Published on: 14 October 2017
Last Updated on: 16 August 2019
When you are renovating your home or building a new one, it’s easy to visualize the big details, like the color of the roof and the walls. Something you may not necessarily be thinking of immediately is the color of your window frames, and yet this is such an important color to consider. It may help to think of them as something similar to the frame on a painting — it adds a finishing touch to the artwork, or in this case, the house. If you are not sure how to choose a color, here are some tips that may help you in your choice.
Choose a color palette: It helps to include the color of your window frames in the complete color palette you choose for your home. If the amount of color choices is overwhelming, keep it simple by choosing either a warm or a cool palette.
Pick a color that highlights or hides: If you are repainting your home, you can highlight your beautiful window frames by painting them a color that makes them stand out. Conversely, if they are ugly as sin, paint them a boring white, or any color that makes them blend in with the walls.
Select a color that complements your home’s exterior: Your walls should have a big say in what color you paint your window frames. If you have exposed brick walls, you should choose a bright contrasting color, and avoid warm browns and dark colors. For painted wood siding, it could work well to pick a darker accent color that complements the rest of the color palette of your home.
Consider neutral colors: Neutral colors are trendy again. The current variety is a far cry from boring beige, so you don’t have to fear to have a sterile hospital look. The new generation of beiges and grays are soulful and colorful, and they will prove to be timeless at the same time. No need to be embarrassed about bright lime or electric pink, or any such garish eyesores in a few years from now.
Choose a color that fits the style of your home: It is very important to choose a color that is appropriate to the style of your house. Certain colors go well with certain types of architecture. A red brick building already imposes a limit on the color palette due to the characteristic hue of the walls. A historic manor would benefit from modest colors that fit in with the time period in which the house was built. If the architecture is more modern, choose colors that enhance that particular style. But if it’s just your typical family home without any noteworthy architectural provenance, you are free to choose colors that match your personality and sense of style. It should be something that you like, and feel comfortable looking at every day.
Use bold colors wisely: For most people who doubt their stylishness, it would be best to stick to neutral colors. But if you are brave and daring, and you are sure you can pull it off, bold colors can add an unexpected twist to your decor.
Apex Window Werks is home and Commercial Window Repair Company with the headquarters in Chicago, IL. If you are looking for a reliable and experienced contractor to get the fog out of your windows, replace broken glass or repair rotten wood window frames, then AWW is your expedient choice. Feel free to give them a call to leave a message.
Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.
Learning how to sew is one of the most amazing moments in life. Maybe you want to return some of the skills you lost early in life or you are learning the art of sewing for the first time in life. One challenge you could be having is how to choose the Best Sewing Machines for Beginners. The truth of the matter is that the market as a long list of machines that beginners can use. This can cause more confusion but an ideal machine will depend on what you wish to make. Maybe you want to whip up quilts or cushions. This article gives you the best recommendations from leading home sewers all over the world. These machines match the needs or beginners in the sewing industry.
10 Best Sewing Machines for Beginners:
1. Bernina B215 :
This is among the most affordable sewing machines from the Bernina brand. In fact, it is among the easiest computerized machines that you can find in the market. You simply have to press that is adjacent to your desired stitch and you are good to go. It has almost all the features of the machines that we are going to review in this article. However, this brand does not come with the start and stop button. You can also personalize it with vinyl ‘skins’ and you can do this on your own. With the LCD screen, you can view the snap-on presser foot you need to use. The additional accessories and machine feet can be quite expensive but it is worth the investment for any determined sewer.
2. Brother JK4000 :
This machine is normally marketed to individuals who possess intermediate sewing skills but I know of people who started by buying this fully computerized sewing model. In fact, it is one of the best sewing machines for beginners you can think about. The good thing with this sewing machine is that you will be able to grow with it. Therefore, you will not have to buy another sewing machine as your skills advance. It has a long list of features including the start and stops button and automatic foot release. This model really gives you the value for your money. You can easily use the LCD screen and dial to select stitches.
3. Brother Innovis NV15 Electronic :
This model can really change your mind whenever you are prompted to think about computerized devices. You may think that its features are confusing to beginners but you will discover that it has an intuitive interface upon trial. It has sixteen stitching options that include stretch stitches and you have a simple jog dial for selecting. The device has all the essential electronics like the start and stops button, needle threader, speed limiter, and the needle up and down control. Threading on this machine is east and it will even pull the bobbin thread up on your behalf.
4. Brother cs6000i :
This is a sixty-stitch sewing machine that is fully computerized. The model has the ability to satisfy both veterans and beginners alike. It is more valuable to buy this machine because it has more features in comparison to what other beginner devices that are in the same price range offer. Apart from the impressive 60-stitches, you will also find nine presser feet, LCD screen, quilting foot, and walking foot that is mostly found on more expensive devices. Its convenience and ease of use make it fall among the best sewing machines for beginners.
5. Janome DC3050 :
This is another computerized machine that is easy to understand. The good thing with this model is that you will not outgrow it quickly. It has a total of 47 pre-programmed stitches and 3 one-step buttonhole styles to select from. The machine is a genuine workhorse with its capacity to handle a broad range of fabrics with a lot of ease. It can even accommodate the slippery silks and thick coating that most basic machines can’t accommodate. Therefore, it is among the best sewing machines for quilting. The machine does not have several features like other sewing machines in this price range but it will give you real value for your money.
6. Singer 7258 :
This 100-stitch computerized sewing machine is ideal for beginners who have some experience and are looking for a machine that they can grow with. The easy to use features and advanced options in this machine blend quite well. This also includes
the six one-step buttonholes and ten presser feet. It is appropriate for any sewer who is gaining confidence and wishes to experiment with a more advanced machine.
7. Janome 7025 :
This sewing machine is quite similar to the Janome 525 that is used on The Great British Sewing Bee. However, this model is more affordable and ticks all the boxes. It has three dials for selecting the width, length, and type of the stitch. It has an automatic one-step buttonhole with an easy loading bobbin that has a clear cover. Janome 7025 sewing machine has more metallic parts in comparison to other brands and this makes it feel weightier for the price range. Any person who has done some form or sewing will find its set up to be quite easy.
8. Singer 4424 :
This is an extra-high-speed heavy duty sewing machine. The machine is tougher and speedier in comparison to the other sewing machines in the market. It can make 1100 stitches each minute due to its motor that is stronger than usual. The machine has 23 inbuilt stitches with a one-step buttonhole and four presser feet. Some of the features you will find on the Singer 4424 include dial controls, top-loading bobbin, needle threader, adjustable thread length, and a clear case for travel or storage. It’s the best option if you wish to work on thick or rugged fabrics like upholstery.
9. Singer 4411 Heavy Duty :
This sewing machine is specially designed to handle those heavy upholstery fabrics, vinyl, leather, and denim like a dream. It has smooth stitches and you can still use it for lightweight and delicate fabrics. One thing that may put off beginners is that this machine sews at some speed. Beginners may find it quite challenging to sink their teeth in some intricate projects. The ease of use and stitch quality will surely exceed your expectations. You can operate this machine for several days with no struggles at all.
10. John Lewis JL110 :
Are you on a budget and in the process of dipping the toe in the home sewing waters? This brand will offer the best service to you. It has 14 stitching options that can allow you to work on most of the projects. The machine also has a classic setup that allows you to saw at a fairly fast speed by just reading the manual. However, any person who wished to use stretch fabrics for sewing may lose control of the stitch width. The bobbin is also concealed behind a front door and you can really find it tricky to access it once you get a tangle. The beauty of it is that this machine is sturdy and you can find it in a broad range of colors. It is one of the best sewing machines for home use.
Summary :
With all this knowledge, you now have all it takes to pick the best sewing machines for beginners. The most important thing is to pick a gadget that can handle the kind of work you wish to undertake.
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A common question that consumers often ask when inquiring about locksmith services is the pricing models as they tend to differ based on company policies and the type of lock needs serviced. A little-known secret is that consumers who negotiate have the best chance of receiving the most affordable rates as a locksmithing company would rather retain a customer’s business rather than lose it to a competitor. Here are tips from Dutch Locksmithing Company that will help you get the best prices.
Research for Common Rates :
Most people do not realize they overpaid until after learning later that a locksmith charged well above the going rate. A way to ensure you get the best rate is by cold calling locksmithing companies and asking general questions about potential charges.
Ask Your Friends for Recommendations :
Hiring a locksmith that you know nothing about is risky. Take the time to talk to friends, family or coworkers who have used a locksmith to help keep their home safe for recommendations. Often, locksmiths offer discounts to new clients who have been recommended by former customers. When you make the inquiry, ask about a new customer rate by telling the locksmith who referred you to the business. Asking for a discount is also an effective negotiation tool used industrywide as it allows locksmiths to establish a trustworthy business relationship for future customer needs.
Negotiate a Discount for Positive Reviews :
The value of word-of-mouth helps locksmiths grow a client base, branding, and revenue which is less expensive than advertising. Negotiate a discount for a positive review since many consumers rely on social media platform feedback and websites that post reviews.
According to Forbes, 90 percent of consumers research online before visiting a store, and more than 84 percent of consumers trust online reviews just as much as personal feedback from friends and family. Do not be afraid to ask as locksmiths want to build reputations.
Learn More About Cost-of-Service Metrics :
While you have researched the costs, how much do you know about how much out-of-pocket expense the locksmith incurs to provide this service? If you understand these metrics, you have valuable information to ask for a cheaper rate. You must consider normal business hour rates versus after-hour emergency services when you determine cost-of-service since factors such as office hours, holiday, or after-hours impact rates. While you hope for normal business hours, emergency services limit your negotiations. When you have set expectations, it gives you the time to think of other factors that will give a fair negotiating advantage.
Visit Several Websites to Learn About Services :
Many websites post vital information about their companies and services that give you a good idea of the best business practices in the locksmithing industry. The information also gives you the critical knowledge you need to negotiate prices because you know what to expect and what to question. Comparing these sites will lead to insights.
These tips allow you to establish industry business practices as well as the going locksmith rates that will allow you to weigh the cost against expertise to get affordable, quality services.
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Basil is one of the most popular and versatile herbs you can grow in your garden or indoors. It has a fresh and aromatic flavor that can enhance any dish, from salads and soups to pizzas and pastas. Basil is also rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants just like cilantro. It can benefit your health and well-being. But how do you harvest basil properly so that it keeps growing and producing more leaves?
If these are some of the things you want to know, I have you covered! In this article, I will answer all these questions and more and give you everything you need to know about harvesting basil! So, keep on reading this blog till the end to learn more…
How to Harvest Basil Leaves?
The first thing you need to know about harvesting basil is when to do it. The best time to harvest basil leaves is in the morning when the plant is still fresh and moist. Avoid harvesting basil in the afternoon or evening when the plant is dry and wilted. Also, avoid harvesting basil when it is raining or wet, as this can cause the leaves to rot or mold.
Steps to Harvest Basil Leaves
To harvest basil leaves, you will need a pair of scissors or a sharp knife and a basket or a bowl to collect the leaves. You can also use your fingers to pinch off the leaves, but be careful not to damage the stem or the plant. Here are the steps to follow:
Start from the top of the plant, and look for the stems with leaf clusters. These are called the terminal buds, and they are where the basil flowers will grow. You want to remove these buds, as they will make the plant stop producing new leaves and focus on flowering and seeding. This will reduce the flavor and quality of the basil leaves.
Cut or pinch off the stem just below the terminal bud, leaving about a quarter of an inch of stem above the next pair of leaves. This will encourage the plant to grow two new stems from the leaf nodes and produce more leaves. You can also cut or pinch off any other stems that are too long or leggy and leave about four to six pairs of leaves on each stem.
Repeat this process for all the stems that have terminal buds, and collect the leaves in your basket or bowl. You can also harvest some of the lower leaves but leave enough leaves on the plant to allow it to photosynthesize and grow. You should not harvest more than a third of the plant at a time, as this can stress the plant and reduce its growth and health.
After harvesting, rinse the leaves with water and pat them dry with a paper towel. You can use them fresh or store them for later use.
How to Harvest Basil So It Keeps Growing
One of the benefits of harvesting basil is that it stimulates the plant to grow more leaves and branches and prevents it from flowering and seeding.
However, you need to harvest basil regularly and correctly, so that it keeps growing and producing more leaves.
Here are some tips to follow. For instance, you must harvest basil:
At least once every two weeks, or more often if you see the terminal buds forming. This will keep the plant bushy and compact and prevent it from becoming woody and bitter.
From different parts of the plant, and not always from the same spot. This will ensure that the plant grows evenly and does not become lopsided or uneven.
Before it flowers. This is because the flowers will reduce the flavor and quality of the leaves. If you see any flowers forming, remove them as soon as possible. You can also pinch off the flowers and use them as edible garnishes or decorations, as they have a mild and sweet flavor.
Before the frost, as the cold weather will kill the plant. You can either harvest the whole plant and store it for later use, or bring it indoors and keep it in a sunny and warm spot. You can also propagate the plant by taking cuttings and rooting them in water or soil and grow new plants for the next season.
How to Harvest Basil Without Killing The Plant?
Harvesting basil is different from harvesting lettuce or other plants. The process is good for the plant and you, as you can enjoy the fresh and aromatic leaves in your dishes.
However, you need to be careful not to harvest too much or too often, as this can harm and kill the plant.
Here are some dos and don'ts of harvesting basil without killing it:
Do harvest basil from the top of the plant, not the bottom or the middle. This will allow the plant to grow stems and leaves from the lower nodes and maintain its shape and structure.
Don't harvest basil from the main stem or cut it too close to the ground. This will damage the plant and prevent it from growing new stems and leaves. Leave at least four to six pairs of leaves on each stem and about an inch of stem above the ground.
Do harvest basil gently and carefully, and not roughly or forcefully. This will avoid injuring the plant and exposing it to diseases or pests. Use a sharp and clean tool, such as scissors or a knife, and make clean and smooth cuts. You can also use your fingers to pinch off the leaves but be gentle and precise.
Don't harvest basil when it is stressed or unhealthy, such as when it is wilting, yellowing, or diseased. This will weaken the plant and make it more susceptible to further damage. Wait until the plant recovers and looks healthy and green before harvesting. You can also water and fertilize the plant to help it grow and thrive.
Do harvest basil when it is young and tender, not old and tough. This will ensure the leaves are fresh, flavorful, and not bitter or woody. Harvest basil when the leaves are about two to three inches long before they curl or turn brown.
How to Pick Basil Leaves?
Picking basil leaves is another way to harvest and use the leaves in your dishes. You can pick basil leaves with your fingers or with a pair of tweezers, depending on your preference and convenience. Here are some tips on how to pick basil leaves. For instance, you can pick it:
From the top of the plant, not the bottom or the middle. This will allow the plant to grow stems and leaves from the lower nodes and maintain its shape and structure.
From the stems that have terminal buds, not from those that have none. This will prevent the plant from flowering and seeding and producing more leaves. You can also pick some of the lower leaves but leave enough leaves on the plant to allow it to photosynthesize and grow.
Gently and carefully, and not roughly or forcefully. This will avoid injuring the plant and exposing it to diseases or pests. Use your fingers to pinch off the leaves or a pair of tweezers to pluck them off. Be gentle and precise, and do not pull or tug on the leaves or the stems.
When they are young and tender and not when they are old and tough, this will ensure the leaves are fresh, flavorful, and not bitter or woody. Pick basil when the leaves are about two to three inches long before they curl or turn brown.
How to Store Basil Leaves?
Storing basil leaves is a great way to preserve and enjoy them for later use. You can store basil leaves in different ways, depending on how long you want to keep them and how you want to use them. Here are some of the best ways to store basil leaves:
Refrigerate Them
You can refrigerate basil leaves for up to a week, by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and placing them in a resealable plastic bag or an airtight container. This will keep them moist and fresh, and prevent them from wilting or drying out. However, you should not wash them.
Freeze Them
You can freeze basil leaves for up to six months, by blanching them in boiling water for a few seconds, and then plunging them in ice water to stop the cooking process. This will preserve their color and flavor, and prevent them from browning or oxidizing. Then, pat them dry with a paper towel, and place them in a resealable plastic bag or an airtight container. You can also chop them and mix them with some olive oil, and freeze them in ice cube trays. This will make it easier to use them in soups, sauces, or dressings.
Dry Them
You can dry basil leaves for up to a year, by hanging them upside down in a warm and dry place, such as a closet or a pantry. This will dehydrate them and concentrate their flavor, and make them last longer. However, you should avoid drying them in direct sunlight, as this can bleach them and reduce their quality. You can also dry them in an oven or a microwave, but be careful not to burn them or overcook them. Once they are dry, you can store them in a glass jar or a spice container, and crush them or grind them before using them.
Make Pesto
You can make pesto with basil leaves, by blending them with some garlic, pine nuts, parmesan cheese, and olive oil. This will create a delicious and versatile sauce that you can use for pasta, sandwiches, salads, or dips. You can store pesto in the refrigerator for up to a week, or in the freezer for up to six months. You can also customize pesto by adding other herbs, nuts, cheeses, or spices, according to your taste and preference.
How to Cut Basil?
Cutting basil is a simple and easy way to harvest and use the leaves in your dishes. You can cut basil with scissors, a knife, or your fingers, depending on your preference and convenience.
Here are some tips on how to cut basil:
Wash and dry the basil leaves before cutting them to remove any dirt or insects. You can rinse them under running water or soak them in a water bowl with a few drops of vinegar. Then, pat them dry with a paper towel or spin them in a salad spinner.
Cut the basil leaves just before using them, to preserve their flavor and aroma. If you cut them too early, they will lose their freshness and wilt. You can also bruise or damage the leaves if you cut them too roughly or with a dull tool.
Cut the basil leaves according to the size and shape that you need for your recipe. You can either leave them whole or chop them finely or coarsely. You can also cut them into ribbons or strips, by stacking several leaves together, rolling them up, and slicing them thinly. This is called the chiffonade technique, and it creates a beautiful and elegant garnish.
Cut the basil leaves with a sharp and clean tool, such as scissors or a knife, and not with a blender or a food processor. This will avoid bruising or crushing the leaves and releasing their oils and juices. You can also use your fingers to tear or pinch off the leaves but be gentle and careful.
How to Use Basil Leaves?
Using basil leaves is a fun and easy way to add flavor and aroma to your dishes. You can use basil leaves in different ways, depending on your mood and occasion. Here are some of the best ways to use basil leaves:
Fresh
You can use fresh basil leaves to garnish and enhance your dishes, such as salads, soups, pizzas, and pastas. Also you can use fresh basil leaves to make salads, such as caprese salad with tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil, or Greek salad with cucumbers, feta cheese, and basil. You can also use fresh basil leaves to make drinks, such as lemonade, tea, or cocktails, with basil, lemon, sugar, and water.
Cooked
You can use cooked basil leaves to flavor and season your dishes, such as sauces, stews, curries, and casseroles. Also you can use cooked basil leaves to make dishes, such as tomato sauce with basil, garlic, and onion, or chicken with basil, cream, and mushrooms. You can also use cooked basil leaves to make breads, such as focaccia with basil, olive oil, and salt, or muffins with basil, cheese, and eggs.
Preserved
You can use preserved basil leaves to store and enjoy them for later use, such as freezing, drying, or making pesto. Also you can use preserved basil leaves to make dishes, such as pesto pasta with basil, garlic, pine nuts, and parmesan cheese, or roasted vegetables with basil, olive oil, and salt. You can also use preserved basil leaves to make snacks, such as crackers with basil, cheese, and honey, or popcorn with basil, butter, and salt.
Wrapping It Up!
Basil is a wonderful herb that you can grow and harvest in your garden or indoors. It has a fresh and aromatic flavor that can enhance any dish, and a rich and nutritious profile that can benefit your health and well-being. By following the tips and tricks in this article, you can learn how to harvest basil properly, so that it keeps growing and producing more leaves, how to cut basil, pick basil leaves, and store them for later use, and how to use basil leaves in different and delicious ways.
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