Hot colors, flowery, beaded and clear – bra straps are now made to show.By Elaine WalkerKnight Ridder Newspapers MIAMI – No more worries about ugly white bra straps peeking out from underneath that sexy black camisole or spaghetti strap dress.Instead of a fashion faux pas, it’s now a cool fashion statement to show those straps […]

Based on a classic outdoor design, this twin-seater project is a great way for do-it-yourselfers to share a sunny afternoon by the pool or a warm evening on the patio. It features wide, comfortable seats flanking a table perfect for drinks, snacks or playing checkers or cards.Although the project is designed to last for many […]

I don’t usually test products for more than a week, but I decided to give the Holmes HEPA room-air purifier several weeks before I wrote about it.Why? Indoor-air quality. You can buy a dream house but if it doesn’t breathe properly, you’ve wasted a lot of money and are probably making yourself sick to boot.We […]

Insulation is one of the most important elements of a home’s efficiency, helping to keep energy bills low and the interior comfortable.Making sure that a home has at least the minimum recommended levels of insulation may be a job best suited for a professional contractor. Shop for estimates from several local contractors; then choose the […]

Most of you know the legend of Johnny Appleseed, who planted apple trees for the pioneers in the Midwest a couple of hundred years ago. In fact, he was a real person named John Chapman who spent 50 years traveling around the country. And it also turns out he needs to be credited as one […]

Attention bridesmaids and groomsmen. Have you been asked to be your best friend’s maid of honor or your brother’s best man? Are you aware of the responsibilities that go along with that honor?It’s more than standing next to them as they say, “I do.” There’s a whole list of duties that go along with the […]

If you’re looking for a way to get organized this summer, this do-it-yourself garden shed is a great way to add some storage to the “back forty.” More durable (not to mention better looking) than metal or plastic sheds, the project is perfect for garden tools, outdoor toys or even pool supplies.Most woodworkers will be […]

Buttons are much more than functional fasteners. They are important finishing touches to the clothes you sew.Some pointers on selecting and placing buttonsWhen a single button closes a jacket, coat or vest, choose an interesting one that can assume the stature of a piece of jewelry. It should measure 3/4 inch to 1 inch in […]

According to real estate and cleaning experts, including The Soap and Detergent Association, www.leaning101.com, when a house is for sale, make it as attractive as possible to potential buyers. The most cost-efficient way to spruce up the home is to clean it thoroughly. Here’s how: Get rid of clutter Many potential buyers may not see […]

• Lipstick first appeared 5,000 years ago, in the city of Ur, near Babylon.• The first mechanical lipstick was manufactured in 1920.• Lipstick is the most popular cosmetic item.• The average Western woman uses four to nine pounds of lipstick in her lifetime.• About 75 percent to 85 percent of American women wear lipstick.• According […]