| How to Decorate the Wall Behind a Couch Posted: 20 Apr 2018 05:00 PM PDT If you have some blank space to work with behind your sofa, your first thought might be to hang up a cheap painting and call it a day. But there are more creative solutions that can make a seating wall the focal point of the room rather than a void to be filled. Sculpted pieces that offer shape and dimension, for instance, can replace traditional framed art. A large mirror or set of mounted shelves can emphasize or create space. You could even paint or paper over the entire wall to make a bold statement without the need to configure dozens of decorations separately. EditAdding Art - Hang up some framed artwork. Put up one or two paintings, prints, or photographs that speak to you. This will give the wandering eye a place to settle as it drifts over your seating area. The right art style can also complement the overall theme of the room and make your home feel more cultured.[1]
- Pick out handsome frames for your artwork to enhance its decorative value.
- Center large pieces over the sofa, or arrange several smaller pieces in a row or grid for more of a gallery feel.[2]
- Mount a few sculpted pieces. Hunt for wall-worthy accessories like deer antlers, molded sconces, and carved woodwork. Three-dimensional objects can lend a sense of shape and contour that keep the wall from looking quite so flat. They're an out-of-the-ordinary touch that make an interesting alternative to traditional art.[3]
- Narrowing down a theme can help make your decor feel more focused. If you're a sports fanatic, for instance, you could make room for a pair of skis, whereas an anthropology buff might exhibit replicas of rare artifacts from around the world.[4]
- Position your sculpted accents carefully to keep the wall from looking too busy—since each piece will command so much attention on its own, less is more.
- Attract attention with a tapestry. A tasteful wall hanging can instantly make any room feel more worldly and lived-in. Drape a blanket, weaving, or selection of textile art across the wall along the back of the sofa. You can stretch it flat to cover a broader area, or let it bunch loosely so it flows with Bohemian flair.[5]
- An ornamental quilt or afghan that you're reluctant to use as a throw can make a good candidate for a tapestry.
- Use a mountable curtain rod or Velcro strips to secure your hanging without damaging it or being forced to nail into the wall.[6]
- Paint a mural. Show off your own artistic sensibilities by brushing designs directly onto an undecorated wall. You might go with a simple yet eye-catching repeating pattern, or something more abstract like a solid base broken up by flecks and splatters of color. If you're feeling bold, you could even try freehanding an original work of your own.[7]
- Be sure to choose paint shades that compliment the style of your couch, as well as the larger color scheme of the room.
- Painter's tape can be useful for creating negative space in elaborate patterns and preventing paint from getting anywhere it's not wanted.
- Consider hiring a professional artist to come in and give the wall of your seating area a one-of-a-kind makeover.
EditMaking Room for Attractive Accessories - Install a mirror. The wall above the couch can make a perfect place for a large central mirror that offers a panoramic view of the room. Mirrors have the added benefit of creating the illusion of space, which can make your seating area feel more open and inviting.[8]
- For a more eye-catching, contemporary effect, try grouping multiple mirrors together to fragment the reflection.
- Hang your mirror at least a foot above the couch and make sure it's perfectly centered to keep it from looking out of place.
- Put up some shelves. A set of multi-purpose shelves can be used to hold books, vases, or the assorted knick-knacks that you don't have room for anywhere else. You could even install a shelf specifically to set your snacks on while you watch TV or keep your various remote controls together![9]
- When it comes to shelves, you have many options, including ledge shelves, hook shelves, cube shelves, and more. Shop around to find a shelving solution that matches the character of your seating area.[10]
- To increase the shelves' utility, make sure they're deep enough for different objects to sit on comfortably, and keep them within arm's reach of where you or your guests will be sitting.
- Display your prized china. Attach a few sconce shelves or wire holders to the back wall, then array them with plates, platters, teacups, and utensils. This method of presentation is especially picturesque if your seating area borders the dining room or tea room. It sure beats keeping it locked away inside a trunk in the attic![11]
- Double check that your china is resting securely in the holders so it doesn't topple over accidentally.
- Fill the wall with an eclectic assortment of items. There doesn't have to be a rhyme or reason to your decorating scheme—anything goes! Mix-and-match miscellaneous objects to piece together a display that's distinctly you. For instance, you might use trippy pop art prints to accentuate a centerpiece of crossed canoe paddles with your family's name spelled out in ornamental metalwork letters beneath.[12]
- Peruse antique stores, yard sales, and flea markets for items that might be a good fit for your oddball wall.
- One of the biggest upsides of lining your walls with odds-and-ends is that you can add or switch out anything you want without worrying about disrupting a theme.
EditIncorporating Other Unique Touches - Use wallpaper to create a focal point. Rather than wallpapering the whole room, apply it to the sofa wall alone. The resulting background will reframe your seating area while adding a splash of color and texture. And, since it provides such a striking contrast, it can help break up the visual monotony of bigger rooms.[13]
- Keep the design consistent with the palette you've picked out for the room, as well as its general energy. A coral and seafoam green chevron pattern will look out of place in a room with elegant Victorian decor, but will be right at home in one done up in colorful 1960s retro.[14]
- Set up a changing screen. Even if there's nothing behind it, it will add an air of chic mystery. A simple wood slat screen should be versatile enough for most homes, or you could go with an elaborately painted Chinese style to suit other exotic accessories. Be sure to unfold the screen so it will fit neatly behind the couch, unless you prefer to keep your seating pulled in closer to the center of the room.[15]
- Update an uninspired screen with a fresh coat of paint or a DIY distressing job.
- A changing screen may be just the thing you need to conceal tangles of electronics cords near the wall outlet.
- Tack up some stringer lights. For a no-fuss fix to your wall problem, all you need is a few coils of plastic stringer lights and a little imagination. Drive nails or push pins into the wall, then loop the lights around them in whatever configuration you find appealing. Colored lights are the more festive way to go, while white bulbs will be subtle enough to suit just about any space.[16]
- Have fun with your stringer lights by twisting them into words or symbols.[17]
- Naturally, string lights double as a source of illumination. Their soft glow can be perfect for when you want it dim but not too dark.
- Try out a board-and-batten finish. Board-and-batten is an accenting technique that involves layering thin boards over an existing wall to give it added visual texture. The boards are arranged vertically or horizontally, or at intersecting angles for a latticed look. This unique design style can be a practical answer for those looking for a less conventional way to freshen up a sitting room wall.[18]
- Board-and-batten is relatively inexpensive and simple to install if you know what you're doing. If you're not confident in your ability to tackle the project yourself, call a professional contractor to come in and do it right.[19]
- A simple rule of decorating on a budget is to use what you have. Try gathering up unused items from around your home to see how they look on the wall of your sitting area.
- Get creative when combining different decorations. For example, you could offset a simple patterned wallpaper with an ornate folding screen, then put up shelves to hold small mirrors and pieces of artwork.
- Make sure that all loose and free-standing accessories are properly secured. You don't want anything falling on your head while you're trying to relax!
- Avoid cramming too many decorations into a small space. There's a thin line between crafty and cluttered.
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| How to Check Iron Levels Posted: 20 Apr 2018 09:00 AM PDT If you suspect your iron levels aren't what they should be, your best course of action is to head to the doctor, where they can test your iron levels. If you can't afford that option, try giving blood. While the technicians won't give you an exact iron level, they do test your hemoglobin levels with a fingerstick. They perform this test to weed out donors whose iron levels are too low or too high. Also, watch for the symptoms of low and high iron to know when to visit your doctor. EditGoing to the Doctor - See your doctor if you suspect your iron levels are low. Your doctor is the best way to get your iron levels checked. Make an appointment to see your doctor within 1-2 weeks if you're showing basic signs of anemia like fatigue. The first step the doctor will take is to ask you about any history you've had with low iron in the past. Then, the doctor will ask you questions about your recent symptoms and health.[1]
- If you are having heart palpitations or shortness of breath, go immediately to urgent care or the emergency room. If you're having chest pains and breathing problems together, go straight to the emergency room.
- Your doctor may ask you about your diet. For women, they may also ask if you've had a heavy period recently.
- It can help to write down any symptoms you've been experiencing before you head to the doctor. That way, you won't forget when you get to the exam room.
- Expect a physical exam. The doctor will do things like look at your mouth, skin, and nail beds, listen to your heart and lungs, and feel your abdominal area. They will be checking for signs of low or high iron.[2]
- Some signs of low iron may include fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness, coldness in your extremities, pale skin, slowed appetite, and cravings for non-food items (known as pica). Let your doctor know if you have experienced any of these.[3]
- Other physical signs your doctor may look for include brittle nails, a swollen tongue, cracks in the sides of the mouth, and frequent infections.
- Be ready for a blood test. The doctor will order blood tests if they suspect your iron levels aren't right. The doctor may use more than one type of blood test to check to see whether your iron levels are high or low.[4] Usually, you'll get results between 1-3 days after you had the blood test.
- These tests will give your doctor an idea of your hemoglobin levels. These levels measure how much oxygen is binding with your red blood cells.
EditChecking Your Iron Levels while Giving Blood - Find a place where you can donate blood. Check the websites of blood donation organizations to find out where you can donate. For instance, you can use the American Red Cross website to look for blood donation centers in your area. Alternatively, watch for blood drives where you can give blood.
- The American Red Cross states that it administers the hemoglobin test on its website. Check to make sure the organization you're donating with also provides this test. Most organizations screen for low or high iron levels.
- Go in to donate blood. This method requires that you be willing to donate blood, as the test is part of the donation process. Usually, you can just show up to donate--you don't need to make an appointment. However, you do need to be healthy. You also need to be at least 17-years-old and weigh a minimum of 110 pounds.[5]
- For donating blood, "healthy" means you are able to perform your usual routine, and you have any chronic disease, such as diabetes, under control. It also means that you don't have an infection like a cold or the flu, or certain illnesses including malaria, syphilis, and HIV/AIDS.
- Expect a finger prick. Before you give blood, the technician will stick your finger using a fingerstick, which just means they poke your finger with a small, spring-loaded needle. That will produce a drop of blood the technician can use to check your hemoglobin levels.[6]
- Ask about your hemoglobin level. The technician likely won't give you an exact figure. However, this test is used to screen you for high or low hemoglobin, which can indicate high and low iron. Therefore, if you're disqualified from giving blood, you can ask if it was your hemoglobin level and whether the level was in the high or low range.[7]
- The technician is looking for certain levels of hemoglobin in your blood, but they will likely just have a general range to see if you fall above or below certain levels. They'll disqualify you if you fall in these ranges.
- For instance, if your hemoglobin levels fall below 12.5 g/dL for a woman or 13 g/dL for a man, you can't give blood because your iron levels are likely too low.
- If your levels are above 20 g/dL for a man or woman, you can't give blood because your iron levels are likely too high. This is a rare occurrence.
EditLooking for Signs of Low or High Iron - Notice fatigue or weakness if you suspect low iron levels. Fatigue is one of the primary signs of low iron levels. Iron is essential to your red blood cells, and your red blood cells carry oxygen throughout your body. When your red blood cells are low, your body isn't getting as much oxygen as it's accustomed to, which can make you feel very tired and weak.[8]
- Generally, this symptom is more than feeling a little tired for a day or two. It's a deeper tiredness that lasts over time.
- Pay attention to shortness of breath or dizziness for low iron. Because your body isn't getting enough oxygen, you may feel dizzy or lightheaded due to lack of oxygen. This can, in extreme circumstances, lead to issues with breathing, such as feeling like you can't take a deep breath. Such symptoms are rare, and typically associated with situations where someone is actively losing blood.[9]
- You may also notice headaches, which are a related symptom.
- Check for coldness in your extremities for low iron. With low iron levels, your heart is having to work harder to pump blood to your body because it doesn't have as many cells to carry oxygen. Therefore, your fingers and toes may feel colder than normal.[10]
- Look in the mirror for pale skin, a symptom of low iron. With your heart not pumping as efficiently, you may end up with pale skin. You may also notice this symptom in your nail beds and your gums.[11]
- Be vigilant about heart problems with low iron. Because your heart is working harder to move blood through your body, you can end up with heart problems. For instance, you may have a heart arrhythmia or murmur, which can feel like your heart is skipping a beat.[12]
- Notice if you get odd cravings for non-food items for low iron. Your body knows it's deficient in a needed nutrient, iron, and it may come up with odd cravings for things that aren't food. For instance, you may crave dirt, ice, or starch.[13]
- Watch for stomach issues, as they could indicate high iron levels. The main symptoms of high iron have to do with your stomach. You may experience constipation, vomiting, nausea, or stomach pain, all of which could indicate high iron levels.[14]
- Stomach issues can be a sign of many diseases, so don't automatically assume these issues are from high iron.
- If you notice symptoms of high or low iron, visit your doctor for a blood test.
- Always talk to your doctor before starting or stopping a supplement like iron. They can advise you about whether you need to take it all, whether it's safe, and the proper dosage to take.
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| How to Personalize Pens Posted: 20 Apr 2018 01:00 AM PDT Brighten up dull pens by personalizing them with a few colorful art supplies. You can make a neon pen by drawing a design on a colorful piece of printer paper. Pom-poms add flair to pens colored with yarn and tape. If you're ambitious, try constructing a flower pen with its own flower pot. If you don't want to make your own pens, you can always order some from a design company. Personalized pens are fun to keep, but they also make for great gifts. EditCreating Colorful Pens - Use clear pens that you can open. Since you will need to put the paper inside the pen, choose pens that have a clear body. Blue and black ballpoint pens tend to work well and you can usually find packs of these pens at dollar stores or general stores. Make sure they have an end you can pull out or unscrew to take them apart.[1]
- Print a design on decorative paper. Visit an office supply store to choose some colored printer paper. You can use a computer program like PowerPoint or Photoshop to create a design to fit inside the pens. This can be anything, such as a repeating pattern of lines, shapes, or even a custom-designed graphic.[2]
- You can make pens with your name on them, for instance. Instead of printing a design, print or write your name on the paper. Try using a custom stamp.
- You can also draw a design on the paper. Colorful markers or gel pens can make your design stand out more.
- Cut the design paper into strips that fit inside your pen. Use scissors to break your design down into thin strips you can fit inside your pen. An approximate size is about long and wide. This creates enough strips for a whole pack of pens.[3]
- You can use a desktop paper cutter to cleanly cut the paper. Be careful when handling the sharp blade and keep your fingers away from it.
- Remove the pen's end cap to take out the ink tube. Pry of the end caps on the clear ballpoint pens with your fingernails. If you can't remove the cap or the ink container, you may need to unscrew the other end of the pen by twisting it counterclockwise. Slide the ink tube out of the pen's casing.
- For retractable pens, you usually do need to unscrew the pen's front end. Set the spring aside in a safe spot for now.
- Roll the paper around the ink tube. Take a strip of paper, then wrap it around the ink tube. Make sure the design is facing outward. Smooth the paper down into a tight, flat roll around the ink tube.[4]
- Put the pen back together. First, place the ink tube roll inside the pen. The paper should fit in there without any problem. Next, close the pen's ends by replacing the end cap. You should be able to admire your awesome design through the plastic casing.
- If the paper doesn't fit inside the chamber, it may not be flat enough. Remove it, then try rolling it around the ink tube again. Cut the strip more if you need to.
EditMaking a Pom-Pom Pen - Purchase pens without side clips. Smooth plastic pens work best, although you can use any pen if it doesn't have a plastic clip. If your pen has a plastic clip, you may be able to break the clip off to decorate the pen. Pull it back and it should snap off without much trouble.
- Wrap yarn around the bottom third of the pen. Choose a roll of yarn in a color you like. Wrap the loose end above the triangular cap containing the pen's nib. Depending on your pen, this may be plastic or metal. Then, wrap the yard around the pen repeatedly until it reaches about ⅓ of the way up the pen and knot it in place.[5]
- Measure the amount of fabric tape needed to wrap around the pen. You can find rolls of fabric tape at most craft supply stores. Pick a pattern you like, then measure the amount of tape you need by comparing it to your pen's size. You need enough tape to cover the remaining ⅔ of the pen.[6]
- You can use a ruler to measure the length and width of your pen.
- Instead of using tape, you can wrap more yarn or twine around the rest of the pen.
- Cut the tape to size. Cut the length of tape you need according to your measurements earlier. You will most likely need to cut a second, equal length of tape, since most tapes aren't wide enough to completely cover the pen.[7]
- To see if you have enough tape, wrap the pieces of tape around the pen. Avoid peeling back the adhesive backing until you're ready to apply the tape.
- Wrap the tape around the pen. Lay the pen in front of you, then cover the exposed top side of the pen with the tape. Peel off the backing, wrap the tape around the pen, and press it flat with your fingers. Flip the pen over and finish covering it by applying the second piece of tape.[8]
- Spread some craft glue over the pen's end cap. Get some craft glue from the craft supply store. Spread the glue over the pen's back end using a foam brush. Apply only a thin layer so it doesn't drip.[9]
- If your pen has a clicker at the end, make sure it is up. Use the glue sparingly to avoid getting the clicker stuck.
- Glue a pom-pom to the pen's end. Pick out a colorful pom-pom at the craft supply store as well. Spread a little glue on one side, then press it against the glue-covered end of your pen. It should stick in place right away, but it's a good idea to set the pen aside for at least 3 minutes to let the glue dry. Then go test out your fancy pen![10]
- If your pom-pom won't stick, try tying some yarn to it. Knot the other end of the yarn around the pen, then glue the pom-pom in place.
EditCreating a Flower Pen - Pull the end cap and ink tube out of the pen. You will need a clear, plastic pen. Ballpoint pens work best, but check to make sure you can open them from the back. The end cap covers the pen's back, blunt end. You can pry this piece out with your finger. Set it aside, then slide the ink tube out through the opening.[11]
- If you can't remove the end cap, you may be able to pry it off using a knife. Be careful and keep the blade pointed away from you.
- Spread some super glue around the pen's tip. Start at the pen's open end. Place a small dot of super glue directly on the plastic, near the rim. Avoid getting any glue inside the pen.
- You can find the super glue, pipe cleaner, and other supplies at a craft supply store.
- Wrap green pipe cleaner around the pen. Curl the pipe cleaner around the pen's rim. Twist it as tightly as possible around the pen's case. Make sure you press the pipe cleaner into the glue.
- Instead of pipe cleaner, you can use green floral tape. Wrap it tightly around the pen. You won't need glue for this.[12]
- Continue wrapping and gluing the pipe cleaner to the pen. Twist the pipe cleaner down and around the pen in a tight spiral. Cover the plastic completely. Every time you bring the pipe cleaner around the pen, add a drop of glue underneath it.
- Glue a pair of plastic leaves to the pen if you want. For some extra decoration, give your flower pen a few plastic leaves. Place them above the pen's nib, near the bottom of the pipe cleaner. Add a drop of glue to the leaves, then push them between the pipe cleaner. Position 1 on each side of the pen.[13]
- Cut a plastic flower to fit on top of the pen. Pick out a stylish plastic flower you like. You can find a bunch of different varieties at craft stores. Carefully snip off the stem using scissors or a wire cutter. Leave a little bit of stem on the flower's base to fit inside the pen.[14]
- You may need to cut off more later. Place the flower in the pen's opening to check this before you glue it in place.
- You can also glue the flower onto the side of the pen. Push it into the pipe cleaner like you did with the leaves.
- Glue the flower to the pen and let it dry for 30 minutes. Spread a thin layer of super glue around the flower's base. Set it on top of the pen, pushing the stem down into the opening. Then, set the pen aside in a safe location. Wait at least 30 minutes for it to dry.[15]
- To fit the flower more securely, try a hot glue gun. Spread a thin layer of glue around the flower's stem, then press it into the opening.
- Fit Styrofoam into a round container. Find a round container, such as a pencil holder, a coffee can, or mason jar. You also need a piece of Styrofoam that fits snugly inside the container. Buy this at a craft supply store, then push it down into the container.
- If the Styrofoam doesn't fit, cut it to size using an X-Acto knife or box cutter.
- Instead of Styrofoam, you could fill the container with river rocks.[16]
- Stick the pen in the container. Push the pen's tip into the Styrofoam. If you push it down far enough, the pen will stay standing after you let go of it. You may need to push it down a little more to make it perfect, but you now have a beautiful flower pen you can use anytime.
- Make a garden by decorating the container further. Try gluing leaves to toothpicks and placing them in your container to create grass.
EditOrdering Personalized Pens - Find a place that prints customized pens. Search for personalized pens online to quickly find many companies that let you design and print your own pens. You may also be able to find printing services in your area if you want to place your order in person.[17]
- Choose a style of pen you want. Browse around the print company websites to see what pen styles are available. Most places usually offer a few options, including regular ballpoint pens and fancier engraved pens. Select a type of pen to begin personalizing the design.
- Engraved pens usually include your name or a company name. Ballpoint pens can have a printed logo or image.
- Customize your pen's design. Decide what you want displayed on the pen. This can be your name, a company's name, or even a small image. Select one of the templates available, then type in the information you want displayed on the pen. Use the tools to change the font color, size, and other aspects.[18]
- You can customize a pen design from scratch. You can also send the company your own design for printing.
- Finish ordering the pens. Review your design and finalize it when you're happy with it. Confirm your order by indicating how many pens you want. Submit your shipping address and payment information to complete the order.
- You may need to place a minimum order, such as 100 pens, before your pens can be made. This information will be displayed on the company's website before you place your order.
- Have fun! Get creative and use lots of different materials to make unique pens.
- These pens can be customized and given as gifts.
EditThings You'll Need EditCreating Neon Pens - Pen
- Decorative printer paper
- Gel pens
- Scissors
EditMaking a Pom-Pom Pen - Pen
- Yarn
- Fabric tape
- Scissors
- Craft glue
- Foam brush
- Pom-pom
EditCreating a Flower Pen - Pen
- Round container
- Styrofoam
- Green pipe cleaner
- Super glue
- Scissors
- Plastic leaves
- Plastic flower
EditSources and Citations
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