Hi! I love to hear from my readers. Tell me about your projects. Ask me a question or feel free to drop me a little note. Comments are so far and few these days, an email lets me know that someone is still reading my tutorials. Believe it or not, emails from my readers are the joy that keeps me blogging.PrettyHandyGirl (at) gmail.com
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We are building in a development and had selected Craftsman Back Band Casing. However, they installed the wrong casing before we could see it. They installed 1 x 4 MDF Butt joint with a 1/4 inch overhang. Will they be able to add the back band (should they?) or will they have to rip it all out and put in new casing. I would like to share a photo of both but I do not see where I can upload it. We are getting tight on time to closing and if it can be an easy fix, I am ok with that.
Maureen, I’m so sorry I’m just now replying. I hope you got the issue resolved. Go ahead and email me pictures if you need help still. PrettyHandyGirl @ gmail.com.
Hey Brittany!
Saw your awesome “How to make a smooth chalkboard wall” article a few years ago. Thought I’d reach out directly. Your whole page is amazing! I have a lot to learn. =)
I have those sliding closet doors right next to my desk/work station. Made of some artificial flimsy wood paneling? But the surface is pretty smooth. I study & teach math/physics so I’d be using it constantly. Looking to make educational youtube videos in the near future, teaching math & physics to children ^_^
I naively applied 2 coats of Rust-Oleum flat black chalkboard paint directly onto the doors with a foam roller, thinking the 2nd coat would “smooth over” the 1st, but of course now it’s more coarse than the surface of the closet door itself!
Wondering if you have any “quick fix” recommendations to smooth over it somehow? I was thinking maybe to sand it off much as possible, then find some super thin/smooth sheet metal or board (or even thick paper) and apply it using some(?) type of glue. Then paint over that with the foam roller.
I’m pretty inexperienced (as you might tell) in these home renovation-type projects.
REALLY appreciate any advice I could get. Thank you!
Sorry for the delayed reply. Yes, I’d sand it smooth then try adding Floetrol to your paint to get a smoother finish. It’s always a good idea to sand between coats.
Thanks for your blog and mask pattern.
I made 2 masks using a pattern with pleated folds. I made a few with another pattern. I found your pattern, and made 35 for family and friends. I made masks for public schools in Kentucky. I made 160 using your pattern.
Hi Brittany,
I want to thank you for what you are doing here on your site. I made masks for myself and family and friends and they all love it. I love it too. Your design and fit are the best!! THANK YOU. I learnt to sew through you , your instructions are easy to follow and you explain things so well!! I am so grateful to you.
Jennie
Hello there,
I’m sewing your original Best Fit Mask, first for friends and family, now offering some on my website. I love your pattern best after trying quite a few! Are you still adding links on your list for those who make and offer them? I can’t see how to get on that list. If so, please let me know, thanks! And thanks for your great pattern and tutorials.
Thank you, Tonia
You need to email me and I’ll get your information.
Hi Brittany! I was just looking through photos of front door colors online and saw (hopefully) your house – you mentioned you liked the previous owners purple color on the front door so you just kept it. Please, please, let this be you! I hope your house is a very light green with the purple door. If so would you so very kindly send me the names of both the colors you used? My house is a pale green and we’re looking for a good purple to go with it because what we chose isn’t right. I’ll take the name of both colors even if the body of your house isn’t light green because they look so nice together!
Thank you!
The Purple was called Purple Honor (from Duron.) Our siding is a warm gray and has been that color. You are probably seeing the green reflecting from the landscaping in our yard. Here’s the link to the paint colors throughout the house (interior and exterior.) https://prettyhandygirl.com/paint-colors-home/. And this is a popular post of different door colors: https://prettyhandygirl.com/32-colorful-doors-adore/
I think this is a great mask, but I have trouble fitting in the lining and filter pocket. My filter pocket always seems too large. I am not the best sewer; I quilt and have done some sewing for kids, but oh how I wish you had slowed down the video when you put all three together. Any tip that might help? Still sticking with this mask. Thanks!
The tutorial is here, it will lead you along at your speed: https://prettyhandygirl.com/best-fit-facemask/. The filters aren’t easy to feed in, it helps to cut them with a slit in the top and bottom to fit around the nose and chin seams.
Thank you Brittany for an excellent pattern and instructions!
The coffee bag “peel and stick ties” are available at ULine.com
Product #S-12362BL (5 1/2”) and S-12363BL (7”). Bags of 1,000.
They provide a solid nose piece and hold their shape well.
Just wondering if you have any ideas for the nose piece on the masks. I’m making lots of masks for friends and family and can’t keep buying coffee!!
I updated the nose clip material list and have links where you can buy just the ties. Plus, I added some padded options: https://prettyhandygirl.com/best-fit-facemask/
Thank you Brittany for the pattern. I will try to let you know how the sewing goes.I will have to look for headband material and I hope I can figure out the bead- fishing wire part. I think my husband and I will like the fit and I love the coffee bag wire idea! Also I am so impressed that you flip houses for a living. If I were younger, I would love it.
Thank you so much!
Do you sell them? I don’t sew but would like to buy one or two. If you don’t but know someone making your new mask please let me know. Thanks so much Judy
Link to Best Fit Mask Sellers is at the bottom of the tutorial, but here it is again: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1a6yqchGZJVuaUw1K2iezY_2ABViFSjog64OmsAEtkjo/edit?usp=sharing
I first learned about your masks in a news article on my iPad today. You talked about a mask with 5/8 fold over elastic that went behind your head and neck. Do you have directions posted for that? I can’t find the article for that.
Yes, here’s the information on the Most Comfortable Best Fit Face Mask: https://prettyhandygirl.com/most-comfortable-best-fit-face-mask/
I’m dissappointed, i have no printer and i just need messurements. i loved your masks though. I’ll keep trying to find a way to messure, but might have to move on. thank you for the tutorial video
Read the tutorial carefully! There is a link to the dimensions for the Medium and the Large on this page: https://prettyhandygirl.com/best-fit-facemask/ Also, there is a tutorial for enlarging or reducing the pattern in my follow up video: https://youtu.be/DPrKpm507EU
Dear Brittany
thank you for your guide and your mask design. During lock-down here in the UK I have been using your design to make masks for friends and family and although mine don’t look as neat as yours, they have worked well and everyone has been pleased to receive and use them. I am, today, trying some with the extra layer for friends who are professional carers. Thank you!!!!
Tracey
Somerset, UK
Do you have a mask template to use for a 10 year old child?
Yes, it’s in the tutorial, now more mask sizes! I’d recommend a small for a 10 year old: https://prettyhandygirl.com/best-fit-facemask/
I don’t know what I did wrong. Made plenty of masks. I made the medium. I am average size . It was too short on chin so I adjusted the seam. The mask is at least one inch from the ear. Ok, longer cord. But the worst of it is that it juts out at least half inch over nose to chin. I made it on the fold and did an insert lining. When laid out it fits the pattern. Something isn’t right. Going to chuck it. Tried to add a picture
I like you video, but your site won’t allow me to download unless I download the EZ Converter. I don’t need that. I have Adobe. Any way of getting the pattern without being forced to download the sponsor’s app?
You are being baited by an ad. I apologize about that. Do not click on the ads, look for the linked text under instructions: https://prettyhandygirl.com/best-fit-facemask/
Thank you so much for the mask pattern-perfect, comfortable fit, made with 100% cotton pastel design outer and 100% white cotton lining. No foggy glasses-what a relief.
Hi! Thanks for your pattern. I have adapted it for use with a serger (so I don’t have to fold and iron every seam) and also sized it down for a “small”. I am making masks for donating and many people have liked your design better than the others I was making. I’m up to about 250-275 given away so far! Your pattern works well for a rotary cutter since the sides are all straight cuts. Thank You!
Do you sell the best fit face masks. I’m not so talented in the sewing area
I don’t sell them. But, here’s the Sellers Database: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1a6yqchGZJVuaUw1K2iezY_2ABViFSjog64OmsAEtkjo/edit?usp=sharing
Brittany, can I use your fitted face mask video on our website? We are a non-profit organization that moderates an open-source design library of Appropriate Technologies. It is free to all users–people in 44 countries have downloaded our designs for humanitarian projects worldwide. You can check out our website. I’d love to include links to some face mask designs in our library.
You have my permission to embed the code from my YouTube video on the site. If you don’t know how to do this, let me know. It should be under the share link on YouTube under my video.
Hi, I have tried two other face mask but yours is the best and so fast and easy to do. I really love all your ideas and your directions are the best. Thanks for all you do
Hi, I have tried several different face mask and this one is by the best. With that I wondered how to cut it down to fit a child. They are 9 but have kinda small faces.
l apologize for not being able to directly answer your question. Look at the top of the comment thread on the YouTube video (https://youtu.be/-t_Gz3lGwF8) for my FAQ comment which answers your question. You can also get answer directly on this page which was linked in the video description, but here it is again: https://prettyhandygirl.com/best-fit-facemask/
Hello Ms. Bailey,
Hope this note finds you well and safe.
First off thank you for the awesome mask pattern. My wife the fabric artist just finished sewing up the “prototype” and it fits great.
Because our local craft stores were closed making the ear loops was a bit of a challenge however a trip to Moose Jaw for the shock cord and Home Depot did the trick. During my experiments I found that need to heat seal or “burn” the shock cord casing after cutting or the casing frayed during assembly.
To solve the lack of a bead problem I came up with two ideas at HD that both work well.
Idea 1. Uses a 1/4″ long Everbilt Nylon Spacer 595 321 (two per pack) cost was about $0.80. I found these in the hardware section at my local store. To install the cord you need to stretch the fist end of the cord over the inside of the spacer then push the second end in until it comes out the other side. Once the cord is in the keeper the tension on the cord is just right. These work great for my wife due to her longer hair. However they are a bit expensive and they only had two sets so for making multiple masks this wasn’t practical. So onto idea 2 for the engineer without hair.
Idea 2. For my masks, I used Everbilt HKP003-PE004 5/15 OD / 3/16 ID polyethylene tubing 10 feet for $3.00. I found this in my plumbing section. For these retainers I cut the tube into 1/2 inch lengths with a utility knife so the edges were clean, scissors created a jagged edge which I didn’t like. The shock cord installation trick here is to put the first length of 1/8 shock cord through the tube then use pliers to flatten the tube a bit and push the other end of the cord into the tube. Once the short end is in the tube you will want to push the sort side of the cord while slowly pulling the long side of the cord until the sort side exits the keeper and then adjust and tie the end knots to finish the loop.
Both of these ideas work great and hold the ear strap in a firm position but not so firm that you can’t easily adjust the mask while on if required.
Again, I thank you for the great pattern and video, and stay safe out there.
Best regards,
John Markel
bethmarkel.com
Thanks for those alternate idea John!
I used your pattern for the masks, it is perfect! I ended up making 8. Thank you! I have recommended it to others.
Please send me a link to the template to print out. For the best fit mask.
I can;t find it on your blog. I watched the demononstartion but it is not enough without the template.
[email protected]
l apologize for not being able to directly answer your question. Look at the top of the comment thread on the YouTube video (https://youtu.be/-t_Gz3lGwF8) for my FAQ comment which answers your question. You can also get answer directly on this page which was linked in the video description, but here it is again: https://prettyhandygirl.com/best-fit-facemask/
Where is the pattern? I can’t find it anywhere
Thanks Kinnie
l apologize for not being able to directly answer your question. Look at the top of the comment thread on the YouTube video (https://youtu.be/-t_Gz3lGwF8) for my FAQ comment which answers your question. You can also get answer directly on this page which was linked in the video description, but here it is again: https://prettyhandygirl.com/best-fit-facemask/
Hi,
Just wanted to thank you for providing this awesome pattern. I am a lunch lady and we are out serving meals to kids each week. I have made over 30 masks to give to volunteers and am so appreciative of your tutorial. Thanks again!
That is a great training video, thanks for doing it. I do not have a sawing machine, do have a glue gun and might try it. However, in mean time, do you know of anyone who is making and selling a mask based on your design. I would like to buy a few for my wife and myself.
This is the database of sellers of the Best Fit Face Mask: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1a6yqchGZJVuaUw1K2iezY_2ABViFSjog64OmsAEtkjo/edit?usp=sharing
I have only one complaint about your mask pattern. It is so popular that I am having trouble keeping up! I’ve made them for family and friends that request more for their friends. It’s a wonderful problem to have. Hopefully I will get faster!
Thank you so much!
LOL. Thanks for the compliment. Good luck to you.
Hi there…I have been making masks for our community here in upstate New York. Pipe cleaners work WONDERFUL for over the nose.i bend one in half and Lightly wrap with a scrap of my lining…(our cotton bedsheet). I insert it into a narrow (header) .
Do you sell your masks
No, this is a list of sellers who do: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1a6yqchGZJVuaUw1K2iezY_2ABViFSjog64OmsAEtkjo/edit?usp=sharing
Pleas give me the dimensions to cut out the mask.
https://prettyhandygirl.com/best-fit-facemask/
Please do not use flannel for the face masks. It is too hot. I am an urgent care nurse & this fabric does not work for the long periods we wear them. Also, a very soft type of material for around the ears is important. Our ears are getting sore from even softer materials. Thank You for supporting us & helping us to stay healthy; as our masks are now being rationed to us.
[email protected]… CANT get or print templates for diy face mask
It’s on this page: https://prettyhandygirl.com/best-fit-facemask/
Can I order some of your best fit masks? I don’t have the ability to make my own.
l apologize for not being able to directly answer your question. Look at the top of the comment thread on the YouTube video (https://youtu.be/-t_Gz3lGwF8) for my FAQ comment which answers your question. You can also get answer directly on this page which was linked in the video description, but here it is again: https://prettyhandygirl.com/best-fit-facemask/
Where can I don load the pattern for the face mask?
l apologize for not being able to directly answer your question. Look at the top of the comment thread on the YouTube video (https://youtu.be/-t_Gz3lGwF8) for my FAQ comment which answers your question. You can also get answer directly on this page which was linked in the video description, but here it is again: https://prettyhandygirl.com/best-fit-facemask/
I can’t find any size template for masks could you let me know please
l apologize for not being able to directly answer your question. Look at the top of the comment thread on the YouTube video (https://youtu.be/-t_Gz3lGwF8) for my FAQ comment which answers your question. You can also get answer directly on this page which was linked in the video description, but here it is again: https://prettyhandygirl.com/best-fit-facemask/
How do I get the mask pattern measurements
It’s on this page: https://prettyhandygirl.com/best-fit-facemask/
Where can I get the face mask template, I can’t find it on your blog or tutorial, Help!
It’s on this page: https://prettyhandygirl.com/best-fit-facemask/
Hi I was wondering through the local home improvement store and spotted a wire which might work for the nose area how about speaker wire like this type here: https://www.lowes.com/pd/Southwire-100-ft-18-Gauge-2-Conductor-Standard-Speaker-Wire-By-the-Roll/1000733864
Do you think that this would work since it is sealed in plastic do you think it would work. I will do a test run tomorrow since Texas has decided to mandate mask on people over 10 years old when out in Public.
I’m not sure. But, try it. Or you can also purchase the 18 gauge wire at Lowe’s in the picture framing department.
Hi, I love your mask. Like you, I have made numerous masks from different patterns. I folded the lining under and used it for a filter pocket, thus, eliminating one layer of fabric. Think it works well. Thanks for sharing, Barb
We don’t have any electrical tape, will duct tape work or what else would you suggest for wrapping the nose piece paper clips
Yes, use what you have ;-).
Hi Brittany
I just did your mask for the people in my husbands office and they would like one for there children
do you have a small pattern to use for kids?
If so i would really like to get it. I have made so many other mask and by far your way is the best.
thank you,
Marlene Jacobson
Marlene, you’ll have to do a little experimenting with size, as children have a wide variety of face sizes. I’d try printing the templates off at 90% and see how that works.
how do I find your pattern for the mask?
It’s here: https://prettyhandygirl.com/best-fit-facemask/
I followed your instructions and all went perfectly to a point. when I went to affix the new led Light to the ceiling it would not go flush. Apparently the can in my ceiling is not deep enough. Is there a solution is there something else I can buy.
Pat, you might need to try a different brand retro-fit LED. Start by looking for a brand name on your recessed cans and try to find retrofit LED lights for that brand.
Brittany, could you recommend a video or post as to how to drain a water heater for maintenance? I have very hard water in Utah and want to get as many years as possible out of my 18-month-old one, but i am scared I may do something wrong and end up with no working hot water. Am I over thinking this, and it is easy? Please advise.
Pamela, I don’t have a video or post, but obviously need to do one. Try looking on YouTube or Google.
Hello,
I wanted to point out that you don’t need to use polysterene beads for your DIY poufs. Polysterene is extremely bad for the environment. It never degrades. It breaks apart into smaller pieces which eventually end up in our streams, rivers and beaches. I highly recommend using an alternate material like, fabric scraps, wool (wool balls or just loose wool stuffing) and kapok. Believe me, if you try these materials you will better as you will be doing something for the environment plus it’s healthier and feels good!
Thanks for reading !
HI-love your blogs & so enjoy seeing all your projects. We live in Raleigh & are getting ready to move to a retirement community. Have very nice porch furniture in need of love & a gorgeous (to Me) dining room set, but it’s brown… Any suggestions who might want to buy these pieces & try their hand at some of your projects. Will also have 2 dressers (can only take chests with us), etc etc. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Try offering them for sale on Craig’s List or Facebook Marketplace.
Hi Brittany: Thanks for getting back to me. I appreciate your suggestions and will follow-up at a reclaimed wood shop in my area. I am taking a leap of faith and hoping to create a dining room table that we can use indoors . You were the spark – much appreicated – Rodger Knight
Hi Brittany: I absolutely love your Farmhouse table . I was looking for a summer project and now I have one. Is there a type of wood that you might suggest that will give the table that rough hue or would you suggest just the regular spruce that you can find at any Hardware chain such as Home Depot? Thanks for taking the time to respond. take care – Rodger – Brampton Canada
Rodger, you can find 4×4 lumber at a woodworking supply shop or true lumber yard (not home improvement super stores). For the look you want, see if you can find some salvage lumber in your area and have them mill it to size.
Hi there, we love your plans for the “Building a Window Seat with Storage in a Bay Window” my dad is going to build it with my son (his first project :)) It is 48 pages if you print it from your webpage – by any chance do you have this is a printable form? Thanks so much, Tina ([email protected])
Sorry, I don’t have another format. Have you tried copying the text and paste it into a word doc?
Just stumbled across your reindeer sign video on youtube. Awesome!!! Wow…love love love this sign you made. Now….you made it look easy to do but for some of us…not so easy. Wish you would make these signs and sell them. I’d buy one! Just wanted to say how wonderful it was to watch your video and appreciate you taking the time to show all of us! have a great day!
Eddie
Loved seeing what you have done with Etta. I live in the far north so not able to see it in person. Now that you are done, what would you do differently?
Celia, this is a great question. If you don’t mind, I might turn this into a blog post at the end. I have lots of notes I’ve made for myself but I think it would be great to share with everyone.
Hi Brittany, I have loved watching you work on Etta on your blog. Unfortunately, though I live in Raleigh, I have another commitment on the day of your open house. Will you still share the address so that I can drive by sometime to at least see the outside?
Thanks so much!
Paula, it’s on S. Person Street ;-).
Hi from Raleigh! You just listed your real estate agent and I was wondering if you would consider sharing all the sources and companies you’ve used for Etta. It would be great to have your recommendations. Also, I have a question: I have a bathroom vanity that has what looks like a marble top and since we have hard community well water, there are white cloudy areas forming that I can’t seem to get rid of. Any ideas?? Thanks for your terrific content!
Hi Lynn. Like most general contractors, I don’t mind sharing a few of my subcontractors. But, most of them are highly sought after (aka busy), so I prefer to keep their information off the internet so they won’t be too busy to help me out on short notice. I hope you understand.
Regarding cleaning the counter top, this is what I’ve used on our cultured marble tops: https://prettyhandygirl.com/scrub-away-hard-water-stains/
How can I get plans for the painted house mail box. My brother will build it for me if I can get the plans. This mailbox is just what I want. It’s a beauty. You are so talented. Thank you so much.
LeeTucci
Hi Pretty Handy Girl from ‘across the pond’… In your window bench pin you talk about a Kreg Jig. Can you recommend (in your opinion) the best all-round Kreg Jig? Many thanks!
This is the one I have and it works well both inside the support and for free clamping. https://amzn.to/2NoES7s Also, you’ll probably find this tutorial helpful: https://prettyhandygirl.com/how-to-use-a-kreg-jig/
I’m so happy to have found your site. My husband died a few years ago and I’m clueless about home maintenance. Even when I know what needs to be done, I have no idea how to do it and can’t follow the directions because I don’t know the terminology. Your explanations break everything down enough for me to understand and actually be able to handle some of these projects.
Thanks for the descriptions of screws and nails and drywall. I’ve hammered nails into drywall, hung pictures, and watched the whole thing come crashing down. That pretty much sums up my home maintenance skills, so you can imagine how excited I am to be able to learn how to care for my home.
Carole, so nice to virtually meet you. And I’m thrilled you found my site. I’m sorry to hear about your husband.
You’re awesome. It’s so great to see women doing this kind of work. You (and other women in the filed) have inspired me to learn more about home renovations and woodworking, and I now plan to change careers and start my own business, and possibly a charity. I’ll be in touch. Thanks for being fearless.
I just found you.. Thank Godness — What I have read is great !! We needed a women to talk “women” talk about fixing things.
I have a question. I have a Casablanca fan in the bedroo m, no remote, wall switch with a switch that turns fan on off and another one for the light I need to replace the blades, because one of them got broken. Can I use the Casablanca mechanism to buy any fan and put it up, or do I have to buy a Casablanca one or a whole new fan and replace all the “inners”. Thanks, debbi
Debbi, I’m not sure I understand your question. What is the Casablanca mechanism you mean? In terms of fan blades, you may be able to purchase the new blades. Try contacting Casablanca.
Morning! Over the years, I’ve watched you and your blog grow and grow. Wonderful!
When I start a project with tools I haven’t used for a while, you’re my go-to so I can refresh my memory, and frankly, refresh my confidence in my ideas! I have to search, though, for Tool Tutorials. My request/suggestion is to add a link to your banner for Tool Tutorials?
I can certainly continue to search, and I’ll always continue reading. But as the reference you’ve become for many of us, that would be very handy.
Keep up the great work!
(Christine —
who is now attacking built-ins for my mudroom with CL cabinets, my own face frames, doors and drawers. Yeah! Got it in my head. Now I’ve just got to get it into the mudroom.)
Christine, thank you so much for your feedback. I’ll try to get some buttons back up for you to find it easier. In the meantime, the tool tutorial should be under the project gallery on the navigation bar. Or here: https://prettyhandygirl.com/category/tool-tutorials/
Thanks for the quick reply!
Hi! I’ve rediscovered your website and have been going back through old posts. I’m curious–how did Wipe New product hold up on your car’s headlights since it’s been a year since you posted about it?
Thanks!
It held up great, but we sold the car about 2 months ago. It still looked fantastic.
Is it possible to see the 31 day of Handy Home Fixes. All I can get to is the opening page but I can’t seem to see any further links.
Thank you. Mimi
Mimi, I updated the gallery just for you 😉 https://prettyhandygirl.com/category/31-days-of-handy-home-fixes/
Hi im making outside Cedar table tops but during them an 8 inch by a 1/4 inch crack appeared. I would like to fill the crack with a clear easy pouring fluid .
Do u have any ideas ?
please and thanksG
Gord, you could try an epoxy 2 part mixture.
Good afternoon Brittany!
I came across your website by accident but am so glad I found it! I am 65 years old and hearing impaired.. My husband is in bad health and there are some things around the house that need fixing:) The instructions for the faucet replacement for the bathroom sink looks easy enough (I hope). However, I would like to install a towel bar in the tub area. The instructions I saw was for mounting the bar into sheetrock. What or how can I mount a towel bar into tile? The tile goes up the wall to about 18 inches from ceiling. Can you help me???
The other question I had was regarding the solution for hard water. Mine is not on the sink but in the toilet bowl. How can I apply to mixture so it does not come in contact with the water in the toilet bowl???
Thank you so much for your time and help!
Sincerely,
Jeanette
P.S. LOVE your website!
Jeanette, if the towel bar is strictly for holding a towel and not to help you or your husband get in and out of the tub, you can look into a strong adhesive to secure the mounting bracket to the tile (Liquid Nails Fuze* It or GE Sealants Iron Grip). You could also drill into the tile and insert anchors made for tile, but you’d probably have to use the screws that come with the anchors and not the towel bar.
Hard water stains on a toilet bowel can usually be scrubbed off with a pumice stone and a little elbow grease. Then follow up with a good cleaning.
Brittany, you are an inspiration! Your skill, can-do attitude, and generosity in sharing both your knowledge and encouragement has been invaluable to me. Thank you!
Lys, thank you for leaving this kind note. I appreciate it. Have a great week!
Hi,
Thank you for publishing this. I was struggling to get the 3 way dimmer to work correctly and there is nothing in Lutron’s manual that would have gotten me to what you described. It worked great for me! Greatly appreciate it. Thank you Thank you Thank you!
I have never left a reply, but after reading your email this morning about your involvement in the march on Saturday, I have to reply. First off, I have to ask these questions: Are you pro-abortion or are you pro-life? Are you a feminist? Are you a God-fearing Christian? God did not make a woman to be able to do the same things that a man can do. We don’t have their build or their strength. There are some things that a woman has absolutely no right doing. I have to say that I am extremely disappointed in you. I have been following your blog for a few years now. I have enjoyed it up until now. Because of the so-called feminist movement, women have literally messed things up for themselves as well as for the rest of us who do not agree with their cause. Men have lost respect for women. Our country is a mess.. and these women (and men that follow them) are only making matters worse. What they are doing is not the answer. God is America’s ‘only’ hope. I could go on, but you should get my point. Thanks for all the great projects and ideas! God Bless
Colleen, thank you so much for your reply. I’m so glad you felt comfortable sharing your views and opinion. I was brought up to believe that girls can do anything boys can do. Maybe it was a generational thing or maybe it was because I’m the oldest of three girls. My father and mother bought a small house that they added onto themselves. Both my parents saved a lot of money doing much of the work themselves. And naturally they included my sisters and I in the projects. I agree that God made women into amazing creatures that can bear children and feed them from their own breast. But, I do not think that women are incapable of doing things men can do. In fact I am here (among many many other women) as living proof that I can do things that were stereotypical for a man’s job decades ago. I recently earned my general contractor license. In my work and my daily live, I’ve rarely run into subcontractors or men that don’t respect me. In fact the builder of our 39 year old home (who is now retired) was one of my biggest cheerleaders and wrote me my reference letter to earn my General Contractor License.
I will continue to be a cheerleader for women (and men) to encourage them to learn how to fix their own toilets, rewire outlets, build furniture, and any other projects that I know they can do.
Again, I really appreciate your thoughts and comments. I want us all to be able to bridge the divide and hear each other in our struggles as we try to go forward making this country the best it can be. Hope you have a great week!
You go girl….I just wish I could do of the things you do….I have a friend who is a Mom of two daughter & two sons, and one granddaughter, She is jack of all trades…she can do anything around the house…doesn’t have to ask her husband everytime something needs fixing, she does it herself….He’s a Policeman so I’d say probably doesn’t know as much about things like that as she does lol, I just think it’s amazing that women want to do things like this too…..I never ever wanted to, but wish now I would have learned in my earlier days….if I need a fan installed, I have to call someone to do it for me….you won’t ever have that problem….
I just wish I could find someone to build me a cabinet to fit under my sink in my bathroom…I can sure tell someone how to build it but I can’t build it……can’t even find people to do things like that for you…can’t buy one , they don’t make them…. I have checked at Lowe’s , they don’t have them .,…and no one wants to work, they want to stay home and collect a welfare check…..that is my big gripe….
So just go girl and do your thing…..girls can do what guys do I always say…..but who wants to do Plumbing….not this gal, it stinks….but building things like you are doing I think is wonderful…and your husband loves it because he don’t have too…..he can work a 9-5 job and come home and see what you have made for the day or sit back and watch you build…..LOL
A woman who loves power tools, ah, my friend! I was given, last Christmas, a Ryobi cordless drill and a diamond ring. Couldn’t get any better than that could it? I have purchased a chop saw and a table saw (Ryobi, of course) and they gave me a scroll saw for Christmas. I feel like doing the Tim Allen “Men are pigs” grunt. 🙂 So far, I have built 4 window boxes for the front of my house, scrap benches (scrap wood from an add on), two little plant stands, two adirondack tables (a gift), and a swing bed. Which is freaking awesome!!!! I am in the process of repurposing a broken small fridge into a cooler, as we speak. It looks really good, just trying to tweak it. I couldn’t find plans for a mid size one. Lord, I love it!!! My husband looked at me like I was crazy when I said that I was building the swing bed. Red and white, with lots of pillows. Sorry, I got carried away! Go do it girls. Rub a little sawdust behind your ears, and get to it. LOVE your site.
Debbie, thanks for your comment. You go girl! Keep it up.
Hi Could Debbie post pics. of what she had made ? We would love to see them?I clicked on reply under her comment, but it would not take it…..
Hello,
I’m interested in having 3 coffee bars made with the face in sheet metal patina, is this something you do?
Sorry Terry, I can’t make custom items. I put the tutorials out there so you can do it yourself ;-).
Thank you, Brittany, for your excellent instructions on installing the PartsmasterPro pop-up-sink part no. 58423. I have two sinks to repair with the same problem.
Problem for me, no replacement gaskets came with the kits.
I have not yet disassembled the mechanisms which, like your mum’s unit, are hard to get at.
It could be that the old gaskets are still good but the units have not been worked on for ten years at least..
How can I get two gaskets ?
Our local Home Depot is very good but I do not have confidence in the present sales staff to give me an answer. I have asked two of their employees for answers, both recommended 58423 but did not raise the possibility that the gaskets needed replacing even when I said there surely had to be some form of seal.
I’d be very grateful for your suggestions.
Thanks again and thank you for your excellent article.
Dudley, I’d suggest either going to Lowe’s or a plumbing supply store like Ferguson’s.
Question about painting your security door.,,, how did you get the glass out of the middle the two little peices. I didnt know they could come out.
thanks
Hey Brittany. Just curious if you could help me out? I recently bought a house, 9 months ago, that was built in the 60’s with plaster walls. I have only lived within drywall walls and know how to use anchors and hang pictures on it.
However, plaster is a totally different story and the walls keep chipping and I have no idea what I’m doing! Could you give me some tips?
Thanks.
Justin, I’d suggest using the wing bolt type anchors and pre-drilling. Good luck.
Hi there! I just want to tell you how much I enjoy your blog. It has helped me with my DIY projects so much!! Thank you!
Thanks Nicole! Your comment means so much to me. Keep up the great projects!
Hi there, I would like to paint my outside door with the beautiful wild currant SW7583 but my shutters are kind of gold. Do think coloring the door with the currant would look weird?
Thanks for your help!
Not at all! I apologize for the delayed reply. I hope you went with it already ;-).
Love the copper pipe idea for outdoor string lights. Can you explain this project? What to purchase and where and how to put it together? I don’t want to involve my hubby in the project! 🙂
Thanks
Hi,
I am looking at building a bay window seat
Any hints and tips?
Angela, this tutorial should help: https://prettyhandygirl.com/building-a-window-seat-with-storage-in-a-bay-window/
We are newbies in our attempt to antique an old cabinet. We think it was a throw away from a kitchen remodel. We purchased Valspar paint & glaze for our project. After sanding we put 2 coats of paint on the cabinet. We waited a few days then attempted to put on the glaze & it brought up the paint, creating a huge mess. Now what do we do?
Bev, unfortunately you might have needed to use primer before painting. You best bet is to strip off the paint down to the bare wood. You can read about stripping paint here: https://prettyhandygirl.com/strip-paint-off-door/
Thank you for your quick response. We had already convinced ourselves that stripping the cabinet is our only option… unfortunately! On a side note – your doors are beautiful!
Hi, I saw something of yours that was posted on a pinterst page and I just love it. Would you be able to contact me and I can talk to you more about it. If you can make one for me or where I can buy it. Thank you.
Sorry Cathie, I can’t make custom items. I put the tutorials out there so you can do it yourself ;-).
I dropped a very old hand mirror and now need to replace the glass. It is 3.5 inches round and I cannot find anyone that sells this size or even will bother cutting it for me.
Check with a local glass company.
Hello Brittany, I came across your website. I was wondering if you paint murals for other people? I like your camping room. I would like a similar mural in my son’s room. The room is very small, the wall size is approx. 8ft X7ft. I have an idea for a design. It involves a Polar Bear gazing at the night sky. Since you are able to do animals I thought you might be good for this job. The room will be freshly painted. If you do this type of work approximately how much would you charge. If you do not do this type of work, are you able to recommend someone else. Thanks for your help.
Linda Balazich
Linda, I’m sorry I can’t paint a mural for you. The man that did most of our mural was Tom Barber. He used to live in the Raleigh, NC area. I’m not sure if he’s still in the area or not. I’d try looking for mural artists in your area and ask to see their portfolio.
The link for anti tip brackets for the stove no longer works. Can you find a current list of contact numbers.
Thanks for letting me know about that broken link Kimberly. I couldn’t find a new comprehensive list online. The best thing to do is contact your stove’s manufacturer and ask them to send you one.
Your photo with the front door painted with ‘wild currant’…. what is the house paint color and trim paint color? all works so well….
Katie, I wish I knew. It’s a home I took a picture of on a walk. I’d suggest getting a swatch of Wild Currant and work with someone who is good with color to pick a good neutral house color.
I have a small laundry room between the kitchen and an attached garage. Would like lights to com on with motion but the light switches for this laundry room is facing the kitchen and the other facing into garage so any motion sensed doesn’t mean I’m going into the laundry room. Any sulu toons?
You’ll probably need to relocate your switch into the laundry room if you want to use an occupancy sensor light switch.
Just painted my cabinet doors, replaced hinges with European hinges. After installing the doors back into the cabinet the cabinet doors did not meet in the middle. After maximum adjustments there is still a 1/4 inch gap between the two doors. Any ideas on how I can fix this?
Mike, your best bet might be to install a filler strip that sits behind the door gap.
I signed up for your emails and newsletter. Got the free gift, but i am no good on the computer, so I don’t know how to add it to my phone. Thank You