Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 342)

Skills & Techniques

How to Sew by Hand: 7 Key Stitches to Know

Repair garments, customize clothing and decor, and create beautiful hand-sewn projects with these seven useful hand-sewing stitches.

Doors

Are Pocket Doors Right for Your Home?

Popular in the Victorian era, space-saving pocket doors are making a comeback. If you're considering pocket doors for your space, keep these considerations in mind.

Repurposing

Solved! Is it Illegal to Collect Rainwater?

Many states have restrictions on collecting rainwater, while others offer incentives for the practice. Use this state-by-state guide to understand the rules of rainwater harvesting.

Repair & Maintenance

How to Clean a Washing Machine

Every now and then, the appliance responsible for cleaning your lucky socks and favorite sweater needs a little TLC itself. Neutralize odors and maximize efficiency with these easy maintenance musts.

Easy DIY Projects

How to Sew a Hole in 5 Quick Steps

A hole doesn’t have to spell the end of a garment’s life. Learn how to sew a hole to repair clothing and other fabric items.

Bathroom Design

The Best Options for Bathroom Floor Tile

While there are many bathroom floor tile options, knowing the pros and cons for each will help you make the right choice in your home.

Flooring

The Best Place to Buy a Rug for Your Home

Shop for bold, room-transforming rugs or pretty, neutral floor coverings in every shape and size at these top rug retailers.

Interior

The Best Places to Buy a Washer and Dryer

Looking for the best place to buy a washer and dryer? Try one of these retailers the next time you are interested in upgrading this pair of appliances.

Holiday Decorations

The Best Christmas Garlands

From pre-lit, faux-pine garlands to sparkly tinsel strands, the best Christmas garlands will put you in the holiday spirit.

Holiday Decorations

The Best Christmas Stockings

Lighting & Electrical

The Best Online Lighting Stores, Vetted

The best online lighting stores deliver stunning lighting fixtures right to your front door.

Cleaning

It’s Time to Oust These 17 Stressors Lurking in Your Home

Banish stress and restore a sense of calm in your home by making these simple changes to your living space.

Tools

12 Things That Belong In a Beginner Sewing Kit

Make sure you’re prepared with all the tools and supplies you’ll need to complete various sewing projects.

Gardening

What Is Leaf Mold and How to Use It in Your Home Landscape

If your yard is covered up with fallen leaves, here’s an easy way to turn them into a rich soil amendment.

Gardening

How to Grow Your Own Food

Learn something new in the New Year: Bob Vila explains how to create a sustainable food supply at home.

Flooring

Patchwork Renovating: How to Match Discontinued Tiles, Flooring, and Other Building Materials

Styles and designs come and go. If the building materials you’re looking for are discontinued, here’s how to make the best of the situation.

Furniture & Decor

Very Peri: How to Incorporate Pantone’s 2022 Color of the Year Into Your Home’s Decor

Pantone’s color of the year for 2022 is bold and brilliant—the perfect hue for adding a bright pop of color to any room.

Cleaning

10 Cleaning Chores You Should Be Doing Every Month

Feeling overwhelmed by housekeeping? The key to maintaining a neat and tidy house is to set—and keep to—a regular schedule. Taking care of these 10 chores every month will go a long way toward keeping your house under control!

Houseplants

14 Plant Shelf Ideas to Liven Up Any Blank Space in Your Home

These shelves for plants add greenery and design to your home and include both DIY and ready-made options.

Flooring

Thinking About Installing Tongue and Groove Flooring? Here’s What You Need to Know

Find out why this smooth, uniform type of flooring has become more popular than its nailed-in predecessors, and discover our best tips for installing tongue and groove flooring yourself.