How-to & Home Improvements Books - Page 5

Build Your Own underground Root Cellar

Phyllis Hobson

Amazon Price: $3.95 List Price: $3.95 Usually ships in 2 to 4 weeks By: Storey Publishing, LLC Amazon Marketplace: 6 new & used starting at $2.99

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Subjects -> Home & Garden -> Home Design -> Design & Construction
Subjects -> Home & Garden -> How-to & Home Improvements -> Do-It-Yourself
Subjects -> Home & Garden -> How-to & Home Improvements -> General AAS

Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 4 Average rating: 4.5 of 5

Convenience and Saving Money 5 out of 5 stars.
38 of 48 people found this review helpful.

Having a root cellar in your back yard is like having your own private supermarket of fresh fruits and vegetables. Any time you need potatoes for dinner or an apple for a snack, just open the door and walk inside. Anything you need is right there on the shelves.

But a root cellar is more than a convenience. In addition to providing the security of having a year's supply of fruits and vegetables on hand, a root cellar offers sanctuary. In an emergency, it could shelter your family for a few hours, a few days, or even a few weeks, if necessary.

A well-built root cellar can be a good investment. It will save you money for years to come, yet if you build the cellar yourself, the cost of materials is less than you would spend in one winter buying food at supermarket prices.

Editorial Review:

Since 1973, Storey's Country Wisdom Bulletins have offered practical, hands-on instructions designed to help readers master dozens of country living skills quickly and easily. There are now more than 170 titles in this series, and their remarkable popularity reflects the common desire of country and city dwellers alike to cultivate personal independence in everyday life.

The Simple Art of Napkin Folding: 94 Fancy Folds for Every Tabletop Occasion

Linda Hetzer

Amazon Price: $9.80 List Price: $12.95 Usually ships in 24 hours By: William Morrow Cookbooks Amazon Marketplace: 41 new & used starting at $5.68

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Subjects -> Cooking, Food & Wine -> Special Occasions -> Tablesetting
Subjects -> Cooking, Food & Wine -> Special Occasions -> General
Subjects -> Cooking, Food & Wine -> Special Occasions -> General AAS

Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 12 Average rating: 4.5 of 5

The Simple Art of Napkin Folding 4 out of 5 stars.
0 of 0 people found this review helpful.

Helpful book has many ideas for those who still like to set a nice table and actually use cloth napkins.

Editorial Review:

Use The Simple Art of Napkin Folding to duplicate those beautiful napkin folds you've admired at elegant restaurants and memorable events. It's easy with Linda Hetzer's detailed step-by-step directions and illustrations.  Using cloth or paper napkins, create standing triangular-shaped folds (the "Tavern") for dinner parties.  A few accordion pleats transforms a piece of cloth into the "Poinsettia." Need festive ideas for a children's birthday party?  Make "Sailboats" or "Paper Airplanes." Graduate to more intricate designs that combine napkins with silverware, flowers, and wineglasses.

Special features include

• A stain removal guide for heirloom linens and synthetic fabrics
• Easy-to-follow instructions for making napkin rings
• Graphs for embroidering initials on napkins
• Instructions for stenciling your own napkins

Filled with inspired ideas, The Simple Art of Napkin Folding turns any square of fabric into a work of art.

The Home Energy Diet: How to Save Money by Making Your House Energy-Smart (Mother Earth News Wiser Living Series)

Paul Scheckel

Amazon Price: $13.57 List Price: $19.95 Usually ships in 24 hours By: New Society Publishers Amazon Marketplace: 43 new & used starting at $11.22

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Subjects -> Health, Mind & Body -> Self-Help -> General
Subjects -> Health, Mind & Body -> Self-Help -> General AAS
Subjects -> Home & Garden -> Home Design -> Remodeling & Renovation -> Energy Efficiency

Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 13 Average rating: 5.0 of 5

Editorial Review:

With rising energy costs, homeowners are beginning to examine the energy efficiency of their own homes, asking questions about where energy comes from and how much it costs, how to choose new appliances and what options exist for renewable energy.

The Home Energy Diet answers all these questions and more while helping readers take control of their personal energy use and costs so they can save money, live more comfortably and help the environment. Energy auditor Paul Scheckel first explores energy literacy, and then describes how your home uses-and loses-energy you pay for via:

Electricity
Hot water
Heating and air conditioning
Windows, walls and insulation

The Home Energy Diet involves readers in learning about their own homes by: measuring, metering, investigating and considering habits related to household energy use; learning how to quantify energy consumption and cost and making informed decisions about cost-effective improvements and upgrades. The book explores the misunderstood concept of efficiency versus cost by comparing fuel costs and equipment choices, including the possibility of using renewable energy for meeting home energy needs. This authoritative guide makes efficiency fun through personal anecdotes and humorous "tales-from-the-basement" energy misadventures.

Since energy efficiency is an investment that offers returns greater than Wall Street, readers can earn several hundred dollars every year just by following the advice in this book. As a bonus, many of the energy-saving strategies described can make for improved indoor air quality and healthier, more comfortable homes.

Paul Scheckel is an energy auditor who has visited thousands of homes, educating people about energy efficiency, cost-effective improvements and indoor air quality. With a passion for efficiency and renewables, he walks the talk by living in a solar-powered house and driving a car powered by vegetable oil in his home state of Vermont.

Couture Sewing Techniques

Claire B. Shaeffer

Amazon Price: $14.93 List Price: $21.95 Usually ships in 24 hours By: Taunton Amazon Marketplace: 45 new & used starting at $10.90

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Subjects -> Arts & Photography -> Fashion -> General
Subjects -> Arts & Photography -> Fashion -> General AAS
Subjects -> Arts & Photography -> Design & Decorative Arts -> Graphic Design -> Commercial -> Fashion Design

Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 44 Average rating: 4.5 of 5

Not much of illustration 4 out of 5 stars.
2 of 6 people found this review helpful.

actually this book is a complete...
the flaw is the illustration is not much...and the words are like written all in sub-chapter...it's not like a handbook...

i think for sewing books, illustration is important...

Great couture sewing instruction 5 out of 5 stars.
1 of 1 people found this review helpful.

Excellent book. Recommended by my couture sewing instructor at the London School of Fashion. It provides an excellent overview of couture sewing technique.

Like a text book of information 5 out of 5 stars.
1 of 1 people found this review helpful.

The introduction is interesting and basically explains why Shaffer is qualified to give you this information. The rest reads like a text book, which, for me, is much easier. When I reach a road block with sewing, I simply refer to the applicable section and determine what stitch, seam, technique would best solve the issue. There are decent diagrams/pictures to walk you through each step. It discusses each type of seam, tools and their purpose, threads, needles, etc. It's a sewing dictionary.

Chapters include:
PART I
1. Inside the world of haute couture
2. The art of hand sewing
3. Shaping the garment: seams, darts, and pressing techniques
4. Edge finishes: hems, facings, and bindings
5. Closures
PART II
6. Skirts and pants
7. Blouses and dresses
8. Sleeves
9. Pockes
10. Jackets and coats
11. Evening wear

Draping was mentioned briefly, and in the little that was there, I was able to apply the information and successfully created/altered patterns.

Hope that helps, and good luck on your future projects!

Editorial Review:

Starting with hand sewing - the basis for every haute couture garment - expert Claire Shaeffer guides the reader through the steps to turn the ordinary into the extraordinary. She presents the sewing techniques practiced in the studios of such legendary designers as Dior, Chanel, Givenchy, and Balenciaga. Detailed instructions and illustrations make high style a snap.

Building Construction Illustrated

Francis D. K. Ching

Amazon Price: $32.97 List Price: $49.95 Usually ships in 24 hours By: Wiley Amazon Marketplace: 65 new & used starting at $27.73

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Subjects -> Arts & Photography -> General AAS
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Subjects -> Home & Garden -> Home Design -> Design & Construction

Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 68 Average rating: 4.5 of 5

Editorial Review:

The classic visual guide to the basics of building construction, now with the most current information

For nearly three decades, Building Construction Illustrated has offered an outstanding introduction to the principles of building construction. This new edition of the revered classic remains as relevant as ever-providing the latest information in Francis D.K. Ching's signature style. Its rich and comprehensive approach clearly presents all of the basic concepts underlying building construction and equips readers with useful guidelines for approaching virtually any new materials or techniques they may encounter.

Laying out the material and structural choices available, it provides a full under-standing of how these choices affect a building's form and dimensions. Complete with more than 1,000 illustrations, the book moves through each of the key stages of the design process, from site selection to building components, mechanical systems, and finishes.
*

Illustrated throughout with clear and accurate drawings that present the state of the art in construction processes and materials
*

Updated and revised to include the latest knowledge on sustainability, incorporation of building systems, and use of new materials
*

Archetypal drawings offer clear inspiration for designers and drafters
*

Reflects the most current building codes and CSI Master Format numbering scheme

With its comprehensive and lucid presentation of everything from foundations and floor systems to finish work, Building Construction Illustrated, Fourth Edition equips students and professionals in all areas of architecture and construction with useful guidelines for approaching virtually any new materials or techniques they may encounter in building planning, design, and construction.

2006 International Building Code - Softcover Version: Softcover Version (International Building Code)

International Code Council

Amazon Price: $94.50 List Price: $105.00 Usually ships in 24 hours By: Delmar Cengage Learning Amazon Marketplace: 36 new & used starting at $80.00

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Subjects -> Home & Garden -> Home Design -> Buildings & Construction
Subjects -> Law -> Business -> Construction
Subjects -> Professional & Technical -> Engineering -> Civil -> Construction -> Building Codes & Laws

Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 6 Average rating: 4.0 of 5

It is what it is... 3 out of 5 stars.
1 of 2 people found this review helpful.

Not really sure how to review this, but it is necessary for those of us who want to stay compliant and up to date with building regulations. It isn't necessarily easy to read, but like I said, it is what it is. :)

International Building Code 3 out of 5 stars.
1 of 2 people found this review helpful.

Oh, this is good stuff! You know you hate to use these darned things, but if you're into any kind of commercial construction - you gotta have 'em!

IBC 2006 4 out of 5 stars.
0 of 4 people found this review helpful.

My son needed this for one of his college architecture classes. This was the cheapest site and had really fast shipment.

Editorial Review:

The 2006 International Building Code® addresses the design and installation of building systems through requirements that emphasize performance. Fully compatible with all the International Codes, the 2006 edition provides up-to-date, comprehensive coverage that establishes minimum regulations for building systems using prescriptive and performance-related provisions. Content is founded on broad-based principles that make possible the use of materials and building designs. Structural as well as fire- and life-safety provisions covering seismic, wind, accessibility, egress, occupancy, roofs, and more are included.

Woodworking Basics: Mastering the Essentials of Craftsmanship

Peter Korn

Amazon Price: $13.57 List Price: $19.95 Usually ships in 24 hours By: Taunton Amazon Marketplace: 36 new & used starting at $9.21

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Subjects -> Home & Garden -> Crafts & Hobbies -> Woodworking -> Projects

Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 20 Average rating: 4.5 of 5

Concise, compelling, the beginning of an addiction 5 out of 5 stars.
6 of 6 people found this review helpful.

I had nothing but a curiosity about woodworking when Amazon brought this book to my attention as a highly rated book for beginners. This book does an absolutely fabulous job of boiling the craft down to the basics for readers unfamiliar with the subject.

This book will not make you a master in any technique, nor will it cover anything in particular detail. What it will do is give you an introduction to wood, common tools (both hand and powered), and basic techniques for making fine furniture. This book was the beginning of an addiction for me, and for that I am grateful!

Editorial Review:

Based on a two-week course in woodworking fundamentals offered at the Center for Furniture Craftsmanship in Camden, Maine, this book takes a traditional approach to teaching, with the idea that learning basic skills is essential to craftsmanship. In the process, the book covers all the bases, from working with hand tools to cutting dovetails. Over 250 color photos and drawings and two complete projects — a bench and a small cabinet — are included.

Home Quick Planner: Reusable, Peel & Stick Furniture & Architectural Symbols

Daniel K. Reif

Amazon Price: $19.77 List Price: $29.95 Usually ships in 1 to 3 weeks By: Design World - Model: HQP Amazon Marketplace: 2 new & used starting at $16.00

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Subjects -> Home & Garden -> Crafts & Hobbies -> Decorating
Subjects -> Home & Garden -> Home Design -> Design & Construction
Subjects -> Home & Garden -> Interior Design -> Decorating

Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 15 Average rating: 4.0 of 5

Great Tool 5 out of 5 stars.
3 of 3 people found this review helpful.

I purchased this for my interior design class. This has proven to be a great asset for furniture placement. The templetes are reuseable

Excellent planning décor and designing tool 4 out of 5 stars.
2 of 3 people found this review helpful.

The Home Quick Planner is an excellent way to lay out and discover alternative floor plans, decorating ideas and propose major home remodeling changes. I have found it very helpful.

Editorial Review:

Whether you're building, remodeling, decorating, or just fantasizing, the Home Quick Planner helps you design the perfect floor plan. Go ahead - knock down walls and move furniture, cabinets, appliances, windows & doors - all with one finger. 700 precut, reusable peel & stick furniture and architectural symbols 1/4-inch scale home furniture, every standard kitchen cabinet and appliance, extensive assortment of bathroom fixtures and cabinets, windows, doors, walls, switches, outlets, lights and much more 5,600 square-foot floor plan grid Reusable symbols stick to floor plan grid or directly to your own plan Design details: critical dimensions & clearances Fun and easy way to design your plans and make changes

Sewing 101: A Beginner's Guide to Sewing

The editors of Creative Publishing international

Amazon Price: $19.96 List Price: $24.95 Usually ships in 24 hours By: QUAYSIDE PUBLISHING - Model: CPI-69-8 Amazon Marketplace: 23 new & used starting at $14.96

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Subjects -> Home & Garden -> Crafts & Hobbies -> Sewing
Subjects -> Home & Garden -> Crafts & Hobbies -> General

Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 47 Average rating: 4.0 of 5

I Still Cant Sew!! 1 out of 5 stars.
1 of 3 people found this review helpful.

I really expected this book to break down the process of reading patterns, but it didnt. I still think that they look like really bad jiggsaw puzzles and I know no more than I did when I started. Oh wait, I know that I should IRON the fabric before I start working with it. THANKS!

I dont know what Im going to do, I'm afraid to buy a bunch of books trying to figure out how to sew and where I live, classes are limited. I saw that there was a video, but it got some pretty poor reviews. My brand new machine is in the basement taking up space.

Pictures out of date, but nice format. 4 out of 5 stars.
0 of 0 people found this review helpful.

This was a gift for my daughter, which was given to her with a new sewing machine. It looks like she is learning a lot from the book and enjoys reading it.

Editorial Review:

QUAYSIDE PUBLISHING-Sewing 101 is a modern-day primer on the basic skills and techniques of sewing. Geared toward the absolute novice and assumes you know little or nothing at all about sewing. Features step-by-step photos useful sewing tip sidebars and a detailed glossary. Softcover Spiral-bound: 224 pages. Made in China.

Haley's Hints

Graham Haley, Rosemary Haley

Amazon Price: $9.72 List Price: $14.95 Usually ships in 24 hours By: NAL Trade Amazon Marketplace: 55 new & used starting at $6.45

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Subjects -> Home & Garden -> How-to & Home Improvements -> Household Hints

Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 39 Average rating: 4.5 of 5

A real life-saver. 5 out of 5 stars.
0 of 0 people found this review helpful.

I have used this for years. Now I give it as a bridal shower gift everytime I am invited to one.

Great book to go to........... 5 out of 5 stars.
0 of 0 people found this review helpful.

Haley's hints is a great book to go to for finding how-to information. It has been very helpful when I know there's a better way to clean something when the over-the-counter products are not performing, or when I don't have them on-hand. This book will save you time and money and you'll go to it often.

Editorial Review:

The extraordinary guide to ordinary items and products with time- and money-saving uses. Over 2,000 of them!

In Haley's Hints readers will find:

€ Environment-friendly tips on cleaning and stain removal
€ Money-saving advice on pest control and pet care
€ Practical pointers for children, seniors, and gardeners
€ Recipe tricks
€ Laundry tips
€ Sewing hints
€ Workplace wonders
€ Plumbing, painting, carpentry, and electrical shortcuts
€ Plus a whole chapter on pampering themselves

All topped off with a comprehensive easy-find index to help readers find the exact solution they need-fast.