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Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 373)

Fireplaces & Chimneys

12 Beautiful DIY Fireplace Ideas

Give that outdated or blah fireplace a makeover with one of these creative DIY fireplace decorating ideas.

Hand Tools

The Best Magnifying Glasses for Reading Fine Print and More

For reading, doing handiwork, and exploring nature, the best magnifying glass will help you see details clearly. 

Siding

5 Things to Know Before You Invest in New Siding

Siding can make or break the appearance of a home. But remember, beauty is more than skin deep: If a siding replacement project looms in your future, make sure you choose a material that will offer durability, ease of maintenance, and insulation as well as looks.

Siding

How To: Remove Vinyl Siding

Does your façade need a facelift? Skip the pricey pro and take off old vinyl siding yourself with the right tools and these smart steps.

Appliances

So, You Want to… Install a Water Softener

If you're fed up with limescale on your fixtures and dishes coated with white spots, it may be time to invest in a water softener. Get the cold, hard facts about hard water and what you can do to correct it.

Cleaning Supplies

The Best Brass Cleaners for Wiping Away Tarnish

Cleaning brass doesn’t have to be a chore if you pick the right product. This comprehensive guide will help you choose the best brass cleaner for every task.

Easy DIY Projects

DIY Kids: Turn a Bookcase into a Dollhouse

Building a dream house for your kids' dolls doesn't have to cost a pretty penny—or require any previous construction experience. Start with a spare bookcase, and you can craft a mini mansion in just a morning!

Tools

How To: Sharpen an Axe

If you have an axe to grind with your wood chopping tool's dull blade, then follow this step-by-step tutorial to get it back in business.

Cleaning

How To: Remove Permanent Marker

Wait! No need to discard a coffee table stained by permanent marker or despair over a wall covered in doodles just yet. These accidents can be reversed—and here's how.

Skills & Techniques

How to Jump-Start a Car Without Another Car

This is one instance you don’t want to channel Angus “Mac” MacGyver.

Cleaning

3 Fixes for Red Wine Stains

Don’t let a red wine spill spoil your party. Quickly remedy the accident with one of these three easy solutions, and follow with a toast to stain-free carpeting and upholstery!

Furniture & Design

How To: Strip Furniture

Don't kick a good piece of wood furniture to the curb just because its finish no longer suits the latest craze. Learn how to strip off that outdated look and reveal a blank canvas that's ready to be remade.

Curb Appeal

How To: Paint Your Front Door

A can of fresh paint is all it takes to boost home's curb appeal and brighten your mood upon pulling into the driveway. Cleaning up that lackluster paint on your front door is a simple and satisfying job, so why not make a day of it? Follow this step-by-step for an easy home update.

Cleaning & Organizing

How To: Polish Silver

With these simple, totally DIY-friendly tips, you can keep your silver clean, shiny, and tarnish-free with a minimum of elbow grease.

Driveways & Walkways

How To: Make a Concrete Walkway

A concrete path offers an inexpensive, easy-DIY alternative to pricier, more challenging walkway materials like brick and natural stone.

Plumbing

How To: Choose a Well Pump

If your family relies on a well for water, it's important to have the right type of pump with enough power to keep the water flowing, even on the busiest mornings. Brush up on a few well pump basics today, so you'll be primed for a smart purchase when the time comes.

Deck, Patio & Porch

How To: Repair Concrete Steps

Over time, as a result of constant foot traffic and the ravages of the elements, outdoor stairs can start to deteriorate. You can reverse damage and keep your stairs looking as good as new with a little maintenance and some innovative, effective products that simplify and speed up concrete repairs.

Gardening

How To: Propagate Succulents

All it takes is one of these pretty plants—and this smart guide—to yield a bounty.

Cleaning & Organizing

How To: Clean a Fan

Follow these routines to ensure your oscillating fan stays spotless and works at maximum efficiency.

Furniture & Design

How To: Age Metal

Give your decorative metals, be they silver, copper, or cast iron, a delightfully distressed makeover with these easy DIY techniques.