Antique Furniture Hardware Product Restoration: Extend The Life Of Your Furniture
Submitted By: David Faulkner
Anyone with even the most minimal knowledge of antiques will know that they have to be treasured and well looked after. Being over a hundred years old, they will need regular restoration as well as routine cleaning whatever your use for them. Eventually they will also need antique furniture hardware product restoration to save them from irreparable damage. Think of it as surgery for furniture!
Antique furniture hardware product restoration is a chore simply because it may prove impossible to get hold of the parts needed to actually complete the process. Doorknobs, latches, hinges, hooks and chest lifts are all rare unless you manage to get lucky and find a dealer with a similar piece that is irreparable. Despite the availability status of the parts you need, there are still some essential nuggets of knowledge you should know before attempting antique furniture hardware product restoration. For more info see http://www.antiquefurniturersource.com/Antique_Furniture_Collections/ on Antique Furniture Collections
1. Always search for the materials you need for antique furniture hardware product restoration from home. Availability may mean that trawling the various shops is a complete waste of time. Try calling local antique dealers and stores and then contact those further away if need be. You could also try searching on the Internet. Always narrow your search to those that specialise in the era of your particular piece first as they will often yield more success.
2. Be prepared to travel to pick up the materials you need for antique furniture hardware product restoration. You may want to have the parts mailed to you if they are found in another country, but always be prepared to do anything to protect your investment.
3. Ask a professional for advice. Antique furniture hardware product restoration is a complex process and it only takes one small mistake to permanently ruin your piece so make sure that you seek advice and maybe the services of a professional. Several experts would be prepared to give you quotes so check up on them before selecting a man for the job if you do not want to attempt it yourself.
4. Be prepared to pay out. Antique furniture hardware product restoration is an expensive business. It is usually worth every penny to save your investment but you should be prepared for a hefty bill.
There is one golden rule when it comes to looking after your pieces of antique furniture. Prevention is better than cure. This is the golden rule and following these tips may just help you to prevent the need for antique furniture hardware product restoration arising:
1. Establish a routine and stick to it as far as cleaning goes. Always use a soft cloth to wipe down antique furniture once or twice a week.
2. Wax every antique piece you have every two months with a small measure of furniture wax. This will prevent build up and keep your furniture healthy.
3. Keep antiques out of direct sunlight because they may fade.
4. Do not use any harsh solvents, detergents or polishes because the chemicals may just stain it permanently.
About the Author
You can also find more info on Antique China Furniture & Antique furnitutre.
Published At: www.Isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=156085&ca=Home+Management
5/04/2008
Resin Patio Furniture - Robust Furniture Ranges For Outdoor Areas
Resin Patio Furniture - Robust Furniture Ranges For Outdoor Areas
Submitted By: Rika Susan
Resin patio furniture is synonymous with durability, low-maintenance, UV-resistance, weather-resistance, and lightweight maneuverability.
The Kettler company has built a solid reputation for quality synthetic resin patio furniture. The secret that made them such a solid player in the industry, is their unique double-injection molding system. Up to three times more resin are used in their process, compared to regular molding. In the collections where their massive molding technique is used, distinctive contours form, explaining Kettler resin patio furniture's aesthetic appeal, and comfort.
The Kettler manufacturing operation uses a synthetic resin, with mineral reinforcement. The end product is a tough, tenacious piece of furniture. Kettler resin patio furniture expands and contracts with weather changes, and therefore makes quite a lasting impression! You can relax, and enjoy your outdoor area, without concerns about complicated cleaning routines, rust, rot, chipping paint, yellowing, or warping.
A Kettler chaise lounge, with smooth-running wheels, will put your flexibility to the test with up to 36 possible positions! It easily folds away when not in use. Depending on your choice, the design may allow for separate seat and back adjustments, for the ultimate in relaxation alongside the pool, on your patio, porch or deck.
Multi-adjustable Kettler patio chairs, ottomans, and tea-carts have the same high-caliber construction. The resilient tables that form part of the resin patio furniture sets, remain totally unmoved by weather extremes. Chip-proof edges, together with lasting massive molding layers, ensures superb functionality, without warping. The finish is also scratch-resistant, contributing to shatter-proof good looks without the need for a face-lift down the line! You will probably wish that you had access to similar technology for timeless-beauty...
Kettler resin patio furniture cushions utilize durable Olefin. This material is colorfast, quick drying, and doesn't fall apart with the normal wear and tear that resin patio furniture is exposed to. Entertainment on your patio, and the resultant spills, won't leave stains. This fabric is extremely comfortable, as it has moisture wicking properties. Choose a shade that will complement the fabric of your patio awning, thereby creating a flowing, coordinated look.
Another range with an excellent name, is the Grosfillex Resin Patio Furniture Collection. Stretch out in luxurious comfort on their sun loungers, with the innovative RS System. Two knobs on the side of the lounger give you a multitude of options as far as adjustment is concerned. When not in use, this piece of resin patio furniture folds into a small, compact, easily transportable size. A unique, very practical storage tray has been incorporated into the functional design.
The solid construction of the Grosfillex resin patio furniture, is facilitated by a combination of resin, and aluminum. Choose from a variety of colors, such as White Wood, Wood Sequoia Green, Grey Metal, stylish Opal Green or Amazon Green, or calming Navy Blue.
The tendency in resin patio furniture is toward reusable ranges that can be recycled, and environmentally-friendly products. Grosfillex targets resin treatments that make use of natural inorganic materials and natural plant extracts, and are non-toxic.
Texgarden canvas is used for their resin patio furniture cushions. This quick-drying fabric won't fade in harsh sunlight, won't collapse as a result of a shower, and is washable.
As discussed at Awnings-and-Blinds.com your patio design, patio awning, and furniture should all add to the architecture of your home. By choosing quality resin patio furniture, with cushions toning in with your patio awning, you can create an elegant, stylish, outdoor living area.
About the Author
Also read the Retractable Awning article at Awnings-and-Blinds.com - Copyright Rika Susan, Article-Alert.com. Please reprint intact links.
Published At: www.Isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=57324&ca=Gardening
Submitted By: Rika Susan
Resin patio furniture is synonymous with durability, low-maintenance, UV-resistance, weather-resistance, and lightweight maneuverability.
The Kettler company has built a solid reputation for quality synthetic resin patio furniture. The secret that made them such a solid player in the industry, is their unique double-injection molding system. Up to three times more resin are used in their process, compared to regular molding. In the collections where their massive molding technique is used, distinctive contours form, explaining Kettler resin patio furniture's aesthetic appeal, and comfort.
The Kettler manufacturing operation uses a synthetic resin, with mineral reinforcement. The end product is a tough, tenacious piece of furniture. Kettler resin patio furniture expands and contracts with weather changes, and therefore makes quite a lasting impression! You can relax, and enjoy your outdoor area, without concerns about complicated cleaning routines, rust, rot, chipping paint, yellowing, or warping.
A Kettler chaise lounge, with smooth-running wheels, will put your flexibility to the test with up to 36 possible positions! It easily folds away when not in use. Depending on your choice, the design may allow for separate seat and back adjustments, for the ultimate in relaxation alongside the pool, on your patio, porch or deck.
Multi-adjustable Kettler patio chairs, ottomans, and tea-carts have the same high-caliber construction. The resilient tables that form part of the resin patio furniture sets, remain totally unmoved by weather extremes. Chip-proof edges, together with lasting massive molding layers, ensures superb functionality, without warping. The finish is also scratch-resistant, contributing to shatter-proof good looks without the need for a face-lift down the line! You will probably wish that you had access to similar technology for timeless-beauty...
Kettler resin patio furniture cushions utilize durable Olefin. This material is colorfast, quick drying, and doesn't fall apart with the normal wear and tear that resin patio furniture is exposed to. Entertainment on your patio, and the resultant spills, won't leave stains. This fabric is extremely comfortable, as it has moisture wicking properties. Choose a shade that will complement the fabric of your patio awning, thereby creating a flowing, coordinated look.
Another range with an excellent name, is the Grosfillex Resin Patio Furniture Collection. Stretch out in luxurious comfort on their sun loungers, with the innovative RS System. Two knobs on the side of the lounger give you a multitude of options as far as adjustment is concerned. When not in use, this piece of resin patio furniture folds into a small, compact, easily transportable size. A unique, very practical storage tray has been incorporated into the functional design.
The solid construction of the Grosfillex resin patio furniture, is facilitated by a combination of resin, and aluminum. Choose from a variety of colors, such as White Wood, Wood Sequoia Green, Grey Metal, stylish Opal Green or Amazon Green, or calming Navy Blue.
The tendency in resin patio furniture is toward reusable ranges that can be recycled, and environmentally-friendly products. Grosfillex targets resin treatments that make use of natural inorganic materials and natural plant extracts, and are non-toxic.
Texgarden canvas is used for their resin patio furniture cushions. This quick-drying fabric won't fade in harsh sunlight, won't collapse as a result of a shower, and is washable.
As discussed at Awnings-and-Blinds.com your patio design, patio awning, and furniture should all add to the architecture of your home. By choosing quality resin patio furniture, with cushions toning in with your patio awning, you can create an elegant, stylish, outdoor living area.
About the Author
Also read the Retractable Awning article at Awnings-and-Blinds.com - Copyright Rika Susan, Article-Alert.com. Please reprint intact links.
Published At: www.Isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=57324&ca=Gardening
3/21/2008
Protecting your child - Choosing quality baby furniture
by: gary
The first thing to fit to a new nursery is a smoke alarm, for a few pounds (or free from your community fire prevention officer) these must have devises must be your first consideration. Socket covers to seal any unused electrical outlets are also a great idea when your baby begins to explore and move about. It’s also a sensible idea to locate nursery furniture in the way to preclude your baby from discovering outlets.
Your baby’s cot is the item of nursery furniture where he will spend the most time during her initial months. Cots are also one of the primary causes of baby injury and fatalities so it is essential to make sure your cot follows the recommended safety standards. The cot must be deep enough so your baby is unable to climb out. Check that the distance between the rails is not capable of allowing the baby to trap their head.Make sure that cots with drop down sides lock automatically and can’t be opened by the child. It’s important that used cots are checked out thoroughly for damage to fastenings and fixtures and that you purchase a brand new mattress for your baby. The mattress must have a gap of no more than 4cm around the outside of the cot to prevent your baby from becoming trapped.
Head the ‘back to sleep’ campaign targetted to reduce sudden infant death syndrome and always lay your baby down on his back. If you have a nightlight in your nursery, locate it away from the cot so the bedding doesn’t create a fire and avoid locating the light near curtains, plastic, or other objects that may spark from the heat.
When designing your nursery layout make certain no furniture is placed adjacent windows, as your child grows they might try to climb up and have a peek out. Also steer clear of placing anything that can assist your child to stand on to look out of a window. Keep the windows in the nursery properly secured. When opening a window for airing ensure it is firmly fixed and ideally never open more than 5cm.
Another item of baby furniture to blame for many child injuries is the changing table. Using a u - shaped changing mat can assist greatly in ensuring your baby can’t roll away and some changing tables even have securings to fix your child. Changing equipment must be kept well out of reach in a drawer of on a shelf. An accidental baby powder spill can have adverse effects to an infant.
Rather disturbingly one of the most common reasons of injury in a child’s room are curtains and blinds. It’s vital that short curtains are used that small children can’t become entwined in and that the pull cords on Venetian blinds are kept short. When installing blinds ensure the cords are tied up to keep them short and are never within a baby’s reach.
Select your toy storage carefully. Toyboxes must be fitted with safety hinges or lightweight fabric lids to prevent little fingers from becoming crushed. As your baby gets bigger, he might climb inside the toybox and a heavy lid could trap her so it’s important they be fitted with safety hinges or lightweight lids. You should also try to select baby furniture with lids and drawers that are not as likely to pinch your youngster’s fingers. Cupboard and wardrobe doors are also a potential danger to your youngster and you must consider fitting child safe catches to prevent your child from hurting themselves
By following good information and following common sense, new parents can ensure they make the correct choices when choosing baby furniture and design the perfect room for their new baby.
About the Author
Gary is an expert on quality nursery furniture With years of experience helping clients about selecting nursery furniture he can give sound advice on a wide range of purchases from baby’s first cot to important factors when selecting http://www.monkeyshine.co.uk/parent-and-child-36/at-ho
The first thing to fit to a new nursery is a smoke alarm, for a few pounds (or free from your community fire prevention officer) these must have devises must be your first consideration. Socket covers to seal any unused electrical outlets are also a great idea when your baby begins to explore and move about. It’s also a sensible idea to locate nursery furniture in the way to preclude your baby from discovering outlets.
Your baby’s cot is the item of nursery furniture where he will spend the most time during her initial months. Cots are also one of the primary causes of baby injury and fatalities so it is essential to make sure your cot follows the recommended safety standards. The cot must be deep enough so your baby is unable to climb out. Check that the distance between the rails is not capable of allowing the baby to trap their head.Make sure that cots with drop down sides lock automatically and can’t be opened by the child. It’s important that used cots are checked out thoroughly for damage to fastenings and fixtures and that you purchase a brand new mattress for your baby. The mattress must have a gap of no more than 4cm around the outside of the cot to prevent your baby from becoming trapped.
Head the ‘back to sleep’ campaign targetted to reduce sudden infant death syndrome and always lay your baby down on his back. If you have a nightlight in your nursery, locate it away from the cot so the bedding doesn’t create a fire and avoid locating the light near curtains, plastic, or other objects that may spark from the heat.
When designing your nursery layout make certain no furniture is placed adjacent windows, as your child grows they might try to climb up and have a peek out. Also steer clear of placing anything that can assist your child to stand on to look out of a window. Keep the windows in the nursery properly secured. When opening a window for airing ensure it is firmly fixed and ideally never open more than 5cm.
Another item of baby furniture to blame for many child injuries is the changing table. Using a u - shaped changing mat can assist greatly in ensuring your baby can’t roll away and some changing tables even have securings to fix your child. Changing equipment must be kept well out of reach in a drawer of on a shelf. An accidental baby powder spill can have adverse effects to an infant.
Rather disturbingly one of the most common reasons of injury in a child’s room are curtains and blinds. It’s vital that short curtains are used that small children can’t become entwined in and that the pull cords on Venetian blinds are kept short. When installing blinds ensure the cords are tied up to keep them short and are never within a baby’s reach.
Select your toy storage carefully. Toyboxes must be fitted with safety hinges or lightweight fabric lids to prevent little fingers from becoming crushed. As your baby gets bigger, he might climb inside the toybox and a heavy lid could trap her so it’s important they be fitted with safety hinges or lightweight lids. You should also try to select baby furniture with lids and drawers that are not as likely to pinch your youngster’s fingers. Cupboard and wardrobe doors are also a potential danger to your youngster and you must consider fitting child safe catches to prevent your child from hurting themselves
By following good information and following common sense, new parents can ensure they make the correct choices when choosing baby furniture and design the perfect room for their new baby.
About the Author
Gary is an expert on quality nursery furniture With years of experience helping clients about selecting nursery furniture he can give sound advice on a wide range of purchases from baby’s first cot to important factors when selecting http://www.monkeyshine.co.uk/parent-and-child-36/at-ho
3/20/2008
A Guide To Good Furniture Care
During my long career in the furniture business I've often been asked, "What is the proper way to care for my fabric?" After all, you've purchased your dream furniture piece but you're terrified to use it out of fear of damaging it. But you don't have to live in fear! After extensive research and testing I have found the following guidelines and suggestions to be helpful.
Upholstered Furniture
Because of the wide variety of fabrics and fiber combinations, there is no guarantee that these methods will be completely successful and I recommend that a professional upholstery cleaner be contacted in particular cases. However, these simple solutions will keep your new upholstery crisp and clean for years!
. Vacuum at least once a week to remove grit that can cause abrasion, and be sure to dust vacuum the top surfaces as often as possible. Professional cleaning is the best way to make a slightly soiled sofa look new again, but weekly vacuuming will make professional cleaning a less frequent event. (Never brush any fabric with a stiff fiber or metal brush, since they're destructive to the fibers. Instead, use your vacuum attachments like the upholstery brush or the attachment for dusting draperies and furniture. The latter brush has longer bristles and is less abrasive to your upholstery fabric. It may be your best option if your fabric deserves a softer brushing.)
. Reverse the cushions each week after vacuuming. Rearrange the furniture occasionally to ensure even wear of the cushions and other areas. Cushions and pillows filled with down or similar cushioning material should be hand-fluffed and reversed regularly to retain their original softness and resiliency.
. Protect fabrics from the sun. Fabrics should not be placed in direct sunlight because the ultraviolet light will cause the fibers to degenerate and colors to fade. Occasionally dyes can fade from impurities in the air as well, but protection from the sun is a good way to prevent premature loss of color.
. Keep pets off the furniture. Pet urine and pet body oil can be difficult to remove.
. Use proper care with structural weave fabrics (where the design is created by the weave) to protect against snags. These fabrics may be cleaned by sprinkling dry powder cleaner over the fabric, spreading it uniformly and letting it stand for the recommended period before vacuuming with gentle suction. (However, I do recommend professional cleaning with stains on a woven fabric.)
. Caution those wearing clothing with transferable dyes, such as blue jeans, that the dye could transfer onto light-colored furniture.
Fabric Cleaning Guide
Today's new fabric treatments improve the chances of your fabric's survival. Fabric protection products are usually applied by the retail store for an additional cost. Most of the various brands work the same way by causing spills and soil to sit on the surface of the fiber instead of migrating to the fiber's interior.
Today's fiber protection products are free of ozone damaging chemicals, and most are hypoallergenic and invisible to the eye. Some even provide additional UV protection from color fading caused by intense light. One of the greatest benefits of fabric protection products is that they come with specific written warranties that provide peace of mind.
Whether your new upholstery has been fabric protected or not, you should follow the same basic guidelines in cleaning liquid spills or surface soil that can't be brushed off (such as newspaper ink).
Fabric Cleaning Codes
Before attempting to clean a spill or spot on your furniture, you should identify the fabric and the correct cleaning method recommended by the manufacturer. This information is represented by a cleaning code (W, S, WS, or X) often found under a cushion, on the bottom of the furniture or on the manufacturer's tag. If you cannot find this information, contact your salesperson at the furniture store where the item was purchased.
W - Spot clean only with water-based shampoo or foam upholstery cleaner.
S - Spot clean only with water-free cleaning solvent. Do not overwet. DO NOT USE WATER.
WS - Spot clean with upholstery shampoo, foam from a mild detergent, or a mild dry cleaning solvent. Do not overwet.
X - Clean only by vacuuming or light brushing with a non-metallic brush. DO NOT USE WATER OR DRY CLEANING SOLVENTS. Do not use a foam or liquid cleaner of any type.
Never apply cleaning solutions to visible areas of your upholstery fabric without first testing on areas that are not visible. It is important to pretest for color loss and fabric compatibility.
Cleaning Instructions
As a general rule, when a spill occurs, it is important to clean the fabric immediately. The longer a spot remains, the harder it is to remove. It may even become permanent.
Blot, don't rub. If the spill is still "fresh", use a clean, dry and very absorbent 100% cotton cloth. Should you have to use paper towels to blot out spills, be sure the paper towel (or cloth) is white, as colors in the towel may, when applied to a wet surface, fade onto the upholstery. Color from one fabric can rub off onto another fabric, even when dry -- a process known in the industry as "crocking".
If blotting with a dry cloth doesn't quite finish the job and you have cleaning directions from the furniture manufacturer, follow those. If none are available, use the instructions provided here.
I hope this information has been insightful. Use these tools when necessary, but most importantly, enjoy your upholstered piece -- it was meant to be used!
About the Author : Holly Linington is a designer and the owner of Planet Sofa ( http://www.planetsofa.com). For over 15 years Planet Sofa has been providing customers with stylish, high quality furniture at affordable prices. They are committed to offering pieces that combine aesthetics and utility with ergonomics and comfort.
Upholstered Furniture
Because of the wide variety of fabrics and fiber combinations, there is no guarantee that these methods will be completely successful and I recommend that a professional upholstery cleaner be contacted in particular cases. However, these simple solutions will keep your new upholstery crisp and clean for years!
. Vacuum at least once a week to remove grit that can cause abrasion, and be sure to dust vacuum the top surfaces as often as possible. Professional cleaning is the best way to make a slightly soiled sofa look new again, but weekly vacuuming will make professional cleaning a less frequent event. (Never brush any fabric with a stiff fiber or metal brush, since they're destructive to the fibers. Instead, use your vacuum attachments like the upholstery brush or the attachment for dusting draperies and furniture. The latter brush has longer bristles and is less abrasive to your upholstery fabric. It may be your best option if your fabric deserves a softer brushing.)
. Reverse the cushions each week after vacuuming. Rearrange the furniture occasionally to ensure even wear of the cushions and other areas. Cushions and pillows filled with down or similar cushioning material should be hand-fluffed and reversed regularly to retain their original softness and resiliency.
. Protect fabrics from the sun. Fabrics should not be placed in direct sunlight because the ultraviolet light will cause the fibers to degenerate and colors to fade. Occasionally dyes can fade from impurities in the air as well, but protection from the sun is a good way to prevent premature loss of color.
. Keep pets off the furniture. Pet urine and pet body oil can be difficult to remove.
. Use proper care with structural weave fabrics (where the design is created by the weave) to protect against snags. These fabrics may be cleaned by sprinkling dry powder cleaner over the fabric, spreading it uniformly and letting it stand for the recommended period before vacuuming with gentle suction. (However, I do recommend professional cleaning with stains on a woven fabric.)
. Caution those wearing clothing with transferable dyes, such as blue jeans, that the dye could transfer onto light-colored furniture.
Fabric Cleaning Guide
Today's new fabric treatments improve the chances of your fabric's survival. Fabric protection products are usually applied by the retail store for an additional cost. Most of the various brands work the same way by causing spills and soil to sit on the surface of the fiber instead of migrating to the fiber's interior.
Today's fiber protection products are free of ozone damaging chemicals, and most are hypoallergenic and invisible to the eye. Some even provide additional UV protection from color fading caused by intense light. One of the greatest benefits of fabric protection products is that they come with specific written warranties that provide peace of mind.
Whether your new upholstery has been fabric protected or not, you should follow the same basic guidelines in cleaning liquid spills or surface soil that can't be brushed off (such as newspaper ink).
Fabric Cleaning Codes
Before attempting to clean a spill or spot on your furniture, you should identify the fabric and the correct cleaning method recommended by the manufacturer. This information is represented by a cleaning code (W, S, WS, or X) often found under a cushion, on the bottom of the furniture or on the manufacturer's tag. If you cannot find this information, contact your salesperson at the furniture store where the item was purchased.
W - Spot clean only with water-based shampoo or foam upholstery cleaner.
S - Spot clean only with water-free cleaning solvent. Do not overwet. DO NOT USE WATER.
WS - Spot clean with upholstery shampoo, foam from a mild detergent, or a mild dry cleaning solvent. Do not overwet.
X - Clean only by vacuuming or light brushing with a non-metallic brush. DO NOT USE WATER OR DRY CLEANING SOLVENTS. Do not use a foam or liquid cleaner of any type.
Never apply cleaning solutions to visible areas of your upholstery fabric without first testing on areas that are not visible. It is important to pretest for color loss and fabric compatibility.
Cleaning Instructions
As a general rule, when a spill occurs, it is important to clean the fabric immediately. The longer a spot remains, the harder it is to remove. It may even become permanent.
Blot, don't rub. If the spill is still "fresh", use a clean, dry and very absorbent 100% cotton cloth. Should you have to use paper towels to blot out spills, be sure the paper towel (or cloth) is white, as colors in the towel may, when applied to a wet surface, fade onto the upholstery. Color from one fabric can rub off onto another fabric, even when dry -- a process known in the industry as "crocking".
If blotting with a dry cloth doesn't quite finish the job and you have cleaning directions from the furniture manufacturer, follow those. If none are available, use the instructions provided here.
I hope this information has been insightful. Use these tools when necessary, but most importantly, enjoy your upholstered piece -- it was meant to be used!
About the Author : Holly Linington is a designer and the owner of Planet Sofa ( http://www.planetsofa.com). For over 15 years Planet Sofa has been providing customers with stylish, high quality furniture at affordable prices. They are committed to offering pieces that combine aesthetics and utility with ergonomics and comfort.
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