Tuesday, October 31, 2017

How to of the Day

How to of the Day


How to Eliminate Skunk Odor

Posted: 31 Oct 2017 05:00 PM PDT

Skunks have a natural deterrent to protect themselves from predators, and this deterrent comes in the form of a nasty-smelling oil that contains sulphur compounds. Skunk spray has an unpleasant and pungent smell that can linger for up to a month if it goes untreated. The trick to eliminating skunk smell from your pet's fur, your hair and skin, clothes, furniture, and carpeting is to act quickly. The longer you wait to clean the affected area, the harder it will be to remove the smell.

EditIngredients

EditHomemade Skunk Odor Eliminator

  • 4 cups (940 ml) hydrogen peroxide, 3 percent solution
  • ¼ cup (55 g) baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) liquid dish detergent

EditSteps

EditGetting Skunk Spray Off Your Skin

  1. Don't touch anything! Skunk oil on your skin, clothes, and hair can easily transfer to other surfaces, including other people, clothes, furniture, and more. The more you touch, the more you'll have to clean, so avoid touching anything or anyone.
    Eliminate Skunk Odor Step 1 Version 2.jpg
  2. Make a homemade odor removal solution. In a medium bucket, mix together the hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and dish detergent. Stir the mixture gently to combine all the ingredients. Don't stir too much, or you'll agitate the solution and make it bubble.
    Eliminate Skunk Odor Step 2 Version 2.jpg
    • The hydrogen peroxide and baking soda will break down the sulfur in the skunk oil and help to eliminate the smell. The detergent will break down the oil itself.[1]
  3. Wash your skin and hair with the solution. Soak a sponge or loofah in the peroxide mixture and apply generous amounts to your skin. Use the sponge to lather the mixture, making sure you scrub from head to toe. Apply the solution to your hair as well, thoroughly massaging the cleaner into your hair and scalp.
    Eliminate Skunk Odor Step 3 Version 2.jpg
    • Be very careful not to get the solution in your eyes or mouth, as it will burn your eyes and is not safe to eat.
    • Don't leave the solution on your hair for too long, as it can bleach your hair!
  4. Rinse yourself clean. Rinse your body first to remove the cleaner and skunk oil, letting the solution sit in your hair for a few minutes. When you're finished rinsing your body, rinse the solution from your hair.
    Eliminate Skunk Odor Step 4 Version 2.jpg
    • Wash your skin and hair with the solution again if necessary, and rinse the solution off before washing with soap.
  5. Bathe with soap and water. To remove any lingering odor and oil, wash your body with your favorite soap. Rinse well to remove any leftover residue and oil. Shampoo your hair, massaging the shampoo into your hair and scalp. Rinse out the shampoo and apply conditioner as usual.[2]
    Eliminate Skunk Odor Step 5 Version 2.jpg

EditTreating Pets That Have Been Sprayed

  1. Get your pet outside immediately. Skunk spray is an oily substance that can easily transfer from your pet to your furniture, carpets, drapes, and entire house. To prevent this from happening, don't let your pet inside after being sprayed, or get your pet outside as quickly as possible.[3]
    Eliminate Skunk Odor Step 6 Version 2.jpg
    • In inclement weather, keep your pet in a garage if possible, or confined to a single room in the house. A bathroom is a good choice, because that way you can bathe your pet in the shower.
  2. Make a skunk odor removal solution. This homemade remedy is quite effective at eliminating skunk odor. In a medium bucket, combine the hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and liquid dish detergent. Mix the ingredients gently to combine everything, but not so vigorously that you agitate the solution.
    Eliminate Skunk Odor Step 7 Version 2.jpg
    • You can use white vinegar in place of the hydrogen peroxide if necessary, but it's not as effective at eliminating the odor.
    • Despite its popularity, tomato juice isn't very effective at removing skunk smell. Similarly, air fresheners and other products will likely only cover the smell temporarily, but won't actually get rid of it.[4]
    • You can also try commercial skunk odor eliminators instead, but this homemade remedy is the most effective.[5]
  3. Put on gloves to protect your hands. Skunk smell can also transfer to you. Before washing your pet, put on some old clothes and a pair of rubber or latex gloves to protect your skin.[6]
    Eliminate Skunk Odor Step 8 Version 2.jpg
  4. Treat your pet with the concentrated solution. Soak a sponge in the odor eliminator solution. Use the sponge to apply the solution to your pet's dry fur. Massage the solution into the coat to ensure it fully saturates the fur and skin. Don't use the solution near your pet's mouth or eyes.[7]
    Eliminate Skunk Odor Step 9 Version 2.jpg
    • Don't rinse your pet before applying the solution, as that will dilute the solution and make it less effective.
    • The hydrogen peroxide may bleach your pet's fur, but it is safe to use and won't damage their skin.[8]
  5. Let the solution stand for five minutes. Leave the solution to soak into your pet's fur and skin for at least five minutes. This will give the peroxide mixture time to work its magic and neutralize the sulphur compounds in the skunk spray.[9]
    Eliminate Skunk Odor Step 10.jpg
  6. Rinse your pet's fur thoroughly. Using a garden hose or bucket, rinse your pet to remove the solution and wash away the skunk oil. Be careful around the eye and face area, as you don't want the solution to go into your pet's eyes or mouth.[10]
    Eliminate Skunk Odor Step 11.jpg
    • If you do happen to get solution in your pet's face or eyes, rinse the area thoroughly with water.
  7. Repeat if necessary. If your pet still smells after the first application, apply a second coat of odor eliminator solution and let it sit for another five minutes. Rinse thoroughly to remove any excess solution.
    Eliminate Skunk Odor Step 12.jpg
    • When your pet is stink-free and you've cleaned anything else that smells, discard the homemade odor eliminator solution. The mixture is volatile and shouldn't be stored for later use.[11]
    • The ingredients in the mixture can all safely be poured down the drain or flushed down the toilet.[12]

EditCleaning Clothes and Washable Fabrics

  1. Soak your clothes in a diluted peroxide solution. Fill a large bucket with one part hydrogen peroxide and six parts water. Remove your clothes, being careful not to spread the oil onto your skin or eyes. Place the clothes in the peroxide solution and let them soak for at least an hour.[13]
    Eliminate Skunk Odor Step 13.jpg
    • For delicate clothes, soak them in a mixture of one part vinegar and four parts water.
  2. Wash your clothes in the washing machine. After soaking for an hour, remove your clothes from the peroxide solution and wring them out in the sink. Transfer the clothes to the washing machine. Fill the detergent compartment as usual with your favorite detergent, and add ½ cup (110 g) of baking soda to the drum with the clothes. Wash the clothes on your regular cycle.[14]
    Eliminate Skunk Odor Step 14.jpg
  3. Hang the clothes to dry outside on a line. When the cycle has finished and your clothes are clean, remove them from the washing machine. Take the clothes outside and hang them to dry in the sun. The sun's rays will not only dry the clothes, but will also help to eliminate any leftover skunk odors.[15]
    Eliminate Skunk Odor Step 15.jpg
    • In winter or when it's not possible to dry your clothes outside, dry the clothes in a dryer. Don't put the clothes in the dryer until you're sure the smell is gone, otherwise you may set the smell and make it even harder to remove.[16]

EditRemoving Skunk Smell from the House

  1. Open windows and turn on fans and vents. One of the most effective steps you can take to eliminate skunk smell inside is ventilating the house and getting fresh air circulating.[17] Open all the windows in the house, turn on the kitchen and bathroom vents, turn on ceiling fans, and use standing or oscillating fans to move the air.
    Eliminate Skunk Odor Step 16.jpg
    • If you have multiple fans, set up one inside in front of a window to blow in fresh air from outside, and set up another at a different window to blow stinky air from the house out.
  2. Use diluted bleach to clean hard surfaces inside and out. In a large bucket, mix together a cleaning solution of one part bleach and nine parts water.[18] Put on gloves, dip a sponge in the solution, and wring out the excess. You can use the solution on hard surfaces inside your home, including linoleum floors, stone counters, concrete, and wood floors. Use the sponge to scrub patio areas, fences, decks, and exterior walls.[19]
    Eliminate Skunk Odor Step 17.jpg
    • Use only minimal amounts of liquid on wood floors, and rinse the floors with plain water after applying the bleach solution.
    • Only use this mixture on color-fast surfaces. Don't use this solution to clean furniture, fabrics, people, or pets.
  3. Spray the garden and lawn with a vinegar and dish soap solution. In a large bucket, combine a gallon (3.8 L) of vinegar and 1 cup (235 ml) of liquid dish soap. Stir the mixture to combine the liquids, and transfer the solution to a spray bottle. Apply generous amounts of the solution to affected areas of the grass, shrubs, bushes, trees, and plants.[20]
    Eliminate Skunk Odor Step 18.jpg
  4. Steam clean carpets, drapes, and furniture. Steam cleaning is the best way to clean carpeting, drapery, and furniture that's been affected by skunk oil.[21] The detergent will help to break up the oil and eliminate the smell, and the steam will rinse the oil from the fabric.
    Eliminate Skunk Odor Step 19.jpg
    • Steam cleaners can often be rented from grocery or hardware stores if you don't have one of your own.
  5. Place bowls of vinegar around the house to absorb skunk odors. Vinegar is great at absorbing odors, so you can use it to help remove any lingering skunk smell that still in the house. Fill shallow bowls with vinegar and place the bowls near affected areas, such as carpeting and furniture. Leave the bowls out for one to two days, and discard the vinegar when the smell is gone.[22]
    Eliminate Skunk Odor Step 20.jpg

EditTips

  • Prevent skunk encounters by keeping your pets on a leash during walks, keeping your yard clear of attractants like pet and bird food, and by securing garbage can lids properly.

EditWarnings

  • After a skunk encounter involving a pet, check the animal for bites and scratches, and get to the veterinarian right away if you find any.

EditRelated wikiHows

EditSources and Citations


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How to Do a Wells Fargo Wire Transfer

Posted: 31 Oct 2017 09:00 AM PDT

Wiring money is a fast and easy way to pay someone. As a Wells Fargo customer, you can send money online or in person, and you can also receive wire transfers. You'll need to gather required information so that the wire can go through smoothly. Also confirm what fees you will pay, because you can't send or receive money for free.

EditSteps

EditSending Money Online

  1. Check if this is an option for you. You can wire money online if you have been a Wells Fargo Online customer for at least 180 days. You also need a valid Wells Fargo savings, checking, or Command Asset Program account.[1]
    Do a Wells Fargo Wire Transfer Step 1.jpg
    • If you haven't been a Wells Fargo Online customer for enough time, you should register. This will allow you to send wires online in the future.
  2. Add recipients. Once you log in, you should select "Transfer and Pay" and then choose "Wire Money."[2] You should add recipient details, such as the following:
    Do a Wells Fargo Wire Transfer Step 2.jpg
    • The recipient's name and address.
    • The name, address, and country of the recipient's bank.
    • The bank's routing number.
    • The bank's Swift Code/BIC. This is an 8 or 11-digit code.
  3. Send money. You should include the amount you want to send and the recipient's account number. If you are sending money internationally, you will need the International Bank Account Number (IBAN).
    Do a Wells Fargo Wire Transfer Step 3.jpg
    • If you want the money to arrive on the same day, you should send before 4:30 Central Time (CT). This is the deadline for sending outgoing domestic and international wire transfers. If you live in the Eastern Time zone, then 5:30 is the deadline. Talk to a banking representative if you have questions.
  4. Pay fees. Online wire fees start at $30. Review your consumer account fee and information schedule or call 1-800-869-3557 for more information.[3]
    Do a Wells Fargo Wire Transfer Step 4.jpg

EditWiring Money in Person

  1. Gather information from the recipient. You need the following information to make sure that your wire goes through:[4]
    Do a Wells Fargo Wire Transfer Step 5.jpg
    • The recipient's name and address.
    • The recipient bank name, address, and country.
    • Swift Code/BIC of the recipient's bank. The recipient should give you this information.
    • The FedWire ABA Routing Number (domestic wires). This is a nine-digit number.
    • International Routing Code (international wires).
    • The recipient's bank account number or International Bank Account Number (IBAN).
  2. Meet the deadline. If you want your wire to go through on the same day, then you must send it before the deadline. If you miss the deadline, the wire goes through on the next business day. Consider the following deadlines:[5]
    Do a Wells Fargo Wire Transfer Step 6.jpg
    • 12:00 pm (noon) Central Time. Same-day wires to Mexico in Pesos and wires to Canada in Canadian dollars. If you are in the Eastern Time zone, add one hour (1:00 pm). Subtract one hour in the Mountain Time zone (11:00 am) and two hours in the Pacific Time zone (10:00 am).
    • 3:00 pm CT. Tax payments and outgoing international wire transfers from a consumer account.
    • 4:30 pm CT. Outgoing domestic and international wire transfers and outgoing drawdowns.
    • 7:00 pm CT. Same-day wire transfers between two Wells Fargo accounts.
  3. Stop into your bank. Visit any Wells Fargo location. Find the nearest at https://www.wellsfargo.com/locator/. Unfortunately, you must stop by in person because Wells Fargo cannot accept wire instructions by email or through fax.[6]
    Do a Wells Fargo Wire Transfer Step 7.jpg
    • If you want to wire money using the phone in the future, you should complete a Wire Agreement at the branch. You will also order your personal identification number (PIN), which will take 10-14 business days to arrive.
  4. Complete a form. Tell the bank representative that you want to wire money to someone. There should be a form for you to fill out. Sign in front of the bank representative. Also ask about fees before going through with the wire transfer.
    Do a Wells Fargo Wire Transfer Step 8.jpg

EditReceiving a Wire Transfer

  1. Provide the sender with your account information. You want the wire to go through smoothly, so make sure the person sending you money has the necessary information. Send them the following:[7]
    Do a Wells Fargo Wire Transfer Step 9.jpg
    • Wire Routing Transfer Number: 121000248.
    • Bank Name: Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.
    • Location: 420 Montgomery, San Francisco, California (use this regardless of where your account is located).
    • Swift Code: WFBIUS6S (for international transfers).
    • Title of your account: as it appears on your statement.
    • Your full account number.
  2. Receive your money. To receive money on the same day, incoming wires must be received by 5:30 pm Central Time. If the wire comes in later, you won't receive the money until the next business day.[8]
    Do a Wells Fargo Wire Transfer Step 10.jpg
    • The deadline is 6:30 pm in the Eastern Time zone, 4:30 pm in the Mountain Time zone, and 3:30 pm in the Pacific Time zone.
  3. Pay the fee. You need to pay a $15 fee to receive a wire transfer. Other fees may also apply. Call 1-800-869-3557 for more information about fees or talk to a banking representative.[9]
    Do a Wells Fargo Wire Transfer Step 11.jpg

EditTips

  • Your recipient cannot be a bank, unless you are sending payment to Wells Fargo for a loan, such as a mortgage payment.[10]

EditSources and Citations


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How to Celebrate Halloween

Posted: 31 Oct 2017 01:00 AM PDT

Halloween comes on the 31st of October every year. If you want to celebrate, you have multiple options. You can throw a party with friends and family, decorate for the season, or participate in events around your town. Have fun and enjoy the festivities with friends and family members. With some preparation and planning, you and your loved ones can enjoy a fun and festive Halloween.

EditSteps

EditHaving a Party

  1. Have everyone wear a costume. Part of the fun of Halloween is dressing up. If you're hosting a party, invite all your guests to wear costumes. If you want, you can even have a contest where guests win different categories like "Scariest Costume," "Funniest Costume," and so on.[1]
    Celebrate Halloween Step 1 Version 2.jpg
    • You can have a specific theme and have guests dress for that theme. For example, try a sci-fi Halloween party or a dracula themed party.
    • Remember, not everyone likes dressing up. If guests don't want to wear a costume, don't push it.
  1. Bob for apples. Bobbing for apples is a classic Halloween tradition that many people love. Simply place some apples in a bucket of water and have guests try to lift them out with their mouths. This can be fun if you want a more lighthearted holiday party instead of something scary.[2]
    Celebrate Halloween Step 2 Version 2.jpg
  2. Watch scary movies. If you want, you can have a movie screening at your party. Show your favorite scary movies that are perfect for the season, like The Exorcist, The Sixth Sense, and films from the Halloween franchise.[3]
    Celebrate Halloween Step 3 Version 2.jpg
    • If you're serving alcohol at your party, have a drinking game where guests have to drink for a variety of reasons. For example, "Drink every time someone screams." Make sure to drink responsibly, however, and stop drinking if you start to feel dizzy or disoriented.
  3. Play spooky music. Make a spooky playlist with disturbing songs like "Somebody's Watching Me" and the theme music from Halloween classics. Something like the theme to Rosemary's Baby can really set the mood.[4]
    Celebrate Halloween Step 4 Version 2.jpg
    • Keep in mind, not everything about a Halloween party has to be scary. You can also play lighthearted Halloween favorites, like the theme to Ghostbusters or "The Monster Mash."
  4. Serve Halloween-themed punch. Make a spooky punch by mixing together dark juices, like fizzy red pop or blackberry juice, to create a punch that looks something like blood. You can also add "eyeballs" by stuffing blackberries into lychee berries and placing them in the punch so they bob on the surface.[5]
    Celebrate Halloween Step 5 Version 2.jpg
    • If you're serving alcohol at your party, consider spiking the punch with a liquor like vodka or rum. Just make sure guests drink responsibly.
  5. Provide Halloween treats. There are a wide variety of treats you can provide for the event. You can provide classic candy that's often handed out to trick or treaters, like small candy bars. You can also try making your own Halloween-themed baked goods. For example, make cutout cookies in shapes like pumpkins or cats and frost them with orange and black frosting.[6]
    Celebrate Halloween Step 6 Version 2.jpg
    • Be sure to provide healthy snacks, like fruits and veggies, for more health conscious guests.
  6. Welcome in the trick-or-treaters throughout the night. If you live in a residential area, you may get some trick-or-treaters throughout the night. Have a bowl of candy on hand and give a few pieces of candy to anyone that comes to your door.[7]
    Celebrate Halloween Step 7 Version 2.jpg
    • If you have any pets, it's a good idea to lock them up before trick-or-treaters arrive.

EditDecorating for Halloween

  1. Carve pumpkins. You can buy pumpkins at the supermarket around Halloween. Cut open the top, remove the seeds and pulp from the insides, and cut out fun shapes or faces onto the sides of the pumpkins. Place a candle on the bottom of the pumpkin and light it to create an eerie, glowing pumpkin.[8]
    Celebrate Halloween Step 8 Version 2.jpg
    • If you're carving pumpkins with young children, do not let them handle knives. Instead, have them draw faces on the pumpkins and then cut them out yourselves.
  2. Hang up fake spiderwebs. You can buy fake spiderwebs at most department stores around the Halloween season. Place the webs in areas like staircases and the corners of ceilings to give your home a spooky look.[9]
    Celebrate Halloween Step 9 Version 2.jpg
    • You can also add a few rubber spiders to the webs for an extra scary look.
  3. Make a ghost candy stand. Take a large glass or plastic bowl and place it on an end table. Drape a white sheet over the bowl and then fill the bowl with candy. The sheet should fall down around the bowl and over the table. Cut out pieces of felt, or a similar material, into the shape of eyes and a mouth and pin them somewhere on the sheet so it looks like a ghost.[10]
    Celebrate Halloween Step 10 Version 2.jpg
  4. Make a mummy door. A simple way to decorate is to make a mummy door. Simply string toilet paper or white crepe paper along your door. Then, make two eyes out of construction paper and tape them on the door so it looks like a mummy.[11]
    Celebrate Halloween Step 11.jpg
  5. Decorate with balloon ghosts. Blow up a balloon and then place it in a white garbage bag. Twist the bag around the end of the balloon and secure it on with a rubber band. Use a marker to draw eyes and a mouth on the balloon for a spooky Halloween decoration.[12]
    Celebrate Halloween Step 12.jpg

EditParticipating in Halloween Events

  1. Go trick or treating. If you have small children, or are still young enough yourself, trick-or-treating can be fun. Go from house to house with a bucket or bag and ask for collect candy from neighbors. This is a fun way to show off costumes and indulge in some Halloween treats.[13]
    Celebrate Halloween Step 13.jpg
    • Practice basic safety precautions, however. Stick to residential areas where most people are still awake and inspect all your candy before eating it.
    • Remember, not everyone is open to trick-or-treaters. Make sure you don't go to houses if the lights are off. A lack of decorations may also indicate someone does not want to participate.
  2. Visit a haunted house. See if there are any haunted houses in your areas. As Halloween is meant to be a scary holiday, get a group of friends together to go to a haunted house. This can be a fun way to get a little scared and still mark the event.
    Celebrate Halloween Step 14.jpg
    • However, keep in mind not everyone likes haunted houses. Don't force anyone to go if they're not interested. Some people may genuinely get scared.
  3. Look for screenings at local movie theaters. Movie theaters may do events for Halloween. They may screen Halloween classics or offer free or discounted tickets. Do an online search to see if there are any special events at local theaters for Halloween.
    Celebrate Halloween Step 15.jpg
  4. Take a ghost tour. Look online to see if your area offers ghost tours. A guided tour through your hometown's most haunted sites can be a great way to make the most of Halloween.
    Celebrate Halloween Step 16.jpg
    • Ghost tours may fill up fast during the holiday season, so get your tickets well ahead of time.

EditTips

  • Always inspect your children's candy collection when they return from trick-or-treating; some people give out strange things.

EditRelated wikiHows

EditSources and Citations


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Monday, October 30, 2017

How to of the Day

How to of the Day


How to Make a Supergroup on Telegram on PC or Mac

Posted: 30 Oct 2017 05:00 PM PDT

This wikiHow teaches you how to create a Telegram group capable of handling up to 20,000 members when you're using a computer.

EditSteps

EditCreating a Group

  1. Open Telegram on your computer. If you're using Windows, you'll find it in the Windows menu. If you're using a Mac, it's in the Applications folder.
    Make a Supergroup on Telegram on PC or Mac Step 1.jpg
  2. Click . It's at the top-left corner of the window.
    Make a Supergroup on Telegram on PC or Mac Step 2.jpg
  3. Click .
    Make a Supergroup on Telegram on PC or Mac Step 3.jpg
  4. Type a name for your group and click . This is the name that group members will see.
    Make a Supergroup on Telegram on PC or Mac Step 4.jpg
  5. Select group members. Clicking a contact's name on the "Add Members" screen will add them to the list.
    Make a Supergroup on Telegram on PC or Mac Step 5.jpg
    • Don't worry about adding all of your members now. You can always come back to add them later.
  6. Click . The group is now active and ready to be upgraded to a Supergroup.
    Make a Supergroup on Telegram on PC or Mac Step 6.jpg

EditUpgrading to a Supergroup

  1. Open Telegram on your computer. If you're using Windows, you'll find it in the Windows menu. If you're using a Mac, it's in the Applications folder.
    Make a Supergroup on Telegram on PC or Mac Step 7.jpg
  2. Click the name of the group you want to upgrade. This opens the group in the larger panel.
    Make a Supergroup on Telegram on PC or Mac Step 8.jpg
  3. Click the group's name in the title bar. It's above the right panel. This opens the group's options menu.
    Make a Supergroup on Telegram on PC or Mac Step 9.jpg
  4. Scroll down and click . It's under the "Actions" header. A confirmation message will appear.
    Make a Supergroup on Telegram on PC or Mac Step 10.jpg
  5. Click . Your group is now upgraded to Supergroup status.
    Make a Supergroup on Telegram on PC or Mac Step 11.jpg

How to Make a Potato Gun

Posted: 30 Oct 2017 09:00 AM PDT

You may love to eat potatoes, but firing them out of a cannon can be even more fun. A potato gun, also called a spudzooka, potato cannon, and spud gun, make for an entertaining project that also demonstrates a few laws of physics along the way. Part of the thrill of constructing a potato gun comes from experimenting with the basic design to get the best performance, all while learning valuable engineering lessons. Get creative with yours!

EditSteps

EditGetting the Pipes Ready

  1. Get all your parts ready for assembly. All the parts necessary for this project can be bought at your local hardware store if you don't already have them at home. Some hardware stores may even cut the PVC pipe you'll need for this project to length as a free service or for a minor fee.[1]
    Build a Potato Launcher Step 1 Version 2.jpg
    • You'll need a 4-in (10.1-cm) wide PVC pipe that's long and a 2-in (5-cm) wide PVC pipe that is long.
    • Only use Schedule 40 PVC pipe. "Schedule" refers to the thickness of the pipe's walls. Pipe thinner than Sch 40 will be unsafe and could burst under high pressure.
  2. Measure and mark your PVC pieces, if necessary. If your PVC pipes weren't cut for you, you'll need to do it yourself. Use a felt tipped marker to mark the PVC at the following lengths so they're ready to be cut:
    Make a Potato Gun Step 2 Version 3.jpg
    • 4-in (10.1-cm) wide PVC marked at
    • 2-in (5-cm) wide PVC marked at [2]
  3. Cut the pipes along the mark using a hacksaw. It may help to clamp the pipes down to a work bench or have someone hold the pipe on a flat surface as you saw. The cuts don't need to be perfect. Once you're finished, remove plastic burrs by rubbing the cut edges with a medium grit sandpaper.
    Build a Potato Launcher Step 2 Version 2.jpg
  4. Clean the PVC pipes with a rag. Grit or plastic shavings from cutting the PVC can negatively impact the seal of parts when fitted together. Take a clean rage and wipe all parts of the PVC clean. If there are a lot of shavings, use a vacuum cleaner.[3]
    Make a Potato Gun Step 4 Version 3.jpg

EditGluing the Launcher

  1. Assemble one end of the 4-in wide PVC segment. Screw a 4-in wide PVC plug into place on the threaded end of the female adapter. On one end of the 4-in segment, liberally apply PVC cement around the outer lip. Repeat this process to the inner lip of the PVC female adapter. Fit the adapter onto the end of the segment.
    Make a Potato Gun Step 5 Version 3.jpg
    • When you glue the PVC pieces together, hold them together firmly for at least 60 seconds so the glue bonds.
    • Twist each glue joint a quarter-turn as you are pushing it together. This will encourage a better seal.
    • Whenever PVC pieces are glued together, be sure to use a clean towel to wipe away excess glue.
    • The 4-in wide PVC segment will eventually become the combustion chamber for the launcher.[4]
  2. Attach the coupler to the 4-in wide PVC segment at the opposite end. Apply PVC cement around the outer lip of the segment and the inner lip of the PVC coupler. Slide the coupler into place on the end of segment with nothing attached.[5]
    Make a Potato Gun Step 6 Version 3.jpg
  3. Glue the reducer in the coupler. Apply more PVC cement to the inner lip of the coupler and below the outward flanging collar of the 4- to 2-in reducer. Nest the reducer in the coupler until the collar of the reducer meets the end of the coupler.[6]
    Make a Potato Gun Step 7 Version 3.jpg
  4. Add the barrel of the launcher. The barrel of the launcher will be made up of the 2-in wide PVC segment. Spread the PVC cement on the inner lip of the reducer and the outer lip of one end of the 2-in wide PVC segment. Slide the barrel into the reducer until it is about even with the base of the coupler.[7]
    Make a Potato Gun Step 8 Version 3.jpg
  5. Wait 24 hours for the PVC cement to harden and cure. If you use your potato launcher before the PVC cement has enough time to harden, the launcher may explode. Explosive force in the combustion chamber puts stress on the PVC when you shoot an item.[8]
    Make a Potato Gun Step 9 Version 3.jpg

EditAdding a Spark Generator

  1. Drill holes in the combustion chamber for your spark generator. Most spark generators simply emit a spark at one end when a button is pressed. Drill a hole in the combustion chamber just large enough to fit the sparking components of your generator.[9]
    Make a Potato Gun Step 10 Version 3.jpg
    • Some generators may have two prongs across which a spark jumps, or a single double-pronged extension.
    • Many generators require spark-emitting prongs to be within of each other.
  2. Insert the spark generator and attach it with electrical tape. Press the spark emitting parts of the generator into the holes you've drilled. Attach the button/trigger for the generator to the combustion chamber with electrical tape, then hook up the leads from the spark generator to the trigger.
    Build a Potato Launcher Step 8 Version 2.jpg
    • Connect positive leads (+) to positive terminals on the generator and negative leads ( - ) to the negative terminals.
    • Once the leads and terminals are attached, prevent accidental shocks by covering any bare wiring or components with electrical tape.
    • Check your spark generator by unscrewing the PVC plug from the female adapter. While looking inside the combustion chamber, press the generator trigger several times. If you see a spark, it works.[10]
  3. Create a guard for the spark generator. The electrical components of the spark generator can be easily damaged. Make a guard for the generator by cutting a scrap piece of PVC down the middle with a hack saw. Sand away PVC burrs with medium grit sandpaper, then attach the guard over the spark generator with PVC cement or tape.
    Make a Potato Gun Step 12 Version 3.jpg
    • Your guard can be cut short so it only protects the sparking components or longer to cover the leads up to the trigger.[11]

EditFiring the Launcher

  1. Insert a spud and open the end PVC plug. Press a spud into the barrel end of the launcher so it fits snugly. Use a stick to push the potato into the base of the barrel. After that, turn over the launcher and unscrew the end PVC plug from the female adaptor.[12]
    Build a Potato Launcher Step 19 Version 2.jpg
    • Old fashioned firearms used "wadding," or cloth wrapped around projectiles, to create a better barrel seal and more power. This can also be done with potato guns.
    • A screw inserted into the barrel where it connects to the combustion chamber will prevent the ammunition from being rammed too far and falling into the chamber.
  2. Spray propellant into the combustion chamber and reseal the plug. Almost all hairspray will work as a propellant for your launcher. Spray the hairspray into the chamber for about seven seconds and your launcher is primed and ready to go. Reseal the plug quickly and get ready to take aim.[13]
    Build a Potato Launcher Step 20 Version 2.jpg
    • Too much propellant is as bad as not enough. If there's not enough oxygen, ignition will not occur. Trial and error will teach the optimum amount of propellant to use in your individual design.
  3. Aim away from people and click the trigger. It may take a few clicks of the trigger before the spark ignites, but when it does the hairspray will explode. This will force the potato out the barrel of the launcher. Now it's time for target practice.[14]
    Build a Potato Launcher Step 22 Version 2.jpg
    • Always operate your potato launcher with caution. Improper or reckless usage could cause harm or property damage.

EditVideo

EditTips

  • The world of PVC can be confusing and unorganized, so don't be afraid to ask store staff for help.
  • The longer the barrel, the longer the force of the combustion will accelerate the projectile. Too short of a barrel will rob the gun of power. However, if the barrel is too long, the expanding gasses begin to lose pressure and friction of the projectile in the barrel begins to slow it down. Experiment to find the optimum length for your own configuration.
  • If your local hardware store does not have the exact fittings listed, don't worry. You will probably be able to find a way to use similar parts (i.e. reducers, couplers, etc.) that are slightly larger or smaller to accomplish what the parts listed do.
  • If you have never worked with PVC before, buy some scrap PVC and a few cheap couplers so you can practice gluing before you build your launcher.
  • Try new ammunition! Potatoes are plentiful, but similar sized fruit and vegetables may work just as well.
  • The volume of the combustion chamber is proportional to power of the shot, but a long chamber produces an inefficient compression wave, so keep the combustion chamber short and fat.
  • Follow the directions on the glue, and glue liberally on both the pipe and the socket. Do not use glue or plumber's dope on threads.
  • If something needs to be sealed shut, use duct tape. It starts out as tape, but after you use the cannon the adhesive turns into a very sticky glue that keeps stuff closed.
  • The initial ignition in the combustion chamber should be close to the center of the chamber cavity to make an efficient explosion.
  • There are plenty of instructions for different models online. Do a keyword search for "Potato Cannon instructions."

EditWarnings

  • It's very important that you let the glue dry before firing your launcher. Most accidents with these guns happen because an anxious builder does not let the glue dry. Let it dry a full 24 hours before shooting.
  • Make sure that you aren't ever looking down the barrel of the cannon or pointing it at someone when it's loaded.

EditThings You'll Need

  • 2-in wide PVC long
  • 4-in wide female PVC adapter
  • 4-in wide PVC coupler
  • 4-in wide threaded PVC plug
  • 4-in to 2-in PVC reducer
  • 4-in wide PVC long
  • Electrical tape
  • Hacksaw
  • Hairspray
  • Power drill (and drill bits)
  • PVC cement
  • Sandpaper (medium grit)
  • Spark generator (available at hardware stores)
  • Vacuum (optional)

EditRelated wikiHows

EditSources and Citations


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How to Extend Your Eyebrows

Posted: 30 Oct 2017 01:00 AM PDT

Eyebrows are an important facial feature because they help express emotions and frame your face. Short eyebrows can sometimes make your face look wider than it really is. If you want to extend the edges (or "tails") of your eyebrows, you have options for using makeup to fill them in or stimulating hair regrowth.

EditSteps

EditUsing Makeup to Extend Your Brows

  1. Wash and moisturize your face. Wash your face with warm (not hot) water and a gentle cleanser that is suitable for your skin type. Rinse thoroughly, and pat dry with a clean towel. Apply a pea-sized amount of moisturizer with a gentle patting motion, and allow about two minutes for it to completely soak in.[1]
    Extend Your Eyebrows Step 1.jpg
  2. Apply any primer, foundation, or concealer before starting your brows. Use a primer before anything else to help your makeup stick. Apply foundation or concealer with your fingers, and blend well using your fingertips or a makeup sponge.
    Extend Your Eyebrows Step 2.jpg
    • If you don't wear any other base makeup, you can skip this step.
  3. Sweep translucent setting powder over your brow bone with a clean brush. This will help any other products stick to your skin, as well as absorb any excess oil that could cause your makeup to run.[2]
    Extend Your Eyebrows Step 3.jpg
  4. Hold a pen next to your nose diagonally as you look straight ahead into a mirror. Angle it so that one end of the pen is next to your nostril while the other end passes right next to the outside corner of your eye. The new tail of your brow will stop where your brow bone intersects the line measured by the pen.
    Extend Your Eyebrows Step 4.jpg
    • If you need to extend the inside edge of your eyebrow, hold up the pen in line with the inside corner of your eye. The inside of your brow will be in line with your natural brow, directly up from the side of your nose.
    • Remember that you can always use a stencil that is made for your face shape if you're having trouble with the angle of the tail.
  5. Place a dot where the tip of the tail will be using a sharp eyebrow pencil. The dot should be on your brow bone, just where you measured the line with the pen. Make it faint; it is just a guide for where the tail will stop. Make sure the pencil matches the color of your eyebrow, and not the color of the hair on your head.
    Extend Your Eyebrows Step 5.jpg
    • If your face is square, aim the dot towards the center of your ear to help add more shape to your eye area.
    • If your face is round, aim the dot closer to the top of your ear.
  6. Outline the remainder of the new tail with a brow pencil. Connect the natural hairs of the arch of your brow to the dot you just drew. Use a very light touch and short, feathery strokes to make it look natural.
    Extend Your Eyebrows Step 6.jpg
  7. Fill in the outline using a combination of gel, powder, and pencil products. Use a thin, angled brush to apply a small amount of brow pomade in the outlined area if your brows are particularly thick or dark. If you're using a pencil, make sure it's sharp and that you're using light, feathered strokes. Continue to fill it in until the color and saturation matches the rest of your eyebrow.
    Extend Your Eyebrows Step 7.jpg
    • If you have dark hair, use products with both black and brown tones since black alone can look harsh, while brown alone can be too auburn.[3]
    • If you have blonde hair, use a combination of gray and light brown products instead of dark brown and black. Use your root color as a guide.[4]
  8. Use a spoolie brush to soften out the color and help blend it together. Use gentle, upward strokes, and don't press too hard or all of the product you just applied will rub off.[5]
    Extend Your Eyebrows Step 8.jpg
  9. Use a makeup swab to fix any mistakes. Put on a little more concealer or foundation around the new section of your brow if any of your base makeup rubbed off while fixing the brow coloring.
    Extend Your Eyebrows Step 9.jpg
  10. Apply a light layer of setting spray to help it stick. If you don't have setting spray, another light layer of translucent powder will do the same thing.[6]
    Extend Your Eyebrows Step 10.jpg

EditEncouraging Natural Growth

  1. Stop plucking or waxing. Yes, your brows might look messy or patchy for a while. It can be hard to stop if you've been plucking for a long time, but you can only grow your hair back if you allow it to do its own thing.
    Extend Your Eyebrows Step 11.jpg
    • If you're embarrassed about the state of your brows, you can let your bangs grow or wear head accessories like hats or scarves to hide your eyebrows while they grow back. Or just laugh it off! They'll grow back, so grin and bear it since they probably look great already.
  2. Massage your brows once a day for a couple of minutes. Improved blood flow and circulation can help your hair follicles get the oxygen and nutrients they need to regrow.[7] Make sure your hands are clean, and use small, circular motions with your fingertip. Include the area you're trying to regrow and a little bit of the surrounding area on your forehead and above your eyes.
    Extend Your Eyebrows Step 12.jpg
  3. Apply a small amount of castor oil to your brow area at night. Wash it off in the morning when you wake up. This is a classic natural hair growth aid that is available in many stores, but it has yet to be proven scientifically, so it may not work for everyone. You should see more hair growth in 3 to 4 weeks of nightly use if it's working.[8]
    Extend Your Eyebrows Step 13.jpg
    • If you can't find castor oil, extra virgin olive oil or peppermint oil can have a similar effect.[9]
  4. Buy a hair regrowth serum with peptides. You can find serums at beauty stores like Ulta and Sephora, or online on Amazon.com or Beautylish.com. Select a serum by talking to the employee in the store or reading reviews online.[10]
    Extend Your Eyebrows Step 14.jpg
    • Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for application, and talk to a dermatologist if you're not sure about a serum before using it.

EditTips

  • While it's tempting to want to do one eyebrow completely before starting the other, do each step on each brow before continuing so that they end up even.
  • You can use matte eyeshadow in place of powders and pencils.
  • For a more permanent solution, consider getting your eyebrows microbladed. Microblading is a procedure where a licensed esthetician "tattoos" hair-like lines deep into the skin using a fine blade. It can be rather expensive and is not completely permanent, so you will have to go in for touch-ups every few months.[11]

EditSources and Citations


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