What Are Black Oil Sunflower Seeds?

For thousands of years, birds and humans in North America have relied on native sunflowers for sustenance. About 500 years ago, Spanish conquistadors brought sunflower seeds back across the Atlantic Ocean to Europe and beyond. Now they’re a staple for people and backyard birds around the world.

“Sunflower seeds are one of the more popular seeds to feed birds, whether alone or in blends,” says Brian Cunningham, product and hobby education manager for Wild Birds Unlimited. They’re popular because they attract so many kinds of birds. And the one birds like the most is black oil.

“Foods offered to birds in our yards mimic what birds would naturally be seeking to consume in the wild,” says Cunningham. “Sunflower seeds mimic the seeds of many trees like pine, fir, spruce, hemlock, maple, elm, sweetgum, beech and more. Plus, sunflower seeds mimic flower seeds of all types and, of course, the 60-plus wild sunflower species.”

What Are Black Oil Sunflower Seeds?

Black oil sunflower seeds come from a cultivar (or modified version) of the sunflower plant Helianthus annus. They’re an annual crop, used primarily for making cooking oil and as wild bird food.

While still grown in North America, the largest producers are in eastern Europe and the former Soviet Union, where they grow more readily than other oil-seed crops such as corn, soybeans and olives.

Black oil sunflower seeds are popular for bird feeders because of their high oil content, which is beneficial for nutrition and calories. Also, their thin shells are easier for birds to crack open than other types of sunflower seeds. Humans generally don’t eat black oil sunflower seeds because the hulls are small and more difficult to shell.

What Birds Eat Black Oil Sunflower Seeds?

In general, most seed-eating birds are attracted to black oil sunflower seeds. These include:

• Finches (house, purple, gold, rosy, Cassin’s);
• Chickadees;
• Nuthatches;
• Northern cardinals;
• Mourning doves;
• Tufted titmice;
• Towhees;
• Blackbirds;
• Woodpeckers;
• Evening grosbeaks;
• Redpolls;
• Pine siskins;
• Indigo buntings;
• Gray catbirds;
• Bushtits;
• Grackles (house and common);
• Black-billed magpies;
• Sparrows;
• Jays.

What Feeders Work Best for Black Oil Sunflower Seeds?

Hopper, tube and tray feeders all work well for black oil sunflower seeds, as long as their holes are large enough for the birds to extract the seed.

How To Grow Black Oil Sunflower Seeds

Growing sunflowers is easy throughout most of North America, except places with short summers (they die at the first frost) or lots of humidity.

“People should grow sunflowers,” says Maricopa County Master Gardener Pam Perry. “They are fun, they’re universal, they’re native to the New World, so they’re ours, and they are welcome in a garden anywhere in the country.

“They’re great for attracting beneficial insects and pollinators. They’re pretty. And the neighbors think it’s really cool when your front yard sunflower is going wild.”

Steps for growing sunflowers

1. Buy seeds at the local garden center or nursery. If you want to plant more than just black oil, get ones known for producing an abundance of seeds. “If gardeners are meticulous about maintaining organic integrity in their gardens, they should certainly look for organic sources,” says Randel Agrella, senior horticulturalist with Baker Creek Heirloom Seed Company. “If they’re less concerned, they can probably just plant seed that they obtained as bird feed. That’s assuming the seeds haven’t been treated in some way, like by exposure to heat, to lessen their ability to sprout.”
2. Plant them in the spring, after the last frost, in a sunny location. Remember, they get big, so don’t put them where they’ll crowd out smaller plants. “[In most of the country] they will mature with little effort or care,” says Agrella. “Soil for sunflowers needn’t be especially rich. Average garden soil suits them well.”
3. Water them as needed — once a day for the first week or two, then once a week thereafter. “They do grow best with ample moisture, but once established they can tolerate considerable heat and drought,” says Agrella.
4. They flower in 60 or so days. They’ll be be ready to harvest in 90 days, when their heads turn down and the inner flowers shrivel.

Steps for harvesting sunflower seeds

1. When they start to wilt, cover the heads you want to save with a fine mesh like mosquito netting, or even just a paper bag stapled to keep it from blowing off. “Most of the time birds will come by and pick them clean,” says Philip Kauth, director of preservation for Seed Savers Exchange. “That’s the challenge. If you want to reseed your own sunflower seeds, you have to protect a couple of the heads.”
2. Or, cut off the flower heads and bring them inside to dry. You’ll know they’re dry because the seeds will be easy to separate from the heads. “A lot of times they will actually fall out when they’re dry enough,” says Kauth. “Other times you have to kind of rough them up with your finger and they’ll fall out.”
3. Alternatively, you can store the heads with the seeds intact. Then when you’re ready to use them, just place them on platform feeders for the birds.
4. Store seeds in a cool, dry place to prevent mold or keep them from going rancid.
5. Leave the stalks standing if you can for winter perches and foraging. If they have to come out, compost them. “They’re really good at drawing nutrients out of soils, so we recycle them back into the soil through compost,” says Perry.

Although sunflowers are annuals, once you establish a sunflower patch, it’s simple to keep going year after year. “Most sunflowers will seed themselves,” says Kauth. “They’ll just drop to the ground and hang out over winter.”

How To Preserve and Handle Black Oil Sunflower Seeds

Because black oil sunflower seed has a high oil content, eventually it will go rancid and become unappealing to birds. The more heat and humidity in your area, the shorter it will stay fresh.

“Under normal storage and use conditions, seed will stay fresh and healthy for birds until it is completely consumed,” says Cunningham. “However, unusually wet or humid weather conditions, or periods of slow bird activity can potentially cause bird seed to deteriorate or spoil.” Cunningham recommends:

• Always store your bird seed in a cool, dry location outside your home.
• Store bird seed in rodent and insect-proof containers.
• Never mix old seed with new.
• During warm weather, store only the amount of seed that your birds can consume over a two-week period.
• During cooler and winter weather, expand that storage to four weeks.
• Keep a one or two-day supply of seed in your feeders to ensure it is eaten quickly and stays fresh.
• Discard moldy, rancid or foul-smelling seed, which can be a health hazard to birds.

If stored properly, Agrella says seeds can retain viability for up to three years. “They can also be stored in the freezer for many years and likely remain viable,” Agrella says.

Article source here: What Are Black Oil Sunflower Seeds?

10 Best Bathroom Faucets of 2022

Buying a Bathroom Faucet

According to Michael Green of Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, “if you’re looking to make a small, low-cost upgrades, installing a new faucet is a simple and economical way to refresh your bathroom.”

We consulted with Green, as well as Doyle James, president of Mr. Rooter Plumbing, to create the following list of factors to consider when choosing a bathroom faucet.

Water controls/handle style

Single-handle faucets are typically easier to install and more convenient to use one-handed, while double-handle faucets offer more styles, finishes and shape options. Also, smart faucets with hands-free (touchless) operation are gaining popularity.

Compatibility with sink

If you’re replacing a faucet but keeping the same sink, choose the same faucet/handle configuration for easiest installation. Centerset faucets are the most common and require three holes in the sink — one for the faucet and one for each handle. Many single-hole faucets come with a cover plate to cover any extra holes.

Maintenance and cleaning

Different faucet finishes are easier to maintain than others.

• Brushed nickel doesn’t show spots or fingerprints easily. It’s also affordable and doesn’t corrode.
• Solid brass tends to show fingerprints and water spots, but is the most durable and holds up to hard water. Brass faucets typically cost more but can last a lifetime.
• Stainless steel lands somewhere in the middle. It tends to be more affordable. And though it can show fingerprints and water stains, it’s easier to maintain than brass.
• Chrome is typically the easiest to clean. It’s also affordable and doesn’t corrode.

Valve type

Make sure the faucet you buy has a ceramic disc valve. These valves last much longer than ball valves.

Installation

Most bathroom faucets can be installed by the average homeowner. If you don’t have the time, tools or interest, expect to spend around $70 to $175 to have it installed.

We kept our experts’ insights and considerations in mind when selecting the following bathroom faucets.

Article source here: 10 Best Bathroom Faucets of 2022

Homeowner’s Guide To Bathroom Sink Dimensions and Sizes

Sink manufacturers offer multiple bathroom sink sizes, so if you have a standard-size bathroom it’s usually easy to find a sink to fit. But what if your bathroom isn’t a standard size? You could have a tiny bathroom nestled into a space that used to be a closet, or an oversized one with a super-long countertop to serve a large family. Can you find a sink to fit?

The answer, of course, is yes. There are practical limitations on depth, and sink width is often constrained by countertop width or code-required bathroom clearances. Length is limited only by the size of the countertop and the design of the vanity

Style is one of the most important variables in determining optimum bathroom sink dimensions. Because undermount and vessel sinks lack rims that take up space on the countertop, they can be wider than top-mounts and often deeper. Special considerations apply to wall-mount and pedestal sinks.

How To Measure a Bathroom Sink

Product descriptions for undermount, vessel and drop-in sinks usually provide the inside dimensions, measured from the inside rim at the top of the sink. This defines the amount of available washing space. The product description for a wall-hung lavatory or pedestal sink, however, usually provides the outside dimensions, which tells you how much room to allow for it.

The length of a sink is the measurement parallel to the back wall, while the width runs perpendicular to the back wall. With an oval sink, the length reflects the longer axis and the width the shorter one. For a round sink, you only need the diameter. Some oval sink product descriptions mention diameters, but that refers to the length and width.

The height and depth of a sink are different measurements. The height is taken on the outside of the sink from top to bottom. The depth is the distance from the overflow hole to the drain opening. If there’s no overflow, depth is measured from the top of the rim to the drain opening.

Common Bathroom Sink Sizes

Standard sink sizes for top-mount and undermount sinks vary according to the shape of the sink. Most are within the following range:

Rectangular and oval

• Small: From 15 to 20 inches long and nine to 12 inches wide, with a depth between 5-3/4-in. and seven inches.
• Medium: From 20 to 30 inches long, 19 to 24 inches wide and about seven inches deep.
• Large: From 30 to 50 inches long, 19 to 24 inches wide and about five inches deep. It’s difficult to fit these larger “trough-style” sinks on a standard countertop; they work best as wall-mounts.

Round

• Small: From seven to 10 inches in diameter.
• Medium: From 11 to 15 inches in diameter.
• Large: From 16 to 20 inches in diameter.

Depth typically varies from five to eight inches.

Pedestal

Pedestal sinks vary in length from 15-1/2-in. to 30-in., although the classic length is between 22 and 28 inches. Sink width can vary, but it’s usually between 17 and 20 inches. Remember, these are outside dimensions.

Wall-Mount

Although wall-mount sinks can be really long, they are typically 16 to 23 inches long, 15 to 18 inches wide and five to eight inches deep. Wall-mounts are space-savers by design, so it’s possible to find ones less than 10 inches long to fit into a tiny bathroom.

Vessel

Because they sit on top of the counter, vessel sinks can have wider openings than top-mounts or undermounts. They can be deep too, as long as the countertop is low enough to keep the rim at a usable height.

Typical dimensions for round vessel sinks run 14 to 20 inches in diameter and four to seven inches deep. Rectangular and square ones tend to be shallower, from 15 to 25 inches long and 16 to 20 inches wide.

What Size Sink Do You Need?

When installing a top-mount or undermount sink, you generally need about two inches of space from the front of the countertop to the front of the sink, and at least that much between the back of the sink and the backsplash depending on the faucet.

The space you need along the length of the countertop isn’t as important, but you may be constrained by the framework of the vanity. If you need more sink space on a small countertop, a vessel sink installed with a wall-mount faucet is a great option, because the sink rim can extend all the way to the front and back of the countertop.

When choosing a pedestal or wall-mount sink for a small bathroom, select any one that fits in the available space, provided you allow for code-required clearances. They are 30 inches from the centerline of the sink to the centerline of any adjacent fixture, such as the toilet, and at least 21 inches from the front of the sink to the facing wall.

Article source here: Homeowner’s Guide To Bathroom Sink Dimensions and Sizes

What To Know About Sunflower Seed Feeders

On crisp, winter mornings, it can be difficult to sleep in at my house with all the noise from the birds around my feeders. From the tweets and twitters of timid chickadees to the rambunctious yaks of Stellar’s jays, there’s never a dull bird-watching moment.

If you’re having trouble waking up in the morning, getting a bird feeder is a great remedy. Here’s how to choose a good one.

What Is a Sunflower Seed Feeder?

Sunflowers can be served up in any kind of feeder, as long as the openings are large enough for birds to access the seeds.

Sometimes when people talk about “sunflower seed feeders,” they’re referring to tube feeders, sometimes called exclusion feeders. Those are popular among people seeking to attract songbirds while deterring squirrels and large birds.

Types of Sunflower Seed Feeders

The three main types of sunflower seed feeders are:

• Tube feeders;
• Tray feeders;
• Hoppers.

Tube feeders allow only smaller birds to feed. Their small perches, plus fencing or weight mechanisms, make it difficult for squirrels and large birds to get at the seed. Their roof and sides also protect the food inside from the elements.

Tray feeders are more versatile because they accommodate more kinds of food, thus luring a wider variety of birds. “They are also more visible to the birds, helping birds find food faster,” says Brian Cunningham, product and hobby education manager for Wild Birds Unlimited.

Unless the feeder has a roof, the seed is exposed to the elements. That’s usually fine as long as the feeder has good drainage. And tray feeders don’t have to be formal. Emma Greig, project leader at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s Project FeederWatch,  says “even an old stump can be a platform feeder.”

Hopper feeders, which resemble little houses with a platform underneath, also offer a good perching area for lots of birds. They’re nice because they can hold a lot of seed, and their roofs protect the seed from the elements.

If you’re looking to attract specific birds, this tool from FeederWatch will tell you what kind of food and feeders each breed likes best. And this resource offers more information on feeding birds.

How To Keep Birds Safe With Feeders

Feeding birds can save their lives during food shortages, as well as balance out habitat lost to development. But it can also be harmful if you don’t clean the bird feeders regularly.

“Not cleaning things, not changing their seed out, those are two very big dangers,” says Zach Hutchinson, community science coordinator for Audubon Rockies. “If your seed gets wet, it can mold quickly, and then you’re talking fungal issues.”

Hutchinson says feeders and water sources ideally should be cleaned once a week, but at least once a month. “You don’t want to go longer than that,” he says. “Bacteria growth does not need a month to happen. The spread of a virus does not need a month to happen.”

If you see birds with tumors or swollen eyes, or if they appear lethargic and exhibit unusual behavior, those could be signs of disease. In those cases, take the feeders down for a while and clean them. Check with local agencies or bird nonprofits to see when the threat of area disease has passed, and when it’s safe to put the feeders back up.

You can also check seed freshness by doing a “paper test.” Cunningham says to press a shell-less seed onto a piece of paper and observe how much oil stains it. “No stain? The sunflower has dried out and is not desirable to the birds,” Cunningham says. “A big oil stain? This is fresh seed.”

Also, if you’re using shell-less seeds, only fill the feeder with enough to last a few days. This is especially important when it’s wet or humid.

How To Make a Sunflower Seed Feeder

Building a feeder doesn’t need to be complicated. “You can make your own platform feeder with an old piece of window screen and a piece of wood,” Greig says

For a more elegant solution, let nature make it for you. If you’ve grown sunflowers, turn your dried sunflower heads into feeders.

1. When a flower head starts to droop, cut it off.
2. Poke a hole all the way through the middle of the flower.
3. Thread a piece of string through the hole and tie the ends together.
4. Hang it somewhere where the birds will feel safe eating from it and where you also have a good view.

How To Choose a Sunflower Seed Feeder

Whether you go tube, tray or hopper, Cunningham recommends taking a few features into consideration when purchasing a sunflower seed feeder. A good feeder will:

• Be aesthetically pleasing;
• Allow views of the birds on most if not all perching areas;
• Be easy to fill, even when wearing gloves;
• Be easy to clean;
• Be easy to see the food levels;
• Protect the food from the weather;
• Offer good water drainage;
• Withstand a tumble as well as harsh weather;
• Allow birds to comfortably perch and feed,
• Be easy to hang or mount;
• Prevent birds from getting their heads or feet caught in openings;
• Make seed easy to reach.

Top-Rated Sunflower Seed Feeders

From complex squirrel-proof feeders to simple wooden boxes, feeders vary. Most work just fine, so in the end it comes down to personal preference. Here are a few favorites:

Best Affordable Tray Feeder: Nature’s Way Cedar Platform

Natural wood always looks at home in the outdoors, and the cedar on this feeder helps keep the bugs and mold at bay. This one is large enough that most birds feel comfortable stopping by for a snack. The tray also lifts out for easy cleaning.

Shop Now

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Best Tube Feeder: Wild Birds Unlimited’s EcoClean Medium Seed Tube Feeder

One nice feature of this tube: Their EcoClean technology minimizes bacteria, mold and other microbes. It also has some cool details, like powder-coated perches and a bottom that’s easy to remove and clean. It comes with a lifetime guarantee that covers squirrel damage.

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Best Basic Feeder: Perky-Pet Two-Pound Feeder

This feeder is popular because of its elegant aesthetics and affordable price. The circular perch makes bird watching easy from any angle. The simple design and large opening means it’s easy to fill and clean.

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How Else Can I Help Birds in Winter?

Besides keeping the feeders clean, Hutchinson and Greig recommend helping out birds during the winter by:

• Creating brush piles and other habitat for foraging and shelter;
• Leaving native plants standing over the winter;
• Providing fresh, clean water.
• Keeping cats indoors;
• Refraining from pesticide use;
• Cutting back other chemicals used in your home.

Hutchinson says Audubon encourages homeowners to convert non-native yards of turf grass back to native plants.

“The problem with just [feeding birds] seeds is, during the summer months a large percentage of birds’ diets are made up of arthropods, which are crucial for their chicks’ feather and bone development,” Hutchinson says.

“Native plants support arthropods and other insects, plus can provide an additional food source if they’re also fruit and seed bearing. So our big push is for native habitat in your yard. Can you supplement that with birdseed? Yes, absolutely.”

Article source here: What To Know About Sunflower Seed Feeders

What Is Crown Molding?

Crown molding isn’t essential to the function of a home, but it’s certainly nice to have. It adds style and character without making a space look overdone or cluttered. There are endless choices to match any design theme or budget.

“This is a small touch that can make a world of difference in a room — regardless of whether you are considering a colonial style or something more modern,” says Kevin Busch, vice president of operations for Mr. Handyman, a Neighborly company.

“In terms of enhancing the architectural style of your home’s interior, crown molding also comes in as one of the less expensive options.”

Whether you’re thinking about adding crown molding or your home already has it, here’s what you need to know.

Crown Molding vs. Molding

“Molding refers to any trim in a building; it can occur at the shelves, roof, chair rail, window frame, picture rail, and outside the building,”  says Ray Charles, woodworking expert and founder of Household Air. “Crown molding, on the other hand, refers specifically to the molding that happens at the ceiling level.”

Crown molding adorns the top of a wall in the same way a crown adorns the top of a head. It hides the seam where the wall and ceiling meet. Crown molding often matches the other molding in the room and cabinetry details.

Types of crown molding

Here are nine of the most common crown molding materials. Which one you choose will depend primarily on location and budget (more on that later):

• Wood;
• Flexible;
• Polyurethane;
• Metal;
• Composite;
• Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF);
• Vinyl;
• Polystyrene;
• PVC.

Crown molding styles

There are lots of styles, allowing homeowners and designers to achieve any look. Wider pieces of molding can incorporate several elements in the same piece. Here are six common styles:

Step crown molding features a simple and timeless design. “It includes series of flat shapes with varying heights or widths,” says Charles.

Leafy crown molding looks exactly how it sounds, with foliage-inspired patterns.

Bead crown molding “uses small spheres arranged in unique patterns like rows or shapes,” says Charles. These are usually incorporated into other styles.

Dentils “uses a tooth-shaped block to create a beautiful continuous pattern,” Charles says. It really does resemble a toothy grin.

Egg and dart crown molding has intricate egg-shaped carvings with dividers, or darts. These set it apart from bead styles, which have spherical carvings side by side.

Cove crown molding, not seen as often as the others, “is used at corners or curves and takes a concave shape before changing direction,” Charles says.

How much does crown molding cost?

The cost varies significantly based on style and material, room size, region and more. Installation is also a factor. Best to talk to a professional about your home’s specifications.

Charles says in the U.S., crown molding starts at from $6 to $20 per linear foot. The total typical ranges $566 to $1,862, according to HomeAdvisor. Wood and plaster cost the most. Charles says composite materials like polyurethane, PVC, and polystyrene are the cheapest.

Benefits of Crown Molding

There are many benefits of crown molding, mostly related to building aesthetics.

First, crown molding hides the seam between the walls and the ceiling. When left bare, that transition can look ugly, and it’s a common area to see painting mistakes. Crown molding covers all of that. Crown molding can also be installed after the fact to “to cover the gaps that appear between the ceiling and wall due to contraction and expansion,” Charles says.

Second, crown molding adds a personal touch to otherwise blank walls. “Molding is one the most decorative and permanent building arts,” says Charles. “In short, unlike other décor like chandeliers, paintings, picture rails, lights, and upholstery, crown molding is part of the building that remains even when building ownership changes.”

Crown molding can make a space look bigger. “It ‘lifts’ the space by the use of lines and shapes that draw the eyes upwards and create the illusion that the ceiling is higher than it actually is,” Charles says. Drawing the eye up is one of the most commonly advised ways to make a room seem bigger, much like hanging drapes near the ceiling.

Finally, finishing touches like crown molding matter when selling a house. “Owing to its ‘crowning’ aspect that brings out the overall appeal of a building, crown molding increases the value of a building,” says Charles. Tasteful crown molding and complementary paint colors make the place look newer, cleaner and more complete.

How To Choose Crown Molding

Choosing crown molding can be as difficult as choosing paint.

“Not only must you decide on a crown molding that complements the existing style of your home, but you also must choose a material,” says Busch. “A professional can help you pick both a style and material that will age gracefully along with your home.”

There are so many looks and materials that narrowing it down may seem impossible. So Charles offers some advice.

Purpose

“The expectations of the user should be the first consideration when choosing the type of molding,” Charles says. What is the molding supposed to do? Is it purely decorative? Will it cover a blemish on the wall?

“If the idea is to create harmony with other subjects in the building like flooring and fittings, MDF is the outstanding choice as it can be customized to fit existing details,” Charles says. However, cheaper materials such as PVC will work well enough to cover imperfections.

Location

Will the crown molding be indoors or outdoors? Will it be in a bathroom or another moisture-prone space? Charles recommends rubber- and plastic-based materials for crown molding exposed to moisture, such as PVC or polyurethane — not MDF or wood.

Nature of surface

In areas where adhesive doesn’t perform well, “wood and MDF, which use nails to attach them, would work,” Charles says. “If the surfaces are curved or have lots of corners, one can go with flex.”

Design

This one is pretty straightforward. The most difficult part is finding a crown molding style that matches the rest of the home. “Plaster is the best when it comes to custom designs as it can be molded to suit any style,” Charles says.

Cost

Crown molding with ornate designs or complex installation processes will cost more, so if you’re trimming a large space on a budget, exotic wood and plaster aren’t the best choices. PVC, flex and polyurethane have simpler designs, but they’re more affordable and easier to DIY.

How To Install Crown Molding

Installing crown molding isn’t an easy DIY task. It requires advanced carpentry skills, specialty tools and a second pair of hands, so it’s a good time to hire a pro. However, if you’re up to the challenge and have a friend to help, here are the recommendations from our experts.

Measuring and cutting crown molding

Precise measurements are crucial, and each piece must be planned out in advance. One wrong cut can leave an entire strip in the scrap pile. “Cutting the crown molding itself also proves challenging for amateur carpenters,” Busch says. The most basic carpentry advice — measure twice, cut once — especially applies here.

For tools, Busch recommends a coping saw and power miter saw, chalk line, hot-glue gun, rasp, drill and hammer. Some people opt to use a nail gun. The specific tools required will depend on the size and material of the molding.

Attaching the crown molding

Once all the pieces are planned, measured and cut, it’s time to attach the crown molding to the wall. This is the part where you’ll need someone to hand you pieces and help hold them in place.

“Keep in mind that you can hide minor mistakes with caulk on paintable material,” says Busch. “You cannot with stained crown molding.”

Be sure to use the right carpentry tools for your chosen crown molding. Using the wrong one can split the molding.

How to remove crown molding

It’s possible to remove crown molding, but be prepared for a mess and possibly some damage to the wall. Charles gives plaster as an example. Since plaster molding binds to the wall and ceiling, it often takes parts of the underlying surface with it when removed, leaving dents and chips in its wake.

Other types of crown molding are easier. “Adhesive-based molding can be removed by using thinners or liquids that soften the glue,” says Charles. “MDF and wood, if attached using nails, can be lifted off using special hammers or crowbars.”

When in doubt, consult a pro. If you’re hiring someone to replace your molding, they’ll likely remove the existing materials for you.

Article source here: What Is Crown Molding?

10 Luxury Shower Design Ideas

Extravagant Details

When aiming for luxury, there’s no need to hold back. This gorgeous shower by @brendemarshalldesign pulls out all the stops with a regular shower, a steam shower, double doors, herringbone tile ceiling, a built-in bench, brass fixtures and a limestone floor.

Your luxury shower might not be quite as extravagant, but invest in extra upgrades in whatever form your budget and bathroom size can accommodate.

Photographer: @laurenpressey

Article source here: 10 Luxury Shower Design Ideas

What to Know About Thanksgiving Cornucopias

Each autumn, squashes, gourds and other fall foods make their way from garden to table, and those that aren’t cooked become festive Thanksgiving decorations. Some gourds are specifically grown for decorative purposes.

The traditional, food-filled Thanksgiving centerpiece, the cornucopia, has a long history, going back to ancient Greece. So before you arrange those adorable miniature pumpkins in your holiday spread, learn a little more about the horn of plenty.

What Is a Cornucopia?

A cornucopia is a cone with an open mouth and a curved tail, like an extra-wide goat horn. They are usually woven like a wicker basket, but you can find them in other materials and finishes. You can even bake a cornucopia out of bread. The open mouth is customarily filled with food to share while seated at the Thanksgiving table, but inedible arrangements are popular as well.

Where Does the Cornucopia Come From?

Cornucopias go way back. There are many origin stories in classic literature, most famously Ovid’s Metamorphoses, a lengthy and influential Roman epic poem. According to Ovid, Hercules defeats a monster by removing its horn, which then becomes the horn of plenty.

Princeton University’s Index of Medieval Art cites several other ancient origin stories, including one in which Zeus mistakenly breaks off the goat Amalthea’s horn. Cornucopias also exist in historical paintings, such as Janssens’ The Origin of the Cornucopia, and sculptures.

The word itself stems from Latin cornu copiae — horn of plenty. Fortunately, modern cornucopias aren’t made from animal horns.

Where Do You Put Them?

Typically, cornucopias are placed on the Thanksgiving dinner table, but you can put it wherever you want. It could go on a kitchen island with hors d’oeuvres, or on a coffee table with fall leaves and inedible gourds. You can even put a cornucopia on your fireplace mantle for Thanksgiving.

What to Fill Them With

Decide whether you want your cornucopia to be edible or purely decorative. Baked cornucopias are good with meats and cheeses. Reusable cornucopias are good with grapes, nuts and other snacks. If you want a decorative cornucopia that will look terrific all season, fill it with ornamental gourds and fall foliage — fake leaves are fine.

Can You Make Them? Or Is it Better to Buy One?

You can certainly create a DIY cornucopia. Getting the right shape is the most difficult part.

If you’re handy in the kitchen, a bread cornucopia is one option. Taste of Home made a bread form out of an old pan. If you’re better with tools and crafts, make a form out of chicken wire and cover it with burlap, twine or anything else you like.

If you have the time and the skill, you could get creative with metal, wood or clay. Or let the kids take it on instead. Have them fill ice cream cones or construction paper cones with candy as a fun Thanksgiving craft.

When you’re hosting Thanksgiving for the family, making a cornucopia might be one more responsibility you don’t need. Simple cornucopia baskets are inexpensive. If you prefer a pre-filled cornucopia arrangement, expect to spend a little more. Knowing you have a ready-made centerpiece every year may be worth the extra cost.

Article source here: What to Know About Thanksgiving Cornucopias

What to Know About Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is the second-most popular holiday in the U.S. after Christmas, with nearly 90 percent of Americans celebrating every year. This non-denominational celebration appeals to a broad swath of the population, maybe because there’s no pressure to buy gifts.

And while how we celebrate Thanksgiving may vary from year to year — ahem, pandemic, anyone? — one thing remains the same. Most of us cherish and look forward to a good meal spent in the company of friends and loved ones.

Thanksgiving History

Tradition holds that the first Thanksgiving in what is now the U.S. dates to 1621, when English settlers at Plymouth, Mass., held a three-day feast to celebrate their successful harvest.

It’s widely accepted that the Pilgrims — as the first settlers are collectively known — would not have survived the winter without the help of local Native American tribes. Two historical records document the feast took place with about 50 Pilgrims — all the survivors of the original 102 settlers who arrived on The Mayflower in 1620 — and 90 Native Americans.

A national day of thanksgiving was observed sporadically in the early days of the United States, until it was finally proclaimed an official holiday by Abraham Lincoln in 1863. By 1885, it was a paid national holiday for federal workers. It has since become one of the most important holidays in the country.

But it’s not a party for everyone. For many modern Native American groups, Thanksgiving is a day of mourning, as the establishment of the English colonies began centuries of subjugation and genocide of Native peoples.

When Is Thanksgiving This Year?

Since 1941, Thanksgiving in the U.S. has been officially observed on the fourth Thursday in November, which can be any date between the 22nd and 28th. In 2021 it falls on November 25.

Most schools and government offices, as well as many non-retail businesses, are closed on the Friday after Thanksgiving. This led to the rise of “Black Friday” — the unofficial name for the frenzied shopping day that kicks off the holiday retail season.

How To Celebrate Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is traditionally celebrated with family and friends gathering for a huge meal. Thanksgiving weekend is one of the biggest travel periods in the U.S., as far-flung family members come together for a few days.

The warm tradition of traveling to the homes of grandparents, parents or other family members, whether across town or across the country, is part of the reason the holiday is so well loved. That theme of togetherness has launched dozens of Thanksgiving-themed films and television programs, including A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving, Planes, Trains and Automobiles and the romcom classic You’ve Got Mail.

Thanksgiving Essentials

Roast turkey is a longstanding Thanksgiving symbol, the star attraction on most menus. About 45 million turkeys are consumed in the U.S. at Thanksgiving each year. But baked ham or other meats are popular alternatives, and vegetarians might go for Tofurky or other plant-based meat substitutes.

Side dishes are often more sought-after than the main course, traditionally reflecting the autumnal foods that would have been available to the Pilgrims. They include white and sweet potatoes and other root vegetables, as well as cranberry sauce as a condiment for the turkey. Desserts also showcase fall produce, with apple, pumpkin and pecan pies among perennial favorites.

In recent decades, celebrants are more open to Thanksgiving lunches or dinners that don’t follow traditional menus. That might mean a deep-fried turkey, salmon as the main course, even ordering out for Chinese food. It’s the communal meal with loved ones that’s important. (If you need to go out and grab a few last-minute food items, make sure you know the stores closed on Thanksgiving this year.)

Thanksgiving Decorations

Typical Thanksgiving decorations relate to autumn and the harvest. You might decorate your home, fireplace mantel or dining table with fall leaves, pine cones or small pumpkins and other gourds. You can also dress your door with a beautiful Thanksgiving wreath or grow a vibrant Thanksgiving cactus to add a splash of color indoors. Give kids construction paper, scissors and markers and have them create autumnal place cards for the table, DIY Thanksgiving decorations, or other crafty ideas. Or go all out with a real Thanksgiving classic — a cornucopia centerpiece that celebrates nature’s bounty. If you’re in need of a quality table to decorate and accommodate guests while hosting Thanksgiving, a folding table is a great choice and an easy way to make sure everyone has Thanksgiving table space. Don’t forget to add Thanksgiving name place cards to complete your holiday table.

It’s also worth noting that some Americans choose to put up Thanksgiving trees, similar to Christmas trees, on Thanksgiving Day.

Thanksgiving Activities

Every family has its own traditions. But for many, Thanksgiving is about more than just the meal. It may involve several generations of cooks collaborating in the kitchen, a game of touch football in the back yard, a heated card game over post-meal coffee, or everyone cheering (or dozing off) in front of the TV for NFL or college football games.

Almost every year since 1924, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has been broadcast on national television. But with pandemic safety means it will take place without marching bands or spectators.

The COVID-19 pandemic will no doubt introduce new Thanksgiving traditions, particularly meals shared via Zoom or other video chat programs — a tradition we’d like to hang onto. Even in years where families can be together again, it will be fun to invite distant friends and relatives to a virtual Thanksgiving table.

Article source here: What to Know About Thanksgiving

How To Grow and Take Care of a Thanksgiving Cactus

When most of your outdoor flowers are gone for the season and you want something to add a splash of color indoors, a vibrant Thanksgiving cactus can come to the rescue. These flowering cacti produce flat green segments tipped with blooms of white, pink, salmon, fuchsia, red and yellow.

Thanksgiving vs. Christmas Cactus

First things first: Thanksgiving and Christmas cacti get mixed up all the time. It’s easy to see why. Their bloom times overlap, red flowers seem more Christmas-y, and Christmas gift-giving probably sparks more plant sales.

If it’s a Thankgiving cactus, also known as Schlumbergera truncata, the rectangular green segments have points resembling a crab’s claws. They’re called crab cactus in some parts of the world, but tying the plant to the holiday adds endearment in the U.S.

If the green segments are more teardrop-shaped and scalloped on the edges, then it’s a Christmas cactus, AKA Schlumbergera bridgesii, which usually blooms from December to February. An Easter cactus (Rhipsalidopsis gaertneri) has oval segments with round edges and blooms with flared flowers from March to May.

What Are the Origins of Thanksgiving Cacti?

Schlumbergera cacti are native to the mountainsides of southeastern Brazil. Europeans discovered them in the 1840s. Unlike better-known cylindrical and spiny cacti that thrive in dry deserts, Schlumbergera tolerate some shade and more water, which makes them easier to grow as a houseplant. The Easter cactus comes from a drier area of Brazil.

Hybrids have led to modern Schlumbergera choices and the variety of colors. Consider buying a trio of colors and planting them together in a larger pot. Or buy a Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter cactus for successive blooms throughout the winter months.

How Do I Pick Out a Cactus Ready for Bloom?

If you’re buying a Thanksgiving cactus for the first time, look for a plant with lots of green segmented stems, not just a handful. Flowers bud only on the tips, so buy one full of buds and more compact than gangly for maximum color. Make sure the stems look healthy and unblemished, and there are no white flies or other pests on or swirling around the plant.

Bag it gently and transport it in a warm car, being careful not to bump the buds. Drastic temperature swings or overwatering could cause the buds to drop before they flower.

How Do I Care for My Holiday Cactus?

After your new plant blooms, consider replacing the plastic pot with a new pot, preferably ceramic so it can’t be easily knocked over by children or dogs. Check that the pot has good drainage holes; cacti can’t thrive in soggy soil. Choose a potting soil mix specifically for cacti. It should have peat moss and/or sand to keep moisture from pooling around and rotting the roots.

A Thanksgiving cactus likes to be root-bound, so transplanting shouldn’t need to be done more than every two or three years. Some grow to be large, especially those passed down from generation to generation. They can be two feet wide and a foot tall with segments shooting in every direction, not unlike a favorite display of fireworks!

How Do I Get My Thanksgiving Cactus to Bloom Again?

Starting in mid-September, the plants needs nighttime temperatures of 50 to 65 F and at least 12 hours of darkness to know when to set flower buds. This usually occurs naturally with shorter fall days and cooler temperatures. It can help to keep the cactus in a cooler room with good daylight and dark nights. Flowers ideally bloom just in time for Thanksgiving gatherings.

After blooming season, most Thanksgiving cactus need a short rest, which requires less watering. They hit their peak growing season from April through September. During that time it’s vital to give them ample sunlight, a dose of all-purpose houseplant fertilizer and weekly watering. It’s also the best time of the year to propagate a cutting.

How Can I Propogate My Thanksgiving Cactus?

If your stems are turning gangly, pinch off segments to encourage it to branch into a Y, which can be sturdier and give the plant a fuller look. Pinch or snip off the stem with at least three or four segments to start a new plant.

Let the segment of your Thanksgiving cactus dry on a paper towel for two or three days to prevent root rot. Then plant it about a quarter- or half-inch deep into a small pot of potting soil. You can also dip the pinched-off end in rooting powder to give it an extra boost in setting roots. Water when the soil dries out.

Article source here: How To Grow and Take Care of a Thanksgiving Cactus

How to be a Good Guest on Thanksgiving

Getting ready for Thanksgiving is not always easy, but is necessary when hosting to make sure your house is shipshape. If you’re not hosting Thanksgiving at your house this year, lucky you. You may be thinking it’s your chance to kick your feet up and relax while someone else does all the work. Not so fast. This Thanksgiving, be an A+ guest by following these helpful tips.

Plus, to make sure the day goes smoothly, here are 12 must-haves for a successful Thanksgiving.

Don’t Crowd the Kitchen

It’s true you may get to taste test a few dishes before the meal if you hang out near the action, but the cooks need space to get the job done. Here are kitchen mistakes you need to stop making.

Be on Time

Nobody likes holding a meal for a few late stragglers. Also, don’t be too early as this can increase the pressure the host is likely already feeling. Here are our tips for how to be a good party host.

Come Prepared

If you’ve been asked to bring a dish, make sure it’s finished as much as possible so you don’t take up valuable space in the kitchen. Bring it ready to be served in your own bowl with your own utensils.

Get your home ready for Thanksgiving by doing these crucial projects before guests come.

Bring a Thoughtful Gift

Wine is nice, but give something the host will be able to enjoy after everyone leaves, such as artisan chocolates, a gift card to a bookstore or movie passes.

Help Work the Room

While the host is busy in the kitchen, talk to other guests and make sure people are comfortable. Offer to get older guests a beverage and help the kids get set up with a board game while everyone is waiting for dinner.

Be Upfront About Dietary Issues

If you have a dietary issue or allergy, make sure the host knows about it at least a week before the Thanksgiving meal.

Help With the Clean-Up

Offer to clear the table after the meal. You can even load the dishwasher or get started on dishes and wiping up the counters. This is the ultimate kitchen cleaning checklist.

Put Your Phone Away

Good guests socialize in person. While it’s OK to take some photos, stay off your phone as much as possible.

Up next, check out these Thanksgiving decorations we wish would make a come-back.

Article source here: How to be a Good Guest on Thanksgiving

15 Useful Gifts for New Homeowners

218-Piece Household Tool Kit

Is there a better way to help a new homeowner prepare for a life of DIY and quick fixes than with an extensive tool kit? This 218-piece kit does just that and more.

This kit includes multiple sized wrenches and sockets, a level, hammer, tape measure, pliers and more. It has everything they’ll need for a basic toolkit that can handle most jobs. If you’re a new homeowner, or if you know someone who recently purchased a home, this kit will make a world of difference.

“It came with everything needed to decorate, fix, change, alter, and manufacture new items,” one Amazon reviewer writes. “It is strong and sturdy and made with excellent craftsmanship.”

Shop Now

Article source here: 15 Useful Gifts for New Homeowners

11 Things DIYers Should Always Buy on Black Friday

Black Friday sales have become door-busting events, bringing in determined shoppers and bargain hunters. So what’s in it for DIYers like us? Here are 11 home improvement items that can traditionally be found at a deep discount around Black Friday.

Article source here: 11 Things DIYers Should Always Buy on Black Friday

10 Ways to Prep Your House for a Holiday Party

Figure out the Flow

When guests arrive for your party, they’re going to come in, wonder where to hang up their coats, greet you, and then head for the food. Plan ahead for plenty of room for coats, boots, shoes and umbrellas near the door, or designate someone to be in charge of taking belongings to a bedroom or office area. Also, make sure the food and drinks are easy to get and that there are plenty of comfortable places to sit.

If you’re not into the traditional holidays but you’d like to host a party, how about a modern day barn raising?!

Article source here: 10 Ways to Prep Your House for a Holiday Party

10 Stylish Thanksgiving Decoration Ideas

Floral Pumpkin Bouquet

We’re gaga over this floral pumpkin bouquet idea. It makes a great addition to your DIY Thanksgiving decorations, especially if you’re looking for a unique centerpiece for your dining room table on the big day.

Article source here: 10 Stylish Thanksgiving Decoration Ideas

7 Best Air Mattresses for 2021

How To Choose an Air Mattress

An air mattress is an inflatable bed that’s portable and easy to store. When choosing an air mattress, consider whether you’ll be using it for camping, accommodating overnight guests or as a long-term bed solution. Another key factor: Who will be sleeping on it.

Here are a few additional features to consider:

Pumps

Some lower-cost air mattresses feature external pumps, usually sold separately. Inflating with these pumps can be time-consuming. Air mattresses with internal pumps, however, inflate quickly, and there’s no chance of misplacing parts.

Higher-end mattresses feature dual mattress pumps — one that inflates or deflates, and another that maintains the same air pressure throughout the night.

Thickness

Standard, single-height air mattresses tend to be 10 inches thick or less and inflate quickly, offering cushioning that’s low to the ground. Raised or double-height air mattresses are thicker than 10 inches and tend to be more comfortable.

Storage

Air mattresses can be packed up and stored easily, a big plus for camping or small living spaces. Look for options that self-inflate and deflate and come with a storage bag.

Material

Most air mattresses are made of vinyl — usually PVC — because it’s flexible, durable and cheap. Other synthetic materials such as urethane plastic or thermoplastic polyurethane also are commonly used. However, they cost more because they’re sturdier.

The following are seven top-rated air mattresses for you to consider.

We’ve curated some great tips and tricks to bring joy home this season. Read on to make sure your whole family gets into the holiday spirit this year.

Article source here: 7 Best Air Mattresses for 2021