| How to Crochet a Loop Stitch Posted: 15 Dec 2017 04:00 PM PST The loop stitch is a complex looking stitch that is actually very easy to learn. If you are familiar with how to single crochet, then you should have no problem learning the loop stitch. Try using the loop stitch the next time you want to add some furry texture to a crocheted item. EditCrocheting the Foundation Chain - Crochet a chain. To get started, you will need to make a chain. Create a slipknot and then slide it onto your hook. Loop the yarn over your hook and then pull through the slipknot.[1] This is your first chain. Chain as many more stitches as you want plus 1 additional chain for your turning chain.[2]
- For example, if you just want to practice the loop stitch, then you could chain 10 stitches plus 1 for the turning chain to get a total of 11 stitches.
- If you are using a crochet pattern, then chain the number of stitches indicated by the pattern.
- Single crochet to the end of the chain. Your first row will just be a standard single crochet row. Insert your hook into the second chain from the hook and then yarn over and pull through the stitch. Then, yarn over again and pull through both loops on the hook. Repeat this sequence to the end of the row.[3]
- Chain 1 and turn. When you get to the end of the row, chain 1 and turn your work. This will serve as your turning chain and provide slack for the next row.[4]
EditWorking the Loop Stitch - Insert your hook into the stitch. Working the loop stitch is similar to single crochet, but with some variations. To get started, insert your hook into the second stitch from the hook.[5]
- Loop the working yarn around your finger. After you insert the hook, take the working yarn and loop it around the index finger that is holding the crocheted piece, not the finger holding the hook. Only loop the yarn around your index finger one time and make sure to keep your finger behind the crocheted piece.[6]
- Wrap the yarn around your finger so that it is snug but not too tight.
- Hook the base of the loop in two places and pull through. Use the crochet hook to grab the yarn that is extending from the stitch and then grab the other side of the loop at its base. Pull through the stitch slightly, but do not release the loop from your finger.[7]
- Loop the yarn over the hook and pull through again. With the base of the loop pulled through the stitch, loop the yarn over and then pull this new loop through both of the loops on your hook. This will secure the loop you just made, so you can pull your finger out of the loop now and it will stay put.[8]
- Repeat to the end of the row. To continue working the loop stitch, keep repeating the stitch sequence to the end of the row. If you are using a pattern, then make sure to follow your pattern's instructions for how many loop stitches to make.[9]
- Chain 1 and turn. At the end of each row, make sure to chain 1 and turn your work. This will ensure that you have enough slack to continue working this stitch.[10]
EditGetting the Best Results - Maintain even tension on the loops. Maintaining even tension on your working yarn is essential to the consistency of your loops. Otherwise, you may end up with loops of all different sizes. Make sure that you hold the yarn with the same tension for each loop that you make.[11]
- Wrap the yarn around different items to vary the size of your loops. Using your finger is not the only way to make loops for the loop stitch. You can also use other cylindrical items to create loops depending on how large or small you want them to be.[12]
- For example, you could use a pen, a marker, or a knitting needle as a loop form.
- Use the loop stitch to add fur-like texture to items. The most common use of the loop stitch is to make items look like they have fur or hair. Try using the loop stitch to create hair on a crocheted stuffed animal, make a rug look fuzzy, or to give a scarf a furry look.[13]
EditSources and Citations
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| How to Siphon Water Posted: 15 Dec 2017 08:00 AM PST Siphoning is a great way of using gravity to move large amounts of water from one location to another. You can empty a pool, clean a fish tank, or prepare rainwater jugs by siphoning. If you are working with fresh water, it's possible to move water through a siphon using pressure from your mouth. If you are working with a single siphon tube, submerging the tube and draining it is a quick option. However, if you are tackling a larger job, then a two-hose siphon system might be your best bet. EditSiphoning with Your Mouth - Position the empty bucket. You'll need to use gravity to siphon water from one spot to another. The object that the water is coming from must be higher than its final destination. So, if you are siphoning water from a full bucket to an empty bucket, place the destination bucket on a stable, lower surface.[1]
- Position the tube. Stick the end of your siphon tube into the empty destination bucket. It should almost reach the bottom of the bucket to prevent it from coming back out. Then, place the other end of the siphon into the full bucket.[2]
- You can use almost any type of hose or tube for siphoning. However, it really helps if the hose is clear, so that you can see the progress of the water.
- Suck lightly on the end of the tube. Pick up the end of the siphon tube from the lower destination bucket or container. Hold the tube end up vertically to prevent any air bubbles. Place your lips against the tube's end and suck against it gently. Continue until the water reaches just past the halfway point of the tube.[3]
- Be careful to watch the location of the water in the tube or you might end up swallowing some as it comes out of the end. This is a reason why it is not a good idea to siphon other liquids, like gasoline, with your mouth.
- Let the water pour into the empty bucket. Take the end of the halfway full siphon tube away from your mouth and quickly place it into the lower container. The water will start to run into the bucket through the siphon. It will continue until the upper container is emptied or you pull the siphon end out of either container.[4]
EditSiphoning by Submersion - Immerse the tube in a container of water. Coil the siphon tube into a circle and place it into a container full of water. Gently push the tube down until it is completely covered. You will see air bubbles pop up to the surface of the water, as the air escapes from the inside of the tube. Once the bubbles stop, the tube is full of water and ready to be drained.[5]
- To make sure that the bubbles are completely out of the tube, shake it a bit before pulling it out.
- Place your finger over the end of the tube. Now that the tube is full of water, you'll need to stop up the end that you plan to pull out of the container. Fold or crimp the tube in on itself toward the end, creating a barrier. Then, place your finger or thumb over the end, blocking off the flow of water out of the tube.[6]
- The tube must stay totally under the water during this process or you'll end up with bubbles in it.
- Move the plugged end of the tube to the empty container. Slowly and carefully lift the blocked tube end out of the water. Keep your finger covering the end of the tube. And, make sure the other, unblocked end stays securely under the water. Place the blocked end into the lower, empty container.[7]
- Unplug the tube. Pull your finger away from the end of the tube. Hold the tube down slightly with your fingers to keep it from flailing around as the water starts to come out. Watch the water move from the higher container and into this new one. If the water flow seems to stall, give the tube a small, quick shake to start it up again.[8]
EditSiphoning with Two Garden Hoses - Position the first garden hose. Put the end of your hose in the bottom of a higher container that the water will move out from. If you choose to anchor the hose down with an object to keep it from moving, just make sure that it doesn't block the water flow. Then, place the opposite end of the same hose into a container that is the destination for the siphoned water.[9]
- This is a great method to use if you need to siphon water over a longer distance or if you need to move a large amount of water.
- Attach the shut-off valve. Screw on the valve to the end of the hose that is at the bottom of the higher container. Make sure that the valve is set on the open position. You can purchase a shut off valve at your local garden store.[10]
- Attach a second hose. Get the unused hose and screw one of its ends into the empty side of the shut off valve. Then, attach the other end of the second hose in to a nearby faucet. Double check that all of your connections are secure and tight.[11]
- Fill the siphon hose. Turn your faucet until it starts to send water out through both hoses. Watch to see when the first hose is full. Then, turn the shut off valve into the off position. You can then disconnect the second hose from both the faucet and the valve. This will leave you with one hose that is full of water and connected to both containers.[12]
- Open the shut-off valve. As soon as you move the valve into the open position, the water will rush out of the hose and into its final container. You can hold the end of the hold somewhat upright to guide the flow of water, if you like.
EditThings You'll Need - Container of water
- Plastic tube
- 2 garden hoses
- Shut-off valve
- Bucket
- Object to anchor the garden hose
- If you are siphoning as part of an experiment, add a few drops of food coloring to the higher water container. You'll then be able to see that water travel down the tube and into the empty bucket.[13]
- Make sure that the hoses that you are using do not have any holes. If they leak water, then the siphon process may be slowed down or it may not work at all.
- It's a good idea to have a separate hose for siphoning water. Do not use the same hose for gasoline products or chemicals.[14]
EditSources and Citations
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| How to Clean Wood Furniture Posted: 15 Dec 2017 12:00 AM PST Wood furniture has a classic look that pairs well with a wide variety of decorating styles. But good quality wood furniture can cost quite a bit, so caring for it properly is key. Dusting it regularly is important, but sometimes, dirt and grime may build up. You can make an effective cleaning solution that works on most finishes with dishwashing liquid and water, but if your furniture is particularly grimy, you may need to use mineral spirits. Once your wood pieces are clean, waxing them can help restore their shine and provide a protective film that keeps the furniture looking as good as possible. EditDusting the Furniture - Dampen a lint-free cloth slightly. A dry cloth can help rid the surface of wood furniture of dust, but you often wind up sending the dust airborne. To avoid spreading it to the rest of your home, wet a soft, lint-free cloth lightly with water and wring it out well so it's not overly damp.[1]
- Old, clean cotton T-shirts make ideal dust rags.
- Use a feather or lamb's wool duster dry, alternatively. If you prefer, you can use a feather duster or lamb's wool duster to dust the wood. It's not necessary to dampen these tools, though, because static electricity with the feathers and lanolin in the lamb's wool attracts and hangs onto to the dust.[2]
- To clean a feather duster so you don't spread dust around, take it outside and shake it out well. You can also vacuum it with a HEPA filter vacuum. If the duster is particularly dirty, swirl it in a solution of warm water and mild dishwashing soap. Rinse it thoroughly and allow it to air dry.
- To clean a lamb's wool duster, vacuum it with a vacuum cleaner that has a HEPA filter. Next, hand wash it with a solution of warm water and mild dishwashing soap. Rinse it with warm water, and let it air dry.
- Wipe the cloth over the surface. When the cloth is lightly dampened, gently smooth it over the surface of the furniture to pick up any loose dust or dirt. Make sure to pay attention to any nooks and crannies, such as carved details, to ensure that you remove all of the dust.[3]
- Dry the furniture with a clean cloth. If you dampened the dusting cloth too much, some moisture may be left on the furniture's surface, which you don't want to sit on the wood. Use a clean, dry lint-free cloth to wipe down the furniture and dry it thoroughly.[4]
- Dust your wood furniture weekly. To avoid dirt buildup that requires more thorough cleaning, it's good to get in the habit of dusting the wood at least once a week. However, you may want to dust more often if your home experiences an excessive amount of airborne dirt and dander.[5]
EditUsing Dishwashing Liquid - Moisten a cotton ball with water and dishwashing liquid. To make sure that the wood furniture's finish won't be affected by the cleaning solution, it's important to test it. Wet a cotton ball with water, and then add a drop of your favorite dishwashing liquid soap.[6]
- Test the mixture on a hidden spot of the furniture. Rub the dampened cotton ball over an inconspicuous spot where any damage won't be seen. Wait a minute and then check to see if the finish is marred in anyway. If the finish looks undamaged, you can proceed with the dishwashing liquid solution.[7]
- If the finish appears damaged when you test the dishwashing liquid, clean the furniture with water only.
- Combine the water and detergent in a bucket. Add 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of the dishwashing liquid and ½ gallon (1.9 l) of warm water to a large bucket. Mix the two together well to create a cleaning solution.[8]
- Wipe down the surface down with the solution. Dip a sponge into the dishwashing liquid mixture to saturate it. Wring the sponge out to ensure that it's not dripping or overly wet, and gently brush it over the furniture to clean the surface.[9]
- You don't want to oversaturate the wood with the solution, so don't press the sponge against the furniture too hard. Instead, lightly move it over the surface to clean the wood.
- It's not necessary to rinse the cleaning solution from the furniture because the soap has been diluted enough that it won't leave much residue. When you dry the wood, you'll remove any that's been left behind.
- Dry the wood completely with a clean cloth. After you've sponged the entire surface of the furniture, it's important to remove any excess moisture from the wood. Wipe it down with a clean, lint-free cloth to ensure that it's thoroughly dried.[10]
- Deep clean your wood furniture every 6 months. If you dust your furniture regularly, you usually only need to clean it more deeply once or twice a year. In the event of spills or other accidental messes, though, you should do a thorough deep cleaning to remove any sticky residue or film.[11]
EditGetting a Deeper Clean with Mineral Spirits - Moisten a cotton ball with the spirits and test them on the furniture. Mineral spirits usually don't damage most wood finishes, but you should still play it safe. Dab some on a cotton ball, and rub it on a hidden spot of the furniture. If there's no damage to the finish, you can clean the entire surface with the mineral spirits.[12]
- If the finish reacts poorly to the mineral spirits, don't clean the surface with them. You'll likely have to refinish the furniture to fully remove all of the dirt and grime if that's the case.
- Soak a cloth in the mineral spirits. Take a clean, lint-free cloth and wet it thoroughly with the mineral spirits. While you want the cloth saturated with the spirits, make sure that it's not dripping.[13]
- When you're cleaning with mineral spirits, work in a well-ventilated area because the fumes can be dangerous. Open some windows and turn on a fan if possible.
- Wipe down the furniture with the cloth. When you're sure that the cloth is not dripping, rub it over the wood surface to thoroughly clean it. Mineral spirits can often remove years of dirt, so work slowly and carefully to get rid of all the grime.[14]
- Dampen a cloth with water and rinse the surface. After you've thoroughly cleaned the furniture with the mineral spirits, wet another clean, lint-free cloth with water. Wring it out so it's not dripping, and gently wipe it over the furniture to rinse off the mineral spirits.[15]
- Dry thoroughly with a cloth. To avoid having excess moisture sitting on the wood, it's important to dry the furniture. Use another clean, lint-free cloth to wipe down the surface and remove any moisture.[16]
EditWaxing the Furniture - Wax wood furniture only after it's been thoroughly cleaned. Furniture wax helps form a protective film on the surface of the wood. If the furniture is dirty when you apply it, you'll only wind up trapping the grime beneath it, which can make it more difficult to get the furniture clean in the future.[17]
- Place a spoonful of wax on a clean cloth and knead it. Use a cloth that's made of 100 percent cotton and lint-free. The spoonful of wax should resemble the size of golf ball. Wrap the cloth around the wax, and gently knead it with your hand until the wax is softened.[18]
- To protect your wood furniture, you should wax it after each time that you clean the furniture.
- Buff the wax into the furniture until you've covered the entire surface. Once the wax is softened, rub it over the wood with the cloth in circular motions. Work in one small area at a time until you've waxed the entire surface.[19]
- Make sure to work in the direction of the wood grain as you buff in the wax.
- Wipe away the excess wax with a clean cloth. The wax will gradually dull the surface of the wood as you buff it into the furniture. Use a clean, lint-free cotton cloth to wipe away the wax film to restore the natural finish.[20]
- You should turn your cloth over frequently as you rub to ensure that you remove all of the excess wax.
- Apply a second coat of wax for maximum shine. If your furniture's finish isn't quite as shiny as you'd like, repeat the entire waxing process to add another coat. Dust your wood furniture regularly to avoid grime build up in the future.[21]
- When you're purchasing new or antique wood furniture, it's a good idea to ask for the proper cleaning and care guidelines.
EditThings You'll Need - Clean, lint-free cotton cloths
- Cotton balls
- Dishwashing liquid soap
- Water
- Bucket
- Mineral spirits
- Wood wax
EditSources and Citations
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