Archived posts...



Kapil
November 10, 2008 at 2:52 pm
How to achieve gloss finish on wood

Hi,
How can i achieve a high gloss, almost glass like finish on wood e.g. High gloss black. It needs to be scratch proof etc.
Thanks
Kapil
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Hi Kapil,

If you are using a wood sealer and stain, such as Woodoc 10 with an ebony stain, you apply repeated coats – leaving to dry and using steel wool between coats until you obtain the shine that you desire. The more you rub with steelwool, the better the final result. You do not need to rub with steelwool before the final coat, simply leave this to dry.

Janice

Lizelle
November 14, 2008 at 11:34 am
How to surface garage floor

Hi Janice

We have brick paving in our garage. What is the best options to make it more manageable for cleaning and what are the cost’s involved?
Can one use the Rustoleum garage floor kit over the paving?

Regards
Lizelle

====

Hi Lizelle,

It is not recommended that you apply epoxy flooring over bricks, or any unstable or unfixed surface. You could apply a straightforward floor paint to the bricks to make the surface easier to clean. Visit: www.prominentpaints.co.za for more information on their range of floor paints.

Janice

Chantal
November 17, 2008 at 1:54 pm
How to clean aluminium window frames

Hi

Great site. I just stumbled upon it. Just to my liking as I’m doing so much DIY.

Could you please assist me with info on how to clean my aluminium window frames as it has old paint on it (about 11 months)

Next problem could you please advise as to how to clean frosted glass doors

Thanks in anticipation

====

Hi Chantal,

You can use any readily available paint stripper to strip paint without harming the aluminum. The trick is to allow the stripper to work so that you do not have to scrape the surface. You should also be able to use lacquer thinners. It might dull the shine a bit, but with a bit of rubbing will soon be shiny again.

For frosted glass try using vinegar or lemon juice and a paper towel to remove stains and grease marks.

Janice

Jeannette
November 17, 2008 at 3:11 pm
How to re-cover a lounge suite

Hi Janice,
Just heard about you and YAHOO! At last support for us capable women. Very inspiring. Do a lot of diy as a single woman running 3 cottages. For myself I want to recover a grafton everest style lounge suit which has become tatty but in general is in really good condition. Quotes I have gathered for reupholstering have been way out of my pocket financially. I know I can do it myself but need guidance. What tools to get, techniques etc.. Heard you run workshops in re upholstering. I live in Pietermaritzburg.

====

Hi Jeanette,

So glad you like the site. Regarding the Grafton Everest suite that you want to recover, please try to send me photos (home-dzine@iburst.co.za) so that I can see what would be the easiest way to tackle the project. If it is a fully upholstered suite you might find it easier to make a fitted slipcover. I have previously recovered a lounge suite that was similar in design and I used a staple gun, glue gun and sewing machine. Now you can get yourself a Bosch Tacker and it makes life so much easier.

Janice

Chantal
November 19, 2008 at 10:41 am
How to get rid of frogs

Hi Janice

Thank you for the response. Help needed with a frog problem which we had this past winter in our garden. We have a low lying area which collects a lot of water in winter. We call it our winter swimming pool. There are literally thousands of tadpoles which turns into frogs. Our main concern is the unbearable noise which they make. “never had a good nights rest in winter” If the problem occurs in 2009 could you please tell me of away to get rid of the frogs. Had a few trying to enter our house.

Thanks Chantal

====

Hi Chantal
You could always drop them off at my house! We have a Koi farm just behind us and I am lulled to sleep by the sound of the bullfrogs!!

The only solutions that I can think of would be to: 1. Fence off the area so that the frogs cannot get to the water to lay their eggs; 2. Cover the area with a fine netting. If it is a large area, this could prove to be costly, but eventually the frogs will move on to wetter pastures!

Janice

Roof Repairs

Hi Janice
I have just stumbled upon your blog and I am loving it, I just so great that we woman can do the odd DIY projects I just love doing things around my home, I like your tips on getting rid of frogs but I just don’t understand why anyone would want to get rid of them, I love the noise they make and miss that as I have moved to another place and they are no longer around.

====
Hi Kim,

I suppose it has something to do with the fact that I cannot stand the noise of barking dogs, but my hubby sleeps right through it. Some people love the sound of frogs and others find it most annoying. One woman’s sleep is another woman’s nightmare!!

Janice

Marilize
December 1, 2008 at 1:59 pm
Decorating an open plan living area

Hi Janice

My dining and kitchen areas are open plan / flows into each other. The areas are also not very big – STD townhouse style. I would like to do something to “separate” the two areas without really building / constructing anything hectic. ie. something that would (also) give me a bit of privacy when I have guests and am whipping up something in the kitchen. Any suggestions? Many thanks. M

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Hi Marilize,

In the January issue I am going to be showing you how to build a simple wall divider. It’s a freestanding divider so you can move it around – and very easy to make. The beauty of this project is that it is not just a flat panel, but is built like a box and has a shelf that can be used for decorative accessories.

Janice

Mbini
December 7, 2008 at 3:42 pm
Decorating awkward spaces

Hi Janice

I am just saying hi today. No its a lie! I have an awkward space under my staircase in my dining room. Very broad but awkward.

Any idea on how I can use it? I had a set of wingbacks, liked it but hubby used those somewhere else. I like his involvement but it kind of also inconveniences my plans.

Now I want to know if you will have any courses on staircase projects soon. Thought of using the space for a wine rack or something like that. But something that goes as a slope towards the roof. Hope I make sense.

Love your work and newsletter, ALWAYS.
Mbn

====

Hi Mbini,

I like your idea of a wine rack in the space under the stairs, or even a shelf unit. It wouldn’t be a difficult project if you build it using cube shapes. Work out the total length and height of the space and divide it equally into how many cubes you would need – and the size of the cubes. e.g. 4 cubes in length by 3 cubes in height. Work on a size of 400mm square for the cubes x 200mm wide. Some of the cubes could have hinged doors and other be left open. Use the cubes to stack wine bottles or display your special glasses.

Janice

Hestie
December 8, 2008 at 7:43 am
How to remove old glue from floor

Please HELP! We want to remove the old Novilon and adhesive on our kitchen floor – so far without any sucess. Is there any other way than using a beitel? So far it is all that is working – we have tried everything.
Thanks a lot
Hestie

====

Hi Hestie,

Removing old Novilon is a bugger! I have discovered that acetone works fantastic for breaking down the old adhesive and works very quickly. You can buy acetone at your local Builder’s Warehouse. Apply a small amount to a lifted corner of the Novilon, and as it breaks down the adhesive use a scraper to lift up the Novilon.

Good luck!

Janice

Jeannette
December 16, 2008 at 3:15 pm
How to reupholster lounge suite

Hi Janice

Just to let you know re my query upholstering my lounge suit.You suggested a stapler, glue and sewing machine.
Well it is done! It was a long hard slog and I would advise that it is not really a project to do on your own, you do need a helping hand. But at the end of the road it saved me a lot of money and I’m really chuffed with myself. Thanks for the encouragement.

====
Hi Jeanette,

I am so glad that you managed to tackle your own upholstery project. On certain designs it can be a bit tricky getting into all the corners, and time consuming, but I agree that it is well worth the effort when you think how much you have saved.

Janice

Lorette
December 19, 2008 at 11:47 am
How to frame my wedding bouquet

Dear Janice

I recently got married and would like to frame my bouquet. do you know of anyone that can render this service or someone that may do this type of thing? either by framing it in a wall frame or in a ‘glass type holder’ which one can place on a cabinet of sorts.

Regards
Lorette

====

Hi Lorette,

There are several techniques that you can use to preserve your bouquet. Try one of the following:

www.ehow.com/how_17607_preserve-wedding-bouquet.html
www.florage.com/bridal_bouquet_preservation.html

Janice

Riaz
December 23, 2008 at 10:42 pm
How to build a bathroom vanity

Dear Janice

I want to construct a cupboard below my vanity basin out of 25mm marineply. Where can I view different wood/grains and purchase such boarding and perhaps have it cut in the Cape Town area? Baltic Timbers does stock at R120 but won’t let me view!

Regards
Riaz

====

Hi Riaz,

I don’t understand why they will not let you see the product – unless it’s not very good! Timbercity also stocks marine ply, although I think that their product is more expensive. However, they stock the PG Bison product, which is good quality and nice to work with. I’m not sure if they have a range of finishes, or if pine is the only finish that they offer, but you will definitely be able to view.

Janice

David
December 29, 2008 at 11:21 am
How to paint concrete and paving

Hi

I have a lot of bevelled paving that is grey in colour in the driveway, courtyard etc. The paving is perfect but I really don’t like the colour. I don’t want to use the conventional paving paint that is on the market because it does eventually peel and also looks unnatural. I am thinking of using some sort of oxide powder diluted with water to spray on so that the brick absorbs. Any comments?

====

Hi David,

I have created faux rock paving in my garden. I agree with your comments that standard floor paint looks unnatural and will eventually peel off or wear away. I found that my using a standard acrylic paint (Prominent Paints), and mixing it with water to thin it down, it works much better and is absorbed into the cement. I also use a Bosch Fine Spraying System (www.bosch.co.za) to apply the paint, which extends the life of the paint job even more. You could also try mixing oxide powders with water, but you will probably get the same effect.

Janice

Colin
January 1, 2009 at 8:08 am
How to paint tongue and groove wall panelling

Hi
I have a log cabin holiday home. The interior walls are all tongue and groove pine. To brighten the place up I would like to paint them. I tried with 1 small wall using a PVA piant but there are brown marks coming through. Could you please advise what preparation and if any what under coat must be used.

Thanks for an interesting site

====

Hi Colin,

Because the wood may still have ‘wet spots’ it is sometimes better to apply a stain-blocking undercoat before painting. You possibly have a few wet knots, or areas where the wood resin is still leaking through. Try using Prominent Paints Wood Primer, which is an alkyd-based paint that can be overcoated with standard emulsion or acrylic paints. If this doesn’t work, you may have to resort to using oil-based or water-based enamels to paint the tongue and groove panels.

Janice

Paula
January 5, 2009 at 11:30 am
Ways to hang a mosquito net

Hi Janice

I love your newsletter and always look forward to the next one. Keep them coming.

I’d like to know what is the best (and stylish) way to hang a mosquito net in a bedroom.

====

Hi Paula,

Glad you enjoy the newsletter. I think I have just as much fun putting it together!

There are a couple of stylish ways that you could hang a mosquito net in a bedroom – see images below.

Michelle
January 6, 2009 at 7:12 am
Where to buy wallpaper

Hi Janice.

Thanks for all the interesting ideas in the newsletter every month.

We have a wall in our living room that we would like to decorate with funky wallpaper. Where can we go to look for it and what do we do with the paper at corner going onto the hallway?

====

Hi Michelle,

I would recommend that you go to www.smartart.co.za – Theresa. They have stunning design options that you can choose from and the service is excellent. They are based in Cape Town but can ship to anywhere. At the corner you could use an aluminium corner strip, which is available at most hardware stores or Builder’s Warehouse, or cut plain timber skirting to length and position it on both sides of the corner to add protection. Alternatively, do not apply the wallpaper right up to the corner, leave a strip approximately 10 or 20cm wide, and paint this in a coordinating colour taken from the wallpaper.

Paula
January 12, 2009 at 12:27 pm
How to renovate wooden garage door

Hi Janice,

Thanks for a fabulous site. How do I renovate Garage door (wooden) and wooden front gates. I’d like a dark colour finish. Both are beaten on by strong sunshine. They were previously varnished and the varnish has worn.

====

Hi Paula,

It’s not always a good idea to put varnish over wood that is exposed to extreme elements. I am definitely a great believer in allowing wood to breathe, and expand/contract with climate changes. Do yourself a favour and take a look at the products that www.Woodoc.com have to offer for staining/sealing outdoors. The great thing about Woodoc products is that they bring out the natural beauty of wood and provide all the protection that timber needs – even under extreme conditions. I have done a couple of garage door projects with Woodoc products and they only have to be maintained every 18 months or so, and then without too much sweat! Give the door and gate a good sanding with 120-grit sandpaper, and then finish off with 180- or 240-grit sandpaper. Wipe the surface clean with mineral spirits and apply the stain/sealer. If there are any black patches in the wood, use Woodoc Wood Reviver before applying the stain/seal. If you want a glossy finish, use Woodoc SteelWool between the first and second coats.

Janice

Nonhlanhla
January 13, 2009 at 4:08 pm
How to paint burglar bars

Hi Janice

Great site. Please advise. My burglar guards on windows were painted white and now have rust and looks terrible! What do I do?

Regards
Nonhlanhla

====

Hi Nonhlanhla,

Obviously no primer was applied before the burglar bars were painted! You will have to strip off as much of the paint as possible, apply a rust-preventative primer (available from any hardware or paint store) and then repaint.

I recently tried out the Bosch Octo Sander, which has an attachement that allows you to do circular and square burglar bars very easily. Use a fairly rough sandpaper to get the paint off, such as an 80- or 120-grit. If you have a heat gun – even better. Alternatively, you can use paint remover, but be warned – it can be messy and take just as long as sanding. Once you have removed all the paint, apply a primer for steel/metal and then paint with a water based (or oil based) gloss.

Janice

Lea
January 16, 2009 at 12:22 pm
How to repaint a bathtub

Hey there!

Do you perhaps have a issue where there is a guide to repaint your bathtub?

====

Hi Lea,

To repaint a bathtub you will need to use Rust-Oleum Tub & Tile. This is an 2-part expoxy acrylic that provides a durable, scratch-resistant surface to the bathtub. However, you cannot apply this product, or in fact any products, to an acrylic (plastic) bathtub, as they are too flexible and the paint will flake off.

To apply Rust-Oleum Tub & Tile you must prepare the surface of the bathtub by scrubbing with an abrasive pad and cleaner to remove flaking paint and rust. Remove all the metal fittings. A solution of bleach and water will get rid of any mould and mildew stains on the bath.

Wipe the bath clean and then lightly sand with 400-grit sandpaper and wipe clean. Now you can apply Rust-Oleum Tub & Tile as per the provided instructions.

It’s really as easy as that!

Rust-Oleum Bath & Tub is available countrywide at Jack’s Paint, Kings Hardware, Mica and Home Depot. If you have any difficulty sourcing the product, get in touch with www.tilecare.co.za.

Janice

Vissie
January 16, 2009 at 3:03 pm
How to tile a swimming pool

Hi.

I am building my own swimming pool and want to tile the entire pool.
I need advise on tiles and adhesives to use, and were can I find these products.

====

Hi Vissie,

You definitely need to get in touch with John McCormack at www.line-a-pool.com. If anyone can give you advice on building your own swimming pool – he can. And they have everything you need to finish your pool. You can call him on 082 678 1481.

Janice

Gemma
January 17, 2009 at 10:02 pm
Decorating ideas

Hi
Thank you so much for all your previous advice. I’m busy with a final project and would like some advice on the following:

For a family of 4 (parents with 16-yr old daughter and 17-yr old boy) -everybody sporty, love entertaining and travel often. Their style is elegant and modern with beautiful antiques collected over the years. The whole family loves the following colours: light green, tan, cream, beige, peach and soft grey. I’m looking for ideas to put a design plan together with sample ideas with costing to provide them with. Budget for the most R40 000,00.

====

Hi Gemma,

I would suggest something that is plain and simple, and that incorporates neutral/natural/light earthy colours. If they love entertaining something simple would be easy to keep clean, and if they love travelling the simpler the better. Take a look through the www.Home-Dzine.co.za site to see if there are any ideas that you can use. You might also consider signing up for www.getdecorating.com – they have thousands of images that could inspire you for this project.

Janice

Tamaryn
January 18, 2009 at 6:38 pm
How to build a CD/DVD rack

Hi,

We would like to build our own cd/dvd rack….we have everything except the inserts, we found some cd rack inserts from builders warehouse but they dont sell any dvd racks. Please advise me on where we will be able to find these dvd racks? I live in Pretoria if that might help.

Kind Regards
Tamaryn

====

Hi Tamaryn,

I know it can be very difficult to source a supplier. However, it is quite easy to buy these items overseas and get them shipped to SA. It normally only takes a week or so. Browse through the Internet to find the most affordable suppliers and then confirm that they ship to SA – normally via UPS. Alternatively, get in touch with a manufacturer of DVD racks and ask them if they can assist.

Janice

P
January 22, 2009 at 11:55 am
How to build a lapa

Hi there, I would like to know how to diy a LAPA – plans, materials etc, so as to do it the most cost effective way. Thanking you

====

Hi P,

There are several resources that you can use for building your own DIY thatched lapa: Visit any one of these links for do-it-yourself information:

www.builditall.co.za

www.outdoorthatch.co.za

You can also Google for even more links.

Janice

Leanne
January 26, 2009 at 3:26 pm
How to add colour to a room

Hi,

My fiance and I are moving into a lovely new home to start our lives together. The current owners have decorated the place with great care. I am hoping to replicate this, in my own way. I’m a bit lost as to which colour options to choose between the two bathrooms and the main bedroom. What can I do with the following options in terms of a colour scheme:

Main bedroom: White bed sheets – I would like to bring in some (dark red) if possible?

Main bathroom: The tiles are a dark grey, with white grouting. The dark grey tiles are all the way to the ceiling. The corner bath is white, along with the free-standing basin unit. The basin unit has dark wood corners and legs. The shower has a white bottom with chrome finishes on the edges. So the colours are pretty much, dark grey, chrome and white. What colours can I add to this to LIGHTEN it up a bit?

Second Bathroom: The tiles are all the way to the ceiling. The colour is a very light grey (looks almost white). The basin and unit and bath are all white with the shower being the same as the above. There is a small black two-tile border running through the middle of the room, horizontally. The colours are: grey/white, chrome, with a touch of black (border). What colours could I bring in to LIVEN it up a bit?

Many thanks

====

Hi Leanne,

You are actually quite lucky with the bathrooms. Grey is a fairly easy colour to work with – imagine if the tiles were avocado green!

If you are looking to add a splash of red to your bedroom, why not take that into the bathroom as well. A blood red and white towel combination would really add some colour. You could also add white, silver or glass accessories: a silver or clear vase with deep red roses for drama and romance! Alternatively, for something much lighter why not consider white as the main accent colour, with just small splashes of colour here and there. White towels with red embroidery or trim, or topped off with a red silk ribbon, etc.

In the second – and lighter grey – bathroom your colour choice is much greater. What about a teal/turqoise colour, or a dusky pink.

If you are not sure about what colour to add to these rooms, visit your local Home Comforts or home decor store and buy a selection of coloured face cloths that can be matched to towel colours, and use these to get an idea of how the colour will look in the rooms.

For the bedroom a deep red is lovely, but don’t overdo it: A deep red comforter or throw on top of the bed, a rug and a few select accessories here and there. You could also bring in a deeper pink – not a girly pink, something a little darker. If you like a subtle floral pattern, introduce curtains that incorporate the colours you will be using on the bed.

Janice

Ayesha
January 29, 2009 at 10:13 am
Affordable decorating ideas

I have one room that has limited space, so I want to decorate it in a very simple and affordable manner. Please send me some pictures of single bedroom to give me some ideas so that I will be able to decorate my room using the pictures as inspiration.

====

Hi Ayesha,

If you visit the Home-Dzine.co.za website you will already find plenty of images to provide ideas and inspiration. Put together a mood board – a collection of the things you like the best, and then take this along with you when you go shopping. This is an easy way to do your decorating, and the most affordable, as you will be able to shop around for the best buys. Try to look for items that serve more than one purpose. e.g. a storage ottoman, a bookcase that can also be used as a home office, etc. Add a long, narrow mirror to the wall (or use mirror tiles in a horizontal stripe) to create the illusion of more space.

Janice

Rene
January 30, 2009 at 6:15 am
Where can I buy the rollerwall?

Thanks for a fantastic online mag.

I would like to know where I can buy the rollerwall you had in a previous issue.

Many thanks Rene

====

Hi Rene,

You can buy directly from www.rollerwall.com. They do ship to SA and delivery is fairly quick.

Janice

Charlene
January 30, 2009 at 10:05 am
How to acid stain concrete floor

Hi

I have been on the net to find out about acid staining concrete floors. I have found some ideas of what to do, but no hardware store can tell me what to use for DIY. Can you please help me – I am in Cape Town. I would like to acid stain outside concrete that is about 20 years old. Can it still be done, if not what else can I do to very grey concrete and maintenance that is low.

thanx

====

Hi Charlene,

First off, you need to take a gander through the Home-Dzine.co.za site. I know that I have loaded quite a few articles that deal with decorating old concrete.

Both www.ProminentPaints.co.za and www.Plascon.co.za offer suitable solutions for decorating concrete – especially if you prefer to DIY-it.

Janice

Hilary
January 30, 2009 at 2:25 pm
How to paint bathroom tiles

Hi

I have a lilac coloured bathroom suite. To make it worse the tiles are the same colour as the suite, and it is a rather small bathroom. I desperately need some advise to make it livable. What can I do to tone down the lilac. I put up a wooden blind to give it a more natural feel, but don’t know what else to do. I don’t want to go to the expense of renovating. Please help!

Thanks for a great blog

====

Hi Hilary,

You poor thing – having a lilac bathroom is almost as bad as having an avocado green one, especially if the sanware and tiles are also lilac!

I would suggest that you consider painting the tiles – perhaps white or a soft grey taken from the lilac colour swatch – this will really help to tone it down and not be so ‘in your face.’ It will also go a long way towards brightening the bathroom and making it seem a bit larger. Along the wall over the long side of the bath (if you can), mount a long, narrow mirror with a frame that picks up from the blinds. For your towels and accessories -white, grey and possibly a lime green.

Janice

John
February 3, 2009 at 9:28 pm
Stainless steel splashbacks

Hi,

Thanks for all the great info and insight. I want to install stainless steel splashbacks behind my stove and sinks (DIY). The stainless steel suppliers have advised 0.9mm thickness. Does this seem correct and then can I silicone this directly to the wall (good paint) or should I stick it to a board of some sort and then to the wall? if I should use a board, what type?

Thanks a stack

====

Hi John,

The thickness sounds about right for the application – very similar to the thickness of a laminate. I wouldn’t use silicone to attach to the wall, rather use a construction or Alcolin MS37 all-purpose adhesive, but check the label first that it will work with steel. You will also have to sand the paint on the wall a bit as well to provide a better key for the adhesive, unless it is a flat or matt paint. There should be no need to apply the steel to a board unless the wall is not completely smooth. If that is the case you can use a 3mm or 6mm SupaWood board cut to size.

Good luck with your project!

Janice

Margaret
February 12, 2009 at 6:54 am
Where to buy resin and hardener

Dear Janice
Please could you advise me on where to find resin and hardener to make a high gloss finish on diy projects. I want the type that looks like glass. I know you can buy these tiny little bottles at craft shops called “Liquid Glass” but they are expensive and I thought maybe I could mix my own quantities as I would need quite a lot. I am in the Pinetown area Durban.
Thanks for your advice.

====

Hi Margaret,

I know that Genkem manufacture a 2-part epoxy resin that is used for DIY projects. Visit: www.Genkem.co.za. I haven’t yet come across anyone that makes a larger size bottle, although I am sure that it is out there! This is definitely not a product that you can make on your own, it’s an epoxy resin that comes in two parts and once combined sets to a glass-like finish.

Janice

Trudi
February 13, 2009 at 7:26 pm
Where to buy 6-sided bricks

I have seen a built wine rack with six-sided “bricks” that have a space within to hold a wine bottle. Where can I buy such bricks in Pretoria or surroundings?

====

Hi Trudi,

You have me stumped! I have not come across a 6-sided brick. Perhaps you should get in touch with Corobrick or a brick manufacturer to see if they can assist you. Do you perhaps have an image of the wine rack?

Janice

Lauren
February 16, 2009 at 4:11 pm
Where to find stainless steel countertops

Hi Janice, Love your online mag!! Just recently bought a fixer upper, and its helped with so many of the projects.
I’m now tackling the kitchen. Like the idea of stainless steel countertops, but I’ve heard some many bad things about it denting and scratching that I’m not sure it’s such a great idea anymore. Also looked everywhere and can’t seem to find a supplier. I’ve been told the stores don’t stock it anymore as the customers come back a few months later regretting their decision. Is stainless steel as bad as people make it out to be, if not – do you know of any suppliers in the Pretoria area. Would it be best to go with lighter of darker colour cupboards? And if it is that bad what’s the other option? I’ve heard Bamboo and Concrete are really popular, but also none of the stores sell it.

Thanks

====

Hi Lauren,

Thank you!

You either love stainless steel or you don’t. Whilst, yes, it can dent and scratch – if you tried hard enough – the same can be said of other kinds of worktops as well. If you like it at least give it a try. There are catering equipment manufacturers that still supply stainless steel worktops, and I am sure that if you ‘Google’ this you will find someone close to Pretoria. Both light and dark cabinets would work well with stainless steel tops – so it would depend on which you prefer and whether you want a light or dark kitchen.

Both concrete and bamboo are great options for a kitchen and work well in an industrial design. Bamboo is available from www.ecostrong.co.za, but I’m afraid that I don’t know of anyone who does concrete countertops – unless you do-it-yourself. There are a couple of articles on the Home-Dzine.co.za website, but it can be extremely messy and time consuming.

Janice

Vicki
February 17, 2009 at 1:07 pm
How to make an ottoman

Hi Janice – I work for an events company, and we have had a strange request from one of our clients. They are looking for a white and purple ottoman. Where can I buy one of these?

====

Hi Vicki,

You’re probably going to find it very difficult to find one in those exact colours and will probably have to have one made up specially. If you are interested, I am sure that we can do it for you, and in fact have a class this coming Saturday where we are making Ottomans! Get in touch with me via Home-Dzine.co.za.

Janice

Robert
February 23, 2009 at 12:03 pm
Roll up screen for sides of carport

Hi Janice,

I have a 6X6 carport. Steel frame with square tubing pillars. The structure is very close to the street/pavement and would like to install some sort of roll-up type screening for the sides. This will not only provide for privacy but also as protection against the elements. I was thinking along the lines of those used at restaurants outdoor seating areas. Any ideas or suggestions please?

====

Hi Robert,

I think you are referring to the canvas roll-up sides, and these would be great for offering privacy and protection – www.rollupawnings.com – www.lowveldcanvas.co.za Alternatively, you could use bamboo blinds that could also be fitted with an easy-roll up mechanism and made to the size of the carport – www.blindsbonanza.co.za – www.weatherblinds.co.za – www.allweatherawnings.co.za.

Janice

Anthea
February 24, 2009 at 9:56 am
Where to buy make it mosaic

Hi there, I live in Cape Town and would love to know where I can purchase the Make-It Mosaic and Faster Plaster products.

Thanks.

====

Hi Anthea,

You could try www.mosaicworks.co.za who are based in Cape Town. Although these products are mentioned in the article on Home-Dzine, you can quite easily substitute with materials readily available from a craft and hobby shop, or hardware store. Use a Tylon Tile Adhesive and Grout for your mosaic project.

Janice

Colleen
February 25, 2009 at 11:51 am
How to clean bathroom floor tiles

How to clean up terracotta bathroom floor tiles. They look old and stained and perhaps were even varnished at one stage?

Thanks

====

Hi Colleen,

I work closely with Tile & Floor Care and have used quite a few of their products on various occasions. You won’t find a better product anywhere for dealing with tiles. The TFC range is available in Builder’s Warehouse, Mica and select hardware stores countrywide.

Janice

Margaret
March 2, 2009 at 10:48 am
How to clean brick paving around pool

Hi Janice,

Please could you tell me how to clean brick paving around a pool. The grouting is coming away in parts and I would be a bit dubious about using a high pressure cleaner. Is there an easy way to repair grout if I have to go that route? Also how do you clean slasto that has green moss on it?

====

Hi Margaret,

The solution to all your problems would be to contact www.tilecare.co.za. They supply a wide range of products for floor care, many of which I have used myself for various projects, and the quality and result is outstanding. You will find Floor & Tile Care products (TFC) at most hardware stores, Mica, Mega Mica and Builder’s Warehouse.

Janice

Londeka
March 3, 2009 at 8:42 am
Where to find a brick making machine

Hi,

I would like to have your assistance in finding a quotation for a brickmaking machine. I wnt to start a small business of supplying bricks to the community,i will appreciate your help. Thanks

====

Hi Londeka,

I’m afraid that this is not something I have come across. However, I am sure that if you ‘Google’ you should come up with some ideas on how to make your own bricks. Sorry that I can’t be more help.

Janice

Laurette
March 3, 2009 at 1:06 pm
How to paint knotty pine

Hi, I have tongue and groove boards on my ceilling (knottypine) that is currently varnished, I want to paint it white. Do I have to remove the varnish first? what can I use that will not take too long? and what paint do you recommend I use?

====

Hi Laurette,

The short cut route would be to use an oil-based enamel to paint over the varnished boards. It would look fine, but not great. The proper way would be to sand the boards to remove the old varnish – starting with 80/120-grit sandpaper and finishing off with 180/240-grit sandpaper for a smooth finish. After that you could apply Prominent Paint Promodek to the ceiling for a professionally-looking finish. It all depends on how much time you want to spend on the project, as sanding can take forever! Alternatively, hire local labour to do the sanding for you, which would be less work-intensive for you and create welcome employment.

Janice

Lauren
March 4, 2009 at 12:27 pm
How to paint kitchen cupboards

Hi there,
I’m fed up with my kitchen cupboards and have been looking at new options. I saw in the this month’s issue you did a comb effect. Would I be able to do that on my laminated cupboards, and if so how would I prepare them.

Thanks

====

Hi Lauren,

You can do almost any paint technique on your laminated cupboards, as long as you take the time to prepare. If you visit the Kitchen section there are quite a lot of articles that deal with giving kitchen cabinets and door fronts a makeover. A few words of advice: If you are planning to try the combing paint technique on your cabinets – Lightly sand the melamine to remove the gloss/shine and provide a key for the paint – Apply a melamine primer to the door if you are using a water-based paint – Finish off with at least two coats of polyurethane varnish (the Rust-Oleum spray varnish is fantastic) for added protection and prevent scratching and chipping.

Janice

Denise
March 4, 2009 at 4:19 pm
Double wooden sliding door

Hi,
Can you please help me. I am looking for a dual wooden sliding door with full pane height 1980mm and length 3200mm. I have received quotes range from R8000 to R10000, which is out of my budget. Can you please assist me with cheaper quotes or an alternative to this door.

====

Hi Denise,

Have you tried your local Timbercity, Builder’s Warehouse or Mica? All these stores stock a wide range of doors that are good quality. Another manufacturer and supplier is www.Nulu.co.za. You don’t mention if the prices quoted are just for the door, or if they include installation costs. If the latter, you can expect to pay in this region for a quality door and installation.

Janice

Nissa
March 5, 2009 at 4:13 pm
DIY Diva and DIY Kids workshops

Hi,

I would like to know where and when do you have your adult and kiddies classes?

====

Hi Nissa,

Visit the DIY-Divas.co.za website and you will see that we hold our DIY for women classes all the time. We have DIY, Power Tool and Home Repair classes on a Saturday morning in Randpark Ridge. Please select the course that you would like to attend and send us a booking slip. We also offer Furniture Making Workshops.

Janice

Johan
March 6, 2009 at 9:56 am
Restore a varnished wooden garage door

Hi Janice,

I am in desperate need for some advice. I want to restore my wooden garage door. It is varnished at the moment. I want to remove the varnish and then use a dark (Indonesian Teak) wooden sealer to seal it.

My questions are:
What is the best product to use to strip off the old varnish?
The sealer I bought is called “Gripseal”. It is a water based wooden sealer. The manufacturer says to apply 3 coats. Is this enough, or should I also apply another varnish over it?
Can I use a wax on top of the wooden sealer?

I hope that you can assist me in this regard.

Thank you very much.

====

Hi Johan,

Before I recommend tha best procedure – toss out the Gripseal! It’s an absolutely disgusting product and chokes the wood underneath as opposed to beautifying and protecting. Pop into your hardware store and grab a can of Woodoc 50 or Woodoc 55. Woodoc also have a range of stain concentrates that you can add to the sealer to tint to the required colour – Woodoc.com.

The best way to strip off the existing varnish would be to sand the door. You could try using a paint stripper for areas that are difficult to sand, but may need to apply two or three times to get the varnish off.

Once the door has been sanded and wiped clean to remove the dust, if you need to restore any areas of the door – possibly where the wood has gone black and normally at the bottom of the door – use Woodoc Wood Reviver.

Now you are ready to apply the sealer. Use a paintbrush to apply the first coat and let this soak into the wood, especially at the top, sides and bottom of the garage door. If the sealer disappears immediately, apply more to this area as it means the wood is very dry underneath. If you want the garage door to have a glossy shine to it, use a pad of steelwool to go over the door and remove any excess sealer left on the surface. Finish off with another two coats, allowing drying time between each coat.

PS. To explain my comment regarding the Gripseal… Yes, it does seal the surface, but it does not soak deeply into the wood. After you have used Gripseal you will be able to scratch the surface and still see the wood underneath!

Janice

Lea
March 6, 2009 at 11:50 am
Remodel a granny flat

hey there
My man’s birthday is coming up in April and I am thinking of remodelling the granny flat into a bar and entertainment area…any tips?

====

Hi Lea,

If you are going to be doing this yourself, shop around for the best offers on timber and board that you will need. I have found that Plaza Board (Industria) offer a wide range of timber and board products at the best prices, but that all depends on where you are located.

Draw a plan of the project before you start. Measure up the room so that you can work out exactly how much space there is and what size you can make the bar, etc. This is the best way to start a project and ensures that you know exactly what you need before you start.

Try to match all the materials as much as possible so that you don’t end up with a look that is mismatched.

If you need help on anything, drop me a line and I will see what I can do. Or perhaps sign up for one of our DIY-Divas workshops.

Janice

DJ Alley
March 7, 2009 at 7:17 am
How to install cornice

Hi There

Is there a website that shows me in detail on how to install cornice?

DJ Alley

====

Hi DJ

We are going to be doing a bedroom makeover in the April issue of Home-Dzine-Online and it will explain in detail how to install cornice and crown moulding. If you are in a hurry you can also visit the Home Improvement section – and visit the 2008 archive. They are a few articles that cover how to install cornice and crown moulding.

Janice

Charmain
March 8, 2009 at 12:47 pm
Advice on re tiling a bathroom

Dear Janice,

Thanks for a very informative site – you always have something new to read and think about.

I would like to ask some advice re tiling in a bathroom – I don’t wall to tile all the wall, but am looking at doing wall tiles in the showers (all frameless). Shower rose would be 2.1m, glass panel 2.1 (some half open showers), but the ceiling is between 2.9 & 3m. Some showers have 2 walls and others 3 walls. Door height probably also about 2.1m. To which height do you recommend to tile?

====

Hi Charmain,

For a shower I would recommend that you go as high as possible. I understand that you don’t want to tile all the way up to at least 2.1M. Showers get very wet (duh!) and also trap moisture and humidity. If you don’t tile you will have to apply a suitable moisture-resistant coating to the wall to keep it dry.

Janice

Charlie
March 8, 2009 at 3:44 pm
Using pva as a binder

I have a good source of wood chips and a wood burning stove, I am considering using PVA as a binder, has anybody tried it and if so how?

====

Hi Charlie,

Can’t help you here. Perhaps someone reads this who can offer advice.

Janice

Denise
March 10, 2009 at 12:15 pm
Decorating a front entrance

Hi Janice, thank you so much for an awesome website. I have a stunning home on the beach (Bali-style) and have one big decorating dilemma. We have a large entrance hall that allows you to see the full spectrum of the sea as you walk in the front door. However I feel that much more can be made of this space. Shall I send you some pictures so that you can give me advice on how this space can be maximised without losing the view.

====

Hi Denise,

You lucky thing! Yes, please send images to home-dzine@iburst.co.za and I will take a look and post suggestions for you. Do you need to use the space – it sounds fantastic just as it is.

Janice

Chantel
March 16, 2009 at 10:41 am
Paint a bed for my son

Hi there,

I need some help please.

I got a bed for my son. I want to paint the bed to match his bedroom, but the problem is that it is Supawood covered with that stuff that looks like its pasted/glued to the wood (Sorry, but I’m not to sure what you call it, think it’s Melawood). How can I go about painting over this. I want to use a enamel paint.

Thanx alot for your help.
Kind Regards

====

Hi Chantel,

Whatever the material, if it definitely has supawood underneath then you can easily remove the surface with sanding. You don’t need to remove it all, just enough to remove the gloss shiny from the surface and provide a key for the paint to adhere to. Use a 120-grit to start and finish with a 240-grit sandpaper. If you’re using enamel paint, simply apply the paint with a foam roller for a smooth surface. Or definitely get yourself a Bosch PFS Spray System, especially in you are going to do lots of painting – it makes it so much easier and the finish is very professional.

Janice

Jennifer
March 19, 2009 at 1:40 pm
Cost effective window treatments

At work we have big windows and there are ventilation pipe across the top, besides having a dummy blind that is cut out around the pipes, is there anything else we can do that is really cost effective.

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Hi Jennifer,

If you would like to send me a couple of photos on home-dzine@iburst.co.za I will be able to see what you can do and make some suggestions.

Janice