Two Ideas For Reupholstering My Studio Desk Chair

Yesterday, I listed reupholstering my desk chair as one of the items on my “to do” list for the office area of my studio. If you’ve been reading my posts for a while, you might remember that this desk chair was originally a dining chair that looked like this…

It didn’t have casters on the legs, and the nailhead trim was silver. So I did a little makeover on the chair by cutting the legs down, adding casters, and then using a little Rub ‘N Buff in a gold/brass color to change the color of the nailhead trim.

chair makeover - from dining chair to rolling desk chair - 1

What drew me to this chair in the first place is the really high back. I like a big desk chair that makes a statement. I don’t like small desk chairs that get lost behind the desk. Before buying this one, I had searched and searched for a pretty velvet desk chair in a bold color, and while I found plenty of them, they all had a short back that seemed to barely peek over the desk. So those didn’t fit the bill. I remember finding one that was perfect at Ballard Designs, but it would have been about $1500, and I didn’t really find a fabric from their fabric selection that I loved anyway. I say that as if I’d ever spend $1500 on a desk chair. 😀 I wouldn’t.

So that’s why I’m opting to keep this chair and reupholster it instead of just purchasing a new chair. It’s the perfect size, and it’s actually very comfortable. I love the design, the style, and the size, but I don’t love the color anymore. Plus, as I showed you yesterday, my cat has done a bit of redesigning on it for me.

So I need to reupholster it in a cat-proof fabric, and velvet is always my go-to fabric for that. I checked on Spoonflower (the same place where I had my floral mural wallpaper, the floral curtain fabric, and the colorful square wallpaper printed), and they do offer a performance velvet that can be used for upholstery. So I started playing around with a couple of ideas.

First, I tried doing some stripes using the colors from the floral design, which I also used on the square wallpaper design. Here’s a (very rough) mock up of what that could look like…

I added the stripe on the back and the seat, and then did the rest in a solid eggplant color. I’m not sure about doing the entire chair in the stripe. My first thought is that it might be overwhelming and busy. My second thought is that trying to match those stripes would be a nightmare, and might end up looking very sloppy. But I could do horizontal stripes on the back and seat cushion, and then vertical stripes on the rest so that they’re very intentionally different, and wouldn’t require matching up the stripes from one section to another. I didn’t do a mock up of that idea, though, because I’m just not that good at doing mockups.

The second idea I tried was using the same colorful square design that I made for the studio bathroom wallpaper. I can have that same design (but probably with smaller squares) printed on fabric. That would look something like this…

Again, I paired it with a dark eggplant color for the sides. And the chair in those pictures is sitting in front of the old, original wallpaper that had the smaller, darker flowers. If you’ll remember, when I decided to go with the larger flowers, I also lightened the colors on some of the flowers quite a bit. But the new wallpaper isn’t so drastically different in color that it would affect what goes on the chair across the room.

So those are the two options I’m toying around with right now. I might play around with those stripes a little more and try out some various edits, like perhaps doing the stripe vertically instead of horizontally, or using fewer colors with wider stripes.

But just based on the two options I’ve done so far, I think the fabric with the colorful squares is my favorite. My only concern is that I might be getting a little heavy on the squares and rectangles. My floor is painted squares. The bathroom walls will be covered in colorful squares. The paint swatch cabinet is covered in colorful rectangles.

And then I bought a huge colorful wall calendar to go on the wall next to my desk. I haven’t shown y’all the wall calendar yet, but it’s this one from Kaleidoscope Living. It’s huge, and glorious, and colorful, and amazing…and more rectangles.

I feel like the room is already getting pretty heavy on the colorful squares/rectangles, and that makes me think I need to make the stripes work, even if they’re my second choice. But we’ll see. I may end up throwing caution to the wind and adding more colorful squares.



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Six Figure Spa Chick: Candace Holyfield Parker is At It Again!

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Photo Credit: Candace Holyfield Parker

As the excitement of Super Bowl weekend swept through the city, one event stood out among the glitz and glamour: Candace Holyfield Parker’s Super Bowl Weekend Extravaganza. Combining the thrill of the big game with the tranquility of wellness, Parker orchestrated a one-of-a-kind experience that left attendees feeling rejuvenated and inspired.

Set against the backdrop of the bustling cityscape, Parker’s event brought together a diverse array of guests, from sports enthusiasts to wellness aficionados. But what truly set this gathering apart was Parker’s unique blend of entertainment and enlightenment.

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Photo Credit: Candace Holyfield Parker

At the heart of the event was Parker’s commitment to holistic wellness. Amidst the festivities, guests were treated to a series of rejuvenating spa treatments and wellness workshops led by Parker herself. From soothing massages to guided meditation sessions, attendees were invited to unwind and recharge amidst the excitement of the weekend.

But Parker’s event wasn’t just about relaxation – it was also a celebration of community and camaraderie. Throughout the weekend, guests had the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, forging new friendships and deepening existing bonds.

Candace Holyfield Parker’s Super Bowl Weekend Extravaganza was more than just an event it was an experience that left a lasting impression on all who attended. And with Parker at the helm, the future looks brighter than ever for those seeking to embrace wellness, connection, and celebration in equal measure.

For more info follow Candace Holyfield Parker IG @Sixfigurespachick

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Our 5 Best Cordless Impact Wrench Picks (2024)

Affiliate Disclosure: We may be compensated if you purchase through links on our website. Our Reviews Team is committed to delivering honest, objective, and independent reviews on home products and services.

Impact wrenches are a must-have for any automotive worker, but they can also be highly useful around your home. Cordless impact wrenches provide maximum mobility and a high power level, making them useful for anything from removing lug nuts to metalworking to changing a tire. The best cordless impact wrench for you will largely depend on what you need it for and how much power is required. To help you find the best tool for your needs, we created this guide to the best cordless impact wrenches available. Here are our top picks.

Best Cordless Impact Wrenches: Our Top 5 Picks

Compare Top Cordless Impact Wrenches

Best Overall

Good for: This cordless impact wrench is a good choice for a serious do-it-yourself (DIY) project or for a professional who needs a tool capable of handling large jobs with a high torque level.

What Customers Are Saying

We found that customers who gave this product positive reviews liked that it was highly durable, powerful, and easy to grip. Several others were impressed with this wrench’s batteries and that the tool kit included two separate and long-lasting 5 amp hour (Ah) batteries. On the other hand, a few customers felt this tool was overly heavy, and some also said the case didn’t fit properly.  

Best Value

Good for: This impact wrench is good for those who need an impact wrench for standard household tasks but don’t want to break the bank. 

What Customers Are Saying

We found that customers who left a positive review for this wrench liked that it had excellent power and speed for its size and that it was lightweight and maneuverable. On the other hand, others felt that this wrench struggled to loosen lug nuts, and others felt it didn’t have as much torque as advertised.

Best Mid-Level

Good for: This impact wrench is a good option for DIYers seeking a well-built, mid-torque model that can work for small and medium-sized household projects.

What Customers Are Saying

Our team found that this impact wrench drew positive feedback from Amazon customers for its portable, lightweight design, durable build, and high power level. However, we did note that some other customers felt this tool’s battery died too quickly, and others said its charger was inefficient. 

Best Heavy-Duty

Good for: This impact wrench is a good choice for those working on large household automotive or construction projects looking for a well-built, efficient tool with high torque output.

What Customers Are Saying

We found that customers who liked this wrench said it was well-built, had excellent torque, and easily removed lug nuts and bolts. However, we noticed that a few customers felt this wrench’s variable speed was difficult to control. Others said that this cordless impact wrench ran out of battery life quickly. 

Best for Small Jobs

Good for: This impact wrench is good for customers looking for a less expensive impact wrench that still produces enough power to work on small and medium household tasks.

What Customers Are Saying

Our team found that customers impressed with this cordless impact wrench said it was durable and well-built. Others found that it had a long-lasting battery. However, one customer did note that they felt this impact wrench’s fan was too loud when charging.

What To Know Before Buying Cordless Impact Wrenches

Cordless impact wrenches are extremely useful tools for construction, mechanical, or landscaping projects, but finding the best option for you will depend on several factors. You should consider the wrench’s battery, ergonomics, power level, and size before purchasing.

Battery

The battery level of cordless impact wrenches is measured in voltage, while the battery size is measured in Ah. Typical power levels include 12 volts and 18 volts for small- and medium-sized tools and 20 volts and 24 volts for larger impact wrenches. Tools with a higher Ah will typically run for a longer charge. Ah levels can range anywhere from 1.5 to 6 depending on the make and model. 

Ergonomics 

Impact wrenches can be challenging to use and maneuver if you’re not used to them. However, most modern tools have features that make them easier to operate. Look for cordless wrenches with a comfortable handle to ensure the tool won’t cause hand or wrist pain. Additionally, many cordless impact wrenches come with ring lights and vibration control to reduce common pain points. Models with a lightweight design will usually be easier to handle than heavier models. 

Power Level and Speed

The higher the power level, the more efficiently you can get through the job. Powerful tools can run at a higher price point, so it’s important to know what job you’ll be performing and if you need maximum torque and RPM. 

The power level of a cordless impact wrench is determined by its torque, which high-level models are capable of upwards of 3,000 pounds, and compact models sometimes offer as low as 100 pounds. The speed is measured by IPM (impacts per minute) and RPM, which indicates how quickly it can drive nuts and bolts. 

Size

Most cordless impact wrenches are 1/2-inch drive models that accept 1/2-inch sockets, but smaller (usually 3/8-inches) and larger (1/4-inches) models are also available. Cordless impact wrenches are typically full compact or subcompact, with most models being full compact unless labeled otherwise. Full-sized models have longer tool heads that can produce higher torque. However, a sub-compact model may be better for fitting into tight spaces. Sub-compact wrenches will typically be lighter and more maneuverable than full-compact tools. 

Common Uses for Impact Wrenches

Many associate impact wrenches with professional construction or automotive projects, but they can also be extremely useful to have for less-intensive household jobs. Here are some ways you can utilize a battery-powered impact wrench to help you get things done around your home:

  • Assembling furniture
  • Changing tires
  • Checking brakes
  • Crafting metal when welding
  • Installing cabinets
  • Installing shock absorbers
  • Mounting TVs
  • Putting together a swing set
  • Replacing bike pedals or handlebars
  • Securing rail components on a deck
  • Swapping lawn mower blades
  • Tightening and loosening bolts

FAQ About Cordless Impact Wrenches

What’s the difference between an impact wrench and an impact driver?

Impact wrenches can deliver more torque than an impact driver, making them more suitable for use on heavy-duty projects such as removing lug nuts or large bolts. Additionally, impact wrenches usually have larger chucks ranging up to 1 inch, while impact drivers typically have 1/4-inch chucks.

What are the advantages of a cordless wrench vs. an air-powered wrench?

Cordless impact wrenches provide more maneuverability and convenience than corded wrenches or wrenches that run on compressed air. Air-powered (also called pneumatic) models may be less expensive, but they require an air compressor setup to work properly. 

How do you maintain a cordless impact wrench?

Cordless impact wrenches need routine maintenance to ensure they continue to work properly. Cleaning the tool regularly, lubricating it after each use, and properly charging and storing the battery are some basic steps you can take to keep your wrench working properly and extend its shelf life. 

What safety precautions are needed when using an impact wrench?

You should wear proper safety equipment, such as hearing protection and safety glasses, when using an impact wrench. You should also keep the work area free from hazards and ensure the area is well-lit before operating the device. Never use an impact driver if intoxicated, overly tired, or on medications. 

Who This Cordless Impact Wrench Guide Is For

Cordless impact wrenches are highly useful for any homeowner or professional looking for an efficient tool that can perform various heavy-duty professional jobs and make it more efficient to complete at-home DIY projects. We examined cordless impact wrenches of various sizes, power and speed levels, and designs to find the best options for you.

How We Selected the Best Cordless Impact Wrenches

To provide our readers with the best recommendations possible, we rely on several key sources of information to help guide our selection process.

Initial Research: Our research process began by generating a list of cordless impact wrenches with a significant number of verified-buyer reviews and an average customer review rating of 4–5 stars. We looked at positive and negative reviews alike, focusing on information from both satisfied and critical buyers. 

Expert Insights: Through our years of experience, we’ve learned that listening to what others have to say is key to building accurate, well-rounded articles. To complement our in-house expertise, our team looked at reviews and videos from trusted publications and independent testers, spoke with subject matter experts, and drew insights from reader contributions.

Final Product Selection: We then began fine-tuning our list by replacing older models with the latest versions and eliminating any discontinued models. From there, we pared the list down further by comparing each model’s feature set and selecting the best-in-class options for various buyers, budgets, and scenarios.

Why You Can Trust Us

This Old House has empowered homeowners and DIY-ers for more than four decades with top-notch home improvement advice in the form of television programs, print media, and digital content. 

Our team focuses on creating in-depth product and service review content. To date, we’ve published over 1,600 reviews on products in the home space, from doorbell cameras and backyard fencing to pool vacuums and snow blowers.

Once we conclude our research, we craft a comprehensive, user-friendly article of recommended products and additional information to help our readers make the right purchase.

Questions or Comments?

To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviews@thisoldhousereviews.com.



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Refreshing My Home for “Almost Spring”: Early Spring Decorating

This Post May Contain Affiliate Links. Please Read Our Disclosure Policy here

Refreshing My Home for "Almost Spring": Early Spring Decorating
Sources: Blue Range Stove (mine is the 30 inch in Blue Gray / Grey) // Marble Tray // Footed Resin Marble Looking Tray // Floral Hot Water Kettle (more pattern options) // Similar Blue Plate on Wall // Gold Picture Frame // Heron Art Print
Refreshing My Home for "Almost Spring": Early Spring Decorating

I am so glad February is finally here! Not only is this the month our first grandson will make his appearance, but it feels even more like spring is finally near. Of course the weather doesn’t always cooperate in February but still, I am full of anticipation for sunshine and flowers! After adding my tulips to the living room, I was inspired to get in the spring mood around the house with some early spring decorating! Yes it’s 6 weeks away but we’re half way there 🙂 so this past week I started some early spring refreshing and cleaning. I’ll have more to show you next week but here are a few things I’ve done so far!

Refreshing My Home for "Almost Spring": Early Spring Decorating
Sources: Round Wood Board (under crock) // Crock was a vintage find but here is another similar one I have

A vintage crock makes a charming vase for spring flowers. I was able to stop in a Trader Joe’s on the way back from some errands the other day and grabbed a big bouquet! My original plan was to divide them into smaller bouquets but I set them in this vintage crock temporarily when I returned home. Once I saw them here I loved them so much I decided to leave them! It is an instant joy bringer.

Refreshing My Home for "Almost Spring": Early Spring Decorating
Kettle Source + Acrylic Marble Looking Footed Tray Source

This darling teapot has been a perfect “not-quite-but-almost-spring” pick me up! A spot of tea has been one of our afternoon rituals on many dark days this winter so we were delighted to be gifted this new Laura Ashley teapot. It couldn’t be more adorable and definitely has me romanticizing the idea of a cuppa tea in the English Countryside (while thoroughly enjoying it here on our island in the PNW).

Refreshing My Home for "Almost Spring": Early Spring Decorating

The kettle comes in a few pattern options (all so lovely!)…you can see them all here. There’s an electric kettle version too. The toaster is also dreamy!

Refreshing My Home for "Almost Spring": Early Spring Decorating
Source: Reusable Paper Towels (more patterns and colors available!)

Spring cleaning has been on my mind and I found the neatest towels for the job! This set just arrived over the weekend and I’m already in love. They are a reusable paper towel substitute, but much thicker and much more absorbent than regular paper towels. You can wash them in the washing machine, or in the top rack of a dishwasher.

We slowed down using paper towels (other than for the really messy jobs) years ago, but our wash loads increased with all the dish towels we went through. I think these are perfect, sooo cute and just the right size to fit in your hand and to tackle most jobs. Plus they don’t take up much room in the drawer at all! These are already a real hit at our house. I definitely recommend them!

You can see all the cute pattern options here.

Refreshing My Home for "Almost Spring": Early Spring Decorating
Sources: Patchwork Quilt // Buffalo Check Curtains in Chambray Color (more options available) // Striped Chair // Brass Battery Operated Window Candle (other finish options)

I noticed we were getting a little lazy with our bedroom tidying this winter, so it was time for a almost-spring refresh. I don’t know about you but I find it hard to feel inspired in winter! The past few years I’ve challenged myself to work on my bedroom in January and that has helped. Our room wasn’t horrible but I noticed there were just too many random things sitting around.

We’ve been talking about simplifying in HomeBody Gathering Place and last week the topic was simplifying to create a bedroom sanctuary. I finally decided it was time to get out of my winter slump and pick things up in here! I started by cleaning up this corner. It only took a few minutes to put stuff away, tidy and finish it up, but now makes me happy!

Now that we have our hardwood floors upstairs, a few weeks ago I brought in a rug we already had. Partly to make it cozy but also because our pup Jack is getting older now and needs some traction on the hardwoods. Then I fell in love with this quilt I saw and decided to treat myself to it as a birthday gift last month :).

Refreshing My Home for "Almost Spring": Early Spring Decorating
Patchwork Quilt Source

Dreams come true! My dream as long as I can remember was to have a big stack of colorful quilts folded up on a shelf, so one by one I’m going to make that dream come true in this house! Quilts just feel so homey and comforting and the colors and patterns add so much charm to a room.

Refreshing My Home for "Almost Spring": Early Spring Decorating

This week in HomeBody Gathering Place I taught our weekly lesson on simplifying our closet, so I’m doing a mini-refresh in mine, too (along with others in the community who are doing the same!). A couple of our mottos are “baby steps” and “progress over perfection! Speaking of dreams coming true, I began The Inspired Room 17 years ago in January 2007 (!) with a dream to help others turn their home into a sanctuary. It has been a rewarding journey ever since! And it’s been especially amazing over the past year to create the HGP community. I’m grateful to have the opportunity to teach the principles and ideas that have inspired me for so long, as well as continuing to share here on TIR and through my books.

By the way, HomeBody Gathering Place will open to new members again in a few weeks for our spring sessions on style. I can’t wait for that one! I’d love to have you join us. You can learn all about it at homebodygatheringplace.com

Refreshing My Home for "Almost Spring": Early Spring Decorating
Pink Battery Operated Taper Candle (comes in a set of 3, linked several colors!)

Soon it will be Valentine’s Day! Flameless candles are my favorite way to add a little romantic touch to our home all year round. A few months ago I discovered these wonderful flameless candles when I was trying to find flameless colored tapers! I took a chance on this brand I hadn’t heard of and bought the blue tapers to give them a try. We enjoyed them so much all winter (see more photos of them in our home here). Now I have other colors including shades of green and shades of pink which I think will be so fun and pretty for spring. They come in sets of three shades and a remote! They are so pretty we leave them on all evening. There’s also a cream/shades of orange set here.

Source: Green Battery Operated Taper Candle (linked other colors too)

Refreshing My Home for "Almost Spring": Early Spring Decorating
Refreshing My Home for "Almost Spring": Early Spring Decorating

A Few Recent Posts:

7 Home Organizing Tips + Organizers That Changed Our Lives

Valentine’s Day Decor and Gifts

How I Create a Winter Sanctuary at Home

Let’s Talk About Trends: Butter Yellow Trend

5 Charming Kitchen Sinks

Bathroom Decorating Ideas and 100+ Decor Finds

7 Updates to Our Vintage Mint Green and Pink Bathroom (and redefining home goals!)

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Refreshing My Home for "Almost Spring": Early Spring Decorating

Looking for something in my home? Check out my shop for my decor sources, similar items and more latest finds!



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Louis Vuitton Spell On You Fragrance Review

[unpaid/sample] You know when you experience a fragrance and it just speaks to you right there and then? This is the kind of perfume I could wear for the rest of my life and that really doesn’t happen very often. Louis Vuitton Spell On You reminded me so much of a fragrance my mum used to wear – her dinner party or going out fragrance – and realised that the notes from that continue to inform my own perfume choices.

Louis Vuitton Spell On You Fragrance Review

The first note that hit me when I tested a sampler of the fragrance (the bottle was sent for photography, courier waiting outside …. the pressure!) was honey, and I really don’t like honey other than in very, very small quantities. But, because of all it’s wrapped around in this blend, I was more, ‘mmm, how delicious – a honey note’. Master Perfumer Jacques Cavallier Belletrud (who believes fruity fragrance popularity is declining) is at the helm with Spell On You with a mind to create something mischievous and romantic and uses the floral headiness of Sambac jasmine and rose to achieve the optimism of romance part perfectly. The honey note comes from the acacia flower with a side order of powdery iris and a pinch of musk. I think you could say that the mischievous aspect is more about sensuality – this is a fragrance that settles onto the skin so deliciously and seamlessly that I feel confident that those around you will move in a little closer.

Louis Vuitton Spell On You Fragrance Review

Valentine’s day is the obvious hook for Louis Vuitton Spell On You but looking further ahead, this blend is like carrying a summer night bloom bouquet with you all of the time. Spell On You has a push-pull energy between softness and headiness – it smells of good times, of sensual languidity, of intimate evenings and skin that’s been held. It leaves the lightest of trails on your clothes so folding away sends the memories back to you – really, this is a giver.  It’s a luxury brand, so expect a luxury price – £255 HERE – and if the mood strikes you, you could buy Spell On You its own travel case, £460.

 

Transparency Disclosure

All products are sent to me as samples from brands and agencies unless otherwise stated. Affiliate links may be used. Posts are not affiliate driven.



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Dan Azeez faces off with Joshua Buatsi ahead of light-heavyweight collision: ‘I want to prove myself’ | Boxing News

Dan Azeez and Joshua Buatsi have faced off ahead of their light-heavyweight collision this Saturday at the OVO Arena Wembley, live on Sky Sports.

Azeez has risen through British boxing’s small-hall circuit to win national and continental championships.

But now he will take on an old friend and former sparring partner in Buatsi to win the right to challenge for a world title.

“Just standing here outside the OVO Arena is just bringing memories of when I won the British title. We are literally days away and I can’t wait,” Azeez told Sky Sports News.

“These are the kinds of nights I dreamt about. I didn’t turn pro thinking I want to make loads of money. I wanted to write a legacy. I want to achieve something. I wanted to prove to myself.”

Croydon’s Buatsi is a former British champion himself. Azeez may be an unbeaten professional like Buatsi, but this fight is still a step up for the Lewisham man.

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Buatsi knows an undisputed fight between Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol could create a world title opportunity so he cannot slip up against Azeez

Buatsi is an Olympic bronze medallist and the No 1-ranked contender in the WBA’s light-heavyweight rankings. Their contest will be an eliminator for that world title.

Azeez wants to triumph against the odds. “I’ve just got to be myself, but I just know there’s just a drive in me and it shows up on fight night,” he said.

“I think that’s what’s got me to where I am. That just needs to keep shining and prevailing on fight night and that’s what’s going to keep me going.”

He continued: “Watching me in the small halls, you wouldn’t have envisioned me at the top tier of the ladder.

“Both me and Josh, we’re both ranked top in every single governing body. Tell me this five or six years ago, I would never think it. But I’m here now.”

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Ahead of his blockbuster clash against Buatsi, Azeez finds his rhythm by taking on a new challenge outside of the ring

The two might have a shared past as sparring partners, but that has all now been set aside. In fact their rivalry has only intensified after the fight had to be postponed from its original date last October, when Azeez had to pull out with an injury to his back.

“It doesn’t matter whether I know him or not,” Buatsi warned. “The weeks and weeks away are for moments like this. The emotions you get now, nothing can replicate it.

“These are the nights where I get the emotions, when I’m someone else. I can’t replicate it, this kind of feeling. So, to be able to experience this in its natural form is amazing.

“We’re here. I’m happy to be here and I’m looking forward to the fight. Saturday couldn’t come any quicker.”

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You can now start receiving messages and alerts for the latest breaking sports news, analysis, in-depth features and videos from our dedicated WhatsApp channel!

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How To Make Lined Pinch-Pleat Curtains, Part 1

I’m so close to having the first of the two curtains panels finished for the back entry of the studio. The first one is taking me a bit longer simply because it has been so long since I’ve made lined pinch-pleated curtains, so I’m having to remember the process along the way. I thought I could perhaps refer back to my own tutorial, but I realized that I don’t actually have a tutorial on how to make a simple, no-frills, no-trim, single-width lined curtain panel.

So I thought I’d take this opportunity to take photos of each step so that I can provide a step-by-step tutorial on how to make a single-width, lined, pinch-pleated curtain panel. So here we go!

First, I install my curtain rod and rings. I used to do this after the curtain panels were made and ready to be hung, but I’ve found that it’s so much easier to install the rod first, and then make the curtains to fit the height of the installed curtain rod.

I also go ahead and add the rings, but I remove the clips first. No properly made curtain panels should ever be hung using clips.

Once those the rings are added, I can measure for the finished height of my curtain panels. I measure from the floor to right at the top of the little hook ring, which gave me a measurement of 88 7/8 inches. Then I subtract about 1/4 inch to get my finished length for my curtain panels.

Next, I cut my fabric. For each panel, I allow about three yards of fabric. The first step is to square up the bottom edge of the fabric. I do this by folding the fabric in half lengthwise, and then using a framing square (you can tell I’m a builder at heart 😀 ) to square up the bottom edge of the fabric.

Once the bottom is square, I generally cut off the selvage on both sides of the fabric. For these curtains, I’m using Spoonflower fabric, which is printed with this large white space on both side edges.

So instead of cutting off just the selvage, I cut off all of the white area right up to the printed design. I repeated that on the other side edge of the fabric.

Once the fabric was all trimmed, I measured the (new) width of the fabric and wrote down that number. My fabric was 53 7/8 inches wide after being trimmed.

With the fabric all trimmed and squared on the bottom, I was ready to pin in the hem. I did this by turning the fabric up four inches and pinning it into place along the bottom fold.

Here’s a look at it once it was folded and pinned all the way across.

And then I folded it up again another four inches, pinned it into place along the top fold of the hem, and then ironed the folds into place.

In order to sew the hem, I used a blind hem stitch on my sewing machine. First, I folded the four-inch hem back against the face of the fabric so that only the top edge of the folded hem was exposed on the right side, and the back of the fabric was showing on the left. And then I placed that under the foot of the machine.

Here is what a blind hem stitch looks like. Most machines have this stitch. Even my $120 Kenmore sewing machine that I started off with 20 years ago had this stitch.

It will sew about four or five stitches on the right, along the top fold of the hem, and then every fifth or sixth stitch, it will reach over to the left and grab just the tiniest bit of that fabric on the left.

Here’s a closeup of what that stitch looks like with the hem still folded back against the front of the fabric.

And then when the hem is unfolded, it looks like this…

And when the fabric is turned over with the right side of the fabric facing up, you can’t even see those stitches, hence the name “blind hem stitch.”

Here’s an even closer look. Can you see the stitches? In person, if you’re really looking for them, you can see them. But no casual viewer of these curtains is ever going to notice those stitches.

Putting that fabric aside for a while, I was ready to prepare the lining for the curtain panel. Just as I did with the fabric panel, I started by squaring up the bottom edge, and then pinning a double three-inch fold along the bottom edge. I always do a double four-inch fold for my face fabric hem, and a double three-inch fold for the lining hem.

Once that pinned in and ironed, I sewed that hem into place with a standard top stitch. You can do a blind hem stitch on the lining as well, but I never have. I don’t see the point in it, and since I’m making these for me, I’m fine with a topstitch. If I were working in a professional drapery workroom and making them for a paying customer, I might choose otherwise.

One of the reasons I don’t bother is because I always use blackout lining, and there’s just really no hiding stitches on blackout lining. I love the blackout feature, but I hate that it shows every single stitch, and even every single place where pins are added. And wrinkles are just about impossible to remove from blackout lining. So a topstitch is fine for me.

And the last thing to do to prepare the lining is to cut it to the proper width. I had already measured the cut width of my face fabric, which was 53 7/8 inches. To figure the cut width that I needed for my lining, I just subtracted 4 inches from that number. So I measured and cut my lining to 48 7/8 inches wide. Since blackout lining doesn’t have a selvage, I only needed to make one cut along one side edge to get the proper width. If I were using a thinner fabric lining with selvages, I would have cut both side edges.

Now that I had the face fabric and the lining prepped, I was ready to join them together. I did this by placing the face fabric, right side up, on my work table.

And then I placed the lining, right side down, on top of the fabric. Measuring from the bottom edge of the hemmed fabric, I measured up 2 1/2 inches for the placement of the bottom edge of the hemmed lining, and began pinning the lining and fabric together along the side edge.

So again, the right (face) side of the fabric and the right (face) side of the lining are facing each other, and the bottom hemmed edge of the face fabric extends 2 1/2 inches below the bottom hemmed edge of the lining.

And I pinned those together all the way up the side of the fabric.

Next, I pinned the other side together. Since the lining was cut four inches narrower than the face fabric, it initially looked like this with the pieces lying flat on each other.

So I had to pull the lining over so that the edge of the lining met the edge of the face fabric. I made sure that the bottom hemmed edge of the lining was 2 1/2 inches up from the bottom hemmed edge of the face fabric, pinned that into place, and then worked my way up the side edge, pinning the to pieces together all the way up.

Next, I sewed the pieces together along both side edges, sewing my straight stitch one inch from the edge. That’s a lot wider than a standard 5/8 inch that’s generally used when sewing most items (like clothing or pillows), but you’ll see why later. I repeated that on the other side.

Just a note: When sewing the lining and face fabric together, I sew both sides going in the same direction. In other words, if I start sewing at the hems and work my way to the top of the drapery panel on one side, I make sure to start at the hem and work my way to the top on the other side as well. That’s just a good practice and will save you a headache if you ever happen to be working with a fabric that shifts or crawls a little as it’s sewn. If it’s going to crawl, at least both sides will be crawling in the same direction.

With the sides sewn together, I always steam iron those stitches into place to smooth out the stitches as perfectly as possible.

Then I separate the lining and face fabric, and steam iron the seam so that the face fabric is folded back on itself, and the lining is straight (i.e., not folded).

And finally, I turn the panel right side out, and steam iron that seam once again from this side. Again, I make sure I’m ironing it so that the fabric is folded against itself, and the lining is straight.

With everything ironed flat, I’m ready to place the curtain panel back on my work table and get it all straightened out and flattened. I start at the bottom hemmed edges, and pin the two layers together all the way across.

And then flatten and smooth the layers until they look like this, with one inch of the face fabric showing along the back of each side edge.

Once everything is completely smooth and flat, I give those edges a good steam iron one more time to make sure those folds in the face fabric are securely in place, and I have a clean, sharp ironed-in crease along the edge of the drapery panel.

And that’s as far as I’ll get for today. Tomorrow, I’ll show you how to finish the panel with the pleated header at the top, and all of the finishing hand stitching that I do for a really clean, finished look. So stay tuned for that!



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4 Midsummer Favorites From a Plant Breeder’s Garden

Although it would be nearly impossible for any plant lover to choose just one favorite, here are a few of the standouts that look especially good in my Zone 6 Michigan garden at the peak of the growing season.

 

1. ‘Conca d’Or’ Orienpet Lily

Conca d’Or Orienpet Lily

(Lilium ‘Conca d’Or’)

Zones: 5–8

Size: 4 to 7 feet tall and 1 to 2 feet wide

Conditions: Full sun to partial shade; moist, fertile, well-drained soil

Native range: Hybrid

This fragrant beauty may produce up to a dozen flowers on each strong, upright stem. In windy areas, it may need staking. It is very hardy and reliable, with cheerful blooms that glow against a column of deep green foliage over a long period in midsummer.

 

2. ‘Green Arrow’ Alaskan Weeping Cedar

Green Arrow Alaskan Weeping Cedar

(Xanthocyparis nootkatensis ‘Green Arrow’)

Zones: 4–7

Size: 18 to 30 feet tall and 2 to 5 feet wide

Conditions: Full sun to partial shade; moist to average, well-drained soil

Native range: Coastal regions of northwestern North America

‘Green Arrow’ Alaskan weeping cedar has a distinctly linear, upright form and reliable, grass-green winter color—characteristics that set it apart from ‘Pendula’ Alaskan weeping cedar. Although impressive when planted as a single specimen, it is even more spectacular in groups.

 

3. Eucalyptus Wild Indigo

Eucalyptus Wild Indigo

(Baptisia perfoliata)

Zones: 4–9

Size: 3 feet tall and wide

Conditions: Full sun; moist to dry, well-drained soil

Native range: Southeastern United States

This unique-looking species of wild indigo has rounded leaves punctured by wiry stems. Its small yellow flowers appear at leaf axils starting in mid to late summer and continue for several weeks. The distinctive texture of eucalyptus wild indigo combines beautifully with other perennials.

 

4. ‘Galaxy Blue’ Agapanthus

Galaxy Blue Agapanthus

(Agapanthus ‘Galaxy Blue’)

Zones: 6–10

Size: 36 to 40 inches tall and 28 to 30 inches wide

Conditions: Full sun; moist to average, well-drained soil

Native range: Hybrid of species from southern Africa

I have been hybridizing agapanthus for 10 years, and this one is a standout. It is extremely floriferous, bringing a hard-to-find shade of blue to the garden from midsummer through early autumn. Reliably hardy to Zone 6, ‘Galaxy Blue’ does particularly well in regions with consistently heavy snowfall.


Hans Hansen is the director of new plant development at Walters Gardens in Zeeland, Michigan.

Photos: Carol Collins



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LG Refrigerator Review (2024 Top Picks)

Affiliate Disclosure:This Old House’s Reviews Team is committed to delivering honest, objective, and independent reviews on home products and services. To support this business model, This Old House may be compensated if you purchase through links on our website.

In This Review: Top 5 LG Refrigerators  | LG Counter-Depth MAX™ French Door Refrigerator  | LG Side-By-Side Door-in-Door® Refrigerator | LG Bottom Freezer Refrigerator | LG Top Freezer Refrigerator | LG 11 cu. ft. Bottom Freezer Refrigerator | Buying Guide | How to Organize Your LG Refrigerator | FAQ | Who This Guide Is For | Methodology | Why Trust Us

When shopping for a new refrigerator, choosing a model from a well-trusted brand is essential. LG is one of the leaders in high-end refrigerators of various sizes, types, and price ranges. From bottom-freezer, to French door, to side-by-side fridges, LG has a wide variety of high-quality refrigerators to choose from. To help you find the best LG refrigerator for your needs, the This Old House Reviews team researched the best LG refrigerators on the market. Here are our top picks.

Top 5 LG Refrigerators

Compare Top LG Refrigerators

Best French Door

Good for: Customers who like the sleek appearance of a French door fridge and want their refrigerator to blend in with their kitchen cabinets.

Read more: LG Refrigerator Review (2024 Top Picks)

Pros and Cons

✔ Has a large storage capacity
✔ Includes an internal water dispenser
✔ Features Door Cooling+, which blasts cool air to all areas of the refrigerator

✘ Some customers found it difficult to store tall items
✘ Capacity may be too much for smaller families or single people

What Customers Are Saying

We found that customers who gave this product a positive review were impressed with its oversized capacity, stylish design, and quiet operation. On the other hand, some who were let down with this product found that the water dispenser did not always work properly, and others felt that the included drawers were not sturdy. 

Best Side-by-Side

Good for: Families who are looking for ample fridge and freezer space and a top-of-the-line ice and water dispenser. 

Pros and Cons

✔ Can make slow-melting craft ice, cubed ice, or crushed ice
✔ Has a large capacity with up to four shelves on the side
✔ Features door-in-door design for frequently used items

✘ May be too large for smaller kitchens
✘ Has narrow shelves

What Customers Are Saying

Our team found that customers who gave this product a positive review liked that it had a stylish, modern design and did not show fingerprints, while several others were impressed with its ice maker. However, there were a few customers who felt this fridge’s doors were difficult to close, while some had issues with the control panel not working correctly. 

Best Bottom-Freezer

Good For: Homeowners who want a large-capacity fridge with the organizational elements that come with a bottom-freezer model. 

Pros and Cons

✔ Makes it easy to organize items in both fridge and freezer
✔ Features five sensors for temperature control and a linear air compressor
✔ Has a smudge-resistant, fingerprint-proof finish

✘ Some customers had issues with the door not closing properly
✘ Does not include an ice dispenser or water filter

What Customers Are Saying

Customers who were pleased with this product liked that it came with several shelves and trays for organizing their food items. Others were impressed with its smudge-resistant finish and its large amount of storage space. On the other hand, we did notice a few customers say that this LG refrigerator was noisier than expected, and others said the compressor went out after minimal use. 

Best Top-Freezer

Good for: Customers looking for a straightforward top-freezer refrigerator that has ample capacity for up to three people.

Pros and Cons

✔ Has a more affordable price than some other LG models 
✔ Features humidity-contained crisper drawers that help extend the shelf life of fruits and veggies
✔ Comes with LG Smart Diagnosis so you can quickly assess issues over the phone

✘ Features less capacity than some other models in this review
✘ Does not keep refrigerated foods at eye level

What Customers Are Saying

We found that customers who gave this product a positive review liked that it was spacious, ran efficiently, and was quiet. However, there were a couple of reviewers who claimed that this fridge was too low to the ground, making it difficult to open. Others had issues with the freezer not working properly. 

Best Compact

Good For: Single people who need minimal fridge capacity and are looking for a high-end, space-saving model.

Pros and Cons

✔ Includes a reversible door hinge
✔ Has a bright recessed LED light that makes it easy to see your items
✔ Comes with a print-proof stainless steel finish

✘ Has a minimal capacity
✘ Does not have an ice cube maker

What Customers Are Saying

Our team noticed that several customers who gave this product a positive review liked that it ran quietly, fit well into small spaces and that it was particularly effective at keeping foods fresh for long periods of time. However, there were a few reviewers who claimed the temperature ran warmer than they expected, and others thought the shelf heights were too narrow. 

Guide for LG Refrigerators

There are several important factors you should consider before deciding on the best refrigerator for you. When shopping, think about things like the type of fridge you want, how much space you have, what design features are important to you, and your budget. Read our guide below for the most important factors to consider when purchasing a new fridge. For more information on the things to know when buying an appliance, check out our major appliance buying guide

Type

There are several types of LG fridges available, including: 

Top-Freezer

Top-freezer refrigerators feature two doors and two handles, with the fridge on the bottom and the freezer on top. These fridge types are the most common type of refrigerator and typically have a lower cost than other types. 

Bottom-Freezer

Bottom-freezer refrigerators have a pull-out drawer below the fridge that opens up to a freezer. They provide ample freezer space and more organization options for frozen foods, and allows the fridge to be at eye level. 

French Door

French door refrigerators are growing in popularity and provide a sleek appearance in modern kitchens. LG French door refrigerators are energy-efficient and feature two doors that open in opposite directions, providing extra storage. The freezer on these models is on the bottom.

Side-by Side

Side-by-side LG refrigerators have two full-length doors that open in opposite directions. These refrigerators provide ample freezer space while keeping your refrigerated items easy to access.

Capacity

The capacity of a refrigerator measures how much food you’ll be able to fit in it. It’s generally recommended to have at least four-to-six cubic feet of space in your fridge for each member of your household. For example, a family of four should have somewhere between 16–24 cubic feet of space to comfortably fit a full grocery order. LG refrigerators come in a variety of sizes, with smaller refrigerator models having anywhere between 10–20 cubic feet and larger models that can reach up to 27 or 28 cubic feet of space. 

Design and Finish

In addition to finding the right type of fridge for your home, you’ll also want to find one that matches your kitchen’s style. LG refrigerators typically come in white, stainless steel, print-proof stainless steel, or black stainless steel. 

Energy Usage

The refrigerators mentioned in this review are all ENERGY STAR-certified, meaning they are at least 15% more efficient than the federal minimum standard for energy efficiency. The more energy-efficient your fridge and freezer are, the more money you’ll save on your electric bill at the end of the month.

How To Organize Your LG Refrigerator 

Even if you have a large-capacity fridge, knowing how to properly store your food items can be a challenge. To help you make the best use of your refrigerator and freezer space, here are some important tips to keep in mind.

  • Organize by temperature: Organizing your kitchen by temperature helps prevent cross-contamination and keeps everything organized so it’s easy to find. Use the upper shelves for leftovers, drinks, and ready-to-eat foods like meats, cheeses, and yogurts. Use the lower shelves for raw ingredients that need to be cooked, like raw meats and eggs.
  • Use clear containers: Using clear resealable containers for leftovers and other items can help make it easier to spot what’s what when you open your fridge. You also may want to consider using labels if you have a lot of containers in the fridge at once. 
  • Properly store produce: LG refrigerators come with crisper drawers that help keep your fruits and veggies fresh for longer. Keep the fruits in one drawer and the veggies in another to prevent them from ripening too quickly. 
  • Use the door for drinks and condiments: Storing drinks and condiments on your door will help reduce clutter and make them easily accessible when you need to quickly grab them. The door is also the warmest part of the fridge, so it’s best to keep less perishable items there. 
  • Organize after you shop: When putting food away after you’ve gone grocery shopping, take time to move the items you just bought to the back and move older items up towards the front of the fridge. This will help reduce waste and ensure you don’t forget about food you already have.

FAQ About LG Refrigerators

How do I tell if my refrigerator compressor is bad?

To tell if there’s an issue with your refrigerator compressor, listen for a slight humming noise, which could be the result of the compressor not working properly. Also, if the compressor turns on and off too frequently or your refrigerated items aren’t cooling properly, it could be because the compressor is not working.

What is the best temperature to set your refrigerator to?

According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), you should aim to keep your fridge at a temperature of at or slightly below 40°F to safely store food. A higher temperature could lead to bacteria and foodborne illnesses. 

How long do LG refrigerators last?

LG makes high-quality refrigerators that should last for years, typically well over a decade. To ensure your refrigerator lasts as long as possible, perform routine maintenance by cleaning the coils and the interior regularly, fixing any issues as soon as they come up, and setting it to the proper temperature. 

How often should I defrost my refrigerator?

If your LG freezer does not have an automatic defrost option, you should manually defrost it when the ice reaches a thickness of around 1/4 inch, which typically occurs around once a year. 

How We Selected the Best LG Refrigerators

To provide our readers with the best recommendations possible, we rely on several key sources of information to help guide our selection process.

Initial Research: Our research process began by generating a list of LG refrigerators with a significant number of verified-buyer reviews and an average customer review rating of 4–5 stars. We looked at positive and negative reviews alike, focusing on information from both satisfied and critical buyers. 

Expert Insights: Through our years of experience, we’ve learned that listening to what others have to say is key to building accurate, well-rounded articles. To complement our in-house expertise, our team looked at reviews and videos from trusted publications and independent testers, spoke with subject matter experts, and drew insights from reader contributions.

Final Product Selection: We then began fine-tuning our list by replacing older models with the latest versions and eliminating any discontinued models. From there, we pared the list down further by comparing each model’s feature set and selecting the best-in-class options for various buyers, budgets, and scenarios.

Why Trust The This Old House Reviews Team

This Old House has empowered homeowners and DIY-ers for more than four decades with top-notch home improvement advice in the form of television programs, print media, and digital content. 

The This Old House Reviews Team focuses on creating in-depth product and service review content. To date, we’ve published over 1,600 reviews on products in the home space, from doorbell cameras and backyard fencing to pool vacuums and snow blowers.

Once we conclude our research, we craft a comprehensive, user-friendly article of recommended products and additional information to help our readers make the right purchase.

Questions or Comments?

To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews team at reviews@thisoldhousereviews.com.



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Valentino Beauty Eye2Cheek 03 Rosa Emozione + Satin Lipstick 100R Roman Grace

Valentino Beauty Eye2Cheek Rosa Emozione and Satin Lip 100R Roman Grace

I have a mini review today featuring two things I bought recently. Valentino Beauty launched a few items in white and gold limited-edition packaging and I picked them up over the past few months. I picked up the Rosso Valentino Satin Lipstick in 100R Roman Grace ($45) and Eye2Cheek Blush + Shadow in 03 Rosa Emozione ($52). Both shades are part of the permanent lineup so if you can’t find the white packaging edition know they are still available in the classic red + gold.

Eye2Cheek Blush

Valentino Beauty Eye2Cheek Rosa Emozione

It’s been a while since I’ve played with Valentino Beauty (review + swatches from several years ago when the line first launched here). Over the holiday I started playing with some of the Eye2Cheek shades in 04 and 08 which many of you really loved. I forgot how silky smooth they are! You can use them on both the eyes and cheeks, but since I have mostly pink and coral shades I’ve been using them as blush.

These have a very fine soft powdery texture. They’re so soft and silky they almost feel creamy to the touch. Finish has a very fine pearl sheen to most of them, but a few have a more noticeable shimmer. Shade 03 Rosa Emozione is a beautiful baby pink with gold shimmer. It can double as a highlighter since it’s shimmery. I think it’s beautiful!

Valentino Beauty Eye2Cheek Rosa Emozione

Valentino Beauty Eye2Cheek Rosa Emozione

Swatch comparisons below to a few other shades including RMS Beauty ReDimension Hydra Powder Blush in French Rose, NARS Powder Blush in Orgasm (a classic for me), a few other Valentino Eye2Cheek shades, Hourglass Ambient Lighting Powder Blush in Sublime Flush and Chanel Illuminating Powder Blush in Fantaise de Chanel (review here, discontinued).

Pink Blush Swatches

Rosso Valentino Satin Lipstick

Rosso Valentino Satin Lipstick in 100R Roman Grace

I bought the Rosso Valentino Satin Lipstick in 100R (shade in permanent packaging here) a few months ago while traveling and it’s the perfect neutral nude mauve pink for me. It has a satin finish so it has a little bit of a sheen to it. I think I tried this in a mini several years ago and I’m not sure why I didn’t wear it more often. I really love it now. The case is refillable for both the red and white packaging.

Rosso Valentino Satin Lipstick in 100R Roman Grace

 

I did a few swatch comparisons below which I will say look a little off but I suspect it’s because my body has completely lost its tan. These rose mauve lips all look so darker on lighter skin tones because of any brown or mauve undertone they may have. On my face/lips they don’t look as dark.

Nude Pink Lipstick Swatches Charlotte Tilbury, Valentino, Gucci, ABH, Chantecaille

Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution in Pillow Talk, Gucci Satin Lipsticks in Blaze of Noon and Bertha Blossom (review here), Anastasia Beverly Hills Lipstick in Rose Dream (on the lips here), Chantecaille Lip Chic in Freesia (review here), YSL Rouge Pur Couture in N5 (swatched here).

Overall really love. I think the Valentino Beauty line is really under-rated and I suspect it’s because of the packaging. So may of you have told me the packaging colors are a bit clashy looking and the plastic has a cheap look and feel. I have to say I agree. The packaging is actually well-constructed and sturdy but there’s something about the plastic in red that makes it kinda unappealing. The white plastic is the same material but somehow looks more elevated. That being said the actual products perform really well.

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I bought mine from Sephora. You can also find Valentino Beauty at Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus and Bloomingdale’s.



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