| How to Make a Sarong Posted: 02 Jul 2021 01:00 AM PDT No trip to the beach or pool is complete without a sarong. This garment is a large fabric rectangle that goes over your swimsuit or summer outfit, keeping you covered while you catch some rays. Thankfully, this breezy cover-up is super easy to make at home, as long as you have some fabric and a sewing machine. We've tackled all your burning questions, so you can get back to having lots of fun in the sun. [Edit]What type of fabric should I use for my sarong? - Use flowy, draping fabrics to make your sarong. Stop by your local fabric store and pick up a light, breezy material like silk crepe, chiffon, rayon, or fluid cotton. Stay away from stiff fabrics, like organza or heavy linens; unfortunately, these materials don't drape very well, and aren't great options overall.[1]
[Edit]How many yards of fabric do I need for a sarong? - Purchase of material. Pick up of 2 light, flowing fabrics, each in a different color. You'll layer and sew these fabrics together to make a colorful, dual-toned sarong.[2]
- For example, you might pick out yellow and orange fabrics for a warm, tropical look, or combine teal and purple for a cooler vibe.
- If you'd like, you can pick identical fabric colors for a monochromatic sarong.
[Edit]What are the measurements for a sarong? - A typical sarong is about .[3] Some people use slightly different dimensions, like .[4] Ultimately, pick a fabric dimension that fits somewhere in that range.
- If you'd like to be extra precise, take your hip measurement and add —this total will be the ideal length for your sarong.[5]
[Edit]What supplies will I need? - Grab a sewing machine, thread, pins, a sewing needle, and a pair of scissors. Making your own sarong is very simple, and doesn't require a lot of sewing know-how. You can find all of these supplies online, or at your local craft store.[6]
- Choose a thread that matches 1 of your fabric colors.
- Cut both fabric colors into rectangles. Unroll your fabric onto a flat surface, and mark off the dimensions with a fabric marker. Then, cut out both rectangles and set them aside.[7]
- When you're finished, you should have 2 rectangles: 1 in each color.
[Edit]How do you assemble your sarong? - Fold each rectangle in half and cut the front edge into a curve. Fold the fabric width-wise, creating a smaller rectangle that's about . Then, sketch a steep, curved line next to the outer edge, on the opposite side of the fold. Cut along this curved line with a pair of scissors. Repeat this folding and trimming process with the other piece of fabric, as well.[8]
- Stack and align both fabric sections with the right sides touching. Pin the fabrics together all the way around the edge, so the material doesn't shift while you sew.[9]
[Edit]How do you sew your sarong? - Sew the edges together with a seam allowance. Secure the pinned edges of your sarong under the foot of your sewing machine. Then, slowly sew around the perimeter of the sarong, creating a straight, consistent row of stitches as you go. Stop sewing about before your starting point, leaving a large, unstitched gap.[10]
- You can also serge the edges together with your sewing machine, if you'd like.
- Turn your sarong right-side-out. Using the gap along your fabric, pull out and untuck your sarong. Now, the seams should be completely hidden, with the right side of the fabric facing out.[11]
- Stitch the gap closed. Pick up a needle and thread, grabbing the same color that you used in your sewing machine. Slip-stitch the gap together so your sarong is completely secure. You're now ready to have some fun in the sun with your new garment![12]
[Edit]How do you tie a sarong? - Transform your sarong into a breezy skirt. Hold your sarong horizontally in front of your hips and legs. Pull the left side of your sarong over and around your right hip, and tug the right side over and around your left hip. Then, tie the top left and top right corners of fabric together in front of your waist to hold your skirt in place.[13]
- Tie the sarong behind your neck to create a halter-style dress. Drape your sarong behind your back, pulling both sides of the fabric forward beneath your armpits. Then, pull the top-right corner of your sarong around and behind the left side of your neck, and tug the top-left corner around the right side of your neck. Knot both corners together to create an easy, breezy cover-up dress![14]
- Turn your sarong into a one-shoulder dress. Fold your sarong vertically along the right side of your body, centering the fabric beneath your armpit, over your hips, and down your right leg. Tie the top 2 corners of fabric together on your left shoulder to hold the sarong in place.[15]
- Twist and fold the sarong into a jumpsuit. Drape the fabric vertically in front of you, knotting the top right and left corners together beneath your shoulder blades. Then, pull the dangling, leftover fabric backward between your legs. Loop the bottom left fabric corner up and over your left thigh, and bring the bottom right corner around your right thigh. Knot these corners around your waist to finish off this chic look.[16]
[Edit]References __QAM__
[Edit]Quick Summary |
| How to Repair a Lawn Mower Posted: 01 Jul 2021 05:00 PM PDT It's a beautiful sunny day and a perfect time to mow your lawn. All is well in the world. That is, until your mower starts acting up—or worse, won't start at all. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to repair your mower and get it up and running again. To make it easier for you, we've put together a handy list of repairs you can make to fix and maintain your mower so it'll be there when you need it most. [Edit]Remove the spark plug before you start any repairs. - It'll make sure the blade doesn't start up. Find the spark plug, grab the cap, and pull it straight off. Then, use a spark plug wrench to unscrew and remove the spark plug so you can inspect it and safely repair the mower.[1]
- If you don't have a spark plug wrench, you can use a socket wrench instead.
[Edit]Replace the air filter if it's dirty. - A dirty filter can cause your mower to break down. Find the air filter on the side of your mower's engine. They're usually covered by a plastic or metal cover. Use either a screwdriver or a wrench to remove the screws or bolts and take off the cover. Pull out the filter and inspect it for cracks, tears, or holes. If the filter is really dirty, swap it out for a new one that's the same make and model.[2]
- If your mower's engine is running really rough, loses power while you're using it, or won't start up at all, it could be because the filter is clogged or damaged.
[Edit]Pull out the dipstick to check the oil level. - Add more oil if your mower needs it. Look for a handle near the top or on the side of your mower's engine. Pull the handle to slide out the dip stick. Wipe the stick on a clean cloth, reinsert it into the mower, then slide it out again to check the oil level. If it's low (there's usually a line on the dipstick that indicates how much there should be), top it off with the oil specified in your owner's manual. Replace the dipstick when you're finished.[3]
- Having too little oil can cause your mower's engine to overheat and shut down.
- Make sure you use the oil your owner's manual says to use. Otherwise, it could damage your mower's engine.
- If you don't have your mower's owner's manual, try looking up the make and model online to see what oil to use.
[Edit]Drain and replace the oil if it's black. - Dirt can damage and affect your mower's performance. Lawn mower oil should be golden brown and there shouldn't be any dirt or debris floating in it. If your oil is dirty or dark, tip the mower over on it's side and allow the oil to drain completely into a container. Then, fill it back up with the oil specified in your owner's manual.[4]
- Go online to find a used oil collection site so you can properly dispose of your old oil.[5]
[Edit]Replace the fuel in your mower if it's old. - If it was left in the tank over the winter, it can affect your engine. Use a siphon to safely remove the fuel from the tank of your mower into a fuel-safe container. Once the tank is completely empty, refill it and try starting it up.[6]
- Check your local guidelines about how to properly dispose of old fuel.
[Edit]Tighten your spark plug if it's loose. - Use a wrench and turn it clockwise. Look for the spark plug on the side of your mower's engine. It'll look like a small piece of metal pointing sideways and covered by a protective rubber cap. Over time, the plug can get loose in it's socket. Fortunately, it's a pretty easy fix. Take a wrench and give it a gentle turn until it's tightened up. If you were having trouble starting your mower, give it a go and see if that helps.[7]
- If tightening the spark plug doesn't work, you'll need to remove it before trying any other repairs.
[Edit]Look for a loose or disconnected wire around the spark plug. - Remove the spark plug cap to inspect the wiring. Check to see if the wire that connects it to your mower is loose or disconnected. If it is, firmly push the wire back into the spark plug. If your mower wasn't starting, try reinstalling the spark plug by screwing it back into place and starting it up to see if that fixes the issue.[8]
[Edit]Clean the spark plug if it's dirty. - Use a wire brush and some spark plug cleaner. Take a rag and clean the area around the spark plug on your mower to help keep dirt and gunk from getting onto the plug. Apply spark plug cleaner to the plug and use a wire brush to gently brush any deposits.[9]
- It's pretty common for oil, grease, grime, dirt, and grass to get onto your spark plug, which can prevent it from working properly.
- You could then reinstall the plug by screwing it back into the socket and test out your mower if you were having issues starting the engine.
- Look for spark plug cleaner at your local auto repair shop.
[Edit]Check the spark plug for corrosion and cracks. - Replace it with a new one if it's defective. Look all over the spark plug to see if you can find rust, chips, or cracks anywhere on the surface. If you do, swap out the plug for a new one of the same make and model so it'll work in your mower.[10]
- You can find spark plugs at your local auto repair shop. They cost about $10-$15 USD.
- Pro tip: bring your old spark plug with you so you can make sure you pick out the right replacement.
[Edit]Clean or replace the fuel line if it's clogged. - Blast the line with compressed air or replace it if it's cracked. Look for a small air hole on the top of your fuel cap. If it's clogged, hit it with a shot of compressed air to clear it. If the air hole is clear, the problem may lie in the fuel line. Remove the metal housing covering your engine, and lift out the fuel tank. Disconnect the fuel line with a pair of pliers, blast some compressed air through it to clear it, then reinstall it. If the line is cracked or damaged, replace it with a new one. Then, reinstall the outer housing.[11]
- A clogged or damaged fuel line can cause your mower to not start.
- If your mower has a valve at the bottom of the fuel tank, switch it to the "Off" position before you remove the tank.
[Edit]Wipe the underside of the mower if it's dirty. - Grassy buildup can affect the blade and lead to rust. Carefully lift or tip your mower on it's side over so you can access the blade area. Take a damp cloth and remove any grass build-up that could be affecting the blade. It'll also help protect your mower against rust.[12]
- It might seem like a simple fix, but it can be super effective.
- If you notice any loose bolts, screws, or wheels, use a wrench or screwdriver to tighten them up. It can help increase the life-span of your mower.
[Edit]Warnings - Always make sure your mower is turned off and the spark plug is removed before you start working on it.
[Edit]References __LIST__ |
| How to Avoid Awkwardness During Video Dates Posted: 01 Jul 2021 09:00 AM PDT Dating from home gained a lot of traction during the pandemic, but it's still a popular option even as things open back up. For one thing, it's a great way to get a feel for a potential match from the comfort of home. It can be a lot cheaper than going out to a restaurant or bar, too. If you haven't done it before, you might be worried that it will be a little awkward—but with a little preparation and the right attitude, you can turn a video date into a really fun experience that might just lead to in-person romance! [Edit]Agree on a time for the date to start—and end. - Having an end time will give you an out. It's normal to agree when you'll meet for an in-person date, but when you're video dating, it's a good idea to pencil in the general time for the whole date. That way, if you're not really feeling things, you'll have a built-in excuse to end the call—and you can always let it go on longer if you're having a good time.[1]
- Bow out gracefully by saying something like, "This has been fun, but I promised my sister I'd call her at 9, so I have to wrap things up."
[Edit]Do something to calm your nerves beforehand. - It's totally normal to get butterflies before a date. Make a little time to relax ahead of time to help you get rid of some of those butterflies. Exactly how you do that depends on what you find relaxing—you could take a long shower, listen to your favorite playlist, or light a candle in a comforting scent like peppermint or lavender.[2]
- If you prefer a more physical release for your anxious energy, go for a run or spend some time in the gym!
- Give yourself a pep talk—if you catch yourself feeling nervous, say something like, "I feel this way because I'm really excited!"
[Edit]Test out your app and camera ahead of time. - Don't get tripped up by technology woes. At least an hour before your date, log in to your video chat app. If you've never used the app before, click around a little to get familiar with the settings. Then, set up your camera or phone so your camera is at a flattering angle. If you spend a little time setting up before the date starts, you won't start out awkwardly adjusting your camera or talking into a muted mic—that could throw off your game for the rest of the date![3]
- Try to make sure your camera is at about eye level—it's a flattering angle, and you'll look the most like yourself.[4]
- Make sure you have good lighting—natural light is best, but if the date is at night, place a lamp or string lights in front of you to create a soft glow without harsh shadows.
[Edit]Get some privacy. - Wear headphones and lock your door if you live with people. There's nothing more awkward than someone barging in on your date, especially if you really start to get flirty. If you have roommates or live with your parents, put on headphones so you'll be the only one who can hear what your date is saying, and set up your camera in a room where you can be alone—like your bedroom.[5]
- Make sure you tell your housemates that you'll be on a call so they'll know not to interrupt you.
- If you can, try to schedule your date when you'll be home alone. If that's not an option, try turning on a fan to create some white noise so you'll have a little more privacy.[6]
[Edit]Wear pants. - Avoid an embarrassing on-camera wardrobe malfunction. One of the perks of video chatting is that your outfit only has to be cute on top—it's totally fine to rock a comfy pair of sweatpants. However, don't go completely bottomless—one wrong camera tilt or an unexpected reflection could leave you and your date seriously blushing![7]
[Edit]Have a list of questions and conversation topics ready. - Switch to something new if things start to stall. When you're on a date in person, you can always talk about what's happening around you if the conversation fades—like the decor, music, food, or even the people at the table next to you. It can be a little harder to keep things flowing on a video chat because all you can really see is your date's face and a little of the room behind him. Prepare for that ahead of time by making a cheat sheet with a few questions that will help you get to know your date a little better.[8]
- Try to stick to open-ended questions instead of questions that can simply be answered "yes" or "no." For instance, instead of asking, "Do you like football?" you might ask, "What's your favorite sports team, and why?" (If they say they don't like sports, try asking what they like to watch in their free time!)
- You might also ask about hobbies, what they do for work, where they're originally from, or what kind of music they listen to.
[Edit]Use your hands while you're talking. - You'll seem more relaxed and confident. If you keep your hands down in your lap the whole time, your body will seem stiff and you'll seem uncomfortable. Instead, relax and just gesture normally. That will help your date get a much better idea of who you normally are—and when you seem more comfortable, it will probably help them feel a little more at ease, too.[9]
- Try to avoid touching your face, though—that can make you seem like you're feeling upset or insecure.
[Edit]Give your date your full attention. - It will be pretty obvious if you get distracted. When you're talking on the phone, you can sometimes get away with doing other things, like checking your email or scrolling social media. If you're video-chatting, though, the other person is able to see whatever you're doing. Try to keep your full attention on your date, or else they might start to feel like you aren't really that interested in them. So awkward![10]
- Turn off the notifications on your phone or computer so you won't be distracted if you get a text or email during the date.
- Of course, there might be distractions you can't avoid—like your cat walking across the keyboard or the smoke alarm going off in your apartment. If something like that happens, apologize and laugh it off, then get back to the date as quickly as possible.
[Edit]Practice active listening when your date is talking. - Nod, smile, and look at your date to show you're listening. Video dating can lack a little of the nuance of dating in-person. That's because you can't rely as much on cues like body language and eye contact to tell how the other person is feeling. To overcome that, make a point of giving your date visual feedback while they're talking—like nodding slowly to show that you're really feeling what they're saying or smiling when they make a good point.[11]
- If you want to give the impression that you're making eye contact, look directly at your camera—not at your date on the screen. This can take a little practice, but it will help the date feel more intimate.[12]
- Smiling is a great way to flirt with your date without saying a word![13]
[Edit]Plan an activity to do during the date. - Staying busy can help you avoid awkward silences. Just because you can't meet in person doesn't mean your video date has to be boring. Agree on an activity ahead of time, or surprise your date by giving them a couple of choices once the date starts. That way, you'll have plenty to talk about without necessarily having to just stare at each other the whole time. For instance:[14]
- Have a meal together
- Stream a movie, show, or concert[15]
- Do a virtual tour of a museum or zoo[16]
- Play online trivia or board games
- Take an online class
- Live-stream
[Edit]Laugh it off if something awkward happens. - It's okay if everything isn't perfect. Your screen might freeze up, or you and your date might accidentally talk over each other because the syncing is off a little. If that happens, don't get too worked up about it—it's all part of video dating. If you overreact, you'll seem uptight, but if you can just go with the flow, you'll show your date how cool you really are.[17]
- It's fine to mention it—that can actually take some of the awkwardness away. Try saying something like, "At least we won't have to worry about tech problems if we meet up in real life, right?"
[Edit]References __LIST__ |
| How to Get Bad Smells out of a Microwave Posted: 01 Jul 2021 01:00 AM PDT It only takes one yucky item to stink up the microwave, leaving it to smell like burnt popcorn, rancid soup, or some other foul odor. Before you resort to any harsh chemicals, consider testing out some cleaning remedies that are all-natural, like vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice. You can also use the microwave to mask the odor with a more pleasant scent, like coffee or berries. [Edit]Using Natural Cleaning Remedies - Avoid heating anything made of metal in the microwave. Foods and beverages take in the heat created by a microwave, while metallic items cause this heat to bounce around. This may start a fire and/or damage the inner-workings of your appliance, leaving you with far worse problems than a bad smell.[1]
- Don't put any kind of metal into the microwave—both aluminum foil and metal utensils can damage your appliance.[2]
- Heat up white vinegar mixed with water to remove any bad smells.[3] Boil of water and of white vinegar by heating it in the microwave for at least 4 minutes. Once the mixture is steaming, let it sit for another 5 minutes before you open the door and wipe out the inside with a damp rag or paper towel. You can use a mixture of soap and water to clean out the microwave.[4]
- After the microwave boils the water for four minutes, let the bowl stay in the microwave for another 15 to cool off and keep freshening up the scent.[5]
- Depending on the wattage of your microwave, it might take less than 4 minutes for the vinegar mixture to boil. Check the user manual for your microwave to see if the manufacturer lists any recommended heating times.[6]
- Deodorize your microwave with lemon juice if you don't want to use vinegar. Stir of lemon juice and of water into a small bowl, and heat the solution for 4 minutes or until it's boiling. Keep the door closed for 5 minutes to let the mixture cool down, and to let the steam spread throughout the smelly microwave.[7]
- A single lemon slice contains about of juice. You'll need half of a lime to get the same amount.
- As an alternative, place 2-4 lemon slices on the bottom of a small container filled with of water. Microwave the mixture for 4 minutes, or until it reaches a boiling, steaming temperature.
- You can use lime, orange, or any other type of citrus juice if you'd prefer not to use lemon.
- Remove bad stains and smells with baking soda if you'd prefer a less acidic method. Dip a sponge or rag into the mixture of of baking soda and of warm water. Use this solution to thoroughly scrub all parts of the microwave. Clean the appliance by wiping in a circular motion. If splattered food has solidified inside of the microwave, apply of baking soda to a sponge or cloth to attack the stain more directly. [8]
- This method accomplishes 2 things at once, as it allows you to clean and freshen your microwave!
[Edit]Introducing a Nicer Scent - Warm up some coffee grounds to make your microwave smell like java. Place a container of of ground coffee mixed with of water in the microwave and heat the mixture for around 3 minutes. This won't just remove bad odors, but it will also leave your microwave smelling like fresh coffee![9]
- This method works best with coffee grounds that have already been used.
- Warm up vanilla extract instead of coffee to create a sweeter smell. Heat a mixture of of vanilla extract and of water for at least 2 minutes, or until it's boiling and creating steam. Don't take the bowl out right away—while the mixture is still hot, let the steam spread throughout the microwave to overwhelm all of the bad odors. Wait at least half an hour before removing the bowl and dumping out the mixture.[10]
- Remove any extra moisture from the microwave by wiping it out with a cloth or paper towel.
- Put a bowl of cloves in the microwave overnight to add a spicy aroma instead of heating something up. Pour of cloves into a container and set it inside the microwave. There's no heating involved for this method—instead, you'll shut the door and leave the cloves to sit all night. The closed microwave door allows the spicy aroma of cloves to fill your microwave and cancel out any bad smells.[11]
- Heat up a covered bowl of berries if you want your microwave to smell fruity. Take a mixture of your favorite berries and place them in a small container. Secure the top of the bowl with plastic wrap, and microwave the berries for several minutes. As the fruit heats up, their scent will begin to spread through the microwave, thus cancelling out any bad odors.[12]
- You can use any kind of berry for this. Make sure you like the scent of whichever fruit you choose to microwave.
- Try to keep the plastic wrap from touching any of the berries. This helps keep the berries smelling fresh, even if the plastic wrap melts.
[Edit]Things You'll Need [Edit]Using Natural Cleaning Remedies - White vinegar
- Water
- Lemon juice
- Lime juice (optional)
- Orange juice (optional)
- Baking soda
[Edit]Introducing a Nicer Scent - Ground coffee
- Vanilla extract
- Cloves
- Berries (various kinds)
- Plastic wrap
- Cleaning out your microwave with rubbing alcohol can also remove some bad smells.[13]
- Before you close the door, allow the microwave to dry after cleaning it.[14]
[Edit]Warnings - If you heat up any bowls or containers, make sure that the material is microwave-safe.
- Let heated liquids sit in the microwave for several minutes before removing them.
[Edit]References [Edit]Quick Summary |
| How to Take Beach Photos Posted: 30 Jun 2021 05:00 PM PDT Between the clear waves, colorful sunsets, and beautiful shoreline, beach photos are inspired. However, it's also a little challenging to get the lighting just right. You want your subjects to show up on a bright, sunny day, or be visible if you're photographing in the evening. Read a few of the most common questions that people have about capturing memorable beach shots. [Edit]What settings should I use for beach photography? - Use your camera's beach mode if you don't want to manually adjust the settings. If you don't feel comfortable adjusting shutter speed, flash, or ISO, look for the "beach mode" on your digital camera. When you choose this setting, the camera will automatically adjust the light sensitivity to balance out the sand and sun. This way, your subjects will be visible instead of too dark.[1]
- "Beach mode" might be listed as "snow mode" on your camera. You can use either setting when shooting at the beach.
- Play around with a higher shutter speed if you want to adjust the settings. If you want to control the effects of the waves, for instance, change your shutter speed. Make it faster, around 1/250 or 1/500, to freeze the waves, or set a slower speed, around 1/125 or 1/60, to get a misty, blurred effect.[2] When you have a fast shutter speed, you can set the aperture (f-stop) so it's really small and you'll get a focused shot.[3]
- If you want to adjust the aperture, remember that a larger aperture blurs more of the background. If you don't want the water to be in focus, for instance, try shooting at f/8 or f/11. This can make the waves blur together.
- Use a flash if you're taking portraits at the beach. If your subjects are in front of your light source, so if the sunrise or sunset is behind them, use your camera's flash. The light fills in their faces so you don't get shadows or a silhouette. The flash also balance out the exposure in the shot.[4]
- Taking a landscape shot? Skip the flash since you're trying to balance the light of the sand, water, and sky.
- If you stand too far away from your subject, the flash won't be very effective so read your camera's manual to find out how close to your subject you need to be.
[Edit]How can I take beach pictures with my phone? - Shoot in burst mode so you're more likely to get a good image. Sometimes camera phones aren't as responsive as digital cameras. To increase your chances of taking a great shot, set your camera phone to burst mode so it takes at least 3 photos every time you press the shutter button.[5]
- Your phone may take more than 3 photos in one burst. Read your manual to find out how many frames it will take with each shot.
- This setting is really useful if you're trying to photograph people as they move or act casually.
- Hold your phone right at the water's level to get a great beach reflection shot. Camera phones offer a little more flexibility when it comes to getting close to the beach. Support the bottom edge of your phone and lower it down to the water. Then, exhale while you press the capture button. This is a great way to get a unique landscape since you'll capture more of the water or sky.[6]
- This is a wonderful way to focus on details that are along the shoreline while capturing the waves or an amazing reflection.
[Edit]How do I take sunset photos at the beach? - Position your sunset so it's not in the center of the photo. If you put the horizon line with the setting sun in the center of your shot, it can look too forced or staged. Instead, frame your image so the sunset is off-center. This leads your viewer's eyes towards the sunset and makes for a much more interesting picture.[7]
- Think of your image like a grid that's divided into thirds. Photograph the sunset so it's not dead-center. Instead, it should be in the upper third or lower third of the frame, or to the right or left.
- Shoot from low down to capture more of the water or sand. To create a dramatic sunset shot, get down on the beach or set up a tripod so it's almost on the sand. Then, focus your camera on something that's in the foreground like a unique rock or piece of driftwood. You'll get the details of your subject with the beautiful sunset reflected in the water on the horizon.[8]
- Work quickly since the sun goes down quickly once it's reached the horizon.
- Skip the flash if you'd like to make a dramatic silhouette. For a more artistic shot, don't illuminate your subjects. By shooting without a flash, you'll create a dark silhouette that is really striking. Try this if you're photographing couples and want to create a sense of intimacy, for instance.[9]
- This works well if you don't want to focus on facial expressions or the subject's details.
[Edit]How can I take beach photos of myself? - Take a selfie! If you're walking alone on the beach and inspiration strikes, simply position yourself in front of the waves and point the camera directly at yourself. Let your finger push down slightly on the shutter to focus the shot before you take it. This way, you'll have a clear picture of yourself with the beach in the background.[10]
- For an easy shot that looks relaxed, stretch your feet out on the sand. Photograph your feet with the waves lapping against them. The image will look casual, but stylish.
- Set up a tripod so you can pose without getting a blurry image. If you've got the time and equipment, set up a sturdy tripod on the beach and attach your camera. This makes it easier to compose your shot and check that everything's in focus. Then, set the camera's timer so you can get in front of the lens before it takes the picture.[11]
- If you don't feel like scrambling to get in front of the camera before the timer goes off, attach a camera remote control. Then, just press on the control when you're ready to take the picture.
[Edit]What can I do to make my beach shots turn out great? - Choose an interesting subject. Sure, the water, sand, and sky can be beautiful, but if you really want your beach image or landscape to stand out, choose a unique subject. You could photograph people, creatures at the beach like nesting birds, starfish, or crabs, or things on the shore. Try photographing piers or boats, for instance.[12]
- Use reflections in your photography! The reflections from a tide pool or from water trapped in a rock can make for unusual beach photographs.
- Capture the details and textures of your subjects. Get close so you see the rough texture of driftwood, impressions in the sand, or foam on the edge of the water. If you're getting really close to something small, turn on your camera's macro setting to capture the most detail.
- Take your shots in the morning or late afternoon so you don't get harsh lighting. If you try to photograph in the middle of the day—typically between 10 am and 2 pm—you'll get glare from the sand and extreme shadows. To capture great shots with natural lighting, photograph when the sun is low in the sky—early in the morning or in the twilight.[13][14]
- The softer lighting will make it easier to capture details on the beach like the grains of sand, the waves lapping at the shore, and your subjects' faces.
- The hour before sunrise and after sunset is known as the golden hour. This is when the lighting is warm and golden. You won't get many shadows, but you'll get naturally gentle lighting.
- Make sure the horizon line is straight. The horizon line is one of the first things you'll notice about a beach shot if it's at an angle, especially if you've shot a sweeping landscape image. To ensure your horizon line is balanced, line it up with the bottom or top of the frame. If your camera has a digital level or grid, use the feature to line up the horizon line.[15]
- To use the digital level, look through your camera's viewfinder or monitor. You'll see a level gauge and it should turn green once the horizon is level.
- You don't need a special lens to take photos at the beach. In many cases, you can use your camera's zoom features to get close to something on the beach or pull back to get more of the waves or sky.
- Don't be afraid to get into the water! Sometimes, you can capture unique shots by walking right along the water's edge.
- Try to visit the beach during the off-season so you avoid crowds.
- Keep your shadow out of the shot!
[Edit]Warnings - Sand and salt water can damage your camera lenses so be really careful as you photograph on the beach.
[Edit]References __QAM__ |
| How to Refinish a Coffee Table Posted: 30 Jun 2021 09:00 AM PDT Refinishing a coffee table, whether it's a thrift-store find or a piece you've had for years, can bring it back to life so it looks great in your home. To refinish a coffee table, start by sanding off the old finish. Clean up all the wood dust from sanding so the bare wood surface is clean and ready for a new finish. After that, apply a new finish like furniture oil, wood stain, varnish, or paint that will give the coffee table the final look you want. It's up to you to decide if you want a natural-looking wood finish or a colorful, funky-chic paint job! [Edit]Sanding off the Old Finish - Pick an easy-to-clean area to work in or put down a drop sheet. You will be making a mess as you refinish the coffee table. Work outside or somewhere like a garage if you can, or put down a drop sheet, tarp, or plastic sheet to catch the dust from sanding and protect the floor from spills.
- If you don't have a good work area or some kind of drop sheet to use, you could put down 2-3 overlapping layers of newspaper or even create a drop sheet by taping some plastic garbage bags together.
- Clean the surface of the table with a mild soap and water solution. Mix 2-3 drops of gentle soap, such as a mild liquid dish detergent, into a cup or bowl of water. Soak a clean cloth in the soap solution and wring out excess water until it's not dripping. Rub down the entire coffee table with the damp cloth to clean off dust and grime.[1]
- It's important to clean off the surface very well so there are no grains of dirt that you might end up grinding into the wood as you sand.
- Remove the finish by sanding the coffee table with a coarse-grit sandpaper. Attach a sheet of coarse-grit sandpaper, like 40- or 60-grit sandpaper, to a sanding block or electric sander. Start sanding, going with the grain of the wood, until you remove all the finish and expose all the bare wood.[2]
- Wear a face mask and goggles whenever you're sanding to keep wood dust out of your mouth, nose, and eyes.
- If there are any hard-to-reach areas, such as engraved legs or sides of the coffee table, fold up a piece of sandpaper into a small square and sand those areas by hand.
- If your sandpaper stops removing the finish at any point, stop sanding and feel the sandpaper with your fingers. If it is smooth, it has worn out and you need to replace it with a fresh sheet.
- Wipe down the entire coffee table with a clean cloth to remove the wood dust. Use a tack cloth or other clean, soft cloth to wipe away all the dust from sanding. This will allow you to better see the exposed wood and continue with sanding and preparing the surface for a new finish.[3]
- A tack cloth is a cloth specifically made for cleaning up wood dust. You can purchase one at a home improvement center, a woodworking supply shop, or online. If you don't have one, something like a microfiber cloth or an old cut-up T-shirt will work.
- You could also use a vacuum with a hose attachment to suck up the dust.
- If you notice any spots where there is still paint, varnish, or stain showing after you wipe away the dust, go back over them with the coarse-grit sandpaper until the wood is bare.
- Smooth the bare wood surface by sanding it again with fine-grit sandpaper. Put a sheet of fine-grit sandpaper, like 120- or 240-grit sandpaper, on your sanding block or electric sander. Sand down the entire coffee table, going with the grain, until it is completely smooth.[4]
- Stop sanding periodically and run a hand over the whole coffee table to feel for rough spots. Keep sanding and feeling the table until it feels like it has a uniform smoothness.
- Clean off the coffee table with mineral spirits to get rid of fine wood dust. Wipe off the loose dust with your tack cloth or other soft cloth. Dampen a rag with mineral spirits and wipe down the entire coffee table to clean it and prepare it for finishing.[5]
- Wear a face mask when you apply mineral spirits so you don't inhale the fumes. If you are working inside, open up any doors and windows you can to ventilate the space.
- Mineral spirits are also known as mineral turps or mineral turpentine. The liquid is very similar to paint thinner, which you can use as a substitute if that's all you have.
[Edit]Applying a New Finish - Finish the coffee table with furniture oil if you like the natural look of the wood. Apply a natural furniture oil, like tung oil, teak oil, or Danish oil, to a clean cloth. Rub the oil into the coffee table with the cloth, going with the grain, until you have applied oil to all the bare wood. Let the coffee table dry overnight, then apply another coat of oil if you want to bring out the colors of the wood more.[6]
- Furniture oil will soak into the wood to protect it. You can apply it as often as you want to enrich the finish of the coffee table and keep the wood protected.
- Furniture oil enhances the natural colors of the wood without drastically altering the color. Depending on how much oil you apply, it can slightly darken the wood.
- Stain the coffee table if you want a darker or different-colored wood finish. Apply a coat of the wood stain of your choice with a paintbrush using long, smooth strokes and going with the grain. Wipe off any excess stain with a clean cloth, then let the stain dry for as long as the instructions on the packaging recommend.[7]
- Since you are applying stain to bare wood, the wood will absorb it very easily. If you don't want the finish to be too dark, wipe off excess stain right away.
- If you want the finish to be darker, you can apply 1-2 additional coats of stain after the first coat dries, wiping off excess stain after each coat. Make sure to let the second coat dry before you apply a third.
- Varnish the coffee table if you want a clear protective finish. Use a paintbrush to apply a polyurethane or polycrylic wood varnish of your choice. Go with the grain and use long, straight strokes to apply an even coat all over the coffee table. Let the stain dry for as long as the manufacturer's instructions recommend, then apply another coat if you want added protection or more shine.[8]
- Varnish is a transparent protective finish for wood. It comes in matte, semi-gloss, and glossy varieties, so you can choose whether you want the coffee table to look more natural or shiny.
- You can also apply a coat of varnish on top of a wood stain if you want to make the table glossier and give it an extra protective layer.
- Paint the coffee table if you want it to be a totally different color. Apply a layer of primer to the wood using a paintbrush and let it dry for 1 hour. Paint over the primer using a paint of your choice, working with the grain and using long, even strokes. Let the paint dry for 4-8 hours, then add a second coat if you can still see any of the primer through the paint.[9][10]
- Flip your coffee table upside-down when you paint it to ensure you paint the insides of the legs.[11]
- You can use either oil-based or latex-based paint for the coffee table. Keep in mind that oil-based paints take up to 8 hours to dry, while latex-based paints only take about 4. Latex-based paint is easier to clean up after, as you can just rinse out your paintbrush with water. Oil-based paint requires paint thinner to clean up.
- You could use 2 different shades of paint to give the coffee table a 2-tone finish. For example, you could paint the top of the table a dark blue color and paint the legs and sides a slightly lighter shade of blue.
[Edit]Warnings - Wear a face mask when you are using mineral spirits to clean the table so you don't inhale any fumes.
- Wear a face mask and goggles when sanding the coffee table to keep wood dust out of your mouth, nose, and eyes.
[Edit]Things You'll Need - Drop sheets
- Mild liquid soap
- Clean cloths
- Coarse-grit sandpaper
- Fine-grit sandpaper
- Sanding block or electric sander
- Mineral spirits
- Furniture oil, stain, varnish, or paint and primer
- Paintbrush
[Edit]References [Edit]Quick Summary |
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