Friday, July 31, 2015

Make Gallons Of Pretend Bloodstream

Sometimes just a dribble of fake blood is enough. But if you're putting on a play or movie with wholesale slaughter, you might need gallons of the stuff. Most fake blood recipes use ingredients that, when multiplied to the quantity of gallons, would become quite expensive. Knowing that huge amounts of blood on stage or screen probably won't be subjected to great amounts of scrutiny, we can skimp a little on the ingredients and come up with a recipe for gallons of fake blood that is economical yet convincing.


Instructions


1. Mix the red gelatin dessert packets together with about three times as much water as called for on the box. Do your mixing in the 5-gallon bucket, and keep track of how many gelatin dessert packets you use.


2. Add 4 drops of red food coloring and 1 drop of green food coloring to the mix for every gelatin dessert packet used.


3. Stir thoroughly and add two tablespoons of flour to thicken the mixture. You can add more flour just before using, if you want a thicker consistency, but don't store it with extra flour as it may thicken too much if left to sit.


Sell A Cartoon

Selling a cartoon is tough work, generally a lot tougher than coming up with the cartoon in the first place! However, if you know market your cartoon you will find a buyer in no time and your cartoon will be on its way to entertaining kids in no time.


Instructions


Sell a Cartoon


1. Create a cartoon series. In order to sell a cartoon you need to have a cartoon to sell. This seems quite obvious, but many people unwittingly assume a good idea is enough to sell a cartoon and in most cases it ins't. That means you must go to the effort of producing an actual cartoon program or two that can be viewed in real time and evaluated. Potential buyers or producers want to see what the cartoon is like on television and by providing them this visual you really give yourself a major advantage over all of the other cartoon scripts that are in the running.


2. Research producers submission requirements. Before you begin sending your cartoon to every producer in the business you would like to do a little research to find the producer most open to the type of cartoon you are pitching. Some producers prefer a "bible" that includes all the details of the cartoon for their review while others are more interested in the basics. Finding out what particular producers are looking for will help you market effectively.


3. Market the cartoon. Now that you know what different producers are looking for you know who to send your cartoon Bible to and who to send a basic overview of the cartoon. Market in earnest because the more producers you reach with your pitch for a cartoon means the better chance you have of actually selling it.


4. Be patient. Sometimes it takes years to sell a cartoon and you may have to market to the same producers over and over. That's part of the business so prepare yourself. If you think your cartoon is awesome but you can't make the producers see that then you will have a hard time making a sale. Be sure to be creative in the way you market your cartoon and how you pitch it so you won't have to wait so long to sell it!


Sell Art On Ebay

Selling your art on eBay is a great way to reach thousands of potential customers without ever stepping away from your living room. It is also the perfect way to sell your art if you live away from a large city or have little to no access to the artistic community. By using eBay, you also avoid the large fees that come with setting and maintaining your own website.


Instructions


1. Price your items low and put a "reserve price" (the minimum price at which you agree to sell the item) on it. On eBay, that price is kept a secret from the bidders to entice bidding. Setting a high price, on the other hand, tends to discourage people.


2. Use auctions if you have items you want to sell quickly, such as those from a closeout, or are sure the item will set up a bidding war. For most items, though, a virtual art store may be better. Items put up there are available for sale for a longer period of time (1 month versus an average 7 days for an auction), and can serve as your online presence if you don't have your own website or don't sell through other virtual venues.


3. Factor in shipping and handling. If your item is large, quite heavy or too fragile, you need to make sure you set the right shipping price and offer additional insurance protection.


4. Use plenty of photos. Since people won't be able to see the item in person, they need an accurate description to understand exactly what they are getting. A series of pictures from different angles, along with measurements and a detailed description will make a work of art much more attractive to people browsing.


5. Read the eBay art selling guide to understand the different steps involved in the process, from listing your items to keeping tabs on your art business (see Resources below). The guide will take you through the necessary steps to start an auction or to set up a virtual store and will also help you understand selling strategies so you can make the most of your experience on eBay.


Sell Art Within An Online Gallery

Sell Art in an Online Gallery


If you don't have the chance or the inclination to sell your works of art through art shows or exhibitions, an online gallery may be your best option. Because the actual work of promoting, selling and organizing your portfolio actually falls on the hands of the gallery, you are left to the creative side of the business with little to no interruption.


Instructions


1. Locate a gallery that fits your budget, style and business goals. Some galleries will require you to pay a flat fee to list your items, while others will take a percentage of the sale. You also need a gallery that limits the number of artists it displays. An online art gallery with 1,000 different artists may not be as successful as one with 100, simply because buyers will get lost and may never find your work among the competition.


2. Choose an online gallery that uses different techniques to showcase the art it sells. Some galleries offer incentives to buyers (discounts on second items or free shipping), while others have contests or giveaways. A gallery that is simply a listing of names will do little to attract customers willing to spend money.


3. Find an art gallery that allows you to create and sell prints of your work. Rather than focusing on your original work only, these types of galleries cash in on secondary sales, including personalized gifts, framed prints and even computer downloads. This is a great way to expand your earning system without any additional work.


4. Ask whether the gallery sells art through direct transactions, auctions, or through connections with art studios and brick-and-mortar galleries and shows. The more options a gallery offers, the greater the chance you will be able to sell your work.


5. Clarify in writing anything you don't understand about the operation of the gallery. Some galleries act as intermediaries, showcasing your work and closing the transaction, but you are in charge of mailing the work to the client once the sale is finalized. Other galleries sell only secondary works (prints, products) created from a scan of your original work. Finally, many galleries actually take your work and finalize the whole transaction without your intervention.


Sell Art In An Memorial

The role of selling art in a gallery is often labeled by the title "Art Dealer." While there are no specific qualifications that mandate the knowledge, skills or abilities an art dealer must possess, there are some fundamental basics that someone interested in selling art in a gallery needs to consider when contemplating this type of career.


Instructions


1. Consider a degree in fine arts, art history or art administration if you are interested in becoming an art dealer. While there are no minimum education requirements to be considered an art dealer, education in the arts is highly desirable. The art world is an extremely complex field. Knowing about the subject is imperative.


2. Understand how the art market functions. Stay current on the value, prices and market fluctuations of the artwork you are interested in obtaining or selling. A good art dealer controls the market. By increasing the demand for what you are showing, you increase your profit.


3. Know why people buy art. People generally do not buy art because they fall in love with it and must own it. People buy art because they believe in its value and worth. Many people buy art as an investment. Part of an art dealer's job is like that of an investment banker. You need to know when to advise your patrons to buy and when not to buy artwork.


4. Develop a contact list that includes artists and patrons alike. Reputation is very important in the art world. Developing a loyal base of clients and artists is beneficial for sales and also for referrals regarding both artists and other buyers.


5. Visit unknown artists and discover new talent. Visit the galleries of established artists. Find artists to exhibit as the main function of selling art.


Sell Antique Dishes

Antique dishes can be very valuable to collectors.


When you acquire antique dishes and want to sell them, you can opt for the quickest sale, which requires simply rinsing them off, taking them to the nearest antique store, and accepting whatever offer is made. Or, you could spend some time researching the dishes to discover their real value. Then, you can sell them at the same antique store (or via an online auction) with the knowledge needed to haggle for a fair price. This article is intended for those interested in selling their antique dishes for a fair price to an antiques dealer, or possibly at an even higher price to a collector.


Instructions


Sell Your Antique Dishes


1. Always wash antique dishes by hand.


Carefully unpack and wash your antique plates using mild dish detergent and water. Do not put them in the dishwasher, because this can deteriorate hand-painted details or manufacturer's marks. As you wash and dry the dishes, sort and count them based on style and use. Write down how many of each dish you have (10 dinner plates, six saucers, six tea cups, etc.) This information may come in handy later, if you're able to sell a complete "full set" of dishes, you can get a better price.


2. Research the dishes. Start by looking for the maker's label on the underside of each piece. Manufacturers of antique china usually left a mark imprinted or painted on almost every piece of china. In addition to manufacturer logo, look for serial numbers and pay attention to the color of the mark. According to Wilcox & Hall Appraisers, famous antique dish manufacturers, such as Wedgwood, used number and symbol codes on their dishes that will provide you the exact date of production.


3. Price your collection. Remember that online auction sites and retail prices are not accurate price indicators. Research your dishes using the Internet and reference books available at your library. Find out if you own a "full set" of dishes; these are worth more. (Each manufacturer varies on how many dishes constitutes a full set.) If you have found a very large collection, or you start discovering that many of your dishes are valuable, contact a professional appraiser. Appraiser fees can range from a few dollars to hundreds, depending on the size of the lot and the certification they provide. Also, appraisers' opinions on your dishes' value can vary tremendously, so if you have a highly valuable collection, consider getting a second appraisal.


4. Now that you know the value of the dishes, you can choose the best route to sell them. Collections worth only a few dollars can be sold quickly at swap meets, flea markets, antique stores, garage sales and possibly through online auctions. Set a low price for the entire lot, or sell individual pieces. Remember that resellers, such as antique stores, are looking to make money too. If your antique dishes are worth $1000, a price of $500 from a reseller is appropriate.


5. If your collection is worth several thousand (or even tens of thousands of dollars), start contacting antique dealers and auction houses. You can find them by searching online. Dealers will offer you a price based on their local market, their contacts and the markup they'll need to earn a profit. Auction houses will sell your dishes for you for a percentage of the sale price. Some auctions allow you to set a minimum price, others do not. Pay close attention to this detail, lest you sell your valuable collection for pennies.


Scientific Poster Ideas

Sign of Pi


At first thought, science does not usually strike people as a whole lot of fun. However, in fact, science is thrilling, and people---especially students---can go from the tiny spark of interest to very real excitement, in a matter of moments, as the possibilities of science intrigue the imagination. Posters for science can suggest the limitless possibilities of science while proving eye-catching, and creatively fun for both the artist to create and the viewer to enjoy.


The Equation Board


E=mc2


Create a poster that looks like a chalkboard, either green or black, but to prove extremely eye-catching from a distance, try the effect of bright yellow chalk on green board. Create a surface that looks much-erased, with some old equations faintly showing through. Start with a familiar equation, such as "E=mc2" and then progress to less recognizable equations, the more complicated, the better. Finally, gradually, move from mathematical equations to the message you wish to convey, slowing blending from yellow chalk to white chalk. People will want to read what you have to say on your poster.


Anti-Mad Scientist


Anything But Mad Scientist


Albert Einstein is perhaps one of the most recognizable figures in recent history, and certainly an almost stereotypical portrayal of a mad scientist, with a shock of unruly white hair, a fumbled bow tie, reading specs on the nose, and other assorted accouterments of the brilliant but absent-minded man of science. Create a poster of Einstein's head, except use a photographic image of Einstein's face, and perhaps even body, with a massively caricatured forehead of staggering proportions. Use a gradation from the forehead to a white area where your message can be displayed. The cartoon-like proportions of the figure will catch the eyes of passerby and draw them in to read your message.


Mobius Strip


Mobius: Infinity


Create a poster with a large "Mobius" strip or ribbon, the universal sign of infinity. This can either be a flat graphic image with a dropshadow to lend virtual depth, or for greater visual punch, a long strip of construction paper can actually be fashioned into the infinity symbol by twisting it back on itself and pasting this to the poster. Begin your message within the lower-left curve of the ribbon, and curl your information up around the "never-ending" passage of the ribbon, suggesting that your message is important, and that people should read it.


Code Breaker Poster


The Code


Create a poster that begins with very large mathematical symbols, or other code such as backward writing, or numbers in place of the alphabet. Creatively devise a code that tells the message you wish to impart to the viewer, and whether or not a viewer will actually "crack the code" or not, is not the point, but that they are attracted to approach the poster, where the decoded plain message is found at the bottom of the poster. But if you create a catchy "code," with a simple message such as "important meeting, please attend," and if some people can actually crack the code, the information will prove important, and fun, to the viewer, and they might share it with others.


Thursday, July 30, 2015

Choose French Art Nouveau

Tiffany created objects in the Art Nouveau style.


French Art Nouveau details a style of art that was created about 1900. This style is typified by the use of curvy lines, motifs of nymphs, Pans and heads of Medusa, flowers, moths and other images from classical art and nature. Though called Art Nouveau, or "new art," after the Maison de l'Art Nouveau, a store opened by famed art dealer Sigfrieg Bing in the late 19th century, the style is actually influenced by earlier rococo, Gothic art as well as the art of Japan and Indonesia, among other styles. Well-known artists who worked in this style include Louis Comfort Tiffany, Alfons Mucha and Louis Majorelle.


Instructions


1. Select a Nouveau piece that fits your taste. Tiffany created lamps, stained-glass bowls and other high-end items that can be found in homes, churches and businesses. Mucha was an artist from what is now the Czech Republic who created paintings, illustrations and advertising posters often featuring female figures surrounded by lush flowers, in pastel colors. Louis Majorelle was a decorator and furniture designer; his pieces, known for their beautiful inlays, took inspiration from nature --- including plants, waterlilies and dragonflies.


2. Find objects that are affordable. Going to estate sales by people known to have Tiffany items or to be collectors of Art Nouveau. Estate sales can be found online or in the classifieds of newspapers.


3. Make certain what you have is genuine, if you are investing in a real Art Nouveau piece. Consult an art appraiser; there are online resources to help you do this. Also consult art appraiser organizations to be connected with those who specialize in Art Nouveau. Such organizations include the Art Dealers Association of American Art Appraisals, and the Appraisers Association of America.


Choose An Audio Lesson To Have An Opera Audition

When going into an Opera audition, just as any audition, there is only one chance to make a good impression. The song that is selected can make or break a person in the audition process. When the right song is selected, it can give the singer an edge over competitors who make a poor song choice.


Instructions


1. Listen to all the songs from the Opera that is holding the audtitions. If it is for an Opera Theatre and not a specific Opera, find out what songs they will be singing and listen to them all. It is best to sing something that is going to be sung in the opera or that is in the Opera Theatre's repertoire. If the person does a great song singing one of their songs, why not hire them?


2. Make a list of the songs from the Opera or Opera Theatre's repertoire that are sung in a suitable vocal range.


3. Practice singing each of the songs on the list. Select the top 3 songs that can be sung without any difficulty but that also show a good range in notes from low to high, great skill and agility.


4. Record the top 3 songs on a voice recorder and review each song.


5. Select 1 song from the 3 to be the song that will be sung at the audition.


Be Considered A Reality Show Contestant

No matter what your reason for wanting to be on a reality show, whether for the money or for the experience, you are sure to have a lot of fun. There are thousands of other people who want to be on the same reality show you do. Therefore, if you want the saccept you as a contestant, you need to make yourself seem like the best candidate.


Instructions


1. Stick to your true personality when you audition for the reality show. Some people try to be someone they aren't, or adopt a celebrity persona. Unfortunately, producers don't like it when people do that and they will be able to tell when you try it.


2. Realize that even if you don't have the best physical features, you should go out there and audition anyway. Looks aren't everything.


3. Be honest and let your guard down. Answer any question that producers ask you and don't be afraid to tell them the embarrassing stories. The producers want true insight into what kind of person you are and they're looking for people to whom their viewers can relate.


4. Make a video of yourself doing your everyday activities. This will add more substance to your audition and reveal much more about you than a simple conversation ever can.


5. Act courteous and respectful at all times during your audition. Treat all staff members with respect and remember to say thank you. If the show producers reject you, just try again with another reality show.


Create A Collage On Picasso

Create a collage centered around Pablo Picasso.


Renowned Spanish artist Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) is known for his innovative Cubist style that helped to sculpt the definition of modern art. Create a collage that captures Picasso's life, works and historical innovations for a class project or as a present to an art lover. Although it might seem like an intimidating task to capture a painter like Pablo Picasso in a mere collage, these hints and tips can help you through the creative process.


Instructions


1. Look through art magazines for images of Pablo Picasso's work. An easy way to gather images for the Pablo Picasso collage is to purchase a magazine or book on Picasso.


2. Cut out images of Pablo Picasso and his works, using scissors.


3. Look through the art magazines for words, phrases and adjectives that describe Pablo Picasso. Some examples of words to include in the collage are: "Cubism," "Blue Period" and "avant-garde," all of which are common characteristics of the artist's work. Cut out the words and phrases using scissors.


4. Arrange the cut-outs on the poster board. Mix them up and re-arrange them until you create the desired work.


5. Take a picture of the collage using a digital camera. Remove all of the clippings from the poster board.


6. Spread glue over the poster board. Place the clippings onto the glue-covered poster board, using the image from your digital camera as a guide.


7. Allow the glue to dry completely before transporting the collage.


See Showgirl Shows In Vegas

See Showgirl Shows in Las Vegas


The lavish costumes and suggestive dances of Las Vegas showgirls have drawn in millions of visitors over the years. Showgirl shows in Las Vegas range from topless performances in the late night hours to tamer versions with traditional dancing outfits. You can see showgirl shows in Las Vegas by planning ahead and finding the right show for you.


Instructions


1. Partake in a traditional showgirl performance in Las Vegas before they disappear entirely. These shows focus on big head dresses, lavish outfits and an older style of dancing that started in the 1950s and 1960s. The best bet for traditional shows are large venues at Bally's and the Tropicana.


2. Determine the minimum age for showgirl productions in Las Vegas before you purchase tickets. Topless shows that do not serve alcohol allow ticket holders over 18, while nude shows or performances that serve a full range of alcohol strictly enforce a minimum age of 21.


3. Catch a glimpse of the process of putting on a showgirl performance with an all-access pass at a premium price. Larger production groups and casinos offer fans an opportunity to meet individual showgirls before they take their seats. These tickets must be purchased in advance and often run twice the cost of regular admission.


4. Increase your exposure to showgirl shows in Las Vegas by purchasing tickets for back-to-back performances. Most casinos run early and late evening shows to draw in a diverse audience in need of a break from gambling. You can see 2 high-paced performances for a discounted rate by contacting the theater months in advance.


5. Build the rest of your Las Vegas vacation around showgirl shows. Shows tend to be located near casinos, restaurants and other entertainment that lets you discover a microcosm of Las Vegas in one evening.


6. Diversify your showgirl experience by mixing traditional shows at one theater and risque numbers at another theater. Every showgirl show is distinct from the competition and allows you to see stories told in a variety of ways.


7. Look for discounted prices for showgirl shows through your hotel. These shows are sponsored by businesses within Las Vegas and there is often a corporate tie-in between hotels, restaurants and entertainment owned by these businesses.


See Free Movies Like A Test Audience Member

If you have a movie habit, get free tickets as a member of a test audience. Movies, especially comedies, are often subject to screening with an audience before release to the public to gauge the reaction to the ending. In return for the free viewing, fill out a brief questionnaire after the movie or participate in an exit poll.


Instructions


1. Be on the lookout for market researchers in shopping malls. Look for people with clipboards who stop people and ask permission to "ask a few questions." Ask if they're recruiting for a test audience for a new movie and sign up.


2. Watch the newspaper for announcements of "cast and crew" screenings of movie filmed locally. Contact the sponsor to get free tickets.


3. Keep an eye on the movie titles outside the theaters in the hallways of a multi-plex. Look for "free sneak preview" announcements linked to the purchase of a ticket to another feature.


4. Ask the managers of the local units of national chain stores about tickets for preview screenings, listed on the movie's website. Movie studios routinely make deals with retailers to increase traffic in the stores and get the buzz out about the movie.


5. Listen to the radio for free movie ticket promotions. Phone or email the sponsor for a free pair of test-screening tickets.


6. Peruse the "movies and entertainment" section of the newspaper on Wednesdays or Thursdays. Look for drawings, contests and other offers of test-screening tickets. Watch alternative newspapers for similar, yet less frequent, offers.


Make Use Of A Plaster Bandage To Produce Artwork

Creating sculpture and artwork can be fun and relaxing. A variety of media are available to work with to create art, and medical supplies can be one of them.


Plaster bandage is often used to create casts for broken limbs, but can also be used to create plaster casts of body parts and to make 3-D art pieces.


Plaster bandage is fairly inexpensive, costing about $12 for a three-yard roll that is two inches wide. This would be plenty to create a face mask or other small piece of art.


Instructions


1. Smear a layer of Vaseline on the body part of which you plan to make a mold. You only need a thin coat of Vaseline, but you must ensure the entire area is covered, so the plaster bandage will not stick to the skin. For example, if you plan to make a mold of a face, you will need to coat the entire face with Vaseline, ensuring eyebrows are coated and skin is covered in Vaseline out to the hairline.


2. Cut the plaster bandage up into small pieces. They should be about one-inch squares. If you plan on covering a face, you may want to make the pieces smaller, so they are easier to work with and can be molded to the contours of the face more easily.


3. Place a square of plaster bandage in your hand and add a small amount of water. Rub the square to make the plaster into a paste, making sure to smooth out all the lumps on the bandage. If the plaster gets too sticky, add a little more water to thin it out.


4. Place the wet bandage on the body part of which you are making a mold. Smooth the edges of the bandage, so it lies flat to the body, making sure to smooth out all air bubbles that may be trapped under the bandage.


5. Continue to repeat steps 4 and 5, placing them on the body part and overlapping them so there are no holes. You may need to put on two or three coats of plaster bandaging to make sure the sculpture will be sturdy enough to hold together on its own.


6. Allow the plaster bandage to dry thoroughly, then remove from the body by working your fingers under the edges and popping the plaster cast from the body. Once the cast is completely dry, use tempera or acrylic paint to paint the cast as you desire.


Secure A Literary Agent

So you've written something you feel is great. It may be a historical novel or a nonfiction book about dating in the 21st century. Now you need someone who has the skills and connections to sell your manuscript to a publisher. Choosing the right literary agent is one of the most important decisions you'll make as a writer. A detailed proposal or description of your work will make the task easier.


Instructions


1. Get a recommendation from a fellow writer, teacher or publishing industry colleague if possible. If he had good experiences with his agent, chances are you will too. If that agent doesn't handle your genre, he may be able to put you in touch with someone who does.


2. Attend writers conferences and make sure to secure a short meeting with an agent while there. Make sure to pick a conference that is appropriate for your type of manuscript.


3. Use either the Internet or a book to find a comprehensive listing of all the literary agents in the country and read a brief description of them (see Resources). Look to see if they handle your type of work. Choose only those who seem to be a good fit. For example, if you've written a children's book but a particular agent doesn't list the children's genre in her biography, don't waste time sending her your manuscript.


4. Compile a list of the agents you'd like to send your manuscript to. Construct a short introductory letter that introduces the main concept of your story and offers a little intrigue without giving the whole plot away.


5. Find out how the literary agent wishes to be contacted. Some agents prefer email submissions and others prefer a hard copy. Also find out what other preferences he has. For example, some agents ask for only the first 25 pages of the manuscript, while others may want the whole thing at once. Some may also want to see a full outline of the work.


6. Speak to the agent on the phone to get a better sense of your compatibility if she contacts you with interest in your manuscript. Ideally, the goal is to develop a long-term, productive relationship with your agent, so it's important that you are a good fit in terms of goals, strategies, future endeavors and even in personalities.


Seal A Canvas With Acrylic Painting

Seal your canvas with acrylic gesso.


If you are planning on doing an acrylic painting, or are planning another project, you can seal the canvas first with acrylic gesso. Acrylic gesso protects your canvas, tightens it up a bit and provides a white surface for your painting. Once the canvas is sealed it is protected from elements in the paint, and the white surface reflects light, which will help keep the translucent areas of your painting luminous. Acrylic varnish is applied once the painting is completed. The varnish seals the acrylic paint skin and protects the painting from the elements


Instructions


Seal the Canvas


1. Lay the canvas down on a flat surface or mount it on the wall.


2. Fill the can about halfway with water and dip the paintbrush in the water, dip it in the gesso and apply it to the canvas in a back and forth, horizontal direction. Do not dilute the gesso by pouring water in it. A little water on the brush is enough to make it workable.


3. Continue applying the gesso in the same manner, and work from top to bottom, working the gesso into the grain of the canvas until you reach the bottom.


4. Allow the gesso to dry, about 30 minutes, and sand the canvas gently with the sandpaper.


5. Apply the second coat of gesso in the opposite direction of the first, vertically.


6. Allow the second coat to dry and sand as you did after the first coat.


7. Apply a third coat of gesso in the same direction as the first coat. Sand it when it is dry. The canvas is now sealed and ready.


Seal the Acrylic Painting


8. Wait until the painting is completely dry before applying varnish.


9. Place the painting flat on a horizontal surface.


10. Pour a little of the acrylic varnish into a bowl or jar with a wide opening.


11. Dip the brush into the varnish and apply it in a back and forth motion on the painting. Brush lightly, not vigorously, or you will create bubbles.


12. Work from the top of the painting to the bottom until the painting is covered. If you miss a spot, don't try to go back and cover it while the area is wet. Wait until the varnish dries and then retouch the spot.


Scumble Walls

Scumbling is a painting technique that softens the color on a wall. When walls are scumbled, a thin layer of opaque or semi-opaque paint is applied to the wall. This paint is so thin that it allows the undercoat to show through. You can easily scumble the walls of your own home by following a few steps.


Instructions


1. Clean your wall thoroughly to prepare it for painting. Allow the wall to dry after cleaning. Wipe a towel along areas that are still wet.


2. Paint your base color on the wall and then allow the base to dry.


3. Use a pencil to draw your design on the wall. The designs are generally closed geometric shapes. Place painter's tape over your pencil marks to divide the areas and prepare for painting.


4. Place the end of your stencil brush into your first color. Take the brush out and brush it onto a paper towel using a circular motion. Continue brushing until there is just a little paint left on the brush.


5. Brush the paint brush onto the wall within the boundaries you set with the painter's tape. Apply the paint to one area at a time in a wide circular motion and then reverse the direction. Allow the paint to extend over the tape as you brush.


6. Add your second color using the same technique. As you add each additional color, note that the previously applied undercoats should continue to show through.


7. Apply a third layer of paint if desired. Use the same technique you used for the first and second colors.


Wednesday, July 29, 2015

Scriptsupervise A Movie

A script supervisor, on any film set, is one of the most important crew members. The position requires a keen eye and accounts for the continuity in a film. Script supervisors make sure actors pick up that glass with the same hand each take or turn their head the right way. They also help the director to remember who needs to enter and exit the frame. Ultimately, this position is a combination of office work and on-set work and can make or break credibility of a film.


Instructions


1. Read the script, inside and out, being sure to make a list of every action, hand gesture or movement throughout.


2. Make a script breakdown of everything that affects continuity, such as day or night, inside or outside, characters involved, wardrobe, items or props.


3. Discuss how stringent line continuity needs to be. Some directors do not care if some lines are said different. Others care VERY much. Communicate before making a decision on your own.


4. Develop a good chemistry with the director. Other than the director of photography, a script supervisor is the closest person to the director.


5. During the shoot, take notes on what the actors do differently each take.


6. Before a take, let the director know what an actor needs to do in terms of continuity.


7. Never speak to the actors unless the director gives permission. Though you need to make sure actors repeat actions, the only one speaking to them should be the director.


Listing Of French Artists

Monet


France has made great, historical contributions to art through the years and has brought worldwide acclaim to such well-known artists as Monet, Toulouse-Lautrec, Degas and Renoir. The French artists of the Impressionist period enjoyed much success and paved the way for public acceptance of more modern Post-Impressionist styles.


Edouard Manet (1832-1883)


Manet's work inspired those of the Impressionist art movement with emphasis on brush strokes rather than realism. His modern depiction of nudes and sexuality caused quite a stir. Some called his "Luncheon on the Grass" (which features a naked woman outdoors sitting with two fully-clothed men) scandalous, while others respected its brilliance. Other Manet pieces include "Olympia" and "A Bar at the Folies-Bergère."


Edgar Degas (1834-1917)


Degas was a master of capturing the beauty of motion in his paintings. His works of female ballet dancers became some of his most famous pieces. Race horses were also a favorite subject. In his later works, he turned to a love of pastels and sculpture. Degas works include "The Cotton Exchange at New Orleans" and "At the Races in the Country."


Claude Monet (1840-1926)


Monet spearheaded the Impressionist art movement--named after one of his paintings, "Impression: Sunrise." His works represented his love of capturing the beauty of the outdoors on canvas and are included in acclaimed galleries throughout the world. Famous Monet pieces include the "Waterlilies" series, the "Rouen Cathedral" series and "Women in the Garden."


Pierre-Auguste Renoir (1841-1919)


Renoir was associated with Impressionism, although his later works strayed toward a more formal representation of portraits and figures. His works captured his love of colorful, beautiful scenes and the beauty of a woman's figure. Renoir works include "The Umbrellas," "The Bathers" series and "Lady at the Piano."


Paul Gauguin (1848-1903)


Gauguin was a Post-Impressionist leader who abandoned realism in favor of color and expressionism. His flat paintings use distinct planes of bold, solid colors, and his emphasis on conceptualization paved the way for 20th-century modern art. Famous Gauguin works include "Where Do We Come From? What Are We? Where Are We Going?," "The Yellow Christ" and "Vision After the Sermon."


Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec (1864-1901)


Toulouse-Lautrec was famous for his depictions of the bold, liveliness of Paris nightlife. His short stature (with a normal size trunk and abnormally short legs) led to incessant teasing and a terrible drinking problem, which greatly shortened his life. His paintings and posters of the Moulin Rouge are highly sought-after pieces of artwork.


Henri Matisse (1869-1954)


Matisse was considered a leader of the Fauvist art movement, although his artwork explored the realm of Impressionism, abstraction and other styles. His strong use of color to express emotion and define his subjects garnered him the label of one of the most influential 20th century artists. Some famous Matisse pieces include "Portrait of Madame Matisse" and "Woman with a Hat."


Georges Braque (1882-1963)


Braque was a leading figure in the cubism art movement, along with Spanish artist Pablo Picasso. Many of his subjects were reduced down to geometric shapes and basic cube forms in more subdued, neutral colors. Famous Braque works include "Violin and Pitcher," "Terrace of Hotel Mistral" and "Castle at La Roche-Guyon."


Scream Sing Without Harmful A Voice

Scream singing is a common trademark of modern popular music, but learning how the professionals do it night after night can be a challenge. After one night of scream singing, you will probably wake up the next morning with no voice at all. Never fear, in a few simple tips you can learn to protect your voice while scream singing.


Instructions


1. Practice singing as much as possible, and then begin to play around with pitch and tone, creating your own scream voice while singing. Remember that shouting or screaming uses a completely different part of your vocal chords, so you must practice reaching a scream sound while actually singing. Once you learn the technique, you will recognize that scream singing is no louder than normal singing and will never reach the volume of an actual scream or shout. You have a microphone for volume.


2. Warm up well before practice or performance to protect your vocal chords. Practice singing scales, beginning in a low voice and working louder. Like any muscle of the body, starting off with cold vocal chords is a great way to hurt yourself.


3. Prepare for scream singing practice or performance by avoiding all dairy products for at least one day. Dairy products cause mucus to build up around the vocal chords, forcing you to strain to sing. You can also improve the ease of singing by drinking plenty of water and gargling a bit of salt water before warm-up.


Plan A Film

The script is finished, the actors are cast, the crew has been assembled, and the locations have been found. Now, the only thing needed to begin shooting is an actual schedule of when and where to film. Though it sounds easy, scheduling a movie properly involves much strategy and planning. This tutorial will teach some of these strategies.


Instructions


Schedule a Film


1. Group scenes taking place in the same location together. The goal is to minimize the amount of time at any given location. If four scenes take place at your dad's office, schedule them on the same day, or on consecutive days.


2. Make a list of actor availabilities. Not everyone will be free on each desired shoot day. Knowing what days actors are not available, in conjunction with the groupings in Step #1, tells you when you have to shoot certain scenes.


3. Plan your shoot dates around your equipment situation. If you own the equipment or get it for free, it will not matter as much; but keeping your shoot days at a minimum will generally save a lot of money.


4. However long you anticipate a scene will take to film, add more time. In the world of film, Murphy's Law reigns supreme. What can go wrong WILL go wrong and you do not want to give yourself less time and fall behind.


Give yourself more time and finish early. It boosts morale knowing you finished early even if it was a scheduling tactic.


5. Schedule times for lunch and dinner. On a film set, first meal is always called lunch, no matter the time. Feeding the cast and crew can prove to be very motivating, especially when they are most likely working for next to nothing.


6. Never schedule anything from the beginning or end of the movie on the first day. Starting from the middle allows the chemistry of the cast and crew to grow before shooting crucial scenes like a beginning or end.


7. Schedule with an appropriate increasing amount. Start slow, build your way up, and cool off towards the end. You want to avoid a lot of stress on the first and last days, so make them your lightest.


Scan 35mm slides Right Into A Computer

Slides used to be one of the few ways people could document their lives through pictures. However, with the invention of new technologies, people have moved past slides, in large part on to other forms of pictures, but still desire to save their old slides. This can be done by scanning your old slides into a computer, so you can save them for the future.


Instructions


1. Buy your scanner. While you may already have own a scanner that works for scanning slides into the computer, it is important to have the right scanner in order for the project to be success. Slide scanners, also known as film scanners, like the Kodak PhotoCD scanner, are available and should be used for the task.


2. Get the correct software. Although free software may come with your new scanner, it is not always the best quality. Buy a software program like Art Scan that is compatible with both your computer and your scanner.


3. Set your scanner to the right resolution. In order to successfully scan old slides you’re your computer, you will need to scan at 1,800 dots per inch or higher. However, you should not surpass the optical dots-per-inch rating of your scanner.


4. Scan your slides. Place your slides in the scanner, and scan them one at a time as you get used to the process.


5. Save your sides onto your computer as you go along in case you run into any problems with the computer while you are working. Back up your slides on your computer. Consider emailing them to yourself. For many people, the entire reason they are scanning slides into a computer is so they can permanently save the the slides. You want your computer backup system to be reliable.


Scan Pictures Or Photos And Enhance Them

If you still have original printed photographs, or perhaps pictures in magazines that you like, then you may want to scan and digitize them. Scanning them to your computer is very useful because it will maintain the image quality over time. It also allows you to easily share your photographs and enhance them in many ways. While there are many expensive photo-editing applications available, you can perform many edits and enhancements with the Windows software that comes with your computer.


Instructions


1. Insert the photo or picture into your scanner.


2. Click "Start > All Programs > Windows Fax and Scan." Click "Scan," then "New Scan."


3. Click the "Profile" drop-down menu and select "Photo." Click "Preview," then make adjustments if necessary. Click "Scan." This will be scanned and saved to your pictures folder.


4. Click "Start," then your user name. Browse through to the "Scanned" images folder. Double-click the photograph you want to enhance. This will open in Windows Live Photo Gallery.


5. Click one of the items in the "Adjustments" toolbar to enhance the photo. Click "Auto adjust" to change the exposure controls to improve the look. Click "Crop" if you want to cut some parts out of the photo. Alternatively click one of the other tools to enhance your photo. Click "Close file" when you are done and click "Save" to amend your changes.


Glitter To Pictures

Many children enjoy drawing and craft projects.


Arts and crafts are a great way to entertain kids and help encourage creativity and originality. For example, if the craft project involves drawing pictures, the kids can be creative with their ideas and then add different elements to pictures. For example, encourage them to add glitter to the pictures. The process of adding glitter can be done quickly and is suitable for all ages.


Instructions


1. Use the type of glitter that will work best for your picture. You can choose very fine glitter which will create more color saturation, or you can use more coarse glitter to create more layers and texture on the picture.


2. Spread a thin, even coat of craft glue over portions of the picture. Be sure not to use more than a thin layer of glue.


3. Pour glitter over the glue you added to the picture. Pour as much glitter as you want. The more you pour, the high degree of color saturation you'll have, especially with fine glitter.


4. Wait for the glue to dry completely and then tip your picture over a newspaper to remove the excess glitter. The glitter on the newspaper can then be added back to the container of glitter and used for your next project.


Scan A Photograph And Upload It To The Web

With the quality of digital cameras getting better by the minute, the ability to send a great photo across the Internet becomes more and more useful. Instead of printing and sending a great photo to your family via traditional mail, you can actually scan them and send them through the Internet in an email to all your family or even to an online photo browsing site. This article will show you scan a photo and upload it to the internet.


Instructions


1. Make sure your scanner is connected to your computer. Usually this is done with a USB cord that connects from the scanner to a USB port on the front or back of your computer. You must also make sure your scanning software is installed on your computer.


2. Create an easy-to-access folder for your photos. Just right-click on your desktop, click "New" and then "Folder." Name it something simple like "scanned photos."


3. Scan your photo following the manufacturer's guide. Most scanners do work the same, though. You just place the photo face down onto your scanner and hit the "scan" button. If everything is hooked up right, your photo will appear on your monitor via the scanning program.


4. Edit your photo accordingly. Most scanning programs have buttons that allow you to crop, brighten or enhance your picture. It's good to crop pictures if your subject takes up a small part of the photo. This will make your file size smaller while still keeping the subject in tact.


5. Save your picture to your "scanned photos" file. Name your photo something easy instead of the default photo name. When you take more and more photos it can be hard to find the specific one unless you immediately re-name it.


6. Open up your web browser and e-mail program you use. Start to compose an email to someone to whom you plan to send the photo. Click the "Attachments" feature that is on most email programs and select your folder from the desktop. Pick your picture and click "Save" or "Open". Your photo is ready to be emailed. Or if you are uploading it to a website, click "Browse" and go to your desktop folder. Pick your photo and click "Save" or "Open."


Tuesday, July 28, 2015

Sanitize A Flute

The inside of your flute will collect moisture each time you play it, thanks to the buildup from your own saliva. If you fail to clean your flute on a regular basis, it can damage the instrument, causing a distorted sound. Besides cleaning your flute, you must also sanitize it. Sanitizing your flute is a simple process, but one that you must take great care when conducting. To avoid large messes, always have a clean, food-free mouth when playing your flute.


Instructions


1. Cut your T-shirt into two pieces and set them aside.


2. Disassemble your flute, as though you were putting it away in its carrying case.


3. Pour rubbing alcohol into a small bowl. If you have a special flute that is made from a material other than metal, use a disinfectant (a few drops of liquid soap mixed with water) rather than rubbing alcohol.


4. Dip one piece of your T-shirt into the rubbing alcohol and wring out any excess moisture. Run the T-shirt over the outside of your flute, using gentle pressure. Make sure to clean all three pieces, including the mouthpiece. Use the cotton swabs to get into any small spaces. Set it aside and allow it to dry.


5. Dip the second piece of the T-shirt into the rubbing alcohol and wring out any excess moisture.


6. Wrap the wet T-shirt around the cleaning rod and insert it into the body of the flute. Push it in and out, being gentle with the pressure. Repeat on each piece of the flute. Allow it to air-dry before packing it away.


Make Use Of The Canon Macro Ring Expensive

Use the Canon Macro Ring Flash


Macro flash rings are used for macro, or close-up, photography. Regular flash units produce shadows because they deliver the light from one direction. Ring flashes have a circular flash unit that produces shadowless images. Canon macro ring flashes have two parts. The control unit attaches to the camera's shoe-mount, usually found on the top of the camera body. The ring flash mounts on the camera lens. A cord connects the two parts and allows the camera to "talk" to the flash.


Instructions


1. Install four "AA" alkaline or nickel-hydride batteries in the control unit battery compartment. Magnesium batteries may also be used but they will not power as many flashes as the other battery types.


2. Loosen the locking collar on the control unit by turning it left to right. The locking collar looks like a wheel on the bottom of the control unit.


3. Slide the control unit's mounting foot all the way into the camera's hot shoe.


4. Tighten the locking collar right to left.


5. Attach the flash ring to the macro lens by pressing the release buttons on each side of the flash ring. Release the buttons to make sure the flash ring is attached to the lens.


6. Turn on the power to the control unit.


7. Allow the pilot lamp light on the back of the control unit to illuminate. Press the pilot lamp button to test-fire the flash.


8. Press the mode button on the control unit to select either E-TTL (automatic) or M (manual) flash. If E-TTL is chosen, set the camera mode dial to P (program, where the camera sets flash aperture and shutter speed) or AE (aperture priority, where photographer sets the camera's aperture and the camera sets the shutter speed).


9. Press the ratio button on the control unit to change the ratio between the left light bar and right light bar. Ratio on the top line should be highlighted. Press the left triangle button or the right triangle button to change the ratio. Available ratio ranges from 1:8 (the right tube will give off more light than the left) to 8:1.


10. Take the picture.


Design A Flyer For Babysitting

Create a flyer to advertise your babysitting business.


A well-designed flyer made for your babysitting business will help spread the word about the services to parents. Adding graphics and informative text in a structured layout clarifies what you offer and the type of experience you have. When creating a flyer, include contact, pricing and other relevant information to make it easy for you to get more babysitting jobs.


Instructions


1. Jot down the basics of your services: how much you will charge each client either by the hour, by the job or per child; and where you will babysit.


2. Write down your contact information and list any qualifications you have. A certification in CPR or first aid can go a long way in securing quality babysitting jobs.


3. Ask a friend or relative to take some picture of you with children. Use these photos as images for your flyer.


4. Create the layout for your flyer. Use markers on a large sheet of blank paper to create a rough draft for your flyer. Print out the pictures and arrange them on the paper. Figure out the name of your business and list it at the top of the flyer. List the services you offer and what your clients can expect from your work. Include your rates, your name, phone number and age as well as your qualifications.


5. After arranging and creating the rough draft of your flyer, make a second, revised copy. If hand-printing, write in simple, block lettering to make it easy for potential clients to read. Choose light colored paper with dark ink such as blue or black. Limit your color scheme to no more than two colors. Tape the pictures to the flyer.


6. Scan the flyer in to a computer or use a copier machine to create the final version of your flyer. Post the flyers in highly visible areas such as libraries or coffee shops.


Rotate Text In Word Art

Use three different rotation methods to rotate your Word Art.


Word Art can not only enhance a report, newsletter or poster but can even make the document look as if you've used a professional graphics program to create it. Word has come a long way in what you can do with text to make it more visually appealing. Besides being able to change the color, shape or outline of your text, you can make it appear as if it's rotated in three dimensions, giving your text depth.


Instructions


1. Open Word 2010 and load an existing document or open a new document.


2. Click "Insert" on the ribbon. Click "WordArt" in the Text group.


3. Select one of the styles you want for your text. A box will appear with the words "Your text here." Click inside the box and use the delete key to delete the default text. Type in the text you want and make other changes such as changing the color or shape outline.


4. Hover your mouse over the green circle above your text box until a black, circular arrow appears. Click and drag to the left or right to adjust the angle of rotation. Let go when you are satisfied.


5. Click outside the box. Click "Text Direction" in the Text group if you just want a simple vertical rotation. Select "Rotate 90 degrees," "Rotate 270 degrees" or "Text Direction Options." If you click "Text Direction Options," you can further click the left "Text" box or the right "Text" box to face the text either to the left or the right. If you have rotated the box manually using the green button and choose to rotate 90 or 270 degrees, the rotation will be in relation to what you already did. In other words, if you rotated your box 25 degrees, when you click 90 degrees, your box will rotate 90 degrees from the 25 degree angle you already have and not from 0.


6. Click the glowing "A" in the WordArt Styles group if you want more advanced rotation for your text. Select "3-D Rotation" from the menu and choose one of the 3D rotation styles. You can hover your mouse over each option to preview your text box on the page before committing to a style.


Revise A Piece Of Fiction

You’ve finished that manuscript and put it away. Now it’s time to revise it, but where to begin? Revising or editing a manuscript is the real work of writing, because that is where you employ your craft to create a unified work of fiction. Revising a manuscript can take two, three, or more drafts before you’re satisfied with the final product. It takes time and diligence.


Instructions


1. Reread the manuscript. Make proofreading marks along the way if you have to, but focus on the work as a whole. This is your first read after putting it away, so you should be approaching your manuscript with fresh eyes. As a whole, does it work?


2. Mark what you like or don’t like in the manuscript. These can include everything from a great sentence (or not so great sentence) to a descriptive passage to dialogue, etc. What do you think is particularly strong in the piece? What do you think is weak? If you don’t trust your own judgment here, have a friend or family member read the manuscript and get his opinion. Another way to get an objective opinion is to workshop the piece. Look up local workshops you can join if you don’t belong to one already.


3. Take a look at the bigger problems in the manuscript. These are the weakest points in the story. What doesn’t work here and why? This can be the beginning of the story, the pacing or plotting, dialogue, character development, scenes, narrative descriptions, etc. Rework whatever doesn’t click for you. Find ways to make it work. If the problem is dialogue, sharpen the dialogue and make it ring true. If it’s something larger, such as plotting or character development, you might have to revise the entire manuscript. That’s okay. If the story itself is strong, then it will survive this type of revision. But sometimes, even the story itself might not be working. In that case, you have to decide whether to chunk the entire thing or look at the story from a different angle. For instance, you might want to tell the story from an entirely different point of view. Whatever you decide, make the choices that are right for your story.


4. Once you’ve made the necessary decisions to revise your story, edit that second draft. Be cruel. There might be passages in your story that you absolutely love, but doesn’t fit in the narrative (perhaps it slows down the pacing). Slash that passage. Again, do only what is best for the story as a whole. Sometimes that means being cruel to the manuscript, but in the end what you will have is a piece of work that has a unifying effect.


5. Once you’ve done all the necessary editing choices, rewrite.


6. After you’ve finished with the second draft, reread it again. There might be other things in the manuscript that still doesn’t work or that you didn’t catch during the first rereading. That’s okay. As I stated before, you’ll rewrite this draft as many times as needed to get it right. Continue the process of rereading, editing, revising, and rewriting until your story is exactly as you need it to be.


7. Now, proofread for errors. This includes sentence structures, grammatical errors, typos, etc. Eliminate unnecessary adjectives, adverbs, or alliterations. While revising your manuscript, you might fix these problems early on in the process. But since this is the easiest part of revision, you might want to hold off on this section until last, while you focus on the more serious issues of the manuscript.


8. Reread again. Make whatever changes that still need to be made with the manuscript. Of course, nothing is ever perfect, and there will come to a point when you’ll have to put away the editing pen and let the manuscript stand. That takes a lot of restraint, but an overworked manuscript will show. Again, do what is best for the story as a whole.


Resurface Whitened Boards

Resurface old white boards to improve writing.


Whiteboards are also called dry-erase boards because they allow you to write on them with a marker and then simply wipe it off with a fabric eraser. Whiteboard surfaces are made of durable porcelain or vinyl, but over time they become scratched and discolored. Instead of replacing the whiteboard, you can resurface it for much cheaper. Resurfacing is a project that you can do on your own with a few supplies from the local hardware store.


Instructions


1. Remove the whiteboard from the wall and move it to an outdoor location or an indoor location that has adequate ventilation such as a garage. Spread a plastic drop cloth over a table or on the floor and set the whiteboard on it so that the finished side faces upward.


2. Apply painter's tape to the edges of the white board until the edges are completely covered.


3. Open a can of white, high-gloss, latex enamel paint and pour 2 to 3 cups into a paint tray. Insert a small paint roller, used for trim work, into the tray.


4. Paint the entire surface of the whiteboard with the white latex paint to hide the discolorations and create a fresh, clean surface. Allow the paint to dry for one week until it is no longer sticky to the touch.


5. Spray a lint-free cloth with window cleaner and wipe the surface of the whiteboard gently to remove any surface oils.


6. Open a can of whiteboard coating, which is available at hardware and home improvement stores. Dip a foam brush into the clear mixture and apply it to the painted surface of the whiteboard in smooth, even strokes until the entire board is covered.


7. Allow the paint to dry for one to two days. Remove the painter's tape from the edges and rehang the whiteboard on the wall.


Classify A Magazine

To publish a book, you need to categorize it. There are nine categories your book can fall into: mass marketplace paperback, trade, scholarly and university fourth estate, juvenile, college textual matter, professional, simple high school textual matter, subscription mention and spiritual. It's important to put your book in the right category so customers can find it.


Instructions


1. Select mass marketplace paperback if your book is a paperback that was originally issued as a hardback. These books usually sell at a discount price in retail stores and grocery stores.


2. Put your book in the trade category if it's fiction or non-fiction. These books include romance, thrillers and literacy novels. These books usually sell through retail stores rather than mail order or book clubs.


3. Place the book in the scholarly and university fourth estate category if it's scholarly research based on a specific topic.


4. Use the juvenile category if your audience is children or teens.


5. Choose the college textual matter if your book is on a particular subject geared toward advanced degree students.


6. Classify a book on professional training, such as a law book, in the professional category.


7. Use the simple high school textual matter category when you write a book for teens and children that provides them with learning material for the first time. Usually this type of book has many illustrations and artwork.


8. Pick the subscription mention category when you need to update your book periodically.


9. Employ the spiritual category for books on religion.


Restore Old Oil Works of art

Some oil paintings may only need to be cleaned; others need re-varnishing.


If you have never restored an oil painting before, you may wish to take it to a professional painting restorer, particularly if the piece is valuable. If you'd prefer to restore the painting yourself, check to see if it was painted before or after 1940. According to the lifestyle web site Toffsworld (See Reference 1), an oil painting created after 1940 may not have a layer of varnish on it, while pre-1940 paintings are more likely to be coated in varnish. Whether a painting is varnished or not determines your course of action in restoration.


Instructions


Unvarnished Paintings


1. Restore an unvarnished oil painting by simply cleaning it. Remove the centers of about two to three loaves of white bread. Knead this bread so that it becomes "doughy."


2. Rub the bread very gently across the canvas. This gets rid of built-up dust. The painting should lighten gradually, while the bread becomes dark with accumulated dust. If the painting is soiled by more than just dust, it needs further cleaning.


3. Dampen a soft cloth and squeeze out excess water. Dab a small amount of dish detergent onto the cloth. Dab the cloth very gently onto the painting -- do not rub it. Start in an inconspicuous part of the painting and work your way over the canvas. Do not allow any excess water to stay on the canvas and stop immediately if you think you are damaging it.


Varnished Paintings


4. Restore a varnished oil painting by removing the old layer of varnish. Use a solvent that removes varnishes (available in art supply stores). Apply the solvent gently with a cotton swab. Toffsworld (See Reference 1) recommends starting in a corner of the painting and checking for damage before moving on to the rest of the painting.


5. Add a new layer of varnish to the oil painting with a flat bristle brush. Apply a thin coat of varnish in even strokes. After you're finished, inspect your work. If the varnish appears uneven or insufficient, paint company Winsor & Newton (See Reference 2) recommends waiting 24 hours before applying a second coat of varnish.


6. Touch up any areas of damaged paint only after you have applied the new layer of varnish. If you make a mistake, this allows you to remove the new paint without interfering with the original painting. You may wish to take photographs of the painting before re-touching the paint, to guide you as you work.


Monday, July 27, 2015

Protest A Patent Application

Submit a protest to the USPTO to challenge a patent application.


The Constitution of the United States gives Congress the right to "promote the Progress of Science and useful Arts, by securing for limited Times to Authors and Inventors the exclusive Right to their respective Writings and Discoveries." The Congress does this by allowing the United States Patent and Trademark Office, the USPTO, to administer and grant patents to corporate or individual inventors. Under Section 37 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) No. 1.291, the public has the option of challenging patent applications submitted to the USPTO if they believe the invention infringes on another person's already established intellectual property rights.


Instructions


1. Identify to which patent application the protest is directed. A patent protest must identify the patent application of concern by application number or serial number and filing date. If the USPTO cannot determine which patent application the protest refers to, the office discards the protest.


2. Compile a list of all published material forming the basis of the protest. Also called "information which can be relied upon in protest" by the USPTO, this list serves as a comprehensive list of all materials relied upon in the protest. Examples of materials to include on the list include prior art documents, previous patents, affidavits, court litigation materials and declarations.


3. Assemble all documents on the list into one package. Make a copy of each document listed on the information which can be relied upon in protest inventory. Be sure to make a complete copy of each document.


4. Complete forms PTO/SB/08a and PTO/SB/08b. These forms become part of the patent protest and serve as identifiers of the patent application in question and the material basis of the patent protest.


5. Mail the patent application protest to the United States Patent and Trademark Office. Compile forms PTO/SB/08A and PTO/SB/08B, the list of information which can be relied upon in protest and a copy of all that material into one package, the complete patent protest. Address the patent protest package to the Director of the technology center processing the application and mail to:


Commissioner for Patents


P.O. Box 1450


Alexandria, VA 22313-1450


6. Serve the original applicant or attorney of record a copy of the patent application protest. If you choose not to serve the original applicant or attorney of record, include a duplicate patent protest package in your submission to the USPTO.


Center The Written Text For Any Thesis Theme

Centering draws attention to specific text in a thesis.


When writing a thesis, authors often find it necessary to center the font at various points throughout the paper. Whether the font is located in the title, body of the paper, or in a footer, it can be easily centered with features included in word processing programs. Depending on their preference, users can center text horizontally or vertically. Both options will affect the appearance of text in the word processing document and wil be oriented based upon the margin settings of the document.


Instructions


Centering Vertically


1. Open your word processor and the thesis containing the text that needs to be centered. Highlight the text you wish to center vertically.


2. Click "Page Layout" and then the arrow next to "Page Setup." This will open a dialog box.


3. Click the "Layout" tab. Click the drop-down box next to vertical alignment and select "Center."


4. Next to Apply, click "Selected text" and then click "OK."


Center Horizontally


5. Open your word processor and the thesis containing the text that needs to be centered.


6. Highlight the text you wish to center horizontally.


7. Click the "Home" tab and then click the "Center" icon in the Paragraph group.


Reserve Travel Arrangements

Purchase airline tickets on your favorite airline.


Air travel is a common method of transportation for people all over the world. Hundreds of thousands of flights depart each day from cities all over the world. Airline tickets may be purchased months in advance all the way until the day of your flight provided there are available seats. Multiple airlines travel to the same cities from the same airports on the same days. You should research different airlines for the most convenient flight times and airfares.


Instructions


1. Research airlines for the best flights and best fares.


2. Log on to your airline's website.


3. Check the box indicating which type of travel you prefer, round trip or one way.


4. Enter your departure city, destination, departure date, return date, and number of passengers. Click "Continue".


5. Choose your flights from the search options provided and click "Continue".


6. Enter your passenger information in the boxes provided and click "Continue".


7. Enter your credit card information and click "Continue".


8. Confirm your information and click "Submit".


Create A Simple Wood Picture Frame

Picture frames are one of the most useful decoration items that can be bought or made for the home. However, the price of frames is usually very expensive for the quality of product you get. It's possible to make a simple wood frame from a few construction materials and some thin wood. Within a couple hours, you can have a wooden frame that looks just as good as almost any other frame made that you could buy in a store. Even a youth 12 and up can make this simple frame.


Instructions


1. Measure the dimensions of the picture you want to frame. You could also utilize standard picture dimensions such as 3 by 5, 4 by 6, 8 by 10 and so on. Mark a rectangle on your wood using these dimensions. Also measure out four frame pieces. These must be about 2 inches thick, and about 1 inch longer on each side than the picture size.


2. Design details if you want the frame to have any--such as rounded edges, carvings and words. Make sure the bottom frame is able to rest flatly on a surface if you're planning to place it on a table.


3. Use a saw to cut the shapes from the wood. Make sure to get clean lines. If the saw is dull, it can cause the wood to tear and that's very hard to sand out. It's very important that you use a sharpened saw for cutting out the frame. Sand all of the wood.


4. Take the four frame pieces and put them around the back frame piece in the way you want the final frame to look. Make sure everything lines up properly. If it doesn't, trim or sand it down until it does. Glue the frame pieces together. Once dry, glue three sides of the frame to the back piece. Leave one side open to slide the picture through. This can be the top side or a side piece.


5. Paint, stain or detail your frame. You can use your imagination in this step to create a truly unique frame. If you want the frame to stand up, take a small dowel rod about 2 to 3 inches long and attach it to the back of the frame so that it holds the frame up when standing on a table. Each frame will have a different point at which it's stable, so it will probably take some experimentation.


Draw An Easy Vehicle

This is a basic car shape, to be used in cartoons and comics. For a more precise drawing or for a drawing of a more specific type of car, find a model of the car you would like to draw; use this drawing only as a jumping-off point and make modifications as necessary.


Instructions


1. Draw the outline of the body of the car, starting at the hood. Put your pencil on the paper and draw a 1-inch horizontal line angled up slightly for the hood. Curve upward sharply at the windshield, and make the windshield slightly less than 1 inch long. At the end of the windshield, draw a horizontal roof 1 inch long, then angle downward sharply at the back window, which will be the same length as the windshield. At the bottom of the back window, draw a line angled slightly downward for the trunk (1 inch long). Draw a vertical line 3/4 of an inch long for the tail end of the car, then double back underneath the car to draw the underside. The underside of the car will be long and straight, with two half-circles (1/2 inch wide) inserted at the front and rear for the tires. The underside of the car stops at the front of the hood. Draw a vertical line connecting the hood to the underside of the car. You have drawn the outline of the body of the car.


2. Draw two full circles for the tires, beneath the semi-circles cut into the underside of the car. Draw a second circle inside the tires to represent the hub-caps.


3. Draw a circle 1/4-inch wide at the front of the car just beneath the line of the hood. This represents the headlight.


4. Draw two squares just beneath the roof of the car (just slightly less than 1/2 inch wide) to represent the front and back side window.


5. Draw a small rectangle, 1/4 inch long, poking out from the rear underside of the car, to represent the exhaust tube.


Reink Stamps

Photo of a stamp set


Rubber stamping has become a big hit for crafters. They can be used to embellish just about anything from cards to clothing. They come in so many different styles and designs that a crafter can create any design desired. Inks vary from the traditional to the brightest neon colors available. Sometimes sold as a separate item, stamps can also be sold in sets with the ink and stamp all in one. What happens if you forget to cover the stamp's ink before storing, and it dries out? Throwing them away is not the only option--you can re-ink those dried out stamps to be as good as new.


Instructions


1. Decide what color you would like to re-ink the stamp pad with. By doing some mixing, you could probably get a color that is similar, or very close to the pre-existing one.


2. Mix the clothing dye, alcohol and glycerin in a small bowl. By adding different dyes, you can achieve the color.


3. Pour the freshly mixed ink over the old stamp pad until it looks saturated, but don't overdo it.


4. Save the remainder of the ink in a travel bottle for later use. The mixing process will offer leftover dye, so you can store it for the future when the ink pad has dried out again.


5. Allow the pad to set for several minutes before use. This will give the foam a chance to soak up the liquid.


6. Stamp away. Remember to cover your stamp pad when you are done.


Repair Travertine Marble

Minor damage to travertine marble can be repaired on your own, if you have the time and patience. It is important to repair cracks and chips as soon as possible to prevent them from getting larger and more serious. Keep in mind that you should not attempt to repair large damaged areas of travertine marble; in these cases, contact a professional.


Instructions


1. Clean the travertine marble thoroughly with a dampened sponge.


2. Sand the marble with medium-grit sandpaper; sand down inside the damaged area, but do not sand it down to the level of the marble. Wipe the travertine marble with the sponge again to remove the dust from sanding.


3. Line the edges of the travertine marble with painters' tape to help protect adjacent materials.


4. Pour a small amount of polymer resin in a disposable cup. Following the manufacturer's directions, pour the resin onto the travertine marble, using the paint spreader to catch drips and keep the level of the polymer resin even. Apply an ample amount of polymer resin and allow it to dry. The resin will fill in the damaged area of the travertine marble, making it virtually invisible.


5. Buff the travertine marble with a sponge when the polymer resin is completely dry to obtain a high shine finish.


Make An Origami Flower Part 1

Making an origami flower takes two steps- creating the stem and then creating the flower itself. The stem gives realism to your flower and allows you to create an origami flower arrangement or a single stemmed flower. After you make the stem, see the related article "Make an Origami Flower: Part 2" to create the flower.


Instructions


1. Bring one corner of a sheet of origami paper across to the other corner, creating a triangle. This is also known as the kite fold. Crease the paper. Unfold the paper. Notice that the crease is plainly visible.


2. Align the two corners, or wings, that you used to make your kite fold so the outer edge of the paper aligns with the first crease. Crease these folds as you make them.


3. Fold the wings in again so they align with the center crease, this time without unfolding the paper. Crease these folds as well.


4. Line the extra paper at the wider end of the stem up with the center crease, folding and creasing it. Then, fold the top down so it's a little further than halfway down the stem.


5. Hold the stem in your hands and fold it in half. Pull out the shorter part of the stem so it looks like a leaf. Once it's in place, crease the wider end of the stem.


6. Complete and assemble your origami flower by referring to the related article, "Make an Origami Flower, Part 2."


Comic Colorizing Techniques

Comic Colorizing Techniques


Today, artists have a large variety of methods to bring color to their art. Markers allow artists to have solid colors that do not change throughout the picture. Colored pencils let pencil artists add color that has the same look as their pencil strokes. Digital artists have a vast array of different tools found in a variety of graphics programs that can mimic any of the effects of other artist tools. For comic artists, the most common types of tools are the graphics programs, colored pencils and markers.


Digital


Artists can use a variety of programs to color comics. Graphics programs like Adobe Photoshop allow users to select colors using a variety of tools, with the range of colors possible being infinite. Very specific parts of the comic can be colored using the brush tool. Different brush types can alter how color gets flung from the mouse on to the canvas. Single spreads of color can be completely changed using the fill tool. Using the pen tool, artists can use vectors and lines to create a polygon that can then be filled with color, creating a perfect shape filled with color. The various shape tools such as the ellipses and rectangle tool allow certain types of shapes to be created and filled with color. The blending modes allow comic artists to color without coloring over the lines. Graphic programs also allow artists to put line art on one layer and color underneath that layer. Graphics programs are the most common tools for creating comics today.


Colored Pencil


To speed along coloring with a pencil pencil and in order to also avoid coloring where you do not want to color, graphic artists sometimes trace the outer edges of the drawing where the color is not supposed to go first and then fill in the outlines with color. When coloring in, artists can create small bands, circles and diagonals that overlap. Another method is crosshatch, in which the artist creates criss-crossing lines that are really close together. This not only saves time, but also allows the artist to shade by varying the space between the lines. Artists can finally simply lay down the heaviest application of colored pencil down as possible, coloring in the spaces left by the colored pencil.


Marker


Markers can use any of the methods used by the colored pencil, but the marker is fantastic at heavy application. Marker users can benefit especially from the cutout method because markers that go outside the boundaries of where they're supposed to go are more noticeable than colored pencil marks. Markers are the more traditional way that graphic artists color, with the copic marker being heavily associated with comic art.


Friday, July 24, 2015

Repair A Chipped Tortoise Spend

A tortoise's shell is vitally important to its health.


Tortoises rely on their shells for safety and a cracked shell can be a life threatening condition if infection sets in. Minor cracks can frequently be repaired at home, provided the wound is kept meticulously clean. More severe wounds require the care of a veterinarian to prevent infection and organ damage. This guide is intended to help tortoise owners treat minor wounds and is not a substitute for veterinary care in the case of a serious injury.


Instructions


1. Rinse the chip with lukewarm water.


This will clear any debris and allow you to get a good look at the wound. If you cannot see blood, puss, or organs, it is likely a minor chip that can be treated at home. Conversely, if you do see any fluids or internal structures, go to the vet immediately. This wound requires the care of a veterinarian. Do not attempt to repair a severe wound yourself.


2. Clean the wound with a triple antibiotic ointment.


These are found at the drug store. Wash your hands both before and after cleaning the wound. You will need to reapply antibiotic ointment twice a day until the shell has begun to grow back.


3. Tape the wound shut.


Basic clear tape works just fine for this purpose because it keeps debris out but still allows the wound to seep if it needs to. This prevents debris from getting into the wound and keeps the antibiotic ointment on the site of injury. Change the tape daily for the first week. After a week, you should no longer use tape on the wound.


4. Dust your tortoise's food with calcium every day.


Calcium keeps the shell strong and can speed up the healing process.


5. Provide your tortoise with at least one hour of sunlight each day.


Tortoises cannot metabolize calcium without Vitamin D3, which comes from sunlight. Tortoises can also absorb other vitamins from sunlight that may speed up the healing process.


6. Keep your tortoise's water and enclosure meticulously clean.


Feces should be promptly removed to prevent the wound from getting dirty and infected. Your tortoise should not soak in water for the first week after the injury.


Repair An Xd Photo Card

Extreme Digital (xD) Picture Cards are one of many types of flash memory cards used in digital cameras. These memory cards, developed by Olympus and Fujifilm, are typically used with older cameras as modern digital cameras move away from the format. If your xD picture card isn't working, then you may want to repair the card. This is particularly useful if the card has become corrupt and you wish to recover photographs from it.


Instructions


1. Update your operating system. There have been many reports that the first build of Windows 7 stopped xD card readers from working, so update all of your software. Try the memory card in another card reader or camera to ensure that it is the memory card that's the problem rather than the device.


2. Recover the data on your xD card. All photo and file recovery software works in a similar way and most offer free trial versions that will show you what could potentially be recovered. Try software such as Digital Photo Recovery, CardRecovery or xD Card Files Recovery (see "Resources").


3. Format the memory card to repair it. Insert it into a memory card reader. Click "Start," then "Computer." Right-click the memory card and click "Format." Click the format type drop-down box and select "Full." Click "Format."


Understand And Write Movie Language

Whether or not we know what the term "movie language" is by strict definition, all moviegoers understand that the dialogue in movies is a bit different than reality. Writing this dialogue can be a bit difficult and there are some rules you must follow. Here are several important ones.


Instructions


1. Movie language comes in all shapes and forms. There is no end-all method to writing scripts.


2. Consistency is key. Whichever direction you take the script, be sure that the language stays the same.


3. Movies exist in their own little world; due to this, the language can be its own. It doesn't need to follow real-life rules as long as it's consistent and the audience understands it.


4. Use word repetition to get points across. The fact that multiple characters repeat words or phrases establishes the language and shows similarities more than expository description could.


5. Along similar lines, a character going against the established language shows more about him/her than cliche rebellious wardrobe or dialogue.


6. Movie language needs some semblance of realism to it. Otherwise, it's just a bunch of characters speaking in slang or using jargon. "House" is a great TV show because it combines the medical jargon required to stay credible with the real-life dialogue of normal humans.


Make Teeth Brighter In Photos

Keep the contrast in terms with the rest of the photograph to maintain realism.


Few requirements need to be met in order to make teeth whiter in photographs. The proper computer software (Adobe Photoshop is a prime example) has the capabilities to do this quickly and easily, while trying to alter the photograph in any other way can be quite a hassle. This software can be expensive, however, freeware such as Photoscape can be used to do the job, albeit without the convenience of other software.


Instructions


1. Open your image in the photo editing software. Most editing softwares use the same general process of going to File, then clicking Open. Select the file you wish to edit from the list that pops up and click Open.


2. Select the teeth you wish to whiten. Software such as Photoshop and Corel have automatic selection tools, although they can be a bit tricky to use. Another option is to use the Pen tool to select the area much more accurately along the contours of its shape, but this can require a good bit of practice to become proficient.


3. Find the adjustment for the levels of your selection. In Photoshop, this can be found by clicking "Image," then "Adjustments" and finally, "Levels." Use the slider that pops up to move the lighting levels of your selection left or right, making them lighter or darker. Keep the slider at the appropriate amount of whiteness you wish to make the teeth, then click "OK."


4. Fix the contrast if the teeth are too bright. Find the Contrast adjustment setting in your software (for Photoshop, click "Image," then "Adjustments," then "Contrast"). Adjust the contrast of the teeth to better match the lighting of the rest of the photo. This will keep most of the whitening made in the previous step while toning the brightness of the teeth down to a more realistic level.


Rent A Stage

Whether you are planning to put on a theatrical production, a musical show or just throw a big party with a head table, a stage can make a big difference in the presentation. The audience gets a better view of the main event and you come off looking like a real pro. You can rent a portable stage from a number of national and local places for your special event.


Instructions


1. Determine how you will use the stage. You will have to let the stage rental company know how many people you will be seating, or if you will need a runway. A band or play may require more stage area then you expect. By giving your uses to the rental firm, you can let them suggest the right size for your event.


2. Find out how much assistance you will need to erect the stage. Most stage rental companies will install and take down their equipment. It will cost more, but may be worth the price if you don't have any experienced help.


3. Consider your guests who will be using the stage. You should plan to provide a ramp if you have any guests in wheelchairs. Other handicap options you might consider include handrails and guardrails.


4. Think about the overall presence of the stage and what kind of decor you are using for the event. You should plan to rent the skirting and backdrops from the same place where you rent the stage in order to have a professional look and make sure that everything fits correctly. Decide if you need to rent any furniture or A/V equipment if you are using the stage for a theatrical, public speaking or musical event.


Hotels And Guesthouses Near Buchs Europe

Buchs has Lichtenstein to the east.


Buchs is a small town 50 miles southeast of Zurich in eastern Switzerland. The city borders Lichtenstein along the Rhine River and has picturesque views of the Swiss Alps. The downtown area is a popular boutique shopping area that attracts many from the rural, outlying areas. Nearby Werdenberg is home to the Werdernberg Castle, the oldest timber frame structure in Switzerland.


Buchserhof


Hotel-Restaurant Buchserhof is two blocks from Buchs' rail and bus station in downtown Buchs. The guest rooms of the 19th century building were renovated in 2007 with a bright, modern, clean-lined Swedish style. Options for accommodations include standard, business-class, suite and family room. Guests enjoy en-suite bathrooms, high-speed wireless Internet, mini-bar and cable on flat-screen TV. Two meeting rooms fit up to 80 people for catered events. The on-site restaurant serves breakfast and offers an international menu.


Hotel-Restaurant Buchserhof


Grunaustrasse 2


CH-9470 Buchs, Switzerland


011-41-81-755-7070


buchserhof.ch


Hirschen


The Hotel-Restaurant Hirschen is a partner of Cycling in Switzerland, a Swiss bike tour organization, and offers a lockable bicycle room and tools for bike repairs. Rooms at the traditional Swiss hotel come in standard and family size, some with en-suite restrooms and all with TV and continental breakfast. Seasonal specialties and a banquet/meeting space for up to 42 is available at the restaurant.


Hotel-Restaurant Hirschen


Sankt Gallerstrasse 26


9470 Buchs, Switzerland


011-41-81-756-1523


hirschenbuchs.ch


Taucher


The family-owned Hotel-Restaurant Taucher is conveniently located two blocks from a bus stop. It has single and double rooms with en-suite facilities, TV, telephone and work desk. The hotel makes two computers available for hotel guests as well as wireless Internet throughout the hotel. The Taucher Restaurant serves traditional Swiss fare on a buffet as well as an individual-sized chocolate cake that comes in many different varieties. Breakfast is included with rooms.


Hotel-Restaurant Taucher


Sankt Gallerstrasse 29


9470 Buchs, Switzerland


011-41-81-750-6565


hotel-taucher.ch


Landgasthof Werdenberg


Landgasthof Werdenberg is half a mile northwest of Buchs in historic Werdenberg. The country inn offers single and double rooms as well as suites with kitchen for extended stays. The guest rooms have thoughtful, modern decor and come with TV, wireless Internet and en-suite bathroom facilities. Guests enjoy breakfast at the restaurant, which serves a full menu in addition to 20 different pizza specialties at lunch. The on-site cocktail lounge has a Wild West theme. Landgasthof Werdenberg can accommodate up to 80 people for banquet or meeting space.


Landgasthof Werdenberg


Grave Street 2


CH-9471 Buchs 1, Switzerland


011-41-81-771-4646


landgasthofwerdenberg.ch


Enter Into The Acting & Modeling Area

Getting into acting and modeling can be an enjoyable hobby or career.


One of the largest dreams a person can have when growing up is to become a world-renowned movie star or supermodel. While only an esteemed few make it to that pinnacle, it is possible for many more to earn a respectable living from acting or modeling. To get your foot in the door, you may need to spend money and work hard for many years, but when you find yourself on stage or in front of the camera, all your efforts will have been worth it.


Instructions


1. Find a friend or acquaintance with a top-of-the-line digital camera and have him take a few simple headshots of you. A simple headshot is a picture of you, typically from the midsection and up, against a solid-colored background or a wall. You will eventually get more professional headshots, but it is best to not put out any money until you have the chance of getting some back. Pick the best one from the shoot.


2. Use a photo editing program to make the photo fit on an 8-by-10-inch sheet of photo paper. Using a text box in the program, type in your name on a white space just under the photo. This will act as your headshot in your first few gigs. Print the headshot.


3. Sign up for a modeling or acting class in your area. Ask any modeling or acting friends for recommendations or do an online search to check for those that get the best reviews. This class will teach you some of the skills you need to succeed in acting. During the class, ask your classmates and instructor for the websites and resources that they use to check for gigs in your area. They may suggest a general site like Craigslist or a specific telephone or online directory that works specifically for your city.


4. Visit the resources suggested to you by your class to search for auditions for local gigs. You are more likely to be hired for gigs that are unpaid like local community theater shows and student projects when you are just starting out. Repeat this step until you have been hired for five to 10 gigs.


5. Create a resume based on the gigs that you have been hired for. List your name, phone number, hair color, height and weight along with information about the gigs like which company you worked for, the name of the project and the role you portrayed in the gig. Bring your resume along with your headshot to all future gigs.


6. Find a reputable photography or headshot company in your area to take a professional headshot. Once again, use friend, colleague and online recommendations to find the most affordable and professional company. After you receive the headshot, visit a headshot printing company (the photographer will most likely recommend one to you) and print 50 to 100 headshots with your resume printed on the back.


7. Call any and all talent agencies in your area and ask them how new talent should submit materials. Often you will need to send a copy of your headshot and resume through the mail and you will need to wait at least a month for a reply. Before sending, make sure to check online and with friends to ensure the agencies are legitimate. The agencies may ask you to come in and audition. Do not sign with an agency if it requires money from you as it may be a scam. Sign with one or more agencies.


8. Continue to look for auditions online as your agency or agencies also look for work for you. Take more classes and network to find as many contacts as possible as you never know where your next gig might come from.