Author: Thomas Avery

Thomas Avery

Thomas Avery, with over 10 years of experience in home improvement and DIY projects, brings a wealth of practical knowledge to our platform. He earned his degree in Interior Design from the University of Colorado, Boulder. He previously worked with renowned home renovation companies in the UK, contributing to numerous high-profile restoration projects. Before joining us, he authored several publications on sustainable living. He enjoys hiking and exploring the rich cultural heritage worldwide when not crafting new content.

Framing my finished cross-stitch pieces at home has become one of the most satisfying parts of the process. After spending so many hours stitching, I used to put off the final step because custom framing felt too expensive and overwhelming. But I’ve learned that with a few basic supplies and a clear step-by-step plan, it’s totally possible to get a professional-looking result right at home. I don’t need fancy tools—just some everyday materials and a little patience. Framing my own work lets me personalize each piece and saves me money, too. Whether it’s for a gift or to hang in…

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Stone foundations are strong and built to last, but even they need upkeep. Over time, the mortar holding the stones together can crack, crumble, or fall out. When that happens, your home becomes more vulnerable to water leaks, shifting, and damage. I learned that repointing, removing old, damaged mortar, and replacing it with fresh mortar is key to keeping a stone foundation strong. It helps prevent moisture issues, adds stability, and keeps the foundation looking good. In this guide, I’ll cover everything you need to know about repointing a stone foundation, from spotting early signs of trouble to choosing the…

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When I first heard about WPC flooring, I had no idea what it meant. It sounded a bit confusing. But once I dug in, I found out it’s actually pretty simple, and it’s a great option for many homes. WPC stands for Wood Plastic Composite, which is a mix of wood fibers and plastic. This type of floor looks nice, feels strong, and can handle spills and messes better than regular wood. I know picking the right floor can be a big choice. That’s why I wanted to share what I’ve learned in a way that’s easy to follow. In…

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Are you looking to add charm and function to your yard? A square gazebo might be just what you need. In this article, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to build one from start to finish. You’ll learn about the best materials to use, step-by-step instructions, and tips for a smooth build. If your goal is a peaceful retreat or a place to entertain guests, I’ve got you covered. Building a gazebo can seem like a big task, but don’t worry – I’mhere to help. Rest assured, if you follow our guide, you’ll have a beautiful addition…

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In the world of woodworking and construction, the terms “timber”and “lumber”are often used interchangeably. But do they actually mean the same thing? If you’ve ever found yourself confused about these terms, you’re not alone. In this article, I’ll break down the differences between timber and lumber. Let’s take a look at what each term really means, how they’re used in different regions, and why it matters for your DIY or construction projects. No matter if you’re a DIY enthusiast, a budding carpenter, or a homeowner tackling a project, understanding these terms will help you choose the right materials for your…

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Sherwin-Williams’ Alabaster (SW-7008) is a soft white that has stood the test of time. This gentle color brings warmth to any room without being too yellow or stark. Homeowners and designers choose Alabaster for its ability to work with many styles—from modern to farmhouse. In this blog, you’ll learn: What undertones hide in Alabaster How it stacks up against similar whites Tips for using it in your home I’ve tested Alabaster in hundreds of homes with different lighting situations. My advice will help you decide if this popular white is right for your space. Why Is Sherwin-Williams Alabaster so Popular?…

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We have always wished to capture the beauty of a flower in full bloom and keep it forever.  Drying flowers is a wonderful way to preserve precious memories, whether fromyour garden, prom, wedding bouquets, wildflowers picked on a special walk, or even a loved one’s funeral.    But whatever the reason, I will always encourage you to do so because flowers are just so pretty, aren’t they? I’m all for adding a little more beauty to our lives! But the problem is how to preserve your beautiful flowers so they last years instead of weeks while still retaining their color and…

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Last Christmas, I wanted to create something special for my mom, a way to showcase her cherished travel mementos. That’s when I found the magic of shadow boxes. These clever display cases aren’t just frames, they’re memory keepers. If you want to preserve ticket stubs, display family photos, or create unique wall art, a shadow box is your perfect DIY project. In this guide, I’ll walk you through exactly how to build a shadow box with: Simple steps anyone can follow No complicated tools required Budget-friendly materials Plenty of personal tips You don’t need woodworking experience. Just bring your creativity…

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I recently painted some canvases to hang in my living room, but they looked dull on the wall and lacked vibrancy and sophistication. That’s when I thought of framing them to maximize their impact. Framing a canvas print elevates your artwork and gives it that extra layer of gravity. I wanted the frame for these canvas prints to be a custom picture frame, not one of those floating canvas frames. Thankfully, I found a simple, cost-effective fix and ended up with a successful project. In this blog, I’ll guide you through the process of framing your rolled canvas print. It’s…

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Is your picnic table looking worn out, faded, or just not as nice as it once was? Maybe the wood feels rough or the old stain is peeling off. Don’t worry, you don’t need to toss it or spend money on a new one. With a little time and the right steps, you can make it look fresh again. In this guide, I’ll show you how to stain your picnic table the easy way. You’ll learn how to sand, clean, and stain it step by step. No fancy tools or experience needed, just some basic supplies and a little patience.…

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