Make A Pair Of Charlie Mccarthy Ventriloquist Shoes

Charlie McCarthy always wore black dress shoes

Charlie McCarthy is the "dummy" sidekick of famous ventriloquist Edgar Bergen. Together, their career spanned the vaudeville era and they had a popular radio show from 1937 until it went off the air in 1958. While Bergen wore a variety of outfits in publicity photos and live appearances, Charlie was always clad in formal white tie and tails, including black patent leather lace-up shoes (without spats). You can make your own pair of Charlie McCarthy shoes for the perfect ventriloquist sidekick look.

Instructions

1. Make a pattern. Measure how large the shoes need to be and draw an oval on an old piece of newspaper 1/2 inch larger all around than the foot the shoes need to cover. This is the pattern for the sole of the shoe. Draw a "U" shape 1 1/2 inch thick for doll or dummy feet and two to three inches thick for larger feet. The "U" should be an inch longer than the circumference of the sole oval.

2. Cut and stitch the shoes. Cut out two ovals and two "U"s, one for each shoe out of your shiny satin material. Sew the ends of the "U" piece halfway, and hem the other half by folding over 1/8 inch, folding again and hand sewing as close to the first fold as possible. Stitch the inner curve of the "U" to the outside of the oval, lining up the "U" seam with the center point of one end of the oval. Repeat for the other shoe.

3. Finish the shoes. Use buttonhole stitch to make small, evenly spaced circles for shoelace eyelets. Carefully snip out the center of the stitched circles. Lace the shoes with thin black cord, slip onto the foot and tie in place.

Make A Paint Spray Booth

Make your own paint booth

Have you ever wanted to paint your own car at home, but the elements keep getting in the way. With a trip down to your local hardware store you could be getting perfesional results doing it yourself. The extra benfit if you need one, the whole thing is mobile. Painting your buddys car is a brease.

Instructions

1. So your ready to get that beast painted up?

The start of your paint booth project is to get all of your materials together. Make sure you get a canopy that is large enough to fit your car/truck in side and allows at least 2 feet of space on EACH side. If you don't know how much space that you will need a good point of reference is your owners manuals. If you don't have it check online information about your car is out there.

2. Find a good flat spot to set up your booth. The best place would be away from your house on some concrete. Sometimes this isn't possible so if your stuck with a dirt yard its ok we will take care of that problem.

3. Now if your like most of us out there, then your yard is that of dirt. Dirt can be a bad thing when you start painting. The best way to get around this problem is simply to spray down the area around your booth nice and good the night before you plan on painting. Make sure you let it soak in good, this will compact the ground and keep it from coming up while painting. Just to be on the safe side in the morning give it a LIGHT mist over the dirt, LIGHT MIST!!! You don't want to have a muddy area while painting.

4. Using the instructions that came with your canopy completely set it up and double check everything at least once. You don't want a tarp or pipe coming loose when you start painting.

5. If your canopy DOSE NOT have windows with mesh screens or some other way of allowing filtered air in then some artificial light is going to be made using one of your heat lamps. If it dose have windows then the next step is optional.

6. Now for the heat lamp for some extra light. Most heat lamps found around town will have handles that are used for moving and holding on to the lamp. These will do nice for tying up the lamps. Using the rope or straps take one lamp and find a point of the canopy that has a pipe exposed strap it down. Make sure its on good so it dosen't fall off. The best place is to have it facing the area with the least amount of flat paint able area.

The rest of the lamps will be brought in after you finish painting the car/truck. If you have more then five lamps you can hang another lamp in similar fashion on the opposite side of the lamp hanging.

7. This step is only for those of you that are running air lines from a compressor to a spray gun. If you are using a hand held electric sprayer then just be careful with the cord. Spray cans are fine too.

For your air line to get around the car without having to drag it around picking up dirt you need to suppened it. Using some rope or straps tie a knot around the spray line giving enough slack on the knot that the line will side through pulled. Now there is two ways you can do this you can tie the line to a any "U" shaped object or a clamp similar in shape to a key chain that you have laying around the house (i.e. exhaust hangers work it a charm). Double knot it to the object to insure it dosen't slip off after a couple of tugs. If you are using a exhaust hanger or similar with a threaded end putting a washer and nut on the end is even better! This "U" shape allows you to hand the slack of your line to hang from the pipes holding above and sides back and forth as you need it. When you need to switch sides simply remove and replace. The second way to do this should be done only as a last chance kind of thing. Simply tie the line with the slack as above, instead of using something to hook up and remove, simply tie the rope/strap to the with enough slack in the knot to allow it to be undone when switching sides.

8. After everything is checked again to make sure its good and done right, paint the car/truck using your methods.

9. Once the car/truck is done being painted let the paint fumes out, just to be safe. Bring in the remaining lamps that you have place one at each corner of the car(as far away as you can without touching the tarps) and connect the lines into the surge protector.

Allow the heat and light from the lamp to do there job for a LEAST 2 HOURS before you try to check anything. The heat from the lamps is going to help the curring of the paint(resulting in very hot metal DONT TOUCH THE CAR YET!!!). I recommend that you allow a few hours of heat (like 2.5 to 4 hours) and then the same amount to cool and set before you remove masking and try to drive.

10. There you have it a paint booth at home that you could leave up or store away as you need it for a fraction of the price.

Make A Painting & Sell It

Sell your artwork online or display it in a local gallery.

If you enjoy painting as a hobby, or if you aspire to become an artist, you might consider selling your work. Creating paintings for yourself or family and friends is wonderful, but nothing can compare to the satisfaction an artist receives when someone likes their work enough to purchase it. If you hope to sell your artwork, begin by preparing several paintings. Then, contact local art galleries about displaying your work. If you want to avoid galleries, you can always sell your work online.

Instructions

1. Select a subject for your painting and draw out a sketch on a sheet of drawing paper. Many artists choose subjects like landscapes, animals or people. Sketch out your subject the way you would like it to appear in the painting.

2. Choose and prepare a canvas, board or piece of paper for your painting. If you plan to use acrylic or oil paints, purchase a prepared canvas or coat an untreated canvas with two layers of a canvas medium like gesso. If you are using watercolor, use a piece of watercolor paper and mount it on a flat board, using masking tape.

3. Transfer your sketch to the canvas or paper. Use very light pencil strokes to convey the basic shapes in your sketch. You do not need to use as much detail as in the original sketch.

4. Mix your paint color using a palette and palette knife. When using oil paints it is best to use a flat surface like glass for a palette. Acrylic paints may require a palette than can be sealed or covered because these paints dry much more quickly than oil paints. Watercolor paints can be rewetted after drying.

5. Apply the first layer of paint to your painting. Begin with the lightest colors, filling in large areas of light, shadow and color. When using oil paints, thin your paint with mineral spirits so that the first coat is almost translucent. Allow your paint to dry - for acrylic and watercolors this could take up to several hours but oil paints may require 24 hours to dry.

6. Add detail and depth of color to your painting. Begin filling in the darker colors to create depth and shadows in your painting. Continue to work from light to dark, applying several thin coats of paint one atop the other. When using acrylic or watercolor paints, you may want to let the paint dry between coats, but oil paints can be applied wet to wet or wet to dry.

7. Allow your finished painting to dry completely. This process could take several days for oil paints. Gently test the paint by touching your finger to the bottom corner of the canvas. If it comes away clean and the paint feels cool and hard, it is dry.

8. Determine the means by which you would prefer to sell your painting. Many artists display their work in galleries while others list theirs online. If you live in an urban area, you may be able to find a local gallery willing to display your work for a cut of the selling price. Coffee shops and restaurants may also be willing to display your work along with a selling price and your contact info.

9. Set a price for your painting. View local galleries and research your competition to see what artists with similar credentials and experience are charging. Be sure to include the cost of materials in your price.

10. Display your piece, along with the pricing and your contact information, in the gallery of your choice or list it online. Once your work has been made available, spread the word to family and friends or advertise on your personal website.

Make A Painted Silk Scarf

Your silk scarf designs can be sold online or to boutiques.

Not everyone can quilt or sew, but that doesn't have to stop you from designing and creating your own clothing accessories. Scarves are a popular Christmas gift and necessary accessories in regions with harsh winter weather. Surprisingly, there is no knitting required to create a beautiful scarf. With some silk fabric and other materials from the fabric store, you can create and design a painted silk scarf with the help of some dye, a brush and your imagination.

Instructions

1. Measure the silk for the size that you want your scarf to be. Scarves range in length from 40 inches to 66 inches. For smaller necks and people, opt for the shorter end of the scale. For big and tall, opt for the longer end of the scale. Width ranges from 6 to 8 inches.

2. Turn the edges of the short ends of the silk fabric in 1/8 inch. Iron down the edges. Sew the edges of the silk to create a hem. Clip and remove any excess threads.

3. Draw out your painted scarf design on contact paper. Draw in pencil and then etch your designs using a marker so that it is easier for you to see when you retrace it onto the silk.

4. Stretch out your silk until it is wrinkle-free. Place your sketch underneath the silk. If you don't use contact paper, put plastic wrap or another piece of thin plastic between the fabric and your sketch to protect your paper for reuse. The hot wax will seep through.

5. Secure the silk to a wooden cutting board or a wooden table so that it doesn't slide around when you start working on it. Place a hardback book underneath the contact paper for support.

6. Spray the silk with a 50/50 mix of alcohol and water. Keep the scarf wet while you're working. Spritz more water/alcohol solution on it if it starts to dry.

7. Preheat your wax pen and dip it into the beeswax. Sketch your design with the wax pen onto the silk. Trace your design as if you are drawing it all over again.

8. Remove the silk from on top of the book and the sketch. The contact paper should have lifted off onto the scarf.

9. Secure the silk back to your work area. Apply your dye to the appropriate areas based on how you want to color in your design. Use the paintbrushes to color in your design.

10. Use a wet paper towel and small droplets of water to correct any errors you make while you're painting in your dye.

11. Allow the dye to dry for 24 hours. Repaint any areas that didn't come out as planned once they dry. Allow it to dry for another 24 hours.

12. Place the painted area of the silk on top of evenly stacked paper towels. Place sheets of steam paper on top of the scarf. Turn on an iron to moderate heat and roll the iron over the area for five minutes until you can see that all the wax has been removed.

13. Steam your scarf. Hang it up on a hanger. Attach both corners to the hanger with a clothespin so that there are no wrinkles in the scarf. Run the steamer over the scarf for 20 minutes.

14. Send the scarf to be dry-cleaned and pressed. Once you get it back, let all your friends know that you designed your own silk scarf.

Make A Native American War Bonnet

This craft is great for both little girls and little boys. Kids all over the world have played cowboys and Indians for years. While assisting your child with their Native American War Bonnet you can offer them a history lesson. It makes the learning experience fun while at the same time it allows your child to express their creativity.

Instructions

1. Cut out a piece of white cardboard. You will need the cardboard to be the length of your child's forehead and go slightly higher than their hair. Make the sides and bottom straight, but cut the top in a little arch.

2. Use your hole puncher to punch 2 holes on each side of the cardboard. These are for the string with beads and the ribbon that will go around your child's head so that the bonnet will stay on.

3. Get out your paint and Native Indian symbols. Paint the symbols on your bonnet and then continue to decorate the bonnet with paint the way you would like it.

4. Arrange your feathers on the underside of the cardboard. About 6 is just right. Get some strong tape and tape each feather in place. No one will see the tape because it is in the underside. Hot glue gun's would also work, but regular glue on this step will not be strong enough to hold the feathers in place.

5. Pull a piece of yarn through each of the bottom holes on the sides. Tie a knot at the top end. String your beads on the bottom of the yarn and tie a knot at the end so the beads don't fall off.

6. Pull some ribbon through the hole at the top of one side of the bonnet and tie a knot. Now put the mask up to your child's face and pull the ribbon around the back of your child's head. Pull the ribbon through the whole at the top of the second side and adjust it so that it will stay on your child's forehead. Tie a knot when you get it just right.

Paint A Wreath

Use an acrylic primer when painting a wreath.

A wreath is a decorative ring composed of dried flowers, leaves, fruits or twigs. If you'd like to paint your wreath, you can as long as you properly prepare it for adhesion. Regardless of your wreath's composition, it will shed paint unless it is conditioned in the appropriate manner. Learn generate a lasting finish by adding the right type of bonding base. Apply this base coat and the final finish using strategies that will ensure even coverage and prevent ugly sags, drips and other flaws.

Instructions

1. Wait for a warm day with very light or no wind.

2. Place the wreath on a cement driveway or porch. Rinse the decorative ring using a water hose. Take your time and thoroughly clean every portion of the wreath, or the primer base may not adhere. Let the wreath dry under the sun for three to four hours.

3. Cover portions of the wreath that are to remain unpainted. Spread a canvas drop cloth over the cement surface and place the wreath on top.

4. Spray the wreath with acrylic primer. Holding the spray tip too close may cause runs and sags. Prevent this by maintaining eight inches between the decorative ring and the spray tip. Spray from varying angles to ensure that every part of the wreath is coated with primer. Let the wreath dry for two hours.

5. Spray the wreath with acrylic enamel. Maintain eight inches between the decorative ring and the spray tip. Spray from varying angles to ensure that every part of the wreath is coated with enamel. Let the wreath dry for two hours.

Make A Makeup Bag Cake

Carving and decorating a cake to look like a realistic looking makeup bag is a difficult task. This actually can be accomplished by a novice or intermediate baker -- it doesn't need to be left to the professionals. There are not any special novelty-shaped pans or decorating tools that are mandatory. However, a suggestion would be to to stroll through the candy aisle or cake decorating section of a big-box store (i.e. Wal-Mart, Target, KMart) to look for items for which to decorate your cake.

Instructions

1. First, bake two 8 inch or two 9 inch diameter round cakes. After cooled, cut them in half. You now have four half circle shaped cakes.

2. Spread 1/4 cup of icing on top of one of the cakes and place another cake on top of it. Continue to alternate layers of icing and cake until all four of the cakes are stacked together.

3. Place the cake on a cake board with the cut edge of the cake facing down. This creates the shape of a makeup bag with a flat bottom and curved top.

4. Cover the top and sides of the cake with icing. You can stir in a few drops of food coloring to tint the icing to your desired color.

5. Roll a piece of fondant -- which is commonly used to decorate wedding cakes -- between your hands to form a tube approximately 1/4 inch in diameter and 15 inches long. Repeat this process to create a second tube.

6. Press the fondant tubes onto the cake along the curved edges. This will pipe icing into a decoration for your makeup bag cake. If the fondant does not stick to the cake, you can moisten it slightly with water.

7. Roll another piece of fondant into a 5 inch long tube with a 1/4 inch diameter. Flatten this tube slightly with your fingers and place it in the center of the cake's curved top. This is the zipper for your makeup bag cake.

8. Drag a knife lengthwise along the center of the zipper to score the fondant. Then use the knife to make small marks on either side of the first line. This will give your zipper a realistic appearance.

Make A Magic Scarf

Magic tricks are fun for all ages.

Magic scarves are used in a variety of tricks and illusions. They are made out of very thin lightweight material, usually fine silk or gauzy chiffon, so that they can be compacted tightly and concealed in the magician's sleeve or hand. There is nothing actually "magic" about a magic scarf---the only unique quality of a magic scarf is that it is small and square in order for the magic tricks to work, whereas most "normal" scarves are large and rectangular. It is fairly simple to make your own magic scarf, although some sewing experience is helpful because the silky material can be challenging to work with.

Instructions

Making a magic scarf

1. Lay the fabric out on a flat surface, smoothing any wrinkles. Measure and cut out a square of fabric, making sure that all corners are right angles.

2. Fold over 1/8 inch of one edge of the fabric. Fold it over itself again in the same direction, about 1/8 inch wide. Pin this rolled hem down. Repeat with the other 3 sides of the square.

3. Thread the needle. Stitch the hem (the rolled material) all the way around the edge of the fabric. Remove pins as your stitches reach them.

4. To tie off the thread, stitch the needle down and up through the fabric but do not pull the thread tight. Poke the needle through the loop of thread and pull it tight. Repeat and pull tight. Cut the thread.

Make A Knight'S Sword

Make your own knight's sword from materials you have around the house.

If your child likes to pretend he's living in Camelot, or you need a sword for a Halloween costume or school play, make your own sword without spending too much money. Swords you can buy in stores can be expensive or made out of materials that could hurt small children. A cardboard sword is safer and can look authentic with a few tweaks. Make your child's imagination come to life with a homemade knight's sword.

Instructions

1. Lie one piece of cardboard flat. Draw the sword on it with a pencil. A knight's sword typically has a long handle and a long blade that is even all around. Make the sword the size and shape that you desire. Use the first sword as a template to create a second sword on the other piece of cardboard.

2. Cut the swords out carefully with scissors. You should have two identical swords. If the scissors won't work or the cardboard is too thick, a craft knife or box cutter can be used instead.

3. Flip the first sword over and use duct tape to secure a dowel rod going down the center of the sword. This will give the sword some shape so it won't flop over itself. Tape the second sword on the opposite side of the dowel rod to make the sword more durable.

4. Paint the handle of the sword using acrylic paint, if desired. Alternately, you can wrap the handle with colored duct tape if you prefer, or do both to make sure the sword can withstand some pretend battles.

5. Wrap the entire blade of the sword with aluminum foil, shiny side out. This will make the blade look like real metal. Use clear tape to secure pieces that won't stay. Do a couple of layers of the foil if needed.

Make A Homemade Screen Printing Emulsion

Screen printing, otherwise known as silk screening, is typically used in embroidery, T-shirt, and print shops. A design is drawn, typically using graphic design software, then transferred to a piece of vellum. The vellum is then placed onto a silk screen coated with emulsion and set under lighting to burn the design in. Emulsion is a solution used in many printing and photography labs, and can be made at home.

Instructions

1. Mix 1 tablespoon of Ammonium Dichromate with 2 ounces of water in a bowl. Stir until dissolved.

2. Pour 6 ounces of PVA glue into the solution. Stir vigorously for two minutes or until mixed in throughly.

3. Whisk the solution and add continue adding equal portions of glue and ammonium dichromate until the solution becomes a slate blue color and slightly thickens.

4. Pour the solution into a dark, non-see-through container. Cover the solution and store in a dark area, away from light sources.

Mix Automotive Paint & Reducers

reduce car paints.

Mixing automotive paints with the correct mixture of reducer is very important to achieve a smooth professional finish. Like the majority of other paints, automotive paint must be reduced with an acrylic reducer in order to become thin enough to be sprayed with a paint gun. The mixture of paint or clear coat to reducer is always 4-to-1, for example 4 ounces of paint to 1 ounce of reducer.

Instructions

1. Open up the paint you will be using and mix it for a couple minutes with a paint stir. Pour the paint through a strainer into a mixing cup that has liquid ounce measurements printed on it.

2. Using another liquid ounce mixing cup, measure out one part reducer to four parts paint. Pour the reducer into the paint and thoroughly mix it together using a paint stir.

3. Place the paint strainer into the cup of the spray gun and pour the paint through it. Adjust your spray gun and test spray the paint onto a scrap piece of cardboard to make sure it's the correct consistency.

Hire A Karaoke Dj For A Wedding

Music can make or break a wedding reception. Picking out the DJ that is right for you is key in setting the tone and the mood for your guests to party the night away. By hiring a karaoke DJ you will have both great music and entertainment for all to remember and enjoy. Follow the below steps to hire a karaoke DJ who meets your needs.

Instructions

Hire a Karaoke DJ for a Wedding

1. Sit down with recently married friends and/or co-workers and ask for DJ recommendations. Ask them to give a review of the DJ's cost, performance, personality and ease of working together.

2. Go online and research the DJs suggested by friends or colleagues. Read through reviews, services, prices and specialties. The more information you can find and review, the better. Pick one to three of your favorite DJs and call them, ask if they have karaoke capability. If so, set up a time to sit down and discuss your needs.

3. Discuss price, set-up, technical needs, past experiences and availability. Provide the DJ candidates with electrical outlet information for your reception facility so they know what they will be working with and if it is doable. Give the DJ a list of the songs you would like used for karaoke purposes to ensure the DJ has them and/or can get them.

4. Check with the Better Business Bureau for any information about the DJ's past business dealings.

5. Determine which karaoke DJ you would like to hire for your wedding. Call and schedule the date with the DJ. Put down a deposit for pending services, likely with a credit card or check.

6. Two weeks prior to the wedding, check in with your hired DJ to update any info or karaoke song lists that you believe are crucial to your wedding reception success.

7. During this conversation, ask the DJ what he or she recommends for songs, games or other crowd-pleasing activities. Decide together where to fit those into the reception.

8. With the help of your DJ, create a timeline for when the first dance should begin and when subsequent activities should happen.

9. Designate someone, possibly the father of the groom or the best man, to pay the DJ the balance at some point before or after the reception. A check is the best option as it can be tracked and does not require a credit card machine to complete payment.

Paint Particle Board Furniture

Many homes contain wood furniture made from particleboard. Particleboard is a wood product made from sawdust and glue. Particleboard furniture must be sealed to protect raw wood from moisture. This is important because if particleboard becomes wet, it will swell and warp. When you have particleboard furniture that needs a face-lift, you can paint it successfully, provided you follow the recommended painting procedures.

Instructions

1. Prepare a work area in a well-ventilated location to protect yourself from harmful vapors. Spread the drop cloth on the floor and place the furniture on the drop cloth. Remove any removable parts from the furniture (drawers) and remove any hardware. Set the hardware aside.

2. Apply the primer to all of the outer wood surfaces with the paint roller to ensure that all surfaces are sealed properly. Use smooth strokes rolling with the wood grain to ensure an even application. Apply the primer to any drawers you removed also. Allow the primer to dry fully before proceeding with the next step.

3. Sand all of the surfaces where you applied primer with the sandpaper to make the surfaces rough. Wipe the sanded surfaces with the tack cloth to remove dust.

4. Apply the enamel paint to the sanded surfaces. Use the paint roller to apply the paint carefully, always rolling with the grain of the furniture. Apply the paint in a thin layer, working carefully to make sure there are no drips of excess paint or gaps where you missed areas. Allow the paint to dry completely.

5. Paint a second coat of enamel paint after the first coat dries. After the second coat dries, apply a third coat if desired. Always ensure the paint dries completely before applying the next coat.

6. Reassemble the furniture when the paint has dried completely. Reattach any hardware that you removed.

Paint Like Leonardo Da Vinci

Renaissance man, Leonardo da Vinci has the unique distinction of being the man responsible for two of the most famous and reproduced paintings in history, the Mona Lisa and The Last Supper. Heralded as an innovator in a variety of subjects, ranging from mathematics, to engineering, to architecture, it's da Vinci's work as a painter that continues to make the biggest impression upon history.

Instructions

1. Study under an already-established artist. Da Vinci apprenticed for Florentine painter, Andrea di Cione, known as Verrocchio. At his workshop, where other acclaimed artists such as Botticelli also studied, da Vinci received a full education in the humanities.

2. Get educated on math and science. Since Da Vinci received a broad education in a variety of subjects, he paid close attention to the connection between science and fine arts, in terms of the importance of spatial relationships, anatomy and visual perception in a painting.

3. Choose Christian icons as subjects. Jesus and his disciples, the Virgin Mary, John the Baptist-these were all popular subjects of Da Vinci's paintings, not to mention the premise behind the novel and film, "The Da Vinci Code."

4. Fill your palette with earthy, muted colors to paint with, such as brown, green and blue. Avoid primary colors such as bright red and yellow.

5. Apply a dark, transparent color glaze on top of a neutral gray or brown-base paint. This creates a layered effect, which adds form to the painting and creates a soft focus. Da Vinci's soft-focus technique, referred to as sfumato, meaning "smoke," obscures the edges and details of the painting.

6. Highlight subjects in the foreground with lighter colors, and gradually darken the color scheme as you approach the background. Subjects in da Vinci's paintings often seem to glow with a mystic light, while the objects in the background take on a darker, more ominous, quality.

7. Paint a winding landscape in the background of your subject. Paintings such as Mona Lisa, The Baptism of Christ and Virgin on the Rocks all contain Da Vinci's trademark winding landscape of mountains and streams.

Prepare Auction Items And Donations For A Silent Auction Fundraiser

Group small items together at a silent auction.

Participants in a silent auction write their bids for an item on a sheet of paper. At the end of the auction, the person who wrote the highest bid wins the item. A silent auction is perfect for fundraisers because you can auction many items at the same time, people can bid somewhat anonymously and you don't need an auctioneer. Once you have accumulated enough items for your auction, you need to set up your tables, prepare your bid sheets and assign numbers to your bidders.

Instructions

1. Create an inventory of all the items you have for auction, either in a notebook or on a computer spreadsheet. If some auction items are too small to stand on their own, group them together. For instance, consider combining some beauty products together and calling it a "beauty package," or group some art supplies and paper together and call it a "Kids craft basket." Once you have your items grouped and inventoried, you'll know how many bid sheets you'll need. Plan on one bid sheet for each item.

2. Create a display area for the auction items. You can make your display area as plain or fancy as you like -- a row of skirted tables, a stretch of counter space -- whatever best suits your event. Be sure there is enough room around each item so you can place a bid sheet and pen with it. If the items are placed too close together, they will appear cluttered and people may not bid on them. You can cluster your items in one place or spread them out throughout your event. If you do spread them out, be sure to let attendees know that auction items are located in multiple places so they aren't missed.

3. Determine whether you should assign each bidder a number. You have to know your audience when deciding whether to have people write their names down on the bid sheets when placing a bid, or whether you should assign them numbers to write on the sheets. The point is to choose whichever method encourages more bidding. With some groups, seeing other bidders' names sparks a friendly competition and encourages "bidding wars." With other groups, if people see that another bidder's name, they may be reluctant to bid because they don't want to "steal the item away" from the initial bidder. Be sure to keep a master list of who is assigned which number in case the bidder forgets. Distribute the numbers to the bidders on a slip of paper, or just tell them.

4. Create a bid sheet for each item. The bid sheet should include the name of the item and a brief description, who donated it, the item's value, a starting bid amount, an increment amount and finally, lines for people to write their names or assigned numbers and their bids.

5. Set a minimum bid and increments for each item. Starting bids kick off the auctioning and should reflect a percentage of the item's total value. You want to make the starting bid low enough that it encourages multiple bids, which is the fun of the auction. For something like a gift card that has a definite value, start bids at 50 percent of the gift card's value. For something like a tangible good or service where the value may be a little more subjective, set the minimum bid at 20 percent of the value. Listing incremental bids makes the math of bidding easy for bidders by indicating how much more each progressive bid must be. For example, if the item is a framed picture with a retail value of $100, set the minimum bid at $20 and the increments $10. Your first bid will be $20 and each successive bid will increase by $10.

Make An Old Fashioned Sword For A Forge

Swords were used in various cultures.

Swords have been used as weapons and tools for centuries, and throughout the duration of the popularity of the sword, there were sword makers who profited from the demand of such weapons. Sword makers must first design, chisel and grind swords before they are prepared for the fires of forges. Though there are still professional sword makers today, some hobbyists may desire to make their own swords for forges.

Instructions

1. Determine what type of old-fashioned sword you would like to make. There are many types, some more difficult to make than others. For example, something with a curved blade, such as a scimitar, flamberge or shamshir will be difficult to make, while something with a straight, solid blade, like a dirk or longsword may be easier. Some swords, like sabers, are only slightly curved.

2. Lay out your wedge of steel and with a piece of chalk or a pencil, sketch onto the face of the steel the design of the type of sword you want to make. It make take a few tries until your sketch comes out how you want it. Retrace the sketch with permanent marker so it is not easily wiped off during the process.

3. Drill holes into your steel along the outside of the outline you have sketched. The holes will make it easier for you to cut away the excess steel later. Be careful not to drill too close to the outline.

4. Practice with your angle grinder, cutting off pieces of steel far away from your outline. When your precision improves, move closer to the outline and cut along the sketch with your angle grinder. The holes that you drilled will make it easier to grind away tough angles in your sword. Use long, smooth strokes to grind the areas closest to the outline. When you have removed all excess steel and only the basic shape of your sword remains, stop grinding. Remove any minor excess with a metal file.

5. Draw a line width-wise down the center of your sword; use chalk or pencil for this so that you do not mar your sword. Grind the sword with the bevel, pushing it along the sword slowly, angling it at the edge of the blade and leveling it out towards the center. Move the bevel so that it travels the entire length of the sword with each stroke. Stop beveling when the edge of the blade is one millimeter thick.

6. Sand your blade with a belt sander until it shines. Your sword is ready for a forge.

Price Oil Paintings

Price your oil paintings on par with the market.

While there are no set rules for pricing your artwork, there are some general guidelines to consider. Art appraisers take the artist's history into consideration when assigning value to artwork. Your oil paintings may command a higher price if you've won awards and gained recognition of your experience through group exhibits and one-man shows. Keep in mind as you explore different avenues for pricing your oil paintings, you can raise your prices incrementally over time, but you should never lower your prices. That means pricing your oil paintings conservatively in the beginning.

Instructions

1. Analyze your local art market. Learn about the work of other artists with similar styles and comparable talent. Go to art openings and talk with gallery owners and artists to learn more about what is selling. Set your prices within range of the local market when selling locally.

2. Research web-based galleries. Check the prices of oil paintings that exhibit your level of skill and that are categorized similarly. For instance, if you paint abstracts, compare your work to the paintings of abstract artists. Internet galleries charge the artist a commission ranging between 15 to 30 percent of the sale price. There may also be listing fees associated with web-based galleries. Deduct all fees and the commission from the listed price to reflect the actual price the artist receives for the sale. Use that figure as a mid-range to price your work.

3. Use the total of your costs to determine the price of your oil painting. Designate an hourly wage for yourself. Combine the cost of time working on the painting with the cost of materials and studio expenses. Include rent, utilities and insurance. Add an additional 10 to 15 percent to the subtotal for miscellaneous expenses. Use the total of your costs as a starting point to price your work. Your prices should never fall below your total costs.

Make A Fire Wallet

Opening a fire wallet may produce flames or the cash you need.

The fire wallet is trick wallet that can burst into flames when opened. Magicians use the fire wallet to amaze audiences, usually under the guise of attempting to pay a bill of some sort to a person in the audience. Once the fire is put out, the wallet can be opened to produce the desired cash. Fire wallets can be made at home with just a lighter, aluminum foil and cotton.

Instructions

1. Remove the top off a disposable lighter. Use a pair of pliers to remove the top of the lighter by wiggling the top back and forth slowly. This will become the sparker for the wallet. Place the remaining portion of the lighter to the side to use later. Trim any excess spring from the top so that it can sit flat within the wallet.

2. Cut the interior of the wallet with scissors to seat the sparking head. The wallet used should have two sections, one for pictures and other for cards. By having two sections within the wallet you can create a flaming side and a normal side.

3. Attach the aluminum foil onto the flaming side of the wallet. Use the needle and thread to hold the aluminum in place. Sew carefully and slowly so that the stitches do not damage the foil or will be easily seen by the audience.

4. Attach the cotton to the flaming side of the wallet. Sew the cotton on carefully. This is what will be holding the lighter fluid so make sure that it is on securely.

5. Add lighter fluid to the cotton. Focus more of the fluid towards the end opposite the sparker. This will be the first to catch the sparks and needs to be easily lit for the trick to look right and work on the first try.

6. Press the sparker while opening the wallet. The sparks should catch the lighter fluid and cotton on fire. Keep the flaps close enough so that the fire spreads to both sides of the wallet. Blow out the flames. Reopen the wallet on the normal side and produce a few bills for the audience to see.

Make A Fireworks Display

Whether it is the Fourth of July or Memorial Day, there is always time for a fireworks display. You can learn make your own display and have it ready just in time to celebrate the next big holiday. Children shouldn't attempt this project without close adult supervision.

Instructions

1. Make sure it's legal to set off fireworks in your neighborhood. Some neighborhood associations or cities have bans on fireworks due to extreme drought conditions, proximity to buildings or safety regulations. Violators may have to pay a fine or worse.

2. Choose what fireworks you will want to use for your display. Choose whether you want rockets, fountains, aerials and firecrackers. You can find a wide selection of fireworks to choose from and they have them in most stores. Many roadside stands sell fireworks during the holiday season.

3. Buy about 140 to 300 dollars worth of fireworks to really get the display you want. You must expect that all the fireworks you want will not be as cheap as the next. Rockets can be more expensive than other fireworks.

4. Set up your firework display on your front of back lawn without being near anyone that might get hurt. A wide open area would be best. Put the smaller fireworks such as the fountains in the front and put the rockets in the back.

5. Place your whole fireworks display on ply wood to protect it from burning the grass. It will also keep them sturdy before you launch the whole firework display.

6. Wire all of the fireworks together and make sure the fuse is close to the end of the board and away from any of the fireworks. Light it and stand back to see the display. Be careful.

Prep A Car For A New Paint Job

Save some money in the paining process by doing car prep work yourself.

Preparation of an auto body before painting is critical to a good paint job. It's been said that 90 percent of the work involved in a good paint job is the prep work and only 10 percent of the time is spent actually painting the car. To save money, many people perform the preliminary body and prep work themselves before turning the car over to a professional painter. Learn the basic steps involved in prep work so you can end up with that "perfect" paint job.

Instructions

1. Wash the car and remove all exterior trim and emblems. Ideally, door handles and antennas should be removed as well. Any exterior parts not removed will have to be worked around and taped over during painting. Removal of all items will ensure a better paint job, but is not a critical requirement.

2. Survey the body carefully and perform any rust removal, patching, pulling out of dents or other bodywork that may be needed, such as filling in scratches with filler. You want the body to be smooth and flat.

3. Sand down the car. There are a few thought processes at play here, depending on what your goal is and how extensive your bodywork was. You may just use a scuff pad to scuff up the existing good paint and clear coat that was not disturbed by bodywork. You may also sand down below the good paint to the original primer, or you may even decide to get all the way down to the bare metal using paint removers and extensive sanding. The bottom line is that you want the finish to be in a position to accept a high-build primer applied over a smooth surface. If a car already has a number of coats of paint on it, you probably want to sand down below the paint to the primer. If this is the first paint job, scuffing will only usually suffice. If you are creating a show car and really want to start from scratch, go to bare metal.

4. Spray two to three coats of high-build primer over the entire vehicle after you are satisfied with your sanding, scuffing or removal of paint. Always wear a respirator or paper face mask when spraying the primer, and work in a ventilated area.

5. "Block sand" the entire car once the car is in a high-build primer and it is completely dry. This will unveil any low spots or dings and scratches that may have been missed during your bodywork. Block sanding the car is an important part of the process, and entails using a different color of primer sprayed over the original coat. Doing so will reveal any low spots in the finish as you sand off the second coat. The differently colored primer is called a "guide coat."

6. Wipe the car down with a cleaning solvent or wax and grease remover, then apply a finishing primer. It is critical that the car be wax--silicone--and oil-free at this point.

7. Lightly wet or dry-sand the new primer with 600- to 800-grit sandpaper, always using a sanding block and never with your bare hands. This will give you a nice, smooth surface for a primer sealer. Wipe down the car once more with a solvent or grease remover.

8. Apply a couple of coats of a "primer sealer." The sealer will give your new paint a smooth surface to lie on and will help to seal in your primers, glazing compounds and fillers that may have been applied during the process. The primer sealer does not require any sanding, and care should be taken that the sealer remains perfectly clean. It is best to put the primer sealer on the car just before painting. You are now ready for new paint.

Learn Enemy Skills In Breath Of Fire 3

Dragon mythology plays a large role in the game's story.

"Breath of Fire 3" for Sony's Playstation console is a traditional role-playing game featuring adventurers, dragons and searchable environments filled with hidden items. In the game, players control Ryu, the last member of a mysterious race, as he attempts to understand both his own past and the mysterious dragon that haunts his present. New to the "Breath of Fire" series, this game allows players to learn enemy skills in battle, which can then be learned and utilized during gameplay.

Instructions

1. Load the "Breath of Fire 3" game disc on your Playstation.

2. Load your current "Breath of Fire 3" campaign, or click "New Game" to start a new campaign.

3. Engage in battle by running into an on-screen enemy. The battle sequence will be launched.

4. Choose one of your characters and select the "Examine" option from the menu. Rather than actively participating in battle, the character will now closely watch your enemy in an attempt to learn one of his enemy skills.

5. Wait for your enemy to attack you. In order to make sure he uses a move, delay battle by ceasing attacks against the enemy.

6. Watch as your enemy launches a unique enemy skill attack. If your character is using the "Examine" function, there's a good chance that he'll learn the enemy skill; you'll see an "Enemy Skill Learned!" message if the "Examine" was successful. However, with more complicated skills, it often takes many attempts to learn the enemy skill, so be patient.

7. Complete the battle. On the "Spoils" screen, you'll get a message saying that your character learned an enemy skill.

Play Red Light Green Light

Red Light, Green Light is a learning game for youngsters that needs no special equipment. It can be played at parties, on the playground or in your own home. Teachers and babysitters appreciate this easy activity that teaches listening skills and traffic awareness, while keeping kids socially engaged. Grown-ups might be surprised to find this game a challenge, too.

Instructions

Play Red Light, Green Light

1. Choose one person to be the "Stoplight." All the other players are "Cars."

2. Mark a starting line. Have the Stoplight stand opposite the starting line a distance away--closer for younger kids, farther for older kids or to make the game last longer.

3. Begin the game when the Stoplight turns around, facing away from the starting line, and calls, "Green light!" This means all cars can go, moving at a walk toward the Stoplight in order to tag it.

4. Run when the Stoplight, still facing away from the starting line, calls "Yellow light!"

5. Stop fast when the Stoplight calls "Red light!" and whirls around, trying to catch Cars in the act of moving.

6. Lose your turn and sit out if the Stoplight says, "I saw you move!" This aspect of the game requires honesty by both players, which is reinforced by the other Cars watching.

7. Win if you tag the Stoplight first. Then you get to be Stoplight for the next game. The Stoplight wins if it gets all the Cars out before they can tag it.

8. Find rule variations and game ideas from PBS Kids by visiting Sprout online (see Resources below).

Make A Dolly Parton Costume

Dolly Parton is a country singer known far and wide for her distinct voice and unique look. Her motto is, "It costs a lot of money to look this cheap." Whether for a karaoke contest, Halloween or just for fun, use these directions to make a Dolly Parton costume.

Instructions

1. Think big. Everything about Dolly Parton is larger than life. There's no such thing as going over the top with this look.

2. Find a tall light blonde or platinum wig. A beehive style works well for the Dolly Parton look, but she's had many hairstyles throughout her career, so anything large works well. Use pictures of Dolly's hair for inspiration.

3. Dress like Dolly in a sequined dress or a sparkly western outfit. Make sure it is form fitting and that there's plenty of room for a large chest. If possible, take a larger size dress and hand tailor where necessary to allow for more room in the top.

4. Make a prosthetic chest. Dolly Parton may be more famous for her physical assets than her singing, so don't leave this step out. Balloons or Styrofoam balls work well for this. Hold everything in place with a very large bra picked up at a thrift store.

5. Get some high heels. Dolly is short in stature and always wears heels.

6. Apply plenty of makeup. Line lips with a red pencil and fill in with bright red lipstick. Add false eyelashes and pencil in eyebrows.

7. Finish off the Dolly look with some big earrings and carry a microphone.

Paint Farm Scenes

Look at the depth of color in the grass and buildings.

Farm scenes are great to paint because they often are very picturesque and can contain buildings, vehicles, animals and people. Whether you're using oil, acrylic, watercolors or pastels, you can create a realistic and serene farm scene by thinking about basic composition and framing. Depending on your preference, the farm can be seen from close up or as part of a landscape scene. As long as you take time and care over your composition, you should be able to produce something to make you proud.

Instructions

1. Choose your image. If you're at a farm looking for a subject matter, have a walk around and take in the visuals. Think about what you want to feature in your painting. You might be more interested in showing animal and plant life, or you might focus on the farmers and their machinery. There is no right or wrong, but you need to isolate the subject of your farm scene.

2. Take pictures. If you are painting from home, you will need photographs to refer to when you create your image, and even if you are painting at the scene, taking pictures will allow you to experiment with different framing. Think about how your picture looks as a whole and if there is anything that would improve the effect. Make sure important objects stand out by putting them in the foreground and slightly to the left (because we read from left to right, our eyes are initially drawn to images on the left-hand side). This can change depending on your preference, however, and you should consider the overall effect you want the picture to have.

3. Make a sketch. Before you apply paint, you should sketch out the scene. You may prefer to practice before you sketch onto your canvas. Study the scene in front of you or the image you are trying to replicate, and sketch the key components of the image. You don't need to add too much detail, but there should be enough to get an idea of how the scene will appear on the canvas.

4. Think about light sources and shadows. This affects which colors you need to include on your painting. Use darker and lighter tones to account for different contrasts across the picture. If you show light and shadow realistically, your paintings can come alive.

5. Begin to add color to your painting. It is important to think about depth of color here. If you look properly at the world, how we classify color is a simplification. To paint the grass, you don't just use green. Adding bits of brown with a thinner brush gives depth and realism to your grass. Think about all the colors in this way. A single color tone isn't enough to capture most things.

6. Stand back and take stock of your painting. Look at it critically, and see if there any areas which require more detail, or any large empty spaces that should be used. You don't want to overload the picture with detail, but there must be enough to create a full sense of your scene.

Make A Clown Car

A clown's act is not complete without an eye-catching, funny car.

A clown's entire performance must be funny and amusing. It starts with the car that a clown arrives in as a way to get the audience's attention. Clown cars have long been staples in a circus. In 1947, one was made for the Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus. The look of a clown car should make you laugh. It should be small, uncomfortable for its occupants and eye catching. Use your imagination to make a clown car at home.

Instructions

1. Choose your car. Clown cars are compact, such as a Mini Cooper, smart car, Chevrolet Aveo, Ford Fiesta or Volkswagen Beetle. The idea is to pack as many clowns as possible---with arms, legs and heads sticking out the windows and sunroof---into one car. Also, you can give golf carts or sturdy children's vehicles new life as a clown car. It wouldn't be funny or amusing to see a group of clowns arriving in a full-sized car, such as a Lincoln Town Car, a Cadillac DTS, or a large sport-utility vehicle, because of the adequate space these cars provide.

2. Wash and dry the car. Use a high-powered water hose to wash away dirt and debris from the car. Dry the car with soft terrycloth or a special drying towel. Tape, ornaments and other accessories will not stick to a dirty car.

3. Sketch out a design. A fun theme should continue with your design. Don't worry if the colors don't match or the proportions are off. You want a car that's going to attract someone's eyes and have them pointing their fingers in your direction.

4. Make props. You can make large fins out of cardboard to transform your car into a fish. Bags of plastic action figures will help convey an action hero or military theme. Cut out circles of construction paper of two different colors for a polka-dot theme. Let your imagination run wild.

5. Decorate the car. Apply your props to the car with duct tape, super glue or another strong adhesive. Color the duct tape with spray paint so that it matches the car.

6. Let the car dry. Give your clown car a day or two to properly dry. Store it in a well-ventilated garage or storage unit.

Make A Dragon'S Tongue Paracord Bracelet

Use thin, flexible ropes in different colors and sizes for paracord crafts.

Knotting, braiding, weaving and crocheting are forms of rope work easily incorporated into crafting items with paracord. The dragon's tongue weave uses two or more colors of paracord to create an interesting woven pattern. The width of the resulting weave lends itself easily for use as a bracelet. You can make this weave using standard 550 paracord, or the lighter 440 paracord if you prefer a more slender bracelet. This weave works with any thin, soft, flexible rope.

Instructions

Connect the Buckle

1. Separate the cargo buckle into its two halves. Fold the black paracord in half to find the center. Push the center of the black paracord into the slot on the buckle from behind about 2 inches. Pull the loop over the buckle end, then pull the paracord ends to fasten the paracord to the buckle.

2. Snap the buckle back together and hold it flat on the bottom of your wrist. Wrap the black paracord loosely around your wrist to the slot on the other half of the buckle. Measure an extra 3/4 inch of length and cut both black cords with the scissors. Push the two ends of the black paracord through the slot on the second half of the cargo buckle from behind and pull them out 6 inches. Separate the buckle into two halves again.

3. Light the candle with the lighter. Hold the two ends of the black paracord close to the flame, but not in the flame, until they melt. Place the two ends together and let it cool to form another looped end. Let the paracord ends cool for several minutes. Slide the buckle half back toward the loop and place the loop over the end of the buckle, then pull the paracord snug to fasten the buckle to the paracord.

Weaving the Dragon's Tongue

4. Place the black paracord and belt buckle vertically on the table with the two black paracords parallel and close together. Fold the blue paracord in half to find the center and hold the center between your thumb and forefinger.

Feed the left end of the blue paracord between the two black cords and then under the left black paracord and draw it out horizontally to the left. Lay the right half of the blue paracord horizontally over the top of the right black paracord.

Keep the center of the blue paracord at the two black paracords and slide the blue paracord against the top buckle.

5. Fold the top blue paracord over the bottom blue paracord, then feed it under the left black parcord and over the right black paracord and lay it horizontally extending to the right.

Take the remaining left blue paracord over the top of the left black paracord and under the right black paracord and extend it horizontally to the right, below the other blue paracord.

6. Take the top right blue paracord under the bottom right blue paracord, over the right black paracord and under the left black paracord and lay it horizontally to the left.

Take the right blue paracord under the right black paracord and over the left black paracord and lay it horizontally to the left below the other blue paracord.

7. Repeat the previous two steps until one third of the bracelet is woven. Keep the weave tight against the top buckle.

8. Repeat the weave to make a solid woven pattern between the buckle halves until you reach the bottom buckle. Place the ends of the paracord through the slot in the buckle from the top, then push them individually through a loop in the weave on either side.

Alternatively, gently pull each pair of weaves toward the bottom buckle to make an open weave pattern that alternates between the left and right black paracords. Work weaves down the black paracord until the last set reaches the bottom buckle. This gives the weave a wave-like appearance. Insert the ends of the paracord into the buckle slot from the top and bring each end back through the weave inside a loop.

9. Trim the ends of the blue paracord close to the weave with scissors. Hold the ends close to the candle flame to melt them enough to keep them from unraveling.

Make A Circus Ticket Booth

Circus ticket booths are essential in all play circuses.

Create a circus ticket booth in your home and watch your child's imagination blossom. Children practice escapism through pretending. Building a circus ticket booth will help make a play circus more authentic. Depending on the location of the circus, you can place the ticket booth in your basement, backyard or front door. With a few materials, transform a simple cardboard box into the main gateway to a world full of animals, games and wonder.

Instructions

1. Choose a location for the circus ticket booth.

2. Place a refrigerator box upside down so the opened part is facing the ground.

3. Measure the cardboard box and cut according to your child's height. Remove the flaps and trim down the box by a few inches.

4. Place the cardboard box upside down again and mark a line on the box starting from 2 inches above your child's head to her chest. Use these points to create a square on the box.

5. Cut out the square to create an open window for the ticket and money exchanges.

6. Cut out a door in the back of the box for an entranceway.

7. Cut out a small hole in opposite sides of the box, wide enough to hold a wooden dowel. The holes should be positioned so that the dowel lies very close to front of the booth, sitting approximately 1 inch above the bottom of the window.

8. Glue two hooks underneath the window on the inside of the box. Place two bags on the hooks to store fake money, pre-inked inspection stamps and spare ticket rolls.

9. Paint the entire cardboard box white and wait for it to dry.

10. Paint long, vertical red stripes on the box and wait for the paint to dry.

11. Put a roll of tickets on a wooden dowel and place it into the holes.

12. Use construction paper and markers to make a ticket booth sign and glue it above the window.

Make A Chalk Board With Chalkboard Paint

Make a Chalk Board With Chalkboard Paint

Whether in the home office, kitchen or pantry, child's room or playroom, a chalkboard can be a handy spot for jotting information and lists or the ideal outlet to give never-ending creative release for young minds. Once a specialty purchase, chalkboards can now be made at home with minimal wall preparation and a special paint mix, making this an affordable afternoon project for any homeowner. Before you know it, you'll have your own chalkboard that can be color coordinated to any décor.

Instructions

1. Tape off the area where you wish to create a chalkboard, using painter's tape and taking care to apply the tape smoothly to the wall surface.

2. Pour the paint into a 1-quart container, taking care to stir the paint thoroughly before pouring to mix the color.

3. Mix in 4 tablespoons of unsanded grout, taking care to stir until all of the lumps are gone and the chalkboard paint is smooth.

4. Apply the paint to your chalkboard area, using a short-napped paint roller and covering the area completely. Remove the painter's tape immediately; allow the wall to dry according to the paint manufacturer's directions; typically this will be 24 hours.

5. Sand the area lightly, using a piece of 150 grit sandpaper to slightly rough the surface. Dust off the wall once sanding has been completed.

6. Condition your new chalkboard by rubbing the flat side of a piece of chalk over the entire chalkboard surface and then wiping it clean with a slightly dampened sponge or rag.

Make A Baroque Bathroom

Baroque style features highly ornamental plaster, also called stucco work.

Baroque style originated in Italy in the early 1600s. It is a highly ornate and decorative, theatrical and dramatic style that features twisted columns, oversize moldings, luxurious fabrics and extravagant, ornamental accessories. Creating a Baroque-style bathroom is a fairly simple process, resulting in a rich, grand, luxurious space in which to pamper yourself and unwind after a hard day.

Instructions

1. Select your color palette. Gold is the most commonly used color in Baroque interiors and is usually combined with strong colors such as deep purples and reds, dark, velvety greens and burnt umber. If a bright gold color is a little much for your personal taste, use a softer shade. Another option is to go for a dramatic black and silver color scheme. Any bold, striking color combination works for a Baroque-style interior. The overall effect should be one of grandeur. The room should look rich and regal, no matter what color palette you decide to use.

2. Add interest to the walls with Baroque-patterned tiles. These can either be used on all four walls or to create an accent wall. Alternatively, use marble tiles for a really rich finish. Baroque-patterned wallpaper is another option. Combine both of these wall coverings together to create a rich, decorative space. For example, tile the walls where the bath and sink are positioned, and paper the other walls. If the bathroom is fairly small, stick to lighter colors, or tile one wall, wallpaper another and paint the last two walls in a shade such as very light gold.

3. Continue the highly decorative effect onto the floor. For a floor that really stands out, marble tiles create a sense of grandeur and also reflect light well. For a more neutral, understated floor, wood flooring is the best option.

4. Take advantage of the huge range of Baroque-style furniture available. If you have the room, a Baroque chair makes a beautiful addition to this style of bathroom. Another option is Neo-Baroque furniture. This is the term used to describe architecture, furniture and decor that features Baroque-style elements, but is not from the actual Baroque period, but rather the late 19th century. Don't overcrowd the room. If you don't have the room for extra furniture, don't use it. The finished effect should be rich and a real treat for the eye, not cluttered and busy.

5. Add accessories to complete the look of the room. Chandeliers are the perfect lighting choice for a Baroque-style room, and these can be as understated or grand as you feel comfortable with. Choose towels with baroque patterns and grand, ornately framed mirrors. Search thrift shops and flea markets for antique perfume bottles and elaborately decorated handheld mirrors. Sculpture is also a large part of baroque style, so if you have the room, a simple baroque sculpture would make a great focal point.

Make A 3d Video

You can make your own 3D videos.

Films shot in 3D, also known as stereoscopic cinematography, are becoming ever more common and provide a unique viewing experience by making the subjects of the film appear to be three-dimensional. This technology takes advantage of the fact that we have two eyes and uses dual cameras to mimic what our eyes would see. Special 3D glasses are required to realize the 3D effect. Making 3D videos is not as complex as you might think, and with some basic equipment you can soon be producing your own low budget 3D films.

Instructions

Shooting the Video

1. Get two video cameras, preferably of the same make and model. Make sure the two cameras are shooting at the same frame rate by checking the fps in the camera's menu settings.

2. Mount the two cameras side by side on the same plane. The center of the lenses should be about 2.5 inches apart, which is the distance between our two eyes. You will need to build a special rig for this as tripods are made to support only one camera and you cannot get two tripods close enough together. You can do this by mounting two 3/8 bolts into a small piece of wood and screwing them into the tripod mounts on the bottom of the camera. You can then securely tape the piece of wood onto the top of the tripod.

3. Shoot the video with both cameras running simultaneously.

Editing the Video "Image Controls," then drag the Desaturate tool onto your clips.

7. Add the RGB balance effect to both clips. To do this in Final Cut Pro you would go to "video effects," click "color balance" then drag the RGB balance effect onto your clips. RGB stands for red, green and blue. Adjust the settings on the RGB balance effects tools so that the red in the right video, which is the top track, is turned all the way down and the cyan in the left video, which is the bottom track, is turned all the way down.

8. Render the video. In Final Cut Pro, you would do this by going to sequence at the menu bar at the top and clicking: Render All. Put on a pair of 3D glasses to watch your video in 3D.

Make A 3d Stereogram

Stereograms create an illusion of 3D depth on a 2D image.

Stereograms, also known as autostereograms, are optical illusions that depict an image within a picture that can be viewed while crossing your eyes. While staring at the 2D stereogram, you can detect a hidden image that will appear as a 3D object. Although a well-crafted stereogram takes time to accomplish, there has been an influx of graphic rendering software applications that make designing graphics such as stereograms easy.

Viewing Stereograms

A person views a 3D image popping up from the background of a stereogram by crossing their eyes. This will cause a divergence of focal points between your eyes and send two different signals to your brain, creating a double vision effect. Images on a stereogram are printed so that two parts of an image converge as your eyes cross inward, and your brain is tricked into seeing a 3D image. Although simple stereographs known as stereo pairs can be constructed by placing an image next to a copy of itself, advanced rendering techniques can create two different images that, when they converge, better trick the brain into thinking it's viewing a 3D picture.

Find an autostereogram to practice viewing. If you can't find one readily available, you can find stereograms to view for free at www.eyetricks.com/3dstereo.htm. As you look at the image, gently begin to cross your eyes inward, which will cause the single image to appear as two images overlapping each other. Continue to view the image for approximately ten seconds in this manner, gently adjusting your eyes' focal points, until you begin to see a shape appear in the background; this is why many people call it "looking past the picture." Continue to fine tune your focus until your brain registers the 3D image.

Drawing a Stereo Pair

You can create a stereo pair using graph paper and a pencil. Draw a 2D rendering of a cube on your graph paper with your pencil, drawing lightly so mistakes can be erased easily. A cube can be drawn in two dimensions by drawing two intersecting squares of equal dimensions on the graph paper, one slightly lower and left or right of the other, and connecting the closest corners. Move a few spaces left on your graph paper and repeat this image, using the same dimensions at the same level. Move your face to a foot's distance from the image, and begin to adjust your focal point. As you focus, the pair images should converge and create the impression of a 3D cube image.

Text Stereogram

Using a word processor, you can create a text stereogram that will create a 3D effect depicting different depth levels. Though advanced stereograms depicting complex images can be created, simple stereograms can be completed in about 10 minutes.

Open your word processor. Use whatever software you're most familiar with, but the most basic word processing application will work. At the top of your image, type two asterisks ten spaces apart. You may need to return later and fine tune this, depending on the size of your image. Press 'Enter' to skip ahead a few lines and then type any character, such as the letter 'X'. Type the X and then move ahead a number of spaces in the line and type another X. Type as many Xs as you can in this manner, spacing each X evenly, until you reach the right margin. Skip ahead another few lines and type a new character, such as the letter 'Y.' Fill the line with evenly-spaced Ys in the same manner that you completed the line of Xs, but increase or decrease the Y spacing as compared to the X spacing by at least two spaces. If there are ten spaces between Xs, you can put eight spaces between Ys.

If you want, you can print this image, but you will be able to view the stereogram properly using your computer. Allow your focal points to diverge, crossing your eyes slowly until two of the asterisk doubles converge, creating the appearance of three total asterisks. As the letters begin to converge, the Ys will appear to be on a higher level than the Xs. If the stereogram was unsuccessful, go ahead and tweak your image to get the desired effect. Using this technique, you can experiment with advanced stereogram displays to create a more complex perception of 3D depth.

Stereogram Software

Those who are familiar with graphics editing software, or any who would like to try, can utilize a few software applications to create enhanced stereographs. Blender is a 3D modeling program that is available for free use through the GNU General Public License. To obtain the program, visit www.blender.org, click 'Download' in the top margin, and select the version of Blender that is compatible with your operating system. Once installed, you can use Blender's graphics rendering tools to create an image that is shaded and highlighted to appear 3D. This image can be saved as a *.tga file, where the asterisk is any given filename. The *.tga image will appear in the stereograph as the 3D image.

GIMP, or GNU Image Manipulation Program is another software application available under the GNU General Public License. GIMP can be used to create the texture necessary to hide the 3D rendering created in Blender. A simple texture can be created by selecting the 'Tools' menu from the top margin, and then selecting 'Fill' to bring up an option menu of different texture patterns. A 'Pattern Fill' option available in the 'Tool Options' dialog box will expand the texture to fill the entire background. This texture can be saved as a *.png file, where the asterisk is any given filename.

These *.tga and *.png files can be compiled into a stereogram by using stereogram generating software. Stereogram Maker is a free program available for download through a number of Internet download portals, such as freewareapp.com. Stereogram Explorer is another program that will create stereograms from *.tga and *.png files, and a free trial is available at www.aolej.com/stereo. When looking for software, make sure to choose a download that is compatible with both *.tga and *.png files. These stereogram generators contain the proper algorithms for superimposing the *.tga image into the *.png textured background. This process will differ based on the software you choose.

Make A 3d Model Of The Water Cycle

A 3D water cycle model gives kids a better understanding of how the water cycle works in nature.

If you have ever taught or helped with the science homework of elementary school children, you have probably assisted students in creating a diagram of the water cycle. A diagram illustrates the water cycle for kids acceptably, but creating a 3-D model allows for an experience that deepens their understanding. The model even serves as a working example of the water cycle. Not only will the kids understand the water cycle better from creating the model, but they will have a working model to observe.

Instructions

1. Create the model in a clear, plastic or glass container with a cover, similar to an aquarium or terrarium. Use layers of plastic wrap as a cover if the container lacks one. Be sure there are no holes in the cover.

2. Place a shallow dish that covers approximately half the surface of the model container in the bottom of it to model the water collection part of the water cycle. Use a dish approximately 1 to 2 inches deep so it adequately serves as a source of evaporation. Fill the container with water only after completing the model.

3. Create ground in the container using soil or sand. Build a hill at the side of the reservoir by mounding up the soil or sand. Make the mound approximately half to three-quarters as tall as the container at its top and even with the reservoir at the bottom.

4. Water cycle models need to illustrate runoff as one of the ways that water collects during the cycle. Use a craft stick or your finger to create a small trench from the top of the mound of soil to its base, stopping the trench at the reservoir. Cover the trench with a thin strip of plastic wrap to facilitate water collection dripping from the cover, and then secure the plastic with some soil along the sides of the trench.

5. Place a very small plant in the soil to model transpiration, or the release of water vapor from plants. Leave the plant in a tiny pot or plant it directly in the soil.

6. Use a white or gray paint marker to draw cloud shapes that represent condensation on the cover or plastic wrap you will use to cover the model container. Allow the clouds to dry completely before using the model.

7. Place the cover on the model then sit a small bowl of ice on top of the clouds you drew on the cover. Be sure the ice-filled bowl rests on only a portion of the cover, and that its bottom is in direct contact with the cover so that water condenses on the underside of it.

8. Use the lamp to model the sun, the water cycle's heat source. Position the lamp so that the lamp shines through the lid and onto the water reservoir. Observe the inside of the container cover as the water evaporates, condenses and drips down as precipitation.

Make Artificial Travertine Tiles

A plain, tiled wall or floor can be faux finished to resemble travertine.

Travertine is a tan marble that can be cut into tiles, which are used as a flooring or backsplash. Although travertine tile can be found at builder's supply stores, it can be quite expensive. Ceramic tiles, however, can be purchased inexpensively. These ceramic tiles can then be painted to give them the appearance of being made of travertine. If you have a tiled surface already installed in your home and would like to change its look, you can also paint your installed tiles.

Instructions

Preparing the Tile

1. Pour a small amount of warm water into your small bucket. Squirt about 1 tbsp. dish detergent into the bucket. Pour more warm water into the bucket until it is about half full.

2. Dip your scrub brush into the bucket of soapy water and thoroughly scrub the tile. Rinse the tile with a wet washcloth until no more soap can be seen on the tile. Allow it to dry completely before continuing.

3. Pour a small amount of white latex paint into your roller tray. Roll an even coat of white paint onto your tile, using your small paint roller. Allow this base coat to dry completely. Clean the paint roller thoroughly when finished.

Making the Paint Glazes

4. Pour about 1 tbsp. mineral spirits into each of your four small disposable bowls. Add about 1 tbsp. linseed oil into each bowl.

5. Add 1 tbsp. paint into each small bowl, assigning one paint color to each bowl.

6. Mix the contents of each bowl, using an ice pop stick.

Painting the Tile

7. Arrange in front of you three of your paint glazes, in almond, cream and beige. Dip your sponge into one of these three paint glazes. Tap any excess paint onto a paper towel. Paint the tile by tapping it along one of the tile's edges, creating a straight line of color. It is not important which glaze color is used, since the colors of natural travertine are often unpredictable.

8. Dip another sponge into a second paint glaze color. Tap any excess paint onto a paper towel. Paint next to the band of color on the tile, tapping along the edge of the first color to slightly blend the two. This second color should be slightly wider than the first.

9. Continue painting bands of color onto the tile, making sure to not follow any noticeable pattern. Some bands of color should appear wider than others, and some narrower. Finish painting the entire tile in this manner.

10. Locate your bowl of brown glaze. Dip a sponge into the bowl and tap any excess paint onto a paper towel. Apply the paint lightly along the length of one or two of your painted bands of color. This will help to add depth and natural variation to your tile.

Adding the Texture

11. Crumple a plastic bag. Tap the bag onto the tile, following the direction of your painted bands. This will help the colors to blend naturally together.

12. Tap the soft cloth onto the tile, again following the direction of the painted bands. This will help to soften the appearance of the colors.

13. Tap your soft-bristled brush here and there around the tile. This will help add variation in the textures of the tile.

14. Dip the toothbrush into the mineral spirits. Spatter some of the mineral spirits onto the tile by running your thumb across the bristles. The spatters will remove a small amount of paint where the spatters land, creating realistic textures. Soften these spots, if desired, by tapping along their borders with your soft-bristled brush. Allow the paint to dry completely before continuing.

Sealing the Tile

15. Pour a small amount of urethane into your paint roller tray. Dip your paint roller into the urethane, and roll it onto your tile.

16. Allow this coat of urethane to dry before applying a second coat, which is recommended for high-use floors or tiled floors and walls that frequently have contact with water.

17.Read the instructions on your urethane product, paying attention to recommended drying times. Allow your tile to dry thoroughly before touching or moving it.

Make Artificial Travertine

You can replicate the look of travertine with paint effects.

Faking travertine, marble and other stone effects is relatively easy, providing you are patient and prepare well. The appearance of travertine can be easily replicated with paints on a wall, on wood surfaces or over cheap matte ceramic tiles. You must be sure to adequately prepare the surface you are going to apply your paint effect to, in order for the travertine effect to be durable. If painting tiles, apply the tiles to the surface they will be situated on, prior to painting the travertine effect. Take a look at real travertine to get a good idea as to the effect you are recreating.

Instructions

1. Sand the surface to provide a key for your paint to adhere to. Wipe the surface clean with a damp sponge. Allow to dry completely before applying paint.

2. Paint the surface you want to create the travertine effect on a light beige tone. Allow this to dry before continuing your faux effect. Interior flat finish paints will provide the best results for this project.

3. Select three other paint colors - light gray, darker beige and an off-white. Dab the surface randomly with these three colors, using a separate paintbrush for each. While the colors are still wet, use a damp natural sponge to spread and blend the colors on the surface. Apply light pressure to the sponge, using a pouncing, dabbing motion as opposed to dragging the sponge across the wall. You want to create the effect of a cloudy sky, where no particular color is predominant. This technique takes some practise to perfect, and if you are not satisfied with your first attempt, start over with step 2. Allow this paint application to dry completely before continuing.

4. Paint fine veins on the surface with your fine artist's paintbrush and off-white paint. While the paint is still wet, use a cotton rag to dab and smear the veins.

5. Use an interior paint sealant to seal your travertine surface if you are going to be using it in a bathroom, kitchen, an area where water and moisture are present, or a high traffic area.

Handle A Class Clown

Making faces to entertain his fellow classmates is one way the class clown gets attention.

The class clown is a source of stress in the classroom for many teachers. Rather than a student who passes notes or whispers, the class clown demands attention on a nearly constant basis. She does this in a loud, disruptive way that is genuinely amusing, often making her popular among her classmates. There are ways to handle a class clown without derailing your lesson plans or making yourself the "bad guy" by reprimanding a class favorite.

Instructions

1. Understand the motivation behind class-clown behavior. This will allow you to treat the situation with compassion rather than anger or frustration. Your typical class clown is often neglected at home or comes from an abusive situation. He can be a gifted student who is bored easily with lesson plans at the level you are teaching them. He may also be a student who has learning disabilities and is frustrated with trying to understand lessons, and so acts out by distracting the other students. He is not a "bad" kid, but one who is struggling internally with home or classroom issues.

2. Do not ignore, openly discipline or reprimand your class clown. Ignoring this student will encourage him to act out further. Public displays of frustration with him will sacrifice the respect the other students have for you.

3. Acknowledge a joke with the class (as long as it isn't harmful to other students) and put up your hand as a signal that the joke needs to be short-lived, temporary and not repeated. If the class clown will not stop at your first attempt, continue to use the hand to signify to the other students that his behavior needs to be under control.

4. Explain to the class that you want to have fun with them, but it's important for a class to be mature. Explain that a mature classroom understand there are times for work and time for play. (Reference 1.)

5. Meet privately with the class clown and ask him how he's feeling about your current lessons. Find out if he's struggling with the material or bored. Take appropriate actions to get him help where he needs it or give him advanced course work.

6. Consider publicly recognizing the student as the resident "class clown" in the classroom. This will give him the attention that he demands and positive recognition he may not be getting at home. Explain to him privately that there is a time and place for his humor and it is not in the middle of lesson plans, but that his personality is appreciated by you and his classmates. (Reference 2.)

7. Make sure to notify your student's parents about his behavior in the classroom. Explain why students act out as class clowns, so the parents have compassion for the behavior rather than anger. If your student has parents who are uninvolved or disinterested, take a special interest in the student's progress and nurture his personality -- by implementing guidelines, rather than suppressing it.

Make A Funny Video

Humor is appropriate for any situation. Just ask students in a public speaking class. Teachers often recommend that they open up their speeches with a joke to ease the nerves. Comedy can relieve any situation. If you want to make the next hit on YouTube or Funny or Die, heed this advice.

Instructions

1. Pick a style of comedy and stick with it. Every comedian has his or her own brand or style of comedy. There is no such thing as a well-rounded comedian. They all find a brand that works and stick with it. What makes you funny? Are you good at situational humor or quick, witty dialogue? If you're not sure what type of humor you should use, look at what you watch. If you enjoy a certain kind of comedy, chances are you're also good at that brand of humor.

2. Write the script. The only time you should not plan ahead is with improv comedy. If you're doing improv, then the only things you need to plan are the location and characters involved. Many of the videos posted online are random comedy or improv acts that are designed for quick and cheap laughs. If you want to dig deeper and present a truly funny video, then you need to write a great script. Decide on the story, characters, and major plot points. Write out the action and dialogue. Great comedy often derives from actual events or events others can relate to. Awkward romantic situations are always a great place to start.

3. Find the talent and location(s). The script can be flawless, but if you do not have the appropriate talent and locations, the video will not be funny. The locations are not as important for a tiny budget video. The talent is incredibly important. Maybe you want to act in the video? Maybe you know a friend who is great at cracking jokes? Whatever route you go, make sure it's the right route because their performance will make or break the video.

Make An Interactive Digital Installation

Interactive digital art installations are a unique way to combine creativity with technology and engage the viewer in a unique and interesting way. Instead of leaving the viewer to their imagine to interpret the art, artists creating digital installations can help influence and shape the way that their art installation is perceived by the viewer. These kinds of installations can also leave a lasting effect on the viewer and help set your art project apart from the others.

Instructions

1. Use a haptic-feedback touch device such as a small touch screen or table to develop an interactive layer where viewers can create and modify images that are displayed on the screen. If you're technically-minded, create your own program that interacts with the hardware of the touch screen or pick up a readymade touchscreen tablet device that includes the hardware required to interact with hands and styluses that are touching the surface of the device.

2. Wire in an audio visualizer to your installation where you can visualize any audio being generated or played during the installation on an external screen. Many computers include visualization software that can be sent to output display devices such as projectors and external screens, both of which can be integrated into the art installation as digital pieces. Use these visualizations to change the lighting in the installation's environment, giving it a new feel.

3. Use 3D modeling software to generate models of images, characters, symbols and subjects that you might create using more traditional hands-on art mediums. The advantage of using 3D modeling software is that the models can be manipulated using other kinds of software to create unique animations. Take the animations a step further and create custom software that allows participants in the art installation to control the 3D models and effectively interact with the art that's in front of them.