Hot Home & Garden How-Tos

How To: Pick any lock easily

In this video tutorial, viewers learn how to pick a lock. The material required for picking a lock is a tension wrench and pick. Begin by inserting the tension wrench into the bottom left slot of the lock. Put some pressure on the tension wrench as you pick the lock. Now place the pick into the lock hole and experiment with it. Continue fidgeting and raking the pick in the lock hole until the lock opens. This video will benefit those viewers who have lost the key to their lock, and would like...

How To: Make your lawn tractor faster in three easy steps

In this tutorial, we learn how to make your lawn tractor faster. First, add an exhaust to your lawn tractor with a one inch pipe out the back. Make sure it's secured so it doesn't fall down onto the ground while you're driving the tractor. Also, add on a 51" belt instead of a 52" belt to make the tractor run faster. The last thing you can do to make your tractor faster is to place a spring and wire around the throttle to start the machine faster. This could make your tractor go up to at least...

How To: Build a cheap worm composting box

In this tutorial, we learn how to build a cheap worm composting box. Start out by using a large plastic box that has a lid, a storage box works great. Also, grab two vents that you will place on the sides. Lay your vents down on the sides of the box and outline how large they are. Now, cut the box and place the vents on the sides with screw to keep it in place. This box is made to keep worms inside, so it doesn't need to look fancy or be decorated on the outside. Once you're finished drilling...

How To: Decode a combination lock

In this video tutorial, viewers learn how to decode a combination lock. Users will need a feeler gauge strip with a modified tip. Begin by sliding the feeler gauge strip in between the wheel and body of the lock. Then start rotating the wheel. When the wheel has resistance, notch the wheel in the right place. Then rotate the wheel counter clockwise three clicks. Do the same for the rest of the numbers on the lock. This video will benefit those viewers who have a combination lock, and would li...

How To: Use and take care of a portable band saw

Using a band saw can be really helpful when you have to cut certain metals nice and neatly. Unlike regular band saws, this tutorial covers how to use and take care of one that is portable. This is especially helpful for this hard to reach areas or projects where it's difficult to remove the metal. So check out this helpful tutorial to find out how to use, take care of, and understand a portable band saw. Enjoy!

How To: Deal with bed bugs in college

In this tutorial, we learn how to deal with bed bugs in college. There is no treatment for bed bugs, you just have to get rid of where they are living. If you suspect they are in sheets, blankets or clothes, you must wash these in extremely hot water or freeze them for 24 hours. Don't share grooming products or headphones, because these can transfer head lice from person to person. You can also get body lice that spread from clothing and feed on your skin. Pubic lice comes from sexual contact...

How To: Drywall tape butt joints

In this video tutorial, viewers learn how to drywall a tape butt joint. This task is very easy, simple and fast to do. Once the tape is on the butt joint, apply a thin layer of drywall compound and then apply a second coat of compound. Scrape off any excess compound. The main goal is to apply the compound over the tape. Make sure to use the drywall knife to smooth out and spread the compound. This video will benefit those viewers who are interested in pursuing a career as in drywall or are re...

How To: Build a PVC greenhouse

In this tutorial, we learn how to build a PVC greenhouse. The dimensions of this will be 12' x 18'. First, you will use 1/2" PVC pipe that is 12' long that crosses in the middle to make a "t" shape. The frame can be made of treated 2'x 4's. Once you have the frame up, you can use thick plastic to securely cover the pipe and wood and clamp it into place. Once you have this done, you can place your tables inside of the greenhouse and start growing your plants! If you notice the plastic not hold...

How To: Tape and finish textured drywall

Tim Gibson teaches us how to tape and finish textured drywall in this tutorial. To begin, use a scraper to scrape off any texture around the join. This will leave 4-5 inches to replace the joint. If it doesn't come off easy, use a sponge to wet the area on both sides before you scrape it. After this, use either fiberglass tape or paper tape with drywall joint compound. If you use the compound and paper tape, you have to put a thin layer of compound down before you place the tape over it. Let ...

How To: Hang drywall in your own home

In this tutorial, we learn how to hang drywall in your own home. Hanging your own drywall will save you a lot of money, but it takes a lot of time. You will first need to start on the ceiling and then secure the drywall with screws. You will have to use a saw to make boxes for electrical boxes. When finished hanging the walls, you will need to apply compound to the walls and then paint over it when you are finished. Hanging your own drywall can save you tens of thousands of dollars over profe...

How To: Find the best drill bits and use them in metal

In order to find the best drill bits to drill in metal, you should look at the angle of the bit. It will need to have a center point. Bits only cut on the ends. The grooves on the sides are made to remove the excess. The point on the end determines how it will cut. Titanium bits last a long time, but cobalt bits last even longer. They will all eventually become blunt. They will require sharpening.

How To: Make a lampshade out of plastic cups with Threadbanger

In this tutorial, we learn how to make a lampshade out of plastic cups. First, you will need to purchase clear plastic cups and use a stapler and tape. To start, lay your cups on the ground with the bottoms facing up. Now, take your tape and tape the cups together two at a time, then connect all the cups in a circle. Next, use your stapler to staple the cups together, going two at a time. Start adding more cups around the circle of original cups using the stapler. After you get to two cups wi...

How To: Set cabinets for an entertainment center: tips

Bob Schmidt tells us how to set up cabinets for an entertainment center in this tutorial. First, make sure you set base cabinets next to your wires and put a hole in the back of them so you can cover the wires up, but still have easy access to them. You can easily make these holes by using a small saw to cut them out after measuring the correct sizes. Next, Set your counters so they fit perfectly inside of your wall space. If you need to, cut out your panels and replace with mesh ones that le...

How To: Install a decorative tile border

In this Home & Garden video tutorial you will learn how to install a decorative tile border. Decorative borders add a beautiful accent to any room. Start by setting the "measure right pro' tool. Slide the tool open to cover the entire tile and the width of the border. Next move out one eighth for the wall space and lock the tool. Now place the fill tiles on top of the set tiles. Then you slide the "measure right pro' along the wall and mark the tiles. Write the sequence numbers on the tiles a...

How To: Create a water garden arrangement

In this tutorial, we learn how to create a water garden arrangement. To start, have a box filled with foam and rocks, then place branches on the inside of the foam and rocks. Now, add in a few liatris branches at different sizes. Next, add in yellow daisies, green spider mums, foxtail ferns, ivy leaves, and any other plants and flowers you prefer. To give the arrangement a garden feel, make the plant out of order and make the plants and flowers at different levels and heights. Arrange the flo...

How To: Stain your concrete floor

In this tutorial, we learn how to stain a concrete floor. To start, you will need to prepare your floor by cleaning it vigorously. Remove all dirt from the floor, then use detergent and water to wash, when finished dry with a shop vac. You will have to use a hand brush to scrub alongside the walls. After this, wash your floor with a mixture of water and baking soda, then use the shop vac to dry. Next, rinse the floor off with plain water and dry with shop vac once more. To finish, apply faux ...

How To: Install an interior door set on a pre-bored door

This video tutorial is in the Home & Garden category where you will learn how to install an interior door set on a pre-bored door. For this you will need a tube latch, straight plates, door plates, two knobs, two sets of ring guides and a spindle. You will also need a tape measure, ruler, screwdrivers, a drill and safety glasses. A pre-bored door has a face and an edge bore. First install the tube latch through the edge bore ensuring that the angle side of the tube face is towards the door ja...

How To: Pick a combination lock using a soda can

In this tutorial, we learn how to pick a combination lock using a soda can. To begin, have your lock next to you and an empty soda can and scissors. When your lock won't open, cut the soda can in the middle so you have a small square. After this, cut off strips, then measure the size of your pinkie on the foil. Next, cut the foil out so it's the exact size of your pinkie and then stick this piece of foil into the lock. Move the foil around until it comes undone and you will have the lock unlo...

How To: Save money & water with your toilet flush

This video tutorial is in the Home & Garden category which will show you how to save money & water with your toilet flush. The first step is to turn the water off. Then remove the lid of the tank, disconnect the bowl refill supply and make sure that the overflow pipe is open. The next step is to take the new sink, attach it to the water supply point, place the drain in the overflow pipe and position the sink over the flush tank. The modification is done. Now turn on the water supply and your ...

How To: Prune trees and shrubs in your garden

In this tutorial, we learn how to prune trees and shrubs in your garden. If you want to have a natural looking appearance to your plants, make sure you prune them often! A lot of plants will grow out of shape quickly, so make sure you trim them often. Don't square them off on top so your plant doesn't look fake and un-natural. To begin, you will want to take your tallest branches off first, from the bottom of the tree. Keep doing this until the very tall branches have been removed and you are...

How To: Straight pipe your small tractor engine

In this tutorial, we learn how to straight pipe your small tractor engine. First, insert a one inch screw pipe to your exhaust, then connect pipes into it so it connects to the back of the vehicle. You will need to install several elbow pipes as well as longer straight pipes. The pipes should reach the end of your tractor out of the tires. Make sure it's secured tightly to the floor boards and screwed in on the bottom of the tractor. You can experiment with different types and shapes of pipes...

How To: Save the Bee Population from Colony Collapse Disorder

The bee population is in trouble. Colony Collapse Disorder is a mysterious malady that is decimating bee colonies all the country and could kill them completely, which would leave all of the plants and honey-loving people of the world in serious trouble. This video will give you some tips for encouraging the bee population, which is really one of the most green things you can do in this, the bees' time of need.

How To: Make a Window Garden to Grow Food in a Small Space

Growing whatever food that you can yourself is tremendously good for the environment because industrial food production has all sorts of ecological problems. If you live in an apartment, it might seem impossible to grow your own food. Think again! This video will show you how to make a window garden in your apartment and use it to grow herbs and other small crops, decreasing your carbon footprint and making your meals more green.

How To: Make Green Modifications to Your Toilet to Save Water

Toilets are one of the greatest boons to public health of all time, but they do use a ton of water when they flush. If the old adage "If it's yellow, stay mellow. If it's brown, flush it down," disgusts you, but you still want to find a more green way to flush, then watch this video. I will show you how to modify your toilet at home, making it use less water without sacrificing flushing efficiency. Don't waste money on a low-flow toilet or destroy the planet. Watch this video.

How To: Kill Cockroaches in a Green Way

Cockroaches are one of the most durable and and irritating forms of life on Earth. Many turn to toxic chemicals to get rid of them, but that's not very green is it? This video will give you some eco-friendly tips for preventing infestations, trapping insects, and disposing of them once you've caught them. Yes, cockroaches are part of nature. No, that doesn't mean we're not going to kill them.

How To: Take a Green Shower and Save Water

Bathing is one of the most enjoyable and least environmentally responsible part of many people's days. Fortunately, showers use less water than baths, so we're better off than we used to be. This video will show you how to green your shower even further, reducing your water usage as well as your water and heating bills, and increasing the longevity of our water supplies and planet.