Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 366)

9 Smart Uses for Dusty Old Books
DIY

9 Smart Uses for Dusty Old Books

While the thought of destroying a hardcover tome might make some book lovers squirm, there does come a time when an old, musty, or damaged book may have outlived its usefulness. While there's no sense in destroying truly rare and valuable books, for the run-of-the-mill old book, there are many ways to repurpose it. Here are just a handful of ideas.

How To: Solder Copper Pipe Fittings
DIY

How To: Solder Copper Pipe Fittings

Learn how to join copper pipe with a soldered sweat fitting.

How To: Replace Damaged Tile
Interior

How To: Replace Damaged Tile

Without disturbing the surrounding wall or floor installation, you can easily replace one or a few tiles that have chipped, cracked, or broken.

How To: Install a Wood Block Floor
Interior

How To: Install a Wood Block Floor

If you've ever worked with ceramic tile, you would find it easy to install a wood block floor, achieving a look seldom seen in homes today.

Clever Ideas for Removable Backsplashes
Interior

14 Brilliant Ideas for Removable Backsplashes

Saying “goodbye” to your old backsplash won’t be difficult if you install one of these temporary yet timeless wall treatments in your kitchen.

11 Things Your Contractor Won’t Tell You for Free
DIY

11 Things Your Contractor Won’t Tell You for Free

While some home improvement and maintenance projects require professional help, others are easy enough to do yourself. But most homeowners can’t get through a DIY job without some advice and guidance—which, unfortunately, a contractor won’t give you for free. Don't worry; we’ve got you covered. Here are 11 common home improvement questions, with answers that you typically would have to pay for.

21 Home Hacks That Are Just Crazy Enough to Work
DIY

21 Home Hacks That Are Just Crazy Enough to Work

From smartphone movie projectors to toothbrush power sanders, these 21 artful, ambitious, and affordable DIYs can only be called sheer genius! Read on to catch a glimpse of their crafty construction and unleash your own inner inventor!

All You Need to Know About Brick Homes
Exterior

All You Need to Know About Brick Homes

Get the 411 on this sturdy, stately siding to decide if it’s right for your home-to-be or exterior remodel.

19 Cool Projects You Can Do with Leftover Paint
DIY

19 Cool Projects You Can Do with Leftover Paint

A gallon of gas? It won't get you too far. A gallon of milk? If you have a big family, it can be gone in a day. But a gallon of paint? It can go a long way, meaning leftover paint is a common occurrence. If you share our quest to make everything old new again, consider using the leftover paint to renew or revamp your home. Here are 19 cool projects you can do with 128 ounces or less.

11 Weird Ways to Use a Bobby Pin
DIY

11 Weird Ways to Use a Bobby Pin

Bobby pins are the unsung heroes of beauty tools. The tiny clips can hold braids, pin back bangs, and give extra lift to a ponytail, but did you know that they have many practical household uses as well? From keeping food fresh to solving wardrobe woes, here are 11 unusual ways to use a bobby pin around the house.

7 Ways You’re Ruining Your Car
Exterior

7 Ways You’re Ruining Your Car

Preventive maintenance is key to keeping your car working well, but it's important to do it right. Here are 7 common car care mistakes you’re probably making and some tips on correcting them to help your vehicle last longer.

9 Extraordinary Uses for Bubble Wrap
DIY

9 Extraordinary Uses for Bubble Wrap

Bubble wrap is a great material for packing, but it has a lot of other, very practical uses. When you get a box with bubble wrap in it, resist the urge to pop it all for stress relief! Instead, stash it away to use in one of the following genius ways.

10 Things Your Local Fire Department Wishes You Knew
Interior

10 Things Your Local Fire Department Wishes You Knew

When it comes to fire safety, who is more qualified to offer up tips and reminders than firefighters themselves? Stay safe this season (and every season) by adhering to these best practices, provided by fire departments around the country.

How to Make a DIY Christmas Tree Stand
Design

This DIY Christmas Tree Stand Makes Your Fake Fir Look Real (and Taller!)

An exposed tree base is a dead giveaway that your fir is fake. Upgrade yours with a wooden stand that hides its metal legs and even makes your tree appear taller!

13 Weird Ways to Use Dental Floss Around the House
DIY

13 Weird Ways to Use Dental Floss Around the House

In nearly every bathroom, you'll find at least one package of dental floss, whether it’s waxed, unwaxed, monofilament, or multistranded. Believe it or not, that little bundle of cord can do much more than clean your teeth—and it’s particularly handy as a stand-in for string, wire, or thread. Here are 13 amazing things you can do with dental floss.

8 Colors You Didn’t Know Were Trademarked
Interior

8 Colors You Didn’t Know Were Trademarked

Thanks to marketing and advertising, consumers often associate colors with a particular brand—think Tiffany Blue or Post-it canary yellow. Some companies trademark their signature hues to ensure that competitors can’t steal their recognizable shades (and their business). Here are 8 bold and beautiful colors that are officially registered to familiar brands.

The 7 Room Layout Mistakes Almost Everyone Makes
Design

The 7 Room Layout Mistakes Almost Everyone Makes

You begin with an empty room, then you fill it with your belongings. Does the end result welcome and delight you, or does something seem not quite right? You may own an enviable house and lovely furnishings, but the whole thing can be undermined by awkward arranging. If your living spaces aren’t all they could be, perhaps you’re committing one of these common furniture faux pas. Read on, and mend your ways!

8 Exotic Houseplants You’ve Never Heard Of
Lawn & Garden

8 Exotic Houseplants You’ve Never Heard Of

Houseplants bring natural vitality to any interior space, and thanks to modern technology, uncommon varieties from around the world are available to anyone willing to flex their green thumb. If you’re looking to add impact to your indoor garden, check out these 8 exceptionally exotic houseplants you’ve probably never heard of.

15 Ideas for Better Kitchen Herb Gardens
Lawn & Garden

15 Tips for Growing Kitchen Herb Gardens

Create better-tasting meals with an always available array of fresh herbs right at your fingertips!

7 Ways Your Home Could Get You Sued
Real Estate

7 Ways Your Home Could Get You Sued

Your home may be a comforting place of refuge, but it could also cause an unexpected—and definitely unwanted—lawsuit. While some unfortunate incidents lie beyond your control, others can easily be prevented if you take proper precautions. Here are 7 ways to ward off home-related legal issues, potentially saving you time and money down the road.