Home-Dzineonline

It’s all about caring for and improving your home

and even more...small space-big style - affordable flooringupholstery project - space to store more

diy divas - remove wood stains

November Issue 1

beautiful bathrooms

Home-Dzineonline 2

contentsfresh looks for a dated bathroom 3 A simple white bathroom suite transforms into

a tranquil space.

small space - big style 5 A small bathroom is a common problem, but is

easily solved with the correct bathroom suite.

boring tiles? 6 Paint is an easy solution to temporarily cover

up boring tiles, and it won’t cost you a fortune.

old dresser - new vanity 7 Fitted with a new sink and tap, a dresser

makes an attractive vanity and offers more storage.

bathroom style 9 Three varying shades of paint, two coats of

glaze, and gentle dabbing with cheesecloth create an illusion.

bath time elegance 10 It’s easy to dress up inexpensive plastic bath

accessories to look like those from expensive specialty stores.

paint brushes are out 12 With the new Bosch Fine Spray Systems

nothing is simpler - Simply brilliant!

affordable flooring 13 Vinyl flooring is available as tiles or sheets and

offers a wide range of colours and styles.

upholster a chair seat 15 If you have upholstered chair seats that are

stained, worn out or just plain ugly, there’s no need to call a pro.

place to store more 16 Solve storage problems with an attractive

display shelf you can easily build in a day?

which saw? 20 There are so many different types and makes

of power saws, which one is right for you?

remove wood stains 22 Spilled water or a wet glass can leave a

white stain on wood furniture.

q-zone 23

directory 24

copyright of articles and images, not submitted and licensed by home-dzine or janice anderssen, remain the property of the owner, and home-dzine or janice anderssen claims no intellectual property rights.

Home-Dzine Online is written and compiled by Janice Anderssen. All projects in this issue, or any other issue, remain the property of Home-Dzine and Janice Anderssen, and may not be copied or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission.

a word or two

This issue is all about bathrooms. You will finduseful information on transforming a boring or dated bathroom, expert advice on painting tiles, some really nice projects with Krylon, and we have even covered affordable flooring options. If your bathroomneeds an update - on a shoestring budget - you’re bound to find something inspiring in this issue!

For all our DIY Divas, we have added some new classes to our course schedule. Now you can learn all about wood finishing techniques, howto reupholster, interior design basics and paint techniques. We’re passing on our experience and tricks of the trade to make your life easier, and decorating more affordable, especially now when times are harder than they have been for a long time.

Until next month

Janice

fresh looks for dated bathrooms

Tranquil Retreat

A simple white bathroom suite combined with bamboo flooring, and painted withProminent Paints Ultramatt in Soft Molucca, create a tranquil space for the ultimate in relaxed bathing and sophisticated style.

Home-Dzineonline 3

TOP: Bamboo flooring offershomeowners the opportunity to install a hard wearing, durable and eco-friendly flooring option that is today’s modernchoice.

LEFT: A stainless steel catering trolley has been modified to add ultra glamessential storage.

TOP RIGHT: By minimising the use of tiles in a bathroom you can splurge on luxury sanitary ware. Today’s paints are formulated for use even in bathrooms and tiles can be added for accent above the sink and bath surround.

BOTTOM RIGHT: Simplicity and elegance. Small bathrooms can be designed to appear larger with careful planning, clever use of colour and minimising on clutter. Keep it simple!

Home-Dzineonline 4

imag

es: v

ariou

s

Simple Style

Azure blue mosaic tiles, a splash of aqua and magenta, and this bathroom is ready for morning wake up and make up.

LEFT: Don’t have the budget for a huge bathroom makeover? Transform an all-white bathroom with deep blue mosaic tiles and colourful accessories.

RIGHT: Stylish glass shelves above the sink provide essential storage. Plain white accessories add to the look without cluttering up too much. If you need more storage, a bathroom cabinet above the sink, or a built in vanity below, will assist without taking up valuable floorspace.

LEFT: Drywall shelving built in behind the toilet can be used to add decorative shelf space in a cramped bathroom that short on storage.

RIGHT: New taps and fittingswill give any bathroom an instant update without the cost of replacing an entire bathroom.

When planning for a new bathroom, or renovating an existing bathroom, think carefully about how the space can be used. Alcoves provide the perfect opportunity for shelving.

Visit a Home Comforts store near you and splurge on accessories and bath goodies for an easy and affordable makeover. Choose from shower curtains, bath mats, towels and more.

Home-Dzineonline 5

sour

ce: v

ariou

s

small spacebig style

TOP: This bathroom may be short on space but it definitely isn’t lacking in conveniences. A cornersink, compact toilet and combined bath/shower make the most of the available floor area. Shoparound for space-saving sanware when planning your bathroom renovation.

Maximise on space

For a combination bath/shower, by fitting a glass panelshower screen on the bath tub, you have the luxury of both options in one space.

For those who prefer to shower, a walk-in shower enclosure takes up minimal space and offers maximum showering experience.

A small bathroom is a common problem that is easily solved with the correct bathroom suite. The last thing you want is your bathroom to be as cramped and as pokey as a cupboard.

BELOW: A corner basin and a close-coupled toilet allows for more space in a guest loo or separate bathroom. CTM have a selection of wall-hung and corner basins at affordable prices.

Home-Dzineonline 6

Here’s how:1. Preparation is the key to a successful project.

Start by lightly sanding glossy tiles as much as possible. By sanding the surface you will provide better adhesion for the paint.

2. Prominent Ultragloss is a high performance, superior quality water based pure acrylic enamel that will not yellow over time. It has a brilliant smooth, ultra luxurious soft texture. Formulated for interior and exterior use on walls, ceramic tiles, wood, steel, galvanised iron and ceilings. Ultragloss leaves a long lasting, extremely durable finish thatis stain and steam resistant and fully scrubbable. It contains fungicides to eliminate fungal growth.

boringtiles?

When buying an older property, bathrooms aren’t always up to date, especially when it comes to tiling. Paint is an easy solution to temporarily cover up boring tiles, and it won’t cost you a fortune.

It is important to bear in mind that the glossier the tile finish, the more preparation required. Here is some advise to get you started on your bathroom renovation.

3. Stir product well before use and apply with a mohair roller, or Bosch PFS spray system. Allow the first coat to dry overnight before applyinga second and final coat.

4. Clean up is easy: simply wash your painting equipment with water and mild detergent.

Note: This product is not recommended for shower cubicles or wet rooms due to the regular high moisture content of these areas.

DIY Tip: If you don’t want to paint over the grout, use thin automotive tape to mask off grouted areas.

Remove the tape from the grout before each section painted dries completely.

Use drop cloths or pieces of plastic and masking tape to cover areas that you do not want to get splashed with paint.

weekend

project

Home-Dzineonline 7

Fitted with a new sink and tap, a dresser makes an attractive vanity and offers more storage than many high-priced prefabricated models.

Choose a dresser that is in good condition and with dimensions to fit your space.Check that it will accommodate the size and style of sink you desire, too. If you can use a jigsaw, you can transform the dresser into a vanity yourself. If not, hire a carpenter. Unless you are skilled at plumbing, you’ll need to hire a plumber to hook up the water lines.

You will need:DresserSinkTapsTOOLS: Tape measure and marking pen, jigsaw and other carpentry tools, plumbing supplies, polyurethane varnish.

Here’s how:

1. Plan the sink placement Decide where you want the sink to be placed

on the dresser top. Remove the drawers and any drawer supports that would interfere with the plumbing. Most sinks come with a positioning template; if yours does not, trace the sink outline onto paper to create one. Cut out the template and tape it in the desired place on the dresser top; trace around it. If the tap sits on the countertop as in this example, mark its placement, too.

Carefully make the sink cutout with a jigsaw.

sour

ce: b

ath m

akeo

vers

book

an old dresser becomes a new vanity

If you don’t have a dresser or chest you want to transform, mid century modern pieces

similar to this one can be found at many secondhand shops

and can often be purchased at a bargain price.

practical

project

Home-Dzineonline 8

2. Cut the openings Determine the location of the water supply and

drain lines. Mark these on the back of the dresser. Using a jigsaw, cut the sink, tap, and water supply/drain line openings.

3. Rework the drawers Use a jigsaw to cut off the backs of the drawers

that surround the sink and/or plumbing so that the drawer fronts fit perfectly in place.

Place the sink in the dresser and enlist the help of a plumber to hook up the plumbing if necessary.

4. Connect the water Move the dresser into place and have a plumber

hook up the hot and cold water lines and the drainpipe. In a more modern bathroom it is fairly easy to reposition the pipes yourself. Reinsert the drawers.

5. Waterproof the top To make a wood top more resistant to water,

apply two or three coats of polyurethane varnish, allowing the sealant to dry thoroughly between each coat. To keep the finish pristine, wipe offwater after each use.

DIY Tip:If the dresser needs any work doing to it, such as removing old paint or varnish, sanding out scratches and dents, do this before installing into position. Remember to remove any handles and fittings beforesanding.

Use Alcolin Wood Filler in a tinted colour to match the existing wood. Start the sanding with a coarse grit sandpaper (80-grit) and finish off with a fine gritsandpaper (180- or 240-grit).

Wipe the dresser clean with a lightly damp cloth to remove all traces of dust.

Use one of the Woodoc products for a water-resistant finish.

Where to find... Secondhand furniture

www.bidorbuy.co.zahttp://capetown.gumtree.co.zahttp://johannesburg.gumtree.co.zawww.jump.co.za

Home-Dzineonline 9

Three varying shades of paint, two coats of glaze, and gentle dabbing with cheesecloth create the illusion of a beautiful well-aged wallcovering.

You will need:Masking tapeFoam paint rollers Prominent Paints Ultrasheen - cream Decorative stencil Acrylic paint in raw umber, earthy green, and burnt sienna Scumble glaze tinted with gray and purple 80mm paintbrush and stencil brushesCheesecloth or cotton rag and sponge

Here’s how:1. Roll a base coat of cream onto the walls. Leave to dry.

2. Select a stencil that will create an antique-style pattern. Use masking tape or spray adhesive to secure the stencil to the wall. Begin working in an upper corner.

3. Use a different stencil brush for each of the three acrylic colours and a random, circular motion to dab a small amount of each paint onto the open portions of the stencil until you achieve the desired intensity, blending the colours for a subtle look.

4. Repeat the process, placing the stencil just far enough away from the first to avoid overlap. Continue until you’ve covered anentire wall. Allow the painted design to dry 24 hours.

5. Tint a water-based glaze with gray and purple. Decide on the intensity while experimenting on poster board. Using a paintbrush, apply a light coat of glaze over the pattern stencilled on the wall. To increase the appearance of age, let the glaze dry, and then apply a second coat.

6. While the second coat of glaze is still tacky, pat the wall with cheesecloth or a cotton rag to remove brush marks. To reduce the appearance of age, pat the wall with cheesecloth or a cotton rag after the first coat of paint. Let dry 24 hours. Whenone wall is complete, repeat the application of stencil paints and glaze on the next wall.

sour

ce: d

o it y

ourse

lf mag

azine

bathroomstyle

Home-Dzineonline10

Here’s how:1. Using Handy Andy or Chemico, wipe down

plastic pieces to remove any dust or grease. If the plastic is new, give it a light sanding with 240-grit sandpaper.

2. From the wallpaper border, cut out each leaf motif carefully.

3. When all motifs are cut out, immerse the leaves into water. Then carefully match the leaves up two by two so they can be placed pasted side together to activate the adhesive. This is known as “booking.” Allow leaves to book for 5 to 10 minutes (refer to individual manufacturer’s instructions for exact time).

4. Arrange leaves in a random pattern around waste basket, tissue box cover and hand lotion dispenser (remove pump mechanism). Press all edges down firmly to secure. Allow todry completely.

Note: If, after the adhesive has dried you notice edges lifting, add some paper glue to these areas to secure again in place. Allow to dry.

5. In a well-ventilated place, spray the entire surfaces of all three items with Flat Black. Allow to dry. Repeat if necessary to achieve full coverage.

6. Lightly spray in spurts the Blonde Shimmer; you just want a mist of gold applied over the black to create a brass-like appearance. Allow to dry completely. Replace pump mechanism on hand lotion dispenser.

If you get a little heavy-handed with the Blonde Shimmer, simply mist the Flat Black over the heavy area to soften the look.

Now you’re ready to add elegant accessories to your bathroom!

bath timeeleganceIt’s easy to dress up inexpensive plastic bath accessories to look like those from expensive specialty stores.

You will need:Krylon Fusion for Plastic® Metallic Shimmer - Blonde (#2339)Krylon Fusion for Plastic® - Black (#2519) Plastic wastepaper can Plastic tissue box cover Plastic or ceramic hand lotion dispenser Embossed leaf wallpaper border (prepasted)Sharp scissors Paper glue (optional) Handy Andy or Chemico cleaner240-grit sandpaper

Krylon products are available countrywide through Builders Warehouse, Builders Express, Mica, Jacks Paint, Kings Paint,

DIY Depot, and Arts & Crafts and Scrapbooking Stores.

get

crafty!

Krylon products are available countrywide through Builders Warehouse, Builders Express, Mica, Jacks Paint, Kings Paint,

DIY Depot, and Arts & Crafts and Scrapbooking Stores.

Home-Dzineonline11

bathroom basics

No bathroom would be complete without a few candles for luxurious bubble-bath bathing! Here’s how to create your own unique candleholders.

Here’s how:1. Wash and dry candleholders thoroughly. Set

aside. Cut 3 sheets of self-adhesive paper, approximately 30cm square. (Depending on size of candleholders, this may vary.)

2. Place all 3 sheets paper side down and anchor corners to prevent curling. Spray each piece with a different colour of Indoor/Outdoor paint. Let dry. Now spray lightly with Make it Pearl. Let dry completely.

3. Use the grid pattern on the paper side of the self-adhesive paper. and cut sheets into single block strips.

4. For each candleholder use 3 colours of painted paper. Remove backing from several strips of each colour to reveal the sticky side. Anchor an edge of each strip onto work surface, leaving the rest of the strip hanging down. (Hint: this step will make your mosaic work go faster.)

5. Snip several squares from one colour and place near top edge of candleholder, spaced slightly apart. (Please note: this type of mosaic work is not an “exact” art, so your squares and spacing should vary in size). Use squares of all 3 colours to finish the first row.

6. When you start the second row, and each row thereafter, be sure to leave a little space between rows, and try to place squares so they do not line up exactly with squares above them. Please refer to the image for example.

7. After you have completed all rows, be sure that all edges on squares are adhered to the surface. With Leafing Pen, fill in all clearspaces on glass. From time to time you will need to press the tip of the pen down for more paint. Have a scrap piece of paper or cardboard ready to use for this purpose. Keep a lot of paint on the tip so that stroke marks aren’t visible. Let dry.

You will need:Krylon Make It Pearl!® Pearlescent Paint - Sheer Pearl (#1207) Krylon® Indoor/Outdoor (combination of any 3 colours) Krylon® Leafing Pen (any colour)Clear glass candleholder Clear self-adhesive paper Scissors

easy

project

Home-Dzineonline12

paint brushes are out...spraying is in!With the new Bosch Fine Spray Systems nothing is simpler: no splotches, no brush hairs in the paint, no dripping, no streaks. Simply brilliant.

I was recently given one of the new Bosch Fine Spray Systems to try out at home. Fantastic!

These new systems don’t use noise compressors, in fact they are quieter than the average home vacuum cleaner. Simply plug it in, pour in the paint and finish yourpainting in no time at all. And the best part about applying paint with the fine spray system is that you can achievean almost professional finish on any surface: doors, walls,furniture and almost any other surface you can think of.

Now you can apply brilliant coats of paint three times faster. It works with “Spray Control Technology”, a low-pressure system: An air jacket perfectly focuses the paint mist when spraying, so that the user consumes up to 15 percent less paint. Moreover, the air jet speeds up the drying of paint, so that hardly any tears occur and a second coat can be instantly sprayed over the coat of paint already applied. Even a beginner achieves perfect results straight away.

The Fine Spray System is available in three models: PFS 55 - the smaller model, PFS 65 - the medium sized model and, PFS 105E for large projects. You’ll find these modelsreasonably priced when you consider the reduction in paint used and the time saving.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

This article is brought to you by Bosch Power Tools

sour

ce: r

itchie

’s top

carp

ets -

Home-Dzineonline13

affordableflooringVinyl flooring is availableas tiles or sheets and offers a wide range of colours, patterns and styles. It can be manufactured to replicate surfaces like granite, limestone, marble and wood, to provide the desired look and feel without the demanding maintenance and high cost that such floorcoverings require.

Vinyl flooring is durable, simple to install, impervious to many stains, and easy to maintain. It alsohas good damage resistance, making it a wise choice for in high-traffic areas or those proneto moisture and spills. And vinyl floors reduce noise and help to control temperature - keepingrooms warmer in winter and cooler in summer. If you’re looking for an affordable flooring optionthat is practical and, once again, stylish, look at vinyl flooring for your floors.

Novilon is a stylish and functional vinyl floorcovering that is slip resistant and will allow youto bring the desired atmosphere to a bathroom, be it country-side bathing, an elegant or contemporary space.

Home-Dzineonline14

installing your new flooringWhether you choose vinyl sheet or tile, installing your new flooring is quick and easy.

You will need:Craft knifePutty knife or round edged knifeHammerTape measureSteel straightedgeCarpet tape

Here’s how:1. Affix carpet tape on edge of flooring on all walls.

2. Position the vinyl flooring in the area and align thepatterns with the wall, identifying the location of the seam. Any seams should be located as far away as possible from door openings or high traffic areas.

3. Remove excess material, leaving a 5cm edge all around. Make small cuts at the corners and projections to allow the material to lay flat before the final cuts are made.

4. After any patterns are aligned, cut in with a utility knife leaving a 5mm gap for expansion or contraction.

5. Starting on the wall furthest from any opening, fold the vinyl back and remove the paper covering from the top of the tape. Press the vinyl onto the tape.

6. Work backwards from this wall, folding and fixing vinyl totape as you move along.

7. Where there are any seams, lay one section of the vinyl flooring on top of the other, align the patterns and placea steel straightedge at the designated match point. Hold the straightedge secure and cut through both thicknesses at the same time with a utility knife. Take care to keep the knife upright so that the edges may be seamed correctly.

8. Position carpet tape on the underside of the second section but do not remove the covering from tape. Ensure that the pattern is lined up before removing the tape and affixing to the floor.

9. Before replacing trim or skirtings, apply a thin bead of silicone sealer to any exposed edges, particularly next to bathtubs, showers or wash basin areas. Apply a thin bead of silicone sealant to seams. Excess sealant can be removed with a cloth dampened with mineral spirits.

Where to find... Vinyl Flooring

www.floorworx.co.zawww.wonstep.co.zawww.flooringprofessionals.co.za

Home-Dzineonline15

sour

ce: th

e fam

ily ha

ndym

an

If you have upholstered chair seats that are stained, worn out or just plain ugly, there’s no need to call a pro. You can do a first-class upholsteryjob yourself, even if you have zero experience. Don’t worry about making mistakes; you can correct them by prying out staples and starting over.

Here’s how:1. Turn the chair upside down and remove the

screws that fasten the seat to the chair frame. Then tear off the old fabric with a pliers and pry out the staples with a small screwdriver. If the seat is made from chipboard, you might find that it’s warped, crumbling oreven broken. Making a new seat is easy: Just lay the old seat on a piece of 12mm plywood, trace around it and cut a new seat with a jigsaw.

2. Cut the foam about 10mm larger than the wood seat.Cut the batting at least 50mm larger and the fabric at least 80mm larger. Cut the foam to size with a scissors. Take the wood seat outside and give the topside a light coat of spray adhesive. Position the seat carefully when you set it on the foam; the adhesive grabs instantly and you may not be able to pull it off. Cut the batting and fabric. Stretch the batting slightly as you staple it into place.

3. Staple the fabric at the middle of each side and work

toward the corners, stretching the fabric as you go. Stop about 50mm from corners and leave the corners for last. If your seat has rounded corners, you can wrap them so that no folds or creases are visible from above. If the seat has square corners, crease and fold the fabric as you would when you gift-wrap a box. It’s usually helpful to trim away excess fabric as you work on corners.

4. Create gathers in the fabric to form a smooth curve

around curved corners. Work toward the corner from alternating sides. Then pull back the “ear” of fabric and staple it.

5. Fold fabric around square corners. If your seat has square corners toward the rear, fold the fabric against the back edge of the seat, where the crease will be hidden by the chair back.

upholster a chair seat

Home-Dzineonline16

sour

ce: th

e fam

ily ha

ndym

an

If you have empty space above your kitchen cabinets, you already know how difficult it isto keep it clean. And if you’ve ever tried to display anything above them, you also know the surface isn’t flat, so objects sinkout of view. Why not solve both problems with an attractive display shelf you can easily build in a day?

This project only requires basic carpentry tools and skills. Even the mitre joints can be cut with a simple handsaw mitre box. And don’t worry about trying to match the finish of your existing cabinets. The shelf willlook great if you paint it to match another accent colour in the room.

space to store more

You will need:A 20mm x 32mm laminated pine cut 38mm shorter than the

cabinet face width B 20mm x 32mm laminated pine cut the same as cabinet

depth C 19mm plywood cut 80mm longer than the cabinet face

width and 40mm deeper than the cabinet depth D Moulding cut and mitred to cover exposed plywood E Filler piece to fill void between the face frame and wallF Crown moulding cut and mitred to fit over cabinet face

and under shelf Note: See diagram on back page

Here’s how:1. Measure the tops of your cabinets to determine your

materials list. Also check the distance above the cabinet doors to determine the support cleat height for the shelf.

2. Nail cleats to the tops of the cabinets to elevate the shelf. Leave 20mm of space on each side for the side cleats. The side cleats will overhang on the cabinet side.

3. Fit the side cleats so there’s a consistent overhang on the edge. We had to notch the cleat to fit behind thewindow moulding.

Make sure you specify PG Bison plywood for a superior grade plywood that has a clean face

and is easy to sand.

Home-Dzineonline17

4. Measure and cut the top from 19mm plywood, overhanging 40mm on the front and each side.

5. Nail the top to the cleats with panel pins. Make sure the

overhang is even on each side.

6. Use a bead of Alcolin Wood Glue and nail the edge moulding to the exposed plywood edges. Mitre the corners for a more finished appearance.

7. Position your moulding upside down in the mitre box to support both the top and the bottom of the moulding. Check the direction of the angle twice before you cut.

8. Nail the crown moulding to the face of the cabinet and up into the shelf at an angle. The moulding will completely cover the cuts.

9. Fit side pieces of crown moulding and slip a filler strip underfront edge to hide any gaps.

Paint your moulding to matchFinish up by filling your nail holes with Alcolin Wood Filler andsanding the wood with 180-grit sandpaper. Prime the wood and then select a satin or gloss paint finish that’ll be easy towipe clean. Because it’s difficult to get an exact cabinetcolour match for natural wood cabinets, simply pick a colour that will accent your kitchen countertops or cabinets.

Home-Dzineonline18

A fresh coat of paint can make almost anything look new again. Especially during spring and summer, many do–it–yourselfers findthey can complete home and garden spruce–ups quickly and easily with a can of spray paint. New innovations are making spray paint better than ever.

When purchasing spray paint, remember these guidelines:

• A good quality spray paint should cover any material in two coats, as opposed to 5 or 6 coats of inferior quality spray paint. So expect to pay a little more for your can of Krylon - it actually saves you money! With Krylon you can apply quickly and easily to metal, wood, wicker, plastic, ceramics and other surfaces.

• The new EZ Touch 360°™ Dial Spray Tip on cans of Krylon® Indoor/Outdoor Paint rotates a full 360° at the touch of a finger, so users can changethe direction of the spray pattern for greater paint control. Just twist the dial to direct the spray vertically, horizontally, or any angle in between. You get greater precision and more coverage per pass with less chance of runs, drips and overspray. With a lighter–touch push-button, hand and finger cramping arereduced or eliminated for more comfortable spraying.

painting up a storm with krylon

DIY Tips:When spray painting: Work in a well–ventilated area.

Use newspapers or drop cloths to cover surrounding surfaces.

Paint only clean, dry surfaces. Shake the can vigorously. Apply multiple thin coats. Don’t handle surface until dry.

You can combine spray paint with stencils to create endless borders and whimsical design motifs on tables, chairs, dressers, headboards or whatever suits your fancy. Just affix your stencil, point andspray.

Use spray paint to highlight individual pieces with punchy accent colours that coordinate with your room decor. Or, use it to unify diverse accessories with complementary shades that bring harmony to a space.

Editor’s Note: I’m sure that many readers are wondering why I’m now recommending Krylon products. The answer

is simple: You can buy Krylon off-the-shelf countrywide.

Home-Dzineonline19

products we love

Artevia™ is all about attractive design and sophisticated textures. Its finishes can be customised withoptions like wax, stencilled effects and decorative details. There is no limit to what you can do, so let Artevia™ set your imagination free.

Visit: www.lafarge.co.za for more information.

ABOVE: Artevia™ Print is an incredibly lifelike range of textured pavements, stone and natural effect finishes. They are durable and lowmaintenance, and with proper care, stay as beautiful as the day they were set.

BELOW RIGHT: Artevia™ Stone looks and feels like natural stone in every detail. Elegant and impressive, it has all the character and beauty of premium quarried stone at a fraction of the cost.

Seeing is believing

Artevia™ by Lafarge is a collection of decorative concretes* for indoor andoutdoor applications that combine freedom of design with low maintenance anddurability. A stunningly beautiful design material with all the advantages of concrete, it is not only hard wearing but also long lasting.

Available in an array of amazing colours, patterns and textures it is ideal for home owners, and offers unrestricted creativity on any project. It can be moulded when fresh like any concrete, or pounded like stone when hardened to create new textures.Artevia™ is the perfect match for any environment. Combine it with brick, metal, wood or grass for a wealth of possibilities!

Home-Dzineonline20

what do I use to cut wood?You’ve done the DIY Divas Power Tool Course - now you want to go out and buy the tools. Easier said than done!

There are so many different types and makes of power saws on the shelf of your local DIY store and, knowing what is the right choice for you will help you to make the right choice.

JigsawA jigsaw is the most versatile power saw for the DIY workshop - whether you are an amateur or a professional.

You can use a jigsaw to cut various timber and board products, plastics, and even sheet metal. Designed for precise cuts, the jigsaw is ideal for cutting straight lines, corners, and curves. With a bit of practice you can also cut circles, angles and plunge cuts.

Tips and tricksPractice makes perfect. At our DIY Divas Power Tool Course you will experience ‘hands on’ with the jigsaw, using it for cutting a straight edge, curves and corners. Here are a few tips and tricks to get you started:

Position the jigsaw a couple of millimetres from the edge of the board and press the power switch. Gently guide the jigsaw through the board or timber - never push too hard - and let the jigsaw do the cutting.

To prevent jerks caused by an unsteady or unbalanced power saw, always keep the base plate flat on the surface that you are cutting- even when going around corners or curves.

What to look for in a JigsawShop around for a jigsaw that is lightweight and comfortable to hold. The Bosch jigsaw has a built in laser light that is directed forwards and makes cutting a straight line easier. Feature such as these go a long way towards making DIY so much more fun and frustration. Another feature that is handy to have is an integral dust blower. As you cut the sawdust is blown away from the cutting line, allowing the user to see and follow. Finally, don’t try to save money by purchasing a model with a low wattage. The more wattage - the more cutting power. If you plan to make DIY a hobby, or create your own custom furniture pieces, spend a little more on a jigsaw that will ensure that you can do the job.

A welcome feature of many jigsaws is an easier blade-change system. Bosch offers a “One Touch” blade-change system on some of its models that ejects hot or broken blades with the click of a lever.

Home-Dzineonline21

Choosing jigsaw bladesThere is an almost overwhelming assortment of jigsaw blades. To select the right blade, you need to know a few basic facts:

• What type of material do you plan to cut - wood, metal, plastic or other?

• What type of cuts will you be making - tight cuts, rough cuts, fretwork or a combination?

Teeth per inch - TPIOne of the most important things to consider is the number

of blade teeth per inch (TPI). Most wood blades have as many as 12 TPI, while metal-cutting blades may have up to 36 TPI. Generally speaking, the fewer the teeth, the faster the blade will cut. However,

blades with fewer teeth also mean a rougher cut.

Blade materialMost jigsaw blades are made from carbon steel. For cutting

sheet metal you will need bi-metal blades, which have extremely hard steel teeth joined to a blade body of softer carbon steel. The high-strength teeth maintain an edge

much longer than carbon steel.

Type of fittingBe sure to select the type of blade that is compatible with your jigsaw. Some saws accept T-style blades while others accept “universal” blades.

Today’s jigsaws are easier to work with than ever before and, with a little practice and the right blade you’ll find plenty of uses for a jigsawaround in the home and workshop.

If you are in the market for a Jigsaw, don’t forget about the DIY Divas Power

Tool Day on Saturday 13 December. You will be able to buy a wide variety of

tools. See page 18 for more details.

Fret saw bladeThis blade is much narrower than the

standard wood cutting blade. The cutting teeth are also smaller. You would use this

blade for fret work, or cutting out detailed shapes in board products.

CLICK HERE FOR THIS PROJECT

Woodoc 10 is an indoor, velvet finish (offgloss)sealer. Apply Woodoc 10 to tabletops, furniture, wooden knife handles, gun and rifle stocks, bread boards,kitchen units, cupboards and sideboards. Woodoc 10 gives a fine finish that is heat, stain andscratch resistant and is one of the most popular Woodoc Wood Finishing Sealers. It applies easily, and the gloss of the sealer may be infinitely varied, using different applicationtechniques, from high gloss through “velvet” or semi-gloss, to absolute matt.

Home-Dzineonline22

remove stains in woodSpilled water or a wet glass can leave a white stain on wood furniture. Often, complete stripping and refinishing are the only solution.

But there is an easy option that can sometimes remove water marks in a few minutes - without harming the finish.

Here’s how:First, rub the stain with a soft rag dipped in mineral turpentine. If the original finish has acoating of wax over it, there’s a good chance that only the wax has turned white. Mineral spirits removes wax without harming the underlying finish. Have patience; the mineralspirits may take a few minutes to soften the wax.

Now use Woodoc SteelWool and mineral turpentine to remove all of the old polish. Remember to rub with the grain in order to avoid damaging the surface of the wood.

Finally, wipe down with a cloth dampened with mineral turpentine and leave the wood to dry.

Woodoc 5 creates an absolute matt, or naturallooking surface that is totally stain, water, alcohol and mark resistant. Apply Woodoc 5 to hardwood tables, chairs, other furniture and interiorwoodwork where the beauty of a natural “oiled” look is required, but with a tough heat, stain and scratch resistant finish.

Woodoc 5 may be applied to previously waxedor oiled wood, and will not bubble, “feather” orflake. Clean previously oiled or waxed surfaceswith Woodoc SteelWool and mineral turpentinebefore applying.

Woodoc Antique Wax is a white wax paste polish suitable for all furniture and finewoodwork, especially antiques. Repeated use will result in the build-up of an authentic patina on the wood surface.

Woodoc Antique Wax is formulated in the tradition and high standards of Woodoc wood care products. A blend of the finest waxes ona white wax base, Antique Wax from Woodoc cleans and refreshes as it polishes, leaving no residual build-up.

Home-Dzineonline23

Q zoneSend your Q & A for decor, decorating and DIY dilemmas to home-dzine@iburst.co.za.

Q. TanaI would like to modernize my bathroom without having to spend too much and I would like you suggestion.

Not changing:Standard white size bathShower build-inn – only front opened.

To changeAll taps – bath, basin and shower – any suggested good budget taps??Half way white wall tiles – is it possible to paint them??

Basin – I would like a basin with cabinet and space to fit is 1m – any suggesting?

My budget is R 3000.00 – do you think it will all be possible?

A. JaniceYou are working within a very tight budget, especially if you want to change all the taps. You will probably have to shop around for good buys for nice taps at a nice price. Best buys... go to CTM. We have a very nice DIY Designer Vanity in our May issue of Home-Dzine Online, which would save you a substantial amount if you have some previous DIY experience. Otherwise, keep your eyes open for a bargain at secondhand shops that needs only a bit of work to transform it into a bathroom treasure. Painting onto tiles is fairly easy and we have several articles on the site that cover this option. As an alternative, keep the bathroom a white and use colourful accessories to add interest to the room. A large decorative mirror, a couple of bright artworks or posters, new towels in the latest colours, decorative soaps and bath goodies - these will all add colour to the room and are easy to change when you want a new look.

Q. KhensileI am currently extending the house I live in. It is in a rural settlement and am also working on a tight budget. This is our family home so I can’t really afford to spend much money in it as it might be sold one day. I am also planning to move out within a year or two, in the meantime I thought vinyl tiles would do for the floor it is just that I can’t seem to find classyones that has not prints on. I need ones that come in charcoal black and can look a bit like ciramic or even if they are cream white. Can you maybe advice me where I can possible findthese.

A. JaniceI agree that vinyl floor tiles would be the perfectoption for the time being. You will find more detailedinformation on vinyl floor tiles on any of the linksbelow: www.floorworx.co.za www.wonstep.co.za www.flooringprofessionals.co.za www.thehomewarehouse.co.za

Links for this issue

Bosch Power Tools for DIY

Decorating Centre

Dremel MultiTools

Garden Shop

Home Comforts

PG Bison

Prominent Paints

Rust-Oleum

Timbercity

Woodoc

Need a back-issue of Home-Dzine Online?CLICK HERE

Want to subscribe?CLICK HERE

Need to send us an email?CLICK HERE

Home-Dzineonline24

directory

FIND OUT ABOUT OUR HOLIDAY SPECIAL