If you have young children, it is important to prevent your TV from tipping over.

Instructions

Instructions

1

Test the stand to make sure it's sturdy on its own. If a stand isn't sturdy on its own, placing a TV on it will more than likely make it less stable.

2

Place the TV on the stand. If you have a large or heavy TV, have someone help you to reduce the risk of dropping the TV. Make sure you place the TV as far back on the stand as possible, but allow room for straps for fastening.

3

Attach the straps to both the TV and the stand. There are many types of straps. Refer to the instructions for specific details on proper fastening.

4

Test the straps' sturdiness by grabbing the top of the TV and lightly shaking it. If the TV is properly strapped, the base of the TV will stay flat on the stand. If the base doesn't stay flat, you probably need to fasten the TV tighter.

5

Power the TV on and attach all media devices to the back of the TV after it is properly fastened. You should now be able to watch TV without fear it will tip over.

Ideas for Painting a Dining Room Table & Chairs

A dining room table and chair set that appears scratched or worn is actually a valuable garage sale find. By refinishing the surface and updating the furniture, an old dining room set can turn into a grand dining room set. Before selling your current dining room furniture, consider refinishing the surface and adding a modern feel to it to refresh the room without the cost of purchasing a new set. Does this Spark an idea?

Refinishing

Refinishing is the process of washing, stripping and sanding furniture to apply a new paint finish. Dining room tables and chairs can take on a new stain in a darker or lighter tone than the previous stain or be repainted with a flat paint finish for a new look. For example, try changing a cherry-stained dining room set to a dramatic black or bright white to add a more modern look to a dining room.

Fabric Accents

Solid-wood dining room chairs can be awkward and uncomfortable to sit on. Adding padding to the seating will make them more comfortable, and will also add a new look to the furniture. Purchase premade padded seats from craft stores and stretch colored fabrics over the chair seat to hold the padding in place. Secure the fabric on the underside of the chair seat using fabric glue or a staple gun.

Opposite Colors

A dining room table does not have to be the same color as its chairs. Dining room sets with opposing colors add drama and depth to a room. Try pairing bright white dining room chairs with a deep black dining room table. Vinyl-covered purple or blue chairs can also pair well with black or white tables. Mix and match different colored chairs within a set, such as a red, blue, green and yellow chair with a wood-colored table to add a colorful mix to a dining room.

Faux Finishes

Faux finishes add depth and warmth to a room's walls, but can also be applied to a dining room table. Popular styles for dining room sets include antiqued looks that have a base color that cracks through the surface of a top coat. For example, a deep bronze color can show in the cracks of an antique white finish. Purchase a faux finish kit made specifically for furniture, not wall surfaces, from a local home-improvement store.

Holiday Party Table Topper Crafts

Holiday table toppers can make your celebrations pop with added flair. Crafting them yourself to fit the holiday and theme makes them more special. Eye-catching and interesting doesn't mean complicated or expensive. Make your own holiday table toppers using materials you may already have on hand. Does this Spark an idea?

Holiday Decor Creations

A festive table topper crafted from regular decor items and a simple base can be a big hit. Christmas balls with a fresh evergreen garland wrapped throughout in a large holiday bowl take only minutes to create. For a Halloween-themed party, pile some foam bones on a tray and add a raven sitting on the pile for a creepy effect. Ears of dried multicolored corn tied with a plaid ribbon and displayed over a miniature straw bale with a small scarecrow standing guard make a strong fall scene for your Thanksgiving table. Every holiday has some basic decor items that can be thrown together quickly and yet not look thrown together at all.

Candles

Using themed candles creates an easy table topper craft, and the ambiance from candlelight always fits the theme. Brightly colored Christmas candles set in small dishes with candy around the base add cheer. Black candles set in a pot of dirt for Halloween add a dark aspect, and the candlelight gives an eerie glow to the table. Create extra peaceful and comfortable elegance on your Thanksgiving dinner table by placing small votives in hollowed-out gourds and tucking fall leaves beneath the gourds.

Edibles

Make your own tempting edible table toppers from a collection of holiday cookies stacked on a tiered rack with ribbon and a string of holiday lights or an eerie gingerbread house with ghosts flying around the roof. Bundles of candy canes standing on end and tied with ribbing can brighten a Christmas holiday table. For Thanksgiving, a cornucopia basket loaded with rolls and surrounded with a garland of silk fall leaves is an edible beauty.

Nature

Nature lends itself to the holiday theme by providing elements that fit the party decor. Pine cones with a few sprigs of evergreen placed on a wooden plank with a bow will liven up the Christmas dinner table. Bare branches painted black, decorated with dried flowers from your fading garden, make for a "dead" centerpiece for your Halloween spook fest. When placed in the center of the table in varied sizes with some small twigs of fall berries added for contrast, pumpkins provide a brightly colored focal point. This centerpiece will also remind everyone of the mouthwatering dessert to follow the Thanksgiving dinner.

How do I Mount a Flat Screen Vizio TV?

Wall mounting a Vizio flat-screen television provides a solution to create extra living space in a family room. Either get rid of the table the Vizio television was sitting on, or use that space for decoration. Wall mounting a Vizio flat-screen television also lifts an expensive television out of the reach of small children, flying objects, pets and rowdy friends at any parties you host.

Instructions

Monitor Attachment

1

Remove the six screws attached to the bottom of the Vizio flat-screen television stand. Remove the top part of the television and place it face down on a soft, thick blanket. Ensure you have the two parts of a wall mount: the monitor attachment and the wall bracket. Have the monitor attachment nearby.

2

Locate the four screw holes in the middle of the Vizio television where the monitor attachment goes.

3

Set the monitor attachment on the back of the Vizio television and line up the holes that put the television in the location desired. If necessary, you can always take the monitor down and adjust the monitor attachment later.

4

Screw the monitor attachment onto the back of the Vizio flat-screen television.

Hang Wall Bracket

5

Locate a spot on the wall where you want to hang the Vizio flat-screen television. Use a stud finder to find two studs in the area. The studs should be between 12 and 16 inches apart. Once you locate the studs, use a small finishing nail to poke holes through the drywall into each stud until you locate the center. Using a ruler, draw a vertical six-inch line that represents the center of the stud.

6

Place the level against the wall. Once the level is straight, make two pencil marks along the lines on the wall where you want to hang the Vizio television.

7

Drill holes into the pencil marks.

8

Line up the wall bracket with the screw holes and screw the wall bracket into place.

Mount Vizio Flat-Screen TV

9

Lift your Vizio flat-screen television.

10

Hang the television on the wall bracket. Hold the Vizio television against the wall and slowly let it come down. Eventually, the hooks on the television attachment lock into the wall bracket.

11

Look at the back of the Vizio television to ensure everything is locked into place and is straight. If it is not, repeat Steps 1 and 2 in Section 3 until the Vizio flat-screen television is securely held in place.

How to Set a Table for Fine Dining

Before you set the table for fine dining, you must first consider the table itself. True fine dining necessitates a large table with ample room for the dinnerware that will serve several courses and beverage pairings. Under the most lavish conditions, there will be an expansive table covered with linen or lace, an appropriate centerpiece, candles, china, crystal and sterling cutlery. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Set Up for Fine Dining

1

Expand your table to its full capacity and cover with pad, cloth and lace covering. Arrange the chairs so that each of your guests has ample room to be comfortable without bumping elbows with his seatmate. Choose a tasteful, fresh arrangement for a centerpiece. Consult the below website for tips to make easy but stunning centerpieces. Place candles at each end of your centerpiece and light them upon your guests' entrance to the dining room.

2

Set a formal charger (a large round piece that sits below the plate) on the table in front of each chair, being sure that its design is set right-side-up. The place setting should be about two inches from the table's edge.

3

Place a cloth napkin with napkin ring on each charger. If you are using place setting cards, you can place them at the charger's rim or above it on the table.

4

Arrange the silverware with the forks on the left. As a general rule of thumb, diners work from the outside to the inside, so the dinner fork should be closest to the plate, with the salad fork next to it and the appetizer fork outside of the salad fork. The dinner knife, with its blade inward, should be placed closest to the plate on the right side. Next to the knife, place the soup spoon.

5

Use individual bread plates and place them above the dinner fork, with individual butter spreaders angled on each plate. Place the salad plate to the side of the fork arrangement. Following the European style, you may want to consider serving the salad after the main entre. While this is not an American tradition, there are digestive benefits to consuming roughage and dressing at the close of the meal, and before the dessert. Leaving the plate on the table, as opposed to serving a salad course, gives your guests the option of either method.

6

Arrange glasses at a negative angle above the dinner knife, with the water glass at the top and wine glasses following, in order of their intended consumption. As an alternative, serve your beverage pairings with each individual course.

7

Remove the charger and serve each course at the center. Coffee and dessert cutlery can be placed on the table prior to dining or set out at the end of the meal. The teaspoon would lay between the knife and soup spoon; the dessert fork closest to the plate on the left, or above the charger in front of the place setting card.

8

Serve dessert at the setting's center, coffee and tea to the right and after-dinner cordials to the upper right hand corner or adjourn to your parlor for this last part of your meal.

How to Build a Ping Pong Conversion Pool Table

Ping pong and pool tables take up a lot of space and can be very expensive. If you already have a pool table, being able to convert it into a ping pong table will allow you to enjoy both games without requiring additional space or added cost. Try making one yourself.

Instructions

1

Cut each 5 feet-by-8 feet medium density fiberboard down to 5 feet by 4 1/2 feet.

2

Paint the tops and edges of both boards with white primer and allow to dry.

3

Paint the tops and edges of both boards with blue or green matte paint and allow to dry. Ping pong table paint is available in some specialty stores and online. It gives your table a more professional look and feel though it is more expensive.

4

Attach the two boards using the piano hinge so that the final dimension of the table is 5 feet by 9 feet.

5

Tape off the 2-centimeter edge around the perimeter of the table and a 3-centimeter line down the middle of the table lengthwise.

6

Paint the edge and center lines using the remainder of the white primer and allow to dry.

7

Place the finished table on top of your pool table and attach a net. Nets come with two clamps, one for each side of the table. Fasten them to the table with the included screws and then pull the net across the table, sliding each side into a clamp so that it is taut.

How to Price a Dining Room Table for a Garage Sale

Pricing a dining table for a garage sale is often complicated by people putting more value on their possessions than the resale value is worth. People think about the table's price when new and, subsequently, price the table too high. When pricing a table, remember that used property has a greatly reduced value, unless the table is an antique in mint condition. Use price and donation value guides to find the market value of the table before you price your table. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Study the Salvation Army and Goodwill price guides to get an idea of what people who shop second-hand stores are willing to pay for a pre-owned dining room table. Goodwill Industries sells a table in good condition for about $40. According to the Salvation Army, the organization prices tables based on quality. A table being sold by the Salvation Army will generally be priced from $30 to about $72.

2

Study the value of donated goods allowed by the Internal Revenue Service. According to Bankrate, the IRS permits a taxpayer to claim a value of $35 to $170 for a complete table and chair set. Goodwill suggests a more conservative tax value of $20 to $75 for a table without chairs, based on the actual price a table can fetch.

3

Price the table for what it is. Remove any sentimental attachment to your table and acknowledge any imperfections. Set a price that you'd be willing to pay for this table if you saw it at a garage sale, taking into account the used furniture values you have researched: values from $20 to about $75 make sense.

4

Price the dining room table based on values you have researched, but add to the price sticker that you will consider offers. If you get an offer for 50 or 75 percent of the asking price, take the offer if you really want to get rid of the table.

How to Set Up Bumper Pool

Bumper pool is an enjoyable billiards game played on a small table with two pockets and 10 stationary bumper obstacles. The smaller bumper pool table requires shorter cue sticks. Two players, or four players on teams of two, compete by shooting directly at balls without using a cue ball. Each side has only five balls to sink, so games take less time than 8-ball or 9-ball games played on full-sized pool tables. Challenge your billiards skills with a quick game of bumper pool.

Instructions

1

Place the red balls on one end of the table and the white balls on the other. A player shoots balls of one color into the pocket at the opposite end of the bumper pool table.

2

Put the marked balls directly in front of the cups, or pockets, at both ends. Marked balls are the red ball with a white dot and the white ball bearing a red dot.

3

Place two balls on either side of the bumpers beside the pockets. Arrange all four unmarked balls in a line parallel to the back edge of the bumper pool table.

4

Declare which direction the two starting players will shoot the marked balls for the simultaneous opening shot.

How to Set Up a Samsung TV

Out of the box, your Samsung TV will not be ready to watch. You first need to set up and connect the TV stand before you can do anything else. Connecting the TV stand to the TV is a straight-forward process that only takes a couple of minutes and does not require any technical know-how. Save yourself money and take a pass on the professional TV installers. You can do this yourself.

Instructions

1

Place the guide stand over the centerpiece of the stand, then align the screw holes together. The centerpiece of the TV stand protrudes upward about an inch and has a circular tube base with a flat square head at the top. Thread the screws through the holes of the guide stand into the stand base and tighten with a Phillips screwdriver. The guide stand and stand base are now united.

2

Look at the stand to differentiate the front from the back. The front of the stand protrudes forward into an "L" pattern, while the back of the stand is flat. Feel the bottom of the TV and locate the stand hole. Lift the TV over the stand and carefully lower it so the top of the stand goes into the stand hole at the bottom of the TV. Have a friend help you guide the TV stand into the hole while you lower it.

3

Insert the screws through the holes at the base of the TV into the TV stand. Tighten the screws with a Phillips screwdriver. The screws keep the TV stand securely in place. Stand the TV up so the stand supports the weight of the TV.

How to Install a Pool Table Light

A pool table light adds character and atmosphere along with adequate lighting so that you can see the game. A pool table light is usually long and rectangular, creating enough light to illuminate the entire table. The surface of the fixtures advertise beer or other alcoholic beverages. Sometimes it depicts sports events or teams. Others, especially those found in the home, are attractive stain glass. Once you have your pool table set up, make sure to properly install a light above. This will make your pool game a pleasant experience.

Instructions

1

Choose a light fixture with three 100 watt bulbs. This should provide ample enough light to cover the entire table.

2

Locate a stud in the ceiling with a stud finder. If your pool table light fixture has more than one chain for hanging, locate more than one stud.

3

Drill a hole, or holes, in the ceiling through the studs. Install metal hooks. Screw them tightly into the pre-drilled holes.

4

Measure 40 inches from the top of the pool table to the bottom of the light fixture.

5

Attach the lamp chains to the hooks and allow the light fixture to hang at the measured height.

6

Plug the power cord into the wall and turn the light on. You might need to use an extension cord if the power cord isn't long enough.

How to Build a Bistro Table

Whether your style is casual or vintage, classic or contemporary, finding the right bistro table for your space may take time. So many choices, and always little time. Bistro tables are designed for indoor and outdoor use, and are made with cast aluminum, all-weather wickers, or from a wide array of different types of woods. Commercial sets are also available, and they too can provide appeal for every personal or business style. Bistro tables are easy to build, and most kits contain the same basic components. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Inspect all pieces and materials before throwing away cartons or packing materials from your Bistro Table kit. Compare the list of materials to the actual materials that are in the box. Count everything. Each material should be labeled. If something is not labeled, the kit should include a diagram where each material is identified.

2

Select an area where you can spread out your materials and keep all pieces away from small children and/or animals. Make sure your area is clean. Place all pieces and materials on top of a bright, solid-colored blanket or throw. This way, your pieces and materials will be easy to find.

3

Insert the threaded rod into the mounting plate and carefully place the column over the threaded rod. Pay close attention to details and make sure you center the column correctly and straight onto the mounting plate.

4

Tighten the nut, washer and lock washer together. For fastest and safest results lift the washer slightly and turn it clockwise. This tiny step will guarantee that the nut, washer and lock washer are securely fastened together, preventing a wobbly table that could be a safety hazard.

5

Place the base onto the column with the threaded rod through the base. Attach all the pieces together using the nut, washer and lock washer. Again, lift the washer slightly and turn it clockwise for a secure lock in place.

6

Lay the top facing down onto your clean, flat surface. Center the base on top and attach the base using the screws in the eight predrilled places. As you attach the top, make sure that all of the table's legs are parallel with the edge of the top so that it is level.

DIY Ping Pong Table

Ping pong is a great game that has been around for years. The Chinese played it, and it has trickled over into other countries. But what if you love the game so much you want to make your own customized table? Here are some tips to help you make that happen.

Basics

In order to build a regulation table, according to essortment.com, it must be 9 feet long by 5 feet wide. You can easily find 2x4s that will match these specifications. You can also have them cut at a lumberyard or at a home improvement store. Be aware of the type of lumber you choose. If it is too heavy, the table will be impossible to move. If it is too light, the table will not stay stable during the game. A simple pine will do nicely.

The Tabletop and Legs

The top of the table can be a large sheet of plywood. It should be at least a quarter of an inch thick; the thicker this is, the better the balls will bounce. Also, the tabletop will last longer if it is thicker. Two sheets of plywood should be attached side to side to cover the top of the table, and the seam should be in the very center of the table. According to tabletennismaster.com, the legs, in order to be of regulation height, must each be 29 3/4 inches long. They can be cut from regular lumber.

Time to Paint

Normally, ping pong tables are green, but you can paint yours any color you'd like. When you mark off the lines, make sure they are 3/4-inch wide. The end lines go at each end of the table, and the sidelines, of course, go on the side. The centerline should follow the seam between the two boards that make up the top, and should be 1/8-inch wide. Once the paint has dried, install a 6-inch high net across the middle.

DIY Pop Up Plasma TV Stand

Nothing says class like a pop-up plasma TV stand. This handy design keeps a living room feeling uncluttered, and keeps the television out of sight when not in use. To design one yourself, you will need to buy a bit of necessary hardware. The goal is to build a drawer-like structure that slides up rather than out. This will take a bit of trial and error to get right, so be prepared to spend quite a bit of time designing this.

Instructions

Cabinet

1

Find a cabinet that is taller than the TV, has more depth and is either the same width or longer.

2

Measure the length and width of the TV, and cut out a rectangular hole on the top of the cabinet that is slightly wider in all directions. Save the piece of wood you cut out for later.

3

Sand the edges of the hole and of the piece of wood you cut out.

4

Cut the 2x4s to the height of the cabinet that you will be installing the TV into.

5

Cut the plywood to be the same size as the hole you made.

6

Drill a small hole in the base of the back of the cabinet.

Build the Lift

7

Connect the guide rails to the middle of the 2x4s using the screws and the screwdriver. Offset the guide rails as needed--you want to make it so the guide rails are perfectly aligned to the sides of the TV so it slides up and down out of the hole as smoothly as possible.

8

Attach the 2x4s to the inside sides of the cabinet using the L-brackets.

9

Mount the base of the linear actuator to the bottom of the cabinet using your screws.

10

Attach the shaft end of the actuator to the sliding plywood. Try to mount the shaft end as high as you can on the plywood to keep the overall height of the lift down.

Attach the Power

11

Connect the power adapter to the linear actuator, then run the line through the small hole in the back to the power socket in the wall.

12

Connect the 12V DC power adapter to the red power line going to the remote control receiver. Connect the ground from the power adapter to the black power line going to the remote control receiver.

13

Connect the two wires from the actuator to the remote receiver output wires.

14

Plug in the power adapter to test out the hardware. Make any necessary adjustments.

Mount the TV

15

Place the TV on top of the stand.

16

Lower the lift to make sure the TV fits properly. Make any necessary adjustments. Glue the TV to the plywood.

17

With the lift lowered, glue the piece of wood you cut out on top of the TV.

How to Refinish a Pool Table

Torn fabric on your pool table is a disaster. Patching up the torn cloth won't help at all, because it will leave the cloth surface uneven and disrupt the path of the balls. If there is even the slightest tear in the cloth, the pool table's entire playing surface needs to be refinished. This involves removing all of the old billiards fabric from the table and placing all new fabric on top of it. When refinishing the table, make sure the new cloth is as tightly stretched across the surface as you can get it. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Disconnect the rails that border and surround the playing surface along the edges of the table. These rails usually are bolted in place with the bolts visible on the table's underside. Make sure you have the right size wrench for your table's bolts.

2

Peel off all of the old billiard cloth from the table. Take note of what the surface is made of; it usually is slate, but it also can be wood. Visually divide this surface into four quarters to guide you while applying the new cloth.

3

Glue the new fabric to a slate surface. Spray adhesive onto the surface about five inches from the edge to the center, then apply the same adhesive to the underside of the cloth. Wait 30 seconds for the adhesive to get tacky. Press the cloth to the surface as you stretch it tightly across, one quarter at a time.

4

Staple the fabric in place if the table has a wood surface. Stretch the fabric across the table lengthwise, and staple it in place along the edges, one quarter of the table at a time. The staples on each end should go from the center pocket to the halfway distance from the corner pocket, with each staple two inches apart.

5

Trim away the fabric with the razor blade where it overlaps the pockets. Cut it to where the fabric still sticks out a half inch from the hole's edge, then fold the fabric down and glue or staple it to the inside. You also must cut away the fabric where it covers the bolt holes for the rails.

6

Attach the rails back onto the table, placing each rail in the same location it was before disassembly. There will be at least six rails--one for each short side and two for each long side.

Table Decorations Ideas for a Trattoria

A trattoria is a fairly small and slightly formal Italian restaurant. An authentic restaurant of this type is usually moderately priced and open to both children and adults. The food is served in large amounts and can even be taken home later. Trattorias have changed quite a bit over the years, leading to multiple table decorating possibilities.

Traditional Italian Look

Traditional trattorias had a classic, formal look that is easy to replicate in your own restaurant. Tables should be large enough to accommodate two to four diners, but small enough for easy conversation. Place the tables close together so guests can talk to diners at other tables. Drape the tables with white tablecloths that hang nearly to the ground. Set a flower display or centerpiece in the center of each table, but make sure the flowers are short enough that the diners can see over them. Use brightly colored plates at each place setting, with matching glasses and silverware placed on either side. Top each plate with a matching white linen napkin.

Red and White All Over

Italian trattorias also utilize the classic Italian table setting incorporating red and white. In this scenario, the tables are still fairly small, but you also need larger tables to accommodate families. This table style is more down home and comfortable than the traditional formal style. Start by covering the tables in red and white tablecloths, in a checked or plaid pattern. In the center of each table, use an old wine bottle as a candle holder. Chianti bottles are best, especially those with a wicker lining, because they fit the theme. Set a red candle inside each bottle. As the wax melts and drips down over the bottle, it adds more color to the table.

Rustic and Family Friendly

Modern trattorias encourage communal dining and the sharing of food on a buffet. Use old-fashioned rustic tables, opting for longer tables that seat up to 12 people. Guests are seated together as they enter the restaurant, and everyone passes dishes around to each other. Add bench seating or individual chairs. The tables are decorated with small centerpieces or bottle candle holders. Each diner has his own place setting, complete with plates, a bowl, glass and utensils. Every time you bring a dish to the table, the guests take a little and pass it around the table.