quarta-feira, 8 de agosto de 2018


How to Make Organic Pesticide

Posted: 08 Aug 2018 01:00 AM PDT

Aphids, spider mites, and other pests can cause serious damage to flowers, fruits, and vegetables. These creatures attack your garden in swarms, literally draining the life from your crops and often inviting disease in the process. Many chemical pesticides can prove unsafe for you and the environment or may make fruits and vegetables unsafe for consumption. Thankfully, there are many homemade, organic options for you to turn to in your war against pests.

EditSteps

EditUsing Vegetables

  1. Mix 1/2 c (113 g) of hot peppers with 1/2 c (113 g) of garlic or onion. You can use any hot peppers you like, such as jalapeno and habanero chili peppers. You can also use a combination of onion and garlic instead of one or the other. Chop up all the vegetables thoroughly.[1]
    Make Organic Pesticide Step 1 Version 2.jpg
  2. Blend the vegetables together in an electric blender. Transfer the chopped veggies to a blender or food processor. Pulse the mixture until it forms a thick, chunky paste.
    Make Organic Pesticide Step 2 Version 2.jpg
  3. Add the vegetable paste to 2 c (500 mL) of warm water. Measure out the warm water and pour it directly into the blender. Give the ingredients a stir to thoroughly mix them together.
    Make Organic Pesticide Step 3 Version 2.jpg
  4. Pour the solution into a glass container and let it sit for 24 hours. You can also use a plastic container, but it will trap an unpleasant odor in the plastic. If possible, keep the container in a sunny location. If not, at least keep the mixture in a warm spot for about 24 hours.
    Make Organic Pesticide Step 4 Version 2.jpg
  5. Strain the mixture. Pour the solution through a strainer, removing the vegetables and collecting the vegetable-infused water into another container. This water is your pesticide.
    Make Organic Pesticide Step 5 Version 2.jpg
    • You can discard the vegetables or put them in your compost.
  6. Pour your pesticide into a squirt bottle. Make sure that the spray bottle has first been cleaned with warm water and soap to rid it of any potential contaminants. Use a funnel to transfer the liquid into the squirt bottle and replace the nozzle.
    Make Organic Pesticide Step 6 Version 2.jpg
  7. Spray your plants with the pesticide. Treat the infected plants every 4 to 5 days with the solution. After 3 or 4 treatments, the pests should scatter. If the area is thoroughly covered with the solution, this pesticide should keep bugs away for the rest of the season.
    Make Organic Pesticide Step 7 Version 2.jpg
    • Avoid spraying the plants during the sunniest parts of the day since it could burn your plants.

EditUsing Oil

  1. Select a mild liquid dish-washing soap. Avoid anti-bacterial, scented, and other specialized soaps, since these may damage your plants. Dawn and castile soap are both great choices.[2]
    Make Organic Pesticide Step 8 Version 2.jpg
  2. Mix 1 tbsp (15 mL) of mild soap with 1 c (250 mL) cooking oil. Measure out both ingredients and pour them into a large bowl. Use either canola or vegetable cooking oil for best results.[3]
    Make Organic Pesticide Step 9 Version 2.jpg
  3. Combine 2 1/2 tsp (12 mL) of the mixture with 1 c (250 mL) of water. Stir the ingredients well to mix them thoroughly.
    Make Organic Pesticide Step 10 Version 2.jpg
  4. Pour this new mixture into a large squirt bottle. Use a funnel to easily transfer the mixture into the spray bottle. Give the mixture another vigorous shake once you get it inside the bottle.
    Make Organic Pesticide Step 11 Version 2.jpg
  5. Test the mix by spraying it onto a small portion of your plant. If the section of the plant you test the spray on wilts or changes color, try using a different soap for this pesticide or another type of pesticide.
    Make Organic Pesticide Step 12 Version 2.jpg
  6. Spray the mixture anywhere you have problems. If you tested your solution and it did not cause any harm to your plant, spray it around your entire plant, including the undersides of leaves. Focus on areas where pests lay their eggs, since an oil spray is designed to target eggs and immature bugs.[4]
    Make Organic Pesticide Step 13 Version 2.jpg
    • Use the spray during the early morning or late afternoon, since direct sunlight could burn your plants after using oil.

EditUsing Soap

  1. Opt for a mild liquid dish-washing soap. The milder your soap is, the less likely it is to have a harmful effect on your plants. Stay away from anti-bacterial, scented, and other specialized soaps.
    Make Organic Pesticide Step 14 Version 2.jpg
    • Mild soaps like Dawn and castile soap work perfectly.
  2. Mix a few tsp (10 to 15 mL) of soap into 1 gallon (4 L) of water. Combine the soap and water in a large bowl. Use your hands or a large spoon to mix the ingredients together.[5]
    Make Organic Pesticide Step 15 Version 2.jpg
  3. Pour the solution into a large squirt bottle. Use a funnel to transfer the liquid and then replace the nozzle. You may not be able to fit all of the solution into a bottle! Just use the largest bottle you can find to make use of as much of the solution as possible.
    Make Organic Pesticide Step 16 Version 2.jpg
  4. Test the mixture on your plants. Spray a small section of the infested plant with the solution and monitor it throughout the course of a day. If it does not wilt or change color, the solution is likely safe.
    Make Organic Pesticide Step 17 Version 2.jpg
  5. Spray the pests directly with the mixture. Cover the top and undersides of leaves, focusing on the areas that seem the most overcome with pests. The spray works by removing the protective wax on the insect, which causes it to lose a fatal amount of water.[6]
    Make Organic Pesticide Step 18 Version 2.jpg
  6. Continue to spray your plants every 2-3 days for the next 2 weeks. Since this pesticide is fairly diluted, continued application is the only way to ensure that the infestation ends.[7]
    Make Organic Pesticide Step 19 Version 2.jpg

EditUsing Tobacco

  1. Mix 1 c (250 mL) of loose tobacco into 1 gallon (4 L) of water. Combine the 2 ingredients thoroughly in a large bowl or container. Tobacco is useful in targeting caterpillars, aphids, and worms, but it is not safe to use on peppers, tomatoes, eggplants, or any member of the solanaceous plant family.[8]
    Make Organic Pesticide Step 20 Version 2.jpg
  2. Sit the mixture out in the sun or in another warm location. Put the container somewhere it won't be disturbed. Allow the mixture to rest for 24 hours.
    Make Organic Pesticide Step 21 Version 2.jpg
  3. Check the color of the mixture. Ideally, the pesticide will look similar to the hue of a light tea. If it is too dark, dilute it with water. If it is too light to see, allow it to sit an additional few hours.
    Make Organic Pesticide Step 22.jpg
  4. Add 3 tbsp (45 mL) of mild liquid dish soap to the solution. Opt for a mild soap like Dawn or castile soap for best results. Pour it directly into the mixture, then stir thoroughly to combine the ingredients.
    Make Organic Pesticide Step 23 Version 2.jpg
  5. Pour the mixture into a large squirt bottle. Use a funnel to transfer to liquid into a squirt bottle and replace the nozzle. Shake the solution inside the bottle once more to combine it further.
    Make Organic Pesticide Step 24 Version 2.jpg
  6. Spray the infested plants with the solution. Focus on areas that show the most damage, but also cover spots that still seem in good condition.
    Make Organic Pesticide Step 25 Version 2.jpg

EditUsing Oranges

  1. Peel an orange and reserve the rind. Citrus is especially helpful in targeting soft-bodied bugs, including slugs, aphids, fungus gnats, and mealy bugs. When sprayed directly onto the pests, this pesticide also works against ants and roaches.
    Make Organic Pesticide Step 26 Version 2.jpg
    • If you do not have a fresh orange, use 1.5 tsp (7.4 g) of dried citrus peels or 1/2 oz (15 mL) of orange oil.
  2. Put the peels in a glass container and add 2 c (500 mL) of boiling water. Fill a kettle with 2 c (500 mL) of water and bring it to a boil. Pour the boiling water into the glass container and allow the solution to sit in a warm spot for about 24 hours.
    Make Organic Pesticide Step 27 Version 2.jpg
  3. Strain the solution and save the citrus-infused water. Pour the mixture into a strainer, removing the peels and saving the water. You can then discard the peels or put them in your compost.
    Make Organic Pesticide Step 28 Version 2.jpg
  4. Add a few drops of castile soap to the water. Peppermint-scented castile soap, such as Dr. Bronner's, may prove especially effective. Mix the solution thoroughly to combine the ingredients.
    Make Organic Pesticide Step 29 Version 2.jpg
  5. Pour the pesticide into a large squirt bottle. Use a funnel to transfer the liquid into the bottle and replace the nozzle. Spray the entire plant with the solution to ward off most soft-bodied pests. Spray it directly on top of ants and roaches.
    Make Organic Pesticide Step 30 Version 2.jpg

EditUsing Chrysanthemums

  1. Combine 1/2 c (113 g) of dried chrysanthemums with 4 c (1 L) of water. Chrysanthemums contain a chemical component called pyrethrum, which is capable of paralyzing many garden insects. Mix the dried petals and water together in a large stockpot.[9]
    Make Organic Pesticide Step 31 Version 2.jpg
  2. Boil the mixture for 20 minutes. Place the stockpot on your stove over high heat bring it to a boil. Boiling the mixture releases the pyrethrum into the water. Turn off the heat after 20 minutes.
    Make Organic Pesticide Step 32 Version 2.jpg
  3. Pour the solution through a strainer. Remove the dried flowers and save the infused water. You can discard the dried flowers or place them in your compost.
    Make Organic Pesticide Step 33 Version 2.jpg
  4. Pour the pesticide solution into a spray bottle and treat plants. Use a funnel to transfer the liquid to the bottle. Focus on spraying the most damaged areas before moving on to less damaged areas. Cover the entire plant with solution, including the undersides of leaves.
    Make Organic Pesticide Step 34 Version 2.jpg
  5. Store the solution for up to 2 months. Keep the solution in a cool, dark place, like your cupboard. After 2 months, the solution may no longer be effective, so it's best to throw it out and make a new batch.
    Make Organic Pesticide Step 35 Version 2.jpg

EditUsing Neem

  1. Combine 1/2 oz (15 mL) of neem oil with 1/2 tsp (2 1/2 mL) mild soap. Mix the 2 ingredients together in a bowl. You can get neem oil in most grocery and health food stores, as well as online. Use a mild soap like Dawn or castile soap for the best results.[10]
    Make Organic Pesticide Step 36 Version 2.jpg
    • Neem oil, which comes from a bitter tree leaf, is thought to be one of the most effective natural pesticides in existence.
  2. Mix the neem and soap into 2 quarts (2 L) of warm water. Fill a large container with the water, then add the oil and soap mixture to it. Stir slowly until the ingredients are thoroughly mixed together.
    Make Organic Pesticide Step 37 Version 2.jpg
  3. Pour the pesticide into a spray bottle. Transfer the solution to a spray bottle with a funnel. Spray the pesticide immediately, dousing the entire plant and focusing on spots where you can clearly see pests or signs of pests.
    Make Organic Pesticide Step 38 Version 2.jpg
    • Re-apply the pesticide regularly to prevent any infestation.

EditTips

  • Determine which pests are causing damage to your plants. Many pests can actually be helpful to your garden, but some pesticides will kill these along with the harmful pests. Start with a pesticide that specifically targets problem insects before moving onto a more inclusive variety.
  • Create a more potent pesticide by combining different organic pesticide solutions. For instance, neem oil can be added to a chrysanthemum spray.
  • Avoid spraying pesticides during the hottest and sunniest parts of the day since it could burn your plants.
  • While some sprays will act as deterrents for pests, your spray will work more effectively if you spray them directly onto the insects.

EditWarnings

  • Many pesticides, especially tobacco and soap-based sprays, can cause damage to certain plants. Test your pesticide on a small portion of a plant before dousing the entire thing. This way, you can see whether or not a certain pesticide is likely to cause more harm than good.

EditThings You'll Need

  • Hot peppers
  • Garlic cloves
  • Onions
  • Water
  • Mild dish soap
  • Cooking oil
  • Tobacco
  • Orange peels
  • Chrysanthemums
  • Neem oil

EditRelated wikiHows

EditSources and Citations


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How to Make Party Favors for a Baby Shower

Posted: 07 Aug 2018 05:00 PM PDT

Baby showers are meant to help an expectant mother prepare for her baby. The guests will often bring gifts to the mother to help her, such as baby clothes or diapers. As a thank you, the mother will often make special favors that her guests can take home.

EditSteps

EditPlanning the Favors

  1. Choose a date for the baby shower. This will determine how fancy you can get with the favors. If your baby shower is only a few weeks away, you may not have a lot of time to do fancy favors that involve painting, cutting, and gluing. You may have to stick with simple ones, such as melt-and-pour candy or popcorn-filled treats.
    Make Party Favors for a Baby Shower Step 2 Version 2.jpg
    • Some projects, such as candles and soap, can be prepared ahead of time. Other projects, such as succulents, need to be prepared closer to the date.
  2. Decide how many guests you will invite. This will help set a budget as well as the project. If you have a lot of guests, it might be a good idea to choose a quick and simple project, such as popcorn bags. If you don't have a lot of guests, you could make unique gifts, such as mini, potted succulents.
    Make Party Favors for a Baby Shower Step 3 Version 2.jpg
  3. Keep transportation in mind. Some items are easy to transport, like nail polish. Other items, such as potted succulents, are much harder. If you don't have a big car or people to help you, something that is easily stored in a box or basket would work the best.
    Make Party Favors for a Baby Shower Step 4 Version 2.jpg
    • Potted succulents and chocolate will be the most difficult to transport. Potted plants need to be kept upright and chocolate needs to be stored in a cool area.
    • Small items, such as mini hand sanitizers and nail polish bottles will be the easiest to transport. You can just put them into a bag or box.
  4. Plan your budget. Keep your project and guest list in mind. Fancier projects will require a larger budget--one that will increase with the guest list. If you have a huge budget, you can really splurge on unique gifts. If you have a tight budget, however, you will need to stick with simpler projects.
    Make Party Favors for a Baby Shower Step 5 Version 2.jpg
    • Take advantage of coupons and sales. If you are shopping online, try wholesales.
  5. Develop a theme for your baby shower. It can be simple as "baby girl" or "baby boy." Another option is to do a unique theme, such as pirates, undersea, safari, or superheroes. Have some related colors, symbols, and images in mind. For example:[1]
    Decorate for a Baby Shower Step 2 Version 2.jpg
    • If you are doing a baby girl theme, you might want to include lots of pink, bows, baby rattles, and pacifiers.
    • If you are doing a gender reveal theme, your colors might be purple or yellow. Baby blocks, diapers, and bottles are great neutral themes too.
    • For a unique theme, such as undersea, you might want to have lots of blues (ocean), greens (seaweed), and yellows (sand) as well as fish and bubbles.

EditCreating Non-Edible Favors

  1. Decorate mini hand sanitizer bottles. Purchase a pack of mini hand sanitizer bottles. Peel the labels off, then remove the residue with some baby oil. Wipe the bottles down with rubbing alcohol, then decorate with stickers or homemade labels to match your baby shower's theme.[2]
    Make Party Favors for a Baby Shower Step 6 Version 2.jpg
    • If you have a high budget, consider colored and scented hand sanitizer. It is more expensive than regular hand sanitizer.
  2. Mix up a simple sugar scrub, and present it in mini jars. Mix 2 parts white sugar with 1 part oil. Add some essential oil, if desired, then stir everything together. Fill mini jelly jars with the scrub, then screw the lids back on. Decorate the lids with personalized labels.[3]
    Make Party Favors for a Baby Shower Step 7 Version 2.jpg
    • Coconut oil and olive oil make great choices for sugar scrubs.
    • Lemon or lavender are great options. You can also try vanilla extract if you don't want to use essential oil.
  3. Make candles in mini jelly jars. Cut candle wicks down until they are taller than your jars. Insert the wicks into the jars, then fill them with melted candle wax. Let the wax set, then trim the wicks down. Decorate the lids with personalized labels and put them back on the jars.
    Make Party Favors for a Baby Shower Step 8 Version 2.jpg
    • Give your candles a special touch by mixing fragrance oil and candle dye into the wax.
    • You can purchase all of the required supplies at your local craft store.
  4. Make baby-themed melt-and-pour soap. Purchase some baby-themed candy-making or soap-making molds. Melt a melt-and-pour soap base, then stir in some soap-making fragrance and dye. Pour the melted soap base into the molds. Let it set, then pop the soap out.
    Make Party Favors for a Baby Shower Step 9 Version 2.jpg
    • Both candy-making and soap-making molds will work for this project. Candy-making molds are much smaller and ideal for mini hand soaps.
    • Examples of baby-themed molds include: alphabet blocks, baby bottles, pacifies, rattles, and rubber duckies.
  5. Decorate bottles of nail polish with ribbon and labels. Purchase bottles of nail polish that match your baby shower's theme. Use a craft punch to punch tags out of cardstock. Write a message on the tags, then tie them to the bottles with skinny ribbon.[4]
    Make Party Favors for a Baby Shower Step 10 Version 2.jpg
    • You can also write the baby's name and due date on the tags instead.
    • Some beauty supply stores sell mini bottles of nail polish. These tend to be cheaper than full-sized bottles.
  6. Give your guests mini succulents. Purchase a tray of mini succulents. Pop them out of the tray, then transplant them into mini terracotta pots or mini pails. Decorate the pails with ribbon, washi tape, stickers, or scrapbooking paper.[5]
    Make Party Favors for a Baby Shower Step 11 Version 2.jpg
    • Prepare these no more than a week before your baby shower. Remember to water them before giving them to your guests.
    • You can buy mini terracotta pots and pails in the craft store. They are about tall.
  7. Decorate seed packets for a unique favor. Purchase a bunch of seed packets, preferably ones that are in season. Secure a personalized label to the front of each packet with double-sided tape. Wrap a ribbon around the middle of the packet and tie it in a bow. Present each packet in a mini flower pot.[6]
    Make Party Favors for a Baby Shower Step 12 Version 2.jpg
    • If you want something "baby-themed," try baby's breath.
    • Easy-to-grow plants, such as most herbs (i.e.: basil, chives, mint, oregano, thyme, etc.) are also a great option.
    • Fill the flower pots with shredded, crinkled paper (basket filler) to mimic soil.
    • For a rustic look, forgo the label. Tie some twine around the packet like a present, then add a personalized tag instead.
  8. Make commemorative favors to remember the baby shower. These favors will typically include the baby's name and due date. Sometimes, they include a quote from a book or famous person as well. Here are some popular ideas:
    Make Party Favors for a Baby Shower Step 13 Version 2.jpg
    • Make bookmarks with the baby's name and due date. Add a special quote or book passage.
    • Print unique wrappers for chocolate bars. For gender reveal parties, make them blank on the outside and colored on the inside!
    • Decorate disposable cameras and give them to the guests so they can take pictures throughout the event!

EditMaking Edible Favors

  1. Make some chocolate candies or lollipops. Purchase some candy molds that match your baby shower's theme. Purchase chocolate candy melts that match your theme, then melt them according to the instructions on the package. Pour the melted chocolate into the molds, let it set, then pop the candy out.
    Make Party Favors for a Baby Shower Step 14 Version 2.jpg
    • You can use baby-themed candy molds for a traditional baby shower, or unique molds. For example, if you have an undersea theme, try shell-shaped molds!
    • Tuck the candy into cellophane bags, then tie the bags off with ribbon.
    • Create lollipops by getting a lollipop mold, then inserting lollipop sticks into the provided grooves before the chocolate sets.
  2. Create a clever pun with "Ready to Pop" popcorn bags. Cut small rectangles or tags out of cardstock and write "Ready to Pop!" on them. Punch a hole through the top of each tag, then thread a piece of skinny ribbon through them. Fill cellophane bags with flavored popcorn, then tie the tagged ribbon around the top into a bow.[7]
    Make Party Favors for a Baby Shower Step 15 Version 2.jpg
    • Caramel popcorn is a great option, but you can also try kettle corn. Avoid plain buttered or salted popcorn as it may taste stale after a while.
    • You can make the tags on your computer then print them out to save time.
  3. Serve up some mini champagne bottles. Purchase a bunch of mini champagne bottles from the liquor store; they are typically around 2 ounces (30 mL) each. Use a craft punch to create mini tags, then write a cute message on each tag. Tie the tags to the bottles with matching twine, then present the bottles in a mini metal pail.[8]
    Make Party Favors for a Baby Shower Step 16 Version 2.jpg
    • Alternatively, create your own adhesive labels on the computer, then stick them over the existing label on the bottle.
    • Take things a step further and spray paint the pail to match your baby shower's theme.
    • Write a message like "Bottoms Up!" or "Mommy Bottles."
  4. Decorate mini jars and fill them with candy. Purchase a case of mini jelly jars. Remove the lids and spray paint them to match your theme. Decorate the top of the lids with stickers or personalized labels. Hot glue a ribbon or trim around the rim of the lid. Fill the jar with candy, then screw the lid back on.[9]
    Make Party Favors for a Baby Shower Step 17 Version 2.jpg
    • Save money buy re-using baby food jars. Make sure that they are clean, however!
    • For a princess or baby girl themed jar, hot glue a mini tiara to the top of the lid.
    • Hard candy like M&Ms or jelly beans works the best. Be sure to match the color to your baby shower's theme!
  5. Make a baby shower candy pacifier party favor. Prepare a batch of royal icing. Transfer it into a piping bag, then snip the tip off. Use the royal icing to glue 2 white lifesavers perpendicular to each other; they should make a T-shape. Use the royal icing to glue a gumdrop to the top of the "T" to finish the pacifier.[10]
    Make Party Favors for a Baby Shower Step 18 Version 2.jpg
    • Tie a piece of ribbon to the bottom lifesaver for a cute touch.
  6. Create marshmallow rattle lollipops. Add a large marshmallow to the end of a 4-inch (10-cm) lollipop stick and a mini marshmallow to the other. Coat both marshmallows with melted white candy melts. Let the chocolate set, then dip the larger marshmallow halfway into melted blue or pink candy melts.[11]
    Make Party Favors for a Baby Shower Step 19 Version 2.jpg
    • Add a nicer touch by sprinkling white confetti sprinkles onto the colored chocolate before it sets. It will look like polka dots!
    • Tuck the lollipops into cellophane bags, then tie them with ribbon.
    • If you have more time, consider making cake pops, then decorating them to look like rattles instead.[12]
  7. Create marshmallow baby bottles. Glue 2 large marshmallows together with melted candy melts. Let the chocolate set, then use a toothpick to dip the entire bottle into the melted candy. Roll the bottle in sugar sprinkles for more texture and let it set. Use more melted candy melts to glue a mini marshmallow, a gumdrop, or a chocolate kiss to the top of the bottle.[13]
    Make Party Favors for a Baby Shower Step 20.jpg
    • Remove the toothpick before serving the baby bottles.
    • Use white chocolate candy melts for basic bottles. Use colored sugar sprinkles if you want to match the theme of your baby shower.

EditTips

  • If you are making the favors for someone else, double-check with her to ensure that she likes everything.
  • Double-check your guests for any allergies. Write an ingredient label for the edible favors, if needed.
  • Consider making some interactive favors, such as word searches or crossword puzzles. There are many websites that allow you to create your own.
  • Make favors that your guests can use. While baby sock roses and diaper rattles are cute, your guests may not find much use for them.


EditThings You'll Need

EditCreating Non-Edible Favors

  • Soap or candle-making supplies
  • Small jars
  • Hot glue
  • Cardstock
  • Craft punches
  • Ribbon

EditMaking Edible Favors

  • Chocolate candy melts
  • Candy
  • Small jars or cellophane bags
  • Ribbon
  • Tags

EditRelated wikiHows

EditSources and Citations


Cite error: <ref> tags exist, but no <references/> tag was found


How to Color Block

Posted: 07 Aug 2018 09:00 AM PDT

Color blocking is a popular design trend that involves mixing solid colors to create a striking statement. If you love bright colors, it's easy to incorporate colorblocking into your own wardrobe and home decor!

EditSteps

EditMixing Colors

  1. Choose 2-3 colors that you think go well together. If you're not sure how to pair colors, look at a color wheel. Try to either choose colors which are close together on the wheel, like orange, red, and pink, or which are directly across from each other, like blue and yellow. You can also use varying shades of the same color.[1]
    Color Block Step 1 Version 2.jpg
  2. Pair a neutral color with a bold shade for subtle colorblocking. If using a lot of bright colors isn't your style, try picking one bold shade and pairing it with neutral colors. This will make the bold color stand out without being overwhelming.[2]
    Color Block Step 2 Version 2.jpg
    • For instance, you might mix a warm grey skirt with a top that's bright yellow to make the yellow really pop.
  3. Experiment with unexpected color combinations. Part of what makes colorblocking such a popular trend is that it opens the door to fun and unusual color combinations. Try pairing your favorite blue shirt with a bright fuschia jacket, for instance.[3]
    Color Block Step 3 Version 2.jpg

EditColorblocking Your Outfit

  1. Choose colors that look good on your skin. The colors that look best on you will work best on your skin's undertone, which is either warm or cool. Warmer skin tones look best in bold, warm colors, while cooler skin tones look better in blues and paler hues.[4]
    Color Block Step 4 Version 2.jpg
    • If you're not sure how to determine your undertone, look at the veins in your wrist. If they seem greenish, you have a warm undertone. If they are blue or purple, you have a cool undertone. If your veins appear bluish-green, you have a neutral undertone and can wear almost any color.
  2. Try colorblocking with pieces you already own. You don't have to go out and buy a new wardrobe to try the colorblocking trend. Just look for shirts, pants, or accessories in solid colors and mix them together.[5]
    Color Block Step 5 Version 2.jpg
    • If you already have a bright yellow T-shirt, for instance, you could pair it with a dark pair of jeans and a pair of blue sneakers to create an easy colorblocked look.
  3. Wear a tailored suit with a bold shirt to bring colorblocking to the office. Since colorblocking focuses on simplicity, it's a perfect trend to incorporate in your professional looks. Wearing a brightly-colored blouse or button-down shirt with your suit will give your look a pop of personality while still being appropriate for work.
    Color Block Step 6 Version 2.jpg
    • Choose your shirt based on the color of your suit and what looks best on you. For instance, if you have a navy suit, your shirt could be red, pink, powder-blue, yellow, teal, fuschia, or green.
  4. Wear several different shades of the same color for a striking colorblock effect. If you really want to stand out, create a head-to-toe look out of shades of the same hue. Depending on the pieces you wear, this look can work for anything from a night out to a formal occasion.
    Color Block Step 7.jpg
    • Try wearing coral slacks, a salmon shirt, tan shoes, and pumpkin-colored accessories for a casually cool fall look.
  5. Choose bold accessories without embellishments. Colorblocking is all about creating clean lines to show off your color choices. Your accessories should be simple and graphic and should build on your overall look.[6]
    Color Block Step 8.jpg
    • Try pairing a purple shirt with a chunky teal necklace or wide belt to try out a trendy color combination.
  6. Pick simple shoes that accent your outfit. You can never go wrong with a neutral pair of shoes, but colorblocking is a chance to try out some really fun footwear. Look for shoes in bold colors, but avoid shoes which match the other colors in your outfit too perfectly, as this can look old-fashioned.
    Color Block Step 9.jpg
    • Make a pair of blue trousers pop by finishing your look with a pair of red slip-on shoes.[7]
  7. Colorblock your nails for a subtle way to try this trend. To colorblock your nails, paint them a solid color, then let them dry completely. Next, use pieces of clear tape to divide your nail into 3-4 sections. Paint each section a different color. Carefully peel off the tape, then let your nails dry completely.[8]
    Color Block Step 10.jpg
    • When you're creating your design, you can do a side-by-side pattern, or you can divide your nails with a diagonal or zig-zag line. Be creative!
    • If you like, top your nails with a protective clear coat.

EditUsing Colorblocking in Your Home

  1. Use colorblocking to create an eyecatching tablescape. Whether you are planning a special occasion or you just want to brighten up the dinner table, you can bring colorblocking into your dining room. Select plates, chargers, napkins, and a centerpiece in a variety of bold colors.[9]
    Color Block Step 11.jpg
    • To make your family dinner more inviting, lay down a white tablecloth, then add solid-colored plates in a variety of reds, yellows, and greens. Place a vase of flowers or a bowl of fruit in the center of the table to finish the look.
  2. Paint an accent wall in 2 bold shades. If you want to make colorblocking a more integral part of your interior design, try dividing a wall in 2 with painter's tape. Paint the top half of the wall in one color, remove the tape, then let the paint dry completely. Replace the painter's tape and paint the bottom half in another color.[10]
    Color Block Step 12.jpg
  3. Paint wooden furniture in a colorblock pattern. If you have an old desk, table, or dresser that could use refreshing, try painting it in different colors to bring the colorblock trend to any room in your house.[11]
    Color Block Step 13.jpg
    • For instance, if you have a dresser that you want to put in a little girl's room, you could paint the body of it light grey, then paint the drawer faces a soft pink. Finish the dresser with some imitation crystal drawer pulls for a sophisticated take on colorblocking.
  4. Use brightly colored rugs to accent your colorblocked look. No matter how you're incorporating colorblocking into your home, you can use rugs to complete your look. You can choose a rug in a solid color, or amplify the trend with a rug that is colorblocked.[12]
    Color Block Step 14.jpg

EditRelated wikiHows

EditSources and Citations


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How to Enable the Emoji Emoticon Keyboard in iOS

Posted: 07 Aug 2018 01:00 AM PDT

This wikiHow teaches you how to add emoji options to your iPhone's keypad, as well as how to use them. The Emoji keyboard is available on all iPhones and iPads running iOS 5 or higher; since the current iOS version is iOS 11, your iPhone or iPad should support emoji use.

EditSteps

EditEnabling the Emoji Keyboard

  1. Open your iPhone's Settings . Tap the Settings app icon, which resembles a grey box with gears on it.
    Enable the Emoji Emoticon Keyboard in iOS Step 1 Version 4.jpg
  2. Scroll down and tap General. This option is near the top of the Settings page.
    Enable the Emoji Emoticon Keyboard in iOS Step 2 Version 4.jpg
  3. Scroll down and tap . It's near the bottom of the "General" page.
    Enable the Emoji Emoticon Keyboard in iOS Step 3 Version 4.jpg
  4. Tap . You'll find this near the top of the screen. Doing so opens a list of keyboards that you currently have active on your iPhone.
    Enable the Emoji Emoticon Keyboard in iOS Step 4 Version 4.jpg
  5. Look for the Emoji keyboard here. If you see an option labeled Emoji in the list of keyboards near the top of the screen, your iPhone's emoji keyboard is already enabled and you can proceed to using the keyboard. If not, proceed.
    Enable the Emoji Emoticon Keyboard in iOS Step 5 Version 4.jpg
  6. Tap . It's near the middle of the screen. This will bring up a list of available keyboards.
    Enable the Emoji Emoticon Keyboard in iOS Step 6 Version 4.jpg
  7. Scroll down and tap . You'll find it in the "E" section of the keyboards page. Tapping it will immediately add it to your iPhone's keyboard.
    Enable the Emoji Emoticon Keyboard in iOS Step 7 Version 4.jpg
  8. Close the Settings app. Press the Home button at the bottom of your iPhone's screen to do so. You can now use emoji from your iPhone's keyboard.
    Enable the Emoji Emoticon Keyboard in iOS Step 8 Version 4.jpg

EditUsing Emoji When Typing

  1. Open an app that supports typing. Any app with a text field (e.g., Messages, Facebook, Notes, etc.) will be enough to allow you to open your iPhone's keypad.
    Enable the Emoji Emoticon Keyboard in iOS Step 9 Version 4.jpg
  2. Open the keypad. Tap the text field or typing option to do so. Your iPhone's keypad will appear at the bottom of the screen.
    Enable the Emoji Emoticon Keyboard in iOS Step 10 Version 4.jpg
  3. Tap the emoji icon. This smiley-face icon is in the lower-left corner of the keypad. Doing so will bring up your Emoji keyboard.
    Enable the Emoji Emoticon Keyboard in iOS Step 11 Version 2.jpg
    • If your iPhone has more than one additional keyboard (three total), tap and hold the globe-shaped icon here, then slide your finger over to the Emoji option.
  4. Select an emoji category. Tap one of the visual tabs at the bottom of the screen to display a category of emoji, or swipe from right to left to scroll through the available emoji.
    Enable the Emoji Emoticon Keyboard in iOS Step 12 Version 2.jpg
  5. Select emoji. Tap any emoji that you want to type to enter them into the text field.
    Enable the Emoji Emoticon Keyboard in iOS Step 13 Version 2.jpg
  6. Tap . It's in the bottom-left corner of the screen. This will take you back to the regular keyboard.
    Enable the Emoji Emoticon Keyboard in iOS Step 14 Version 2.jpg
    • If you're using emoji in a messaging context, you can tap the "Send" button to send your emoji in a text.

EditTips

  • The word "emoji" is both singular and plural, though some sources use the words "emoticon" and "emoticons" to describe singular and plural emoji, respectively.

EditRelated wikiHows


How to Gold Leaf Furniture

Posted: 06 Aug 2018 05:00 PM PDT

Gold leaf can add glam to your furniture, especially if you have old pieces laying around that are in need of an upgrade. From side tables to bureaus to desks, gold leaf looks good on almost any type of furniture in your home. Applying gold leaf to furniture is surprisingly easy to do once you have the necessary tools and materials. With the right approach and a few steps, you can have beautiful gold leaf furniture in no time.

EditSteps

EditChoosing the Gold Leaf

  1. Use imitation gold leaf for a cheap option. Imitation gold leaf can be found at most craft stores or online. It looks almost as shiny and bold as real gold leaf but it costs much less. Imitation gold leaf may be ideal if you are planning to cover a large surface area or a big piece of furniture.[1]
    Gold Leaf Furniture Step 1 Version 2.jpg
  2. Go for real gold leaf for a bright, shiny look. Real gold leaf can be found at craft stores and online. It can be expensive to get in large quantities so you may use it only if you have the budget for it. It may also be ideal if you are covering a small surface area or a small item of furniture.[2]
    Gold Leaf Furniture Step 2 Version 2.jpg
  3. Get gold leaf in sheets for easy application. Gold leaf comes in transfer sheets that are easy to apply, as loose gold leaf can be tricky to work with. Depending on how large the furniture item is, you may end up using about 20-30 sheets of gold leaf. Get enough gold leaf to cover the surface in 1 even layer, as you do not have to apply more than 1 layer of gold leaf to get the gilded effect.[3]
    Gold Leaf Furniture Step 3 Version 2.jpg
    • Buy more gold leaf sheets than you might use so you have extra on hand. You can then use the sheets on other items of furniture or decor in your home later.

EditPreparing the Furniture

  1. Clean the furniture with soap and water to remove surface dirt. Start by wiping the furniture down with a cloth that has been dampened with soap and water. Rub the furniture lightly with the cloth so there is no dirt or dust on the surface.[4]
    Gold Leaf Furniture Step 4 Version 2.jpg
    • If you are gold leafing furniture that is metal or wood that is smooth and has a thin layer of paint on it, a wipe down is all that is needed to prepare it for the gold leaf.
  2. Sand wood furniture if it has bumps or cracks to smooth it out. If you are using a wood furniture item that has bumps, cracks or scratches, you will need to smooth these out by sanding them with medium sandpaper that has a #120 or #150 grit. Lightly rub the sandpaper over the bumps or cracks to smooth them out so the wood is even. This will make applying the gold leaf easier.[5]
    Gold Leaf Furniture Step 5 Version 2.jpg
    • You can also sand wood furniture that has thick layers of paint or uneven paint to make it smooth and even.
    • Use a tack cloth to remove any debris or sanded bits that appear on the furniture once you are done sanding it.
  3. Apply sealer to the furniture if it is porous. If the furniture is unfinished, you may want to seal it with paint sealer to ensure the gold leaf adheres to it. Look for paint sealer at your local hardware store or online.[6]
    Gold Leaf Furniture Step 6 Version 2.jpg
    • You may need to paint the furniture first before you seal it to ensure the wood is no longer porous.
  4. Wipe the furniture with a towel so it is completely dry. Make sure the furniture is dry to the touch, as this will ensure the gilding adhesive sticks properly to it. If the furniture is very wet, you may need to wipe it down with a dry cloth and let it dry overnight.[7]
    Gold Leaf Furniture Step 7 Version 2.jpg
  5. Use painter's tape to create a design on the furniture for the gold leaf. You may block out vertical or horizontal lines on the furniture with painter's tape to create a sleek, simple design. Or you may try creating circles or shapes with the painter's tape so the gold leaf appears as a geometric design on the furniture.[8]
    Gold Leaf Furniture Step 8 Version 2.jpg
    • Make sure the painter's tape is secure on the furniture and easy to follow, as this will make applying the gold leaf easier.

EditApplying the Gold Leaf

  1. Wear cotton gloves so you do not damage the gold leaf. Gold leaf sheets are very delicate and prone to ripping. Wearing cotton gloves will ensure you handle the sheets carefully and do not get the oil from your hands onto the gold leaf, which can damage it.[9]
    Gold Leaf Furniture Step 9 Version 2.jpg
  2. Use a brush to apply a thin coat of water-based adhesive on the furniture. Apply the adhesive a little at a time using smooth, even brushstrokes. Try not to leave any brushstroke marks on the furniture, as you want the adhesive to go on as smooth as possible.[10]
    Gold Leaf Furniture Step 10 Version 2.jpg
    • Use a medium sized paint brush to make applying the furniture smoothly easier, especially if you are covering a large surface area.
    • Liquid adhesive made for gilding or attaching gold leaf will work best.
  3. Let the adhesive dry and become tacky. This can take between 15-60 minutes, depending on the furniture's size and how much adhesive you applied. A water-based adhesive tends to dry faster than an oil-based adhesive.[11]
    Gold Leaf Furniture Step 11 Version 2.jpg
  4. Apply the gold leaf 1 sheet at a time. Once the adhesive becomes tacky, use your gloved hands to apply 1 sheet onto the adhesive, rubbing the sheet so it sticks. Slowly pull the sheet back, letting the gold leaf rip and stick onto the adhesive. If there is gold leaf still on the sheet, use it again on the adhesive on a new area until the entire sheet is empty.[12]
    Gold Leaf Furniture Step 12 Version 2.jpg
    • Continue to apply the gold leaf to the adhesive 1 sheet at a time, rubbing and pulling off the sheet until there is no more gold leaf left on it.
    • Cover the furniture entirely, or the area you marked with painter's tape, with 1 even layer of gold leaf.
  5. Allow the gold leaf to dry for several hours. The drying time will depend on how much gold leaf you applied. A small area will take at least 2 hours to dry and a large area may take up to 6 hours to dry.[13]
    Gold Leaf Furniture Step 13 Version 2.jpg
    • Do not touch the gold leaf before it has dried, as this can leave fingerprints and marks in the gold leaf.
  6. Use a dry brush to remove excess gold leaf. Once the gold leaf has dried, brush off any gold leaf that did not stick to the adhesive. Move the brush gently over the leaf to remove the excess.[14]
    Gold Leaf Furniture Step 14 Version 2.jpg
    • You may want to lay a sheet down under the furniture to make catching excess gold leaf easier as you brush it off.
  7. Let the gold leaf cure for 24 hours. Place the furniture in a spot indoors where it can dry for at least 1 day without being touched. This will allow the gold leaf to set and adhere to the furniture.[15]
    Gold Leaf Furniture Step 15 Version 2.jpg
  8. Apply a thin layer of sealer over the gold leaf to protect it. The sealer will give the gold leaf a smooth finish and prevent it from flaking off. Use a clean brush to apply the sealer in 1 even layer over any areas with gold leaf.[16]
    Gold Leaf Furniture Step 16 Version 2.jpg
    • Let the sealer dry overnight before you use your new gold leaf furniture.

EditThings You'll Need

  • Gold leaf
  • Water-based gilding adhesive
  • Painter's tape
  • Cotton gloves
  • Paint brushes
  • Clear polyurethane sealer

EditSources and Citations


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How to Zest an Orange

Posted: 06 Aug 2018 09:00 AM PDT

Orange zest is made from the top layer of an orange's peel. It contains the fruit's oils and adds a bright, citrus flavor to a dish or recipe. There are several kitchen utensils you can use to zest an orange, including a grater, microplane, vegetable peeler, or knife. Before you zest an orange, be sure to wash the fruit thoroughly with water and a drop of dish soap, and scrub the skin with your fingers or a brush!

EditSteps

EditGrating the Zest

  1. Position the end of the grater on the cutting board. If you are using a flat grater, hold the grater at an angle, with one end resting against the cutting board. If you are using a box grater, simply place the grater on top of the cutting board.[1]

    • This will stabilize the grater for easier zesting, and it will allow you to see how much zest you've made as you're working.
  2. Scrape the orange along the grater from top to bottom. Drag the orange along the grater toward the cutting board, maintaining enough pressure to remove the top layer of the rind. Once you reach the end of the board, lift up the orange and place it at the top of the zester again.[2]

    • Try to avoid pulling the orange from the bottom of the zester to the top, which can clog the holes or damage the skin of the orange.
    • If you're having trouble holding the orange while you zest it, cut the orange in half and squeeze the juice into a cup to make it smaller and easier to hold in your hand. Without the juice in the orange, the rind will be more pliable, and you can mold it into a shape that's comfortable for you to hold.
  3. Rotate the orange when you reach the white rind. Once you reach the white part, call the "pith," rotate the orange to a different spot on the rind. Normally, you'll reach the pith after zesting an area 1-2 times, and then turn the orange slightly to continue zesting.[3]

    • The pith of the orange has a bitter taste, which is unpleasant for most recipes. If you do end up accidentally zesting the pith, stop and pick the white parts out of the zest.
  4. Transfer your zest to a measuring cup once you've used the entire rind. When you have a large pile of zest on the cutting board, scoop it into a measuring spoon to see how much you have. If you have enough for your recipe, set your zested oranges aside to use the juice or flesh later.[4]

    • One medium-sized orange should yield about 1-1.5 tablespoons (6-9 grams) of zest.
    • If you need more for your recipe, wash another orange to zest some more.

EditZesting with a Microplane

  1. Hold the microplane at an angle. Rest the tip of the microplane against your cutting board, and hold the handle in your non-dominant hand. This will help to stabilize the microplane while you use it, and it will gather the zest in one place while you work.[5]

    • Avoid trying to zest directly into a measuring cup, since the microplane will gather the zest in the long groove under the plane until it falls onto the board.
  2. Slide the orange along the microplane with light pressure. Lightly press the orange against the microplane and scrape it from the handle toward the cutting board. Maintain enough pressure to remove the top layer of the rind.[6]

    • If you press too hard on the orange, you can clog the microplane with large chunks of orange rind. Maintain a light pressure to keep the zest pieces small and manageable.
  3. Turn the orange slightly after every 1-2 scrapes. After each scrape, check the orange rind to make sure the white pith isn't showing. When you start to see it, rotate the orange slightly to zest a new part of the rind. Avoid using any section of the orange more than 2 times, since you don't want pith mixed in with your zest.[7]

    • The pith has a bitter taste, so be sure to remove any white pieces from your zest if you accidentally zest the pith.
  4. Remove the zest from the groove underneath the microplane. Once you've zested the entire orange, turn the microplane over, and use a knife to scrape the zest into a measuring spoon.[8]

    • You should be able to gather at least 1 tablespoon (6 grams) of zest from your orange. If you need more than that for your recipe, wash another piece of fruit and keep zesting!

EditUsing a Vegetable Peeler or Knife

  1. Hold the peeler or knife against the skin and slide it across the rind. Press down hard enough so that you remove the top layer of the rind, using the same motion that you would to peel a potato. Make sure that the peeler or knife is just slightly under the skin, but not touching the pith.[9]

    • After your first peel, check the zest to make sure there's no white pith. If there is, throw that piece away and use less pressure for your next peel.
  2. Move to a new section of the orange after every peel. When using a zester or knife, only peel each section 1 time to avoid cutting into the pith. Spin or rotate the orange to find a fresh section of the rind to peel each time.[10]

    • When you're using a peeler, you can get very long pieces of zest. These are perfect for cocktail recipes, or using as a garnish on a plate.
  3. Chop the peel into smaller pieces for use in a recipe. If you're recipe calls for a finer zest, use a sharp knife to chop or mince the peeled pieces to a smaller size. Be careful when cutting the peeled pieces, as they can be curly and need to be held in place. As you work, measure out the amount needed for your recipe.[11]
    Prepare Fresh Citrus Fruit Peel Step 8.jpg
    • If you have one available, a small food processor can quickly and easily chop longer pieces of zest.

EditThings You'll Need

  • Cutting board
  • Grater, microplane, vegetable peeler, or paring knife
  • Measuring spoon

EditTips

  • If sealed in a plastic bag, orange zest will keep in the freezer for up to 6 months.

EditRelated wikiHows

EditSources and Citations

EditQuick Summary


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