Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 369)

9 Smart Uses for Dusty Old Books
Easy DIY Projects

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
Workshop

How To: Solder Copper Pipe Fittings

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

How To: Replace Damaged Tile
Flooring

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
Flooring

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
Kitchen Design

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.

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
Curb Appeal

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
Easy DIY Projects

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.

7 Ways You’re Ruining Your Car
Garages

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.

10 Things Your Local Fire Department Wishes You Knew
Home Safety

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
Holidays & Celebrations

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!

8 Colors You Didn’t Know Were Trademarked
Paints & Finishes

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
Interior 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
House Plants

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
House Plants

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.

When, Why, and How to Use Compost Tea in the Garden
Gardening

All You Need to Know About Compost Tea

Brew your way to a hardier, healthier garden using this guide to compost tea.

Houseplant Pests
House Plants

Bug Off: Your Guide to Dealing with Houseplant Pests

Besides the right soil, sufficient sunlight, and neither too much nor too little water, there's one more thing that any thriving houseplant requires—protection from invasive pests.

How to Make Concrete Pumpkins with Quikrete
Furniture & Design

How To: Make Concrete Pumpkins

This Halloween, it's all treats and no tricks! You'll have no need to worry about smashed or rotting pumpkins when you create a jack-o'-lantern from classic candy pails.

Mobile Homes: Then and Now
Exterior

Mobile Homes: Then and Now

From their travel trailer beginnings, mobile homes have evolved into finely tuned—and in some cases rather luxurious—permanent, full-time abodes.