Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 208)

Garden paths serve both a practical and aesthetic purpose in the yard. They provide a safe and easy walkway to and from the house and garden, and give you an opportunity to visually connect your yard and home. Garden paths also help define the spaces in your outdoor landscape, and can bring overall beauty to your property. There are many options to choose from for the material and design of a garden path. From pavers, to stepping-stones, to plain mulch, there’s something for every budget. Depending on the material you choose and the topography of your yard, creating a garden path is a very attainable DIY project, even for a beginner. Whether you are laying bricks or spreading gravel, there are a few general tips that will help make your DIY garden path project more successful. Lay out your path with spray paint or a garden hose before you start any work. Make sure it’s wide enough to accommodate an adult comfortably. Remember to level the area so that your materials lay properly, and so that your garden path is safe for guests and family to walk on. Hard surface materials like brick or pavers will need to slope away from your home 1/4 inch per foot to ensure proper drainage. And don’t forget to put a weed barrier under the base of your path to minimize maintenance in the future. Even if you don’t want to install lighting when you install your garden path, it’s a good idea to lay electrical conduit above the base, so you can add it later if you want to. We’ve rounded up some of the best ideas for attractive and affordable DIY garden paths. Your inspiration is just a click away.

How much do you pay for electricity each month? Whatever the answer, you probably wouldn't mind having a lower electric bill. The good news is, there are many simple ways to reduce your energy costs. We've compiled a list of some of our favorites. While a few involve installing a new device to measure your electrical output, many require no special tools whatsoever.

Do you dread laundry day? Even if you love the smell of freshly cleaned clothes, chances are you could be working smarter—or cheaper. So if you need a little extra help in the laundry room, turn to our list of some of the best hacks. From making your own bleach pens on the cheap, to building extra space for storage, to finally getting rid of that musty towel smell, there's surely a take-away for washers of all stripes. Click through to find out more.

It's the worst part of moving and the reason we accept and live with outdated styles: the price tag on new home furnishings. When furniture costs an arm and a leg, there's never a good time to implement a full-room refresh. And when you're living on pennies, you're often left with the options to pick furnishings from a big-box store and assemble on your own or DIY everything—often a time suck. Fortunately, we've sought out the most affordable retailers with style that really gets you more bang for your buck. Click through for our 10 favorites.

In a busy home and even busier life, your bedroom is often the one space you can turn to for a little bit of respite. So why clutter up a would-be zen zone with items that disrupt the calm? Ensure you get your full rest and relaxation by simply keeping these 11 items out.

Air plants are some of the easiest plants to grow, but they still have some care needs. Here’s how to take care of Tillandsia and keep them healthy.

How big should the bed be, and how should you arrange the plants? Grow a bountiful garden without a lot of effort or space with these raised garden bed success secrets.

Planning on relocating? This guide covers how to move across the country, from creating a budget to selecting cross-country movers and making travel arrangements.

Get ready: This year's hurricane season is forecast to be a strong one, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Here, we look back on the most catastrophic storms that have left an unforgettable mark on the nation’s history.

A standby generator might be a great idea for your home, but consider these need-to-know facts about installing one first.

When it's this hot outside, we need all the shortcuts we can get! See how Ziploc bags, pool noodles, grapes, and Doritos can make your summer easier—and cooler—than ever.

With cabinet table saws, seemingly minor differences can have a major impact on performance and value. Check out the best of the current models.

Get savvy about energy efficiency at home by adding these acronyms to your lexicon. 

Creative dog house ideas let your four-legged friend lounge in style and comfort. These DIY inspirations can spark your imagination for a one-of-a-kind canine escape.

Armed with a few kitchen layout ideas, it’s easier to design a kitchen that’s functional and beautiful.

Here's how to turn a traditional garden plot into an oasis that’s full of your favorite colors and flavors.

Pull out pesky stains with products you already have in the pantry, medicine cabinet, or cleaning closet.

Outdoor spaces offer ample room for creativity. Transform your garden from average to amazing with flower pot ideas that range from practical to surprising.

Hang on to your old pillowcases—there's life in them yet! Here's how to transform them into new, useful items for your home.

Most caterpillars are harmless, but there are a few that require caution. These caterpillars have stings and pokes you’d rather avoid.