Hot Home & Garden How-Tos

How To: Make a simple wood cutting board

If you are just starting out in woodworking, there are many basic projects that you can tackle. The birdhouse, storage shelf, and the cutting board. Making a cutting board isn't too difficult and once finished, can be used to give you a space that you can chop fruits, veggies, and meat on.

How To: Use and tune a block plane (woodworking hand plane)

If you are interested in taking up woodworking, this next video tutorial is very helpful. In it, you find out how to use and tune up a hand plane. This tool is a very common one in woodworking and is used for all sorts of different reasons. If you try using one that is dull, you have a good chance of messing up your wood project. USing incorrectly will also damage your project as well as yourself. So check out this video tutorial, pay attention, and good luck!

How To: Insulate an attic pull down

In this video, we learn how to insulate an attic pull down with Roy Honican. Doing this can help keep your home warmer and more energy efficient. First, measure around the top of the attic so you can build a box that will stand on top of it. To build the box, use foam board that is 1" thick. Cut the size to the sizes you just measured. After this, use foam tape to tape all the pieces together. Once you're done with this, you will have a large box and you will be ready to go back upstairs. Pla...

How To: Replace a programmable thermostat with Lowe's

In this video tutorial, viewers learn how to replace and install a programmable thermostat. The materials required for this project are: a screwdriver, masking tape, marking pencil and batteries. Begin by turning off the power of the furnace. Then remove the face of the old thermostat and detach the labeled wires. Now remove the wall plate. Then mount the plate of the new unit and connect the wires to the corresponding codes. Finish by inserting batteries, placing the face plate on the wall p...

How To: Build an outdoor dog house

In this tutorial, we learn how to build an outdoor dog house. Start off by making all the measurements for your dog house and cut out your wood. After this, use a metal frame piece to drill into the wood and this will be the base of the house. After this, connect all the metal pieces on the dog house to make the basic outline of the house. When you are finished with this, place wood on the frame of the house and drill it into place. When you are done with this, you can paint the house if you ...

How To: Fix a wobbly chair

In this video, we learn how to fix a wobbly chair. First, you will need to flip the chair upside down to see what the problem with it is. After this, you will need to apply wood glue to the inside of all the joints on the chair. Next, you will need to push the pegs to the inside of where they belong and then wipe off any excess glue from where it leaked out from. Allow this to dry for several hours then flip it back over and test it out. If this worked you are done, if not, you will need to p...

How To: Fix a slack chainsaw recoil starter

In this video, we learn how to fix a slack chainsaw recoil starter. All you need is to wind up the recoil string so the tension can be put back on. First, remove the bolts out (there will be around four of them). Next, lift the side casing off and find the nylon spool with the cable cord wrapped around it. There will be a clock spring around that. Now, wind it up with a screwdriver while holding the spool of the corn and winding up the spoon a couple of times. When you reach the correct tensi...

How To: Make your own charcoal

In this video, we learn how to make your own charcoal. First, you want to make a stack of wood you have laying around, anything you have from scraps. Now, push the wood into a small empty pant can until you cannot fit anymore. Then, place the top onto the can so no oxygen gets into the can. After this, load the cans into a large barrel that has large air holes in it, then wait for the wood to turn into charcoal! This is a process that does take a long time and when finished, the can is going ...

How To: Build a southern pine garden bench

If you enjoy spending your time outdoors, but hate that you don't have a decent place to sit, this video may be for you. In this tutorial, you'll find out how to build a southern pine garden bench from scratch. It's perfect for the front or backyard and will give you a nice place to sit. When tackling this project, make sure you're careful when working with power tools. So check out the tutorial, be careful, and enjoy!

How To: Transplant raspberry bushes

In this video, we learn how to transplant raspberry bushes. First, you will want to add in soil to your raised bed or garden where you have your other plants. After you get the soil in and have mixed manure in, cut the bands off of your raspberry bushes and put them in a bucket. The bucket should have water and flower food inside of them. After you have placed the flowers into the bucket, you will then be able to place it inside of the soil. Then pour water over your soil and wait for your bu...

How To: Heat your home and save energy

In this video, we learn how to heat your home and save energy. Any gaps around the door can lower the temperature dramatically, so make sure you have weather stripping along the sides, bottom and top of the door. You should also make sure this stripping is on your windows as well. Just by having all these in your home, you will save a lot of money on your bills. Also, you need to make sure your control system is set onto one temperature all the time. If it stays at one constant temperature, y...

How To: Construct a wooden Adirondack chair

In this video, we learn how to construct a wooden Adirondack chair. First, you will build the subframe followed by the back of the hair. After this, you will build the arms of the chair and connect all the different parts together. This is an easy and fun project to do, where you can enjoy your chair after you make it for many years to come. If you go to the website Lowe's Creative Ideas, you can get the blueprint on how to make this chair and what tools you will need to make it. When finishe...

How To: Build a house out of trash for free

In this video, we learn how to build a house out of trash for free. First, find pallets from grocery stores and place nine of them together in 3x3 rows. Now, you will lay down a tarp that you can find over the plywood and start to add scrap pieces of plywood that you find around for the walls on the side. After the walls are up, cut down tree trunks that are long and then nail them together and place a tarp over the top. After this, tie the tarp down and tie it to the trees and your free hous...

How To: Properly build a firepit

In this tutorial, we learn how to properly build a firepit. First, prep your base by filling it with dirt and small rocks. After this, set your ring down onto the dirt and make sure it's level. You can also raise it up if you want a foot rest or beverage holder. Next, apply your stone around the ring and then mortar it. Make sure all the pieces of stone fit nice and tight together. After you've done this, lock in all the joints on the stone patio by using sand and brushing it into the middle....

How To: Make your bed properly

In this video, we learn how to make your bed properly. Start off by fluffing all of your pillows, then placing new pillow covers back onto them. After this, take everything off your bed and lay your sheet down onto it so it lies flat with no creases in it. After this, place your pillows at the head of your bed. Next, place the comforter on your bed and fold it at the top to slightly show your pillows where they are at. After this, press down on the bed to avoid any creases and it will look gr...

How To: Make a yule log for a gift

In this tutorial, Ingrid teaches us how to make a yule log for a gift. First, wrap two pieces of wood together with wire thread. Next, take some raffia and tie it onto the top and bottom of the yule log to give it a rustic look. To warm it up, add in some pine needles to the middle, as well as fur, cedar, and whatever else you find. To make it look more festive, take some red shiny ribbon and tie it onto the top of the pieces of wood like a package. This is inexpensive and useful for anyone t...

How To: Install a foot throttle on your lawn tractor

In this tutorial, we learn how to install a foot throttle on your lawn tractor. First, weld the petal onto the base and create your own holder for the rod so it stays in position. You will have to bolt it down so it stays in place and doesn't move. On the other side, put a holder on it so the rod stays in place and doesn't move. There should be a bolt on it so it doesn't move and a clamp that is welded onto the end of it. The, string a thin metal wire to connect onto the end and bolt it onto ...

How To: Install No-Frills Drip Irrigation

Solving a Dilemma This is a simple how-to for a cost effective drip irrigation system for your garden. My motivation to set up my garden for drip irrigation was pretty simple. In the summer, it gets to 90+ degrees outside, and my 50’ garden hose didn’t reach the far extents where I have the majority of my large trees. I noticed a large amount of the water I applied to the trees just ran off and did absolutely nothing. This was a huge waste of resources.

How To: Make a BBQ smoker out of a drum

In this video, we learn how to make a BBQ smoker out of a drum. First, turn the drum upside down. Next, paint the entire drum green and make vents in the side bottom of it, with covers that can be moved or set aside. Drill screw into the top of the drum then add in wood and charcoal to the bottom of it. When you are done with this, you will be able to hook your propane to this, then light it on fire. To smoke a piece of meat, you will need to put the foil underneath a grill rack and then plac...

How To: Organize and store your personal accessories

In this tutorial, we learn how to organize and store your accessories. First, you will need to have some boxes that are decorated that you can keep scarves in so you don't have to hang them up and take room in your closet. You can also keep your pashminas in the boxes as well, along with summer scarves. You can also use a box that has a divider in it to store your bracelets and necklaces that are large. Store your smaller accessories in a jewelery box, or a box that is similar to a fishing ta...

How To: Wire a three-way electrical switch

In this tutorial, we learn how to wire a three-way electrical switch. First, you will need to know the difference between the wires that you are using. Once you familiarize yourself with these different wires, you can start to wire your electrical switch. Now, go to your electrical box and tie the white wires together with an electrical nut. Next, tie the copper wires together and you will be left with three wires. Take the wire that supplies the power and attach it to the black common, then ...

How To: Install a dishwasher

In this video, we learn how to install a dishwasher. First, take out your directions from the package and throw away the rest of the packaging. Also, discard your old dishwasher if you don't need it. Next, attach the PVC hose to the water supply, making sure it's turned off, then connect the valve to the hose. Next, attach the outlet hose to the waste water pipe so the dirty water won't go back into the machine. This only takes around an hour and is a home project that you can do by yourself....

How To: Install gutter screens with Lowe's

In this video tutorial, viewers learn how to install gutter screens. The materials required for this task are: tape measure, tin snips, drill with bits and sheet metal screws. Begin by measuring the gutter to determine how many screens to buy. Start at one end of the gutter and slide the back edge underneath the shingles. Then snap the edges in place and continue down the length of the gutter. Now drill holes in the edges of the screens and screw in the sheet metal screws to secure the gutter...

How To: Use Diatomaceous Earth to stop bed bugs

In this video, we learn how to use Diatomaceous Earth the stop bed bugs. First, place this in a tray and then use a brush to brush the powder around the base of the bed. This will last for 6 months and will need to be reapplied whenever you vacuum the floor. When the bug touches it, it will kill the bug within twenty four hours. This is a great way to create an oasis in your bed, just make sure you don't have any sheets touching the ground, or the bugs will be able to crawl up them and go in ...

How To: Make a hospital bed while it is occupied

In this video, we learn how to make a hospital bed while it's occupied. First, take the top blanket off then take the linens off and make sure the patient is lying on their side. After this, roll the linens towards the patient, then replace new ones where the old linens were originally at. After this, put down a moisture sheet and place it under the clean sheet. Now, put the side table up and roll the patient over and let them know there will be a bump in the middle. Now, move to the other si...

How To: Program a thermostat

In this tutorial, we learn how to program a thermostat. First, you will need to look up what your home temperature should be at all times, depending on how large it is and what time of the day it is. Once you do this, you will go to your thermostat and figure out how to change the temperature settings for each day of the week. Adjust the temperature to change when you are home and for when you are not going to be home. If you don't have the heat on when you aren't home, this will help you to ...

How To: Use an engraving tool

In this tutorial, we learn how to use an engraving tool. It doesn't matter how old your engraving tool is, just make sure it has different speeds on it to help control it while in use. Now, place a piece of aluminum down and adjust your power level to the lowest level. Push down on the aluminum and write the word you want to so you can see how the pressure effects the aluminum. Now, set the tool at the highest setting and push down on a sledge hammer to see the pressure you need to push to ge...

How To: Make a poplar wine rack

In this tutorial, we learn how to make a poplar wine rack. First, cut the top, bottom, and sides of the rack. Then, use a router to cut out the center of it. Now, assemble the rack together by using wood glue. After this, measure the length of the diagonals, then add in pieces of wood that are criss crossed throughout the box. Next, keep these in place with some wood glue and then place wine bottle on the inside of them. This will make a great wine rack for any home and you can paint it as we...

How To: Undo grass, mustard, and/or ketchup stains on clothes

One of the most common things about summer isn't only the sun, heat, and need to get into a pool, but stains. Grass stains, ketchup stains, and mustard stains can all ruin a perfectly good day. Sometimes they are difficult to wash out, but with this tutorial they won't be anymore. Check out the video from Good Housekeeping magazine to find out what you'll need to eliminate these stains. Enjoy!

How To: Repot a Phalaenopsis orchid in a bark mix

In this tutorial, we learn how to repot a phalaenopsis orchid in a bark mix. First, take out all the moss from the plant and wash off the roots. After this, get the plant ready for trimming and trim it at the very bottom of the roots. Measure the depth of the pot to make sure the roots aren't too long. Now, gather the roots and place them down into the pot with packing peanuts and soil inside of it. After you do this, pack in soil around the sides of it and keep it watered so it doesn't die out.