How to Put a Brass Plate on a Plaque

Plaques are commonly used as a means of recognizing accomplishments and achievements of individuals, groups or organizations. Presented by schools, sports teams and corporations, plaques often feature a logo or symbol associated with the presenting group. A brass plaque with the name of the recipient and other personalized information is often attached to the plaque before being presented. Brass is a traditional material used with awards, trophies and plaques and can be attached with only a few simple materials.

• 1

  Position the plaque on a sturdy work surface with good lighting before beginning work.

• 2

  Determine the location on the plaque where you want to mount the brass plate.

• 3

  Apply denatured alcohol to a clean rag. Gently wipe the area on the plaque where you want to mount the plate with the denatured alcohol to remove any oils or debris.

• 4

  Place strips of double sided tape along all four sides of the back of the brass plate. Remove only one side of the backing on the tape, position the tape so it does not extend beyond the edge of the plate. Press the tape firmly in place.

• 5

  Peel the backing from the exposed side of the tape and carefully position the brass plate on the plaque. Press the plate firmly in place to secure.

Inexpensive Perfumes With Lavender

• Lavender is an ingredient in several perfumes. Jordan Siemens/Photodisc/Getty Images

  Lavender is an herb that gets its name from the Latin root lavare, which means "to wash," as people have used it for centuries in baths, soaps and shampoos. While this herb has a range of other uses, from relieving insomnia, anxiety and depression, to producing a calming sedative effect when inhaled -- lavender is a common component of various perfumes. You don't need to spend a lot of money to acquire a fragrance with a lavender component.

Caldey Island Lavender

• Caldey Island is in Dyfed, Wales and is home to a famous monastery and lighthouse -- and it produces chocolate and perfume. According to the perfume critic Luca Turin, Caldey Island Lavender made by the Cistercian monks of Caldey Island is, "Simply the best lavender soliflore on earth." Many people note the perfume for its clear lavender smell without a muddling of other scents. A medium sized bottle of lavender spray directly from Caldey Island will cost around $25, according to 2010 pricing data.

I Hate Perfume: Lavender Tea Water Perfume

• The perfume "I Hate Perfume: Lavender Tea Water Perfume" by CB is an extremely light scent that gives you a hint of clove and black Indian tea and a slightly stronger scent of French lavender with a tinge of Indonesian patchouli. Because this is a perfume strongly based in water, the smell is refreshing but doesn't linger all day. Eight ml of the tea water perfume will cost around $15 via most online retailers, according to a 2010 price index.

Grey Flannel

• Grey Flannel by Geoffrey Beene is a combination of lavender, violet, oakmoss, sage and sandalwood. The perfume creates a distinctive combination, particularly when it comes to a fragrance designed for men. The lavender is a strong component of the scent, but the smell is only slightly floral. According to Nstperfume.com you can acquire a 120 ml bottle for around $25.

How to Remove Transmission Fluid Stains

Transmission fluid is a red liquid that lubricates the parts within a vehicle's transmission. Damaged transmissions can leak transmission fluid onto driveways and garage floors. Changing a vehicle's transmission fluid can also cause the liquid to drip or spill onto surfaces, producing oil-based stains. The longer transmission stains remain on surfaces, the more difficult they are to remove. Transmission stains can cause driveways and surfaces to appear aesthetically unappealing and improperly maintained. Fortunately, basic solutions can effectively remove transmission fluid stains.

• 1

  Sprinkle a thick layer of baking soda over the wet transmission fluid. Keep the baking soda on the driveway or surface for 30 minutes or until the fluid is completely absorbed.

• 2

  Sweep up the oil-soaked debris with a broom. Dispose of the debris in an old coffee can.

• 3

  Squirt 1 tsp. of liquid dish soap onto the remaining fluid stain. Spray the stain with a small amount of water from a garden hose to add suds.

• 4

  Scrub the driveway with a nylon scrub brush to further clean the oily stain.

• 5

  Rinse the driveway with water from the garden hose. Allow the driveway to air-dry.

• 6

  Inspect the driveway for remaining traces of transmission fluid. If the stain persists, create a solution of 1/4-cup of trisodium phosphate with 1 gallon of warm water in a 3-gallon plastic bucket. Wear safety glasses and work gloves for protection.

• 7

  Dampen a nylon scouring pad in the trisodium solution. Scrub the driveway with the damp scouring pad until the stain is completely removed.

• 8

  Rinse the driveway with water from the garden hose. Again, allow the driveway to air-dry.

How to Take Tequila Out of Car Carpet

Cleaning a spill like tequila from your car's carpeting is no different from cleaning liquid spills from any type of carpet. Because your car is an enclosed area, however, you should clean any liquid spills as soon as possible to deter mold growth. You don't need any expensive cleaning solutions to clean your car's carpet; common household ingredients will do the job effectively.

• 1

  Blot up as much of the tequila spill as you can with a clean, dry towel. Blot toward the center of the spill from the outer edge to keep the spill from spreading.

• 2

  Mix 1 tsp. of undiluted white vinegar and 1 tsp. liquid dish soap with 2 cups of warm water. White vinegar helps to remove stains and it neutralizes odors. Test the mixture on an inconspicuous part of the car's carpet to be sure it is color safe before using the solution on the stain. Sponge the cleaning solution into the tequila spill and dab thoroughly.

• 3

  Blot away excess cleaning solution with a towel.

• 4

  Rinse the area with soda water. Carbonation in the soda water helps to lift away any remaining stain or odor. Soda water does not leave residue, which makes it a thorough rinsing agent.

• 5

  Blot the cleaned area with a clean, dry towel until the carpet is dry to the touch.

• 6

  Leave your car's windows cracked open, if possible, to allow remaining moisture to escape the car.

How to Remove Scratches From Marble Tile

Marble, a natural stone, gives off an elegant, yet resilient appearance. Each marble slab quarried from the earth's surface differs in character and design. As solid as marble tile is, it can fall victim to scratches that permeate the rock-hard surface. Remove these harsh blemishes from marble flooring with the proper tools, and restore the tile's look.

• 1

  Wipe embedded dirt from the scratches in the marble tile with a damp rag. Rub aggressively to remove all the grime within the scratches. Dry the area with a clean rag.

• 2

  Place a 0000 steel-wool pad at the end of the scratch. Using light pressure, glide the steel wool over the scratch. Raise the steel-wool pad and place it back at the top of the scratch. Glide it down the scratch once more.

• 3

  Wipe residue from the marble tile with a clean rag. Inspect the scratch. If the mark remains, continue running the steel wood pad over the scratch. Check the mark after two to three runs with the pad. Use lighter pressure as the scratch diminishes from the tile. Remove all scratch marks from the marble tile with the same procedure.

• 4

  Spray a marble cleaner onto the affected area after removing the scratches. Wipe the marble tile clean with a soft cloth.

How to Remove Beer Labels

Remove the label from a beer bottle to keep as a memento or to add to a collection. Beer manufactures use glue to attach the labels to the bottles. Hot water and steam loosen the glue without harming the label. After removing the label, dry it out completely before storing it. Beer companies use paper, plastic and sticker labels. The material the label is made from depends on the type of beer. The glue on the back of sticker labels also loosens with steam and hot water.

• 1

  Empty the beer bottle.

• 2

  Fill a saucepan halfway with water. Place on a stove top burner. Turn the burner to medium heat.

• 3

  Heat the water until it simmers.

• 4

  Hold the beer bottle over the surface of the water for five minutes to allow the steam to loosen the label. Set the beer bottle on a flat surface.

• 5

  Place the skinny end of the funnel into the opening of the beer bottle.

• 6

  Turn off the stove burner. Pour the hot water into the beer bottle through the funnel. Add water until the top of the liquid sits 1/2 an inch over the top of the label. Let the hot water sit for 10 minutes.

• 7

  Soak the bottles for another hour if there is any glue left on it. Scrub off the glue with a scrub brush. Rinse with clean water.

• 8

  Dump out the water. Peel off the label slowly.

• 9

  Lay out a towel on a flat surface. Place the label on top of the towel. Place another towel on top of the label. Drink Focus recommends placing a heavy item on top of the label during the drying process to keep it flat. Leave the label to dry for one to three days.

How to Clean Clear Rubber Stamps

Clear rubber stamps are highly durable and do not easily absorb ink used during your crafting project. Whether you are scrapbooking or making a similar craft, you must clean the clear rubber stamps after each use. This prevents ink buildup and leaves you with a clear, crisp image each time you use the stamp. Removing the ink requires little work and can be done with a number of basic household items.

• 1

  Wipe down the stamp with a baby wipe to remove fresh ink. Use a fresh section of the wipe as needed until the entire stamp is clean.

• 2

  Moisten a paper towel with warm water and add about 3 drops of dish soap to the paper towel. Rub it over the rubber stamp, as this will remove tougher and partially dried ink.

• 3

  Dip a paper towel or cotton swab into rubbing alcohol and wipe over dried ink and extremely tough residue. The alcohol cuts through all of the ink residue without harming the rubber stamps. Continue until all ink is removed and let the clear stamps air dry.

How Do I Remove Polyurethane Coating?

Polyurethane is a clear finish often applied to wood floors by home builders. However, manufactured or mass-produced wood furniture is rarely covered with this plastic preservative, because it dries too slowly. Less commonly, polyurethane is applied to non-wood items like ceramic tile and metal.

Wood Floors

• The best tool for removing polyurethane from a wood floor is the orbital floor buffer, an electric tool that spins a large disc underneath its circular body. The disc contains a round, abrasive screen that removes the polyurethane. It is best to use a dull screen of either 120 or 150 grit. Corners and edges will have to be sanded with an electric sander.

Wooden Furniture

• Although chemical strippers containing methylene chloride (MC) can be used to strip polyurethane from wood furniture, this method is not very popular because of the possible carcinogenic nature of MC. The best solution is to mechanically remove the coating with an electric sander and rough sandpaper.

Non-wood Surfaces

• Polyurethane occasionally is put into use to preserve and protect ceramic tiles, flagstones, clay tiles or even metal. Although using a methylene chloride stripper may work in some of these instances, it is best to consult a professional stone setter or tile layer before attempting to remove the polyurethane coating.

How to Remove Electrical Tape Residue From Wire

Removing electrical tape adhesive can be especially frustrating when you are rewiring an electrical outlet or socket because you simple can't scrape it off for fear of damaging the wire. To remove electrical tape residue safely, use an easy-to-find, but unlikely solvent --- household lubricant.

• 1

  Soak a disposable rag with a household lubricant spray such as WD-40 or Liquid Wrench. Wipe it liberally on the sticky wire. If you are unsure that you are coating the wire thoroughly, attach the rag to the wire with a rubber band or a twist tie.

• 2

  Let the wire sit for at least five minutes, although keeping it on longer makes for an easier job. Remove the rag.

• 3

  Remove the sticky residue by wiping it down with the rag until the adhesive gives way.

• 4

  Wash the wire or cable with soap and water and allow it to dry.

How to Remove Algae Stains From Brick

The brick exterior of your home may develop mold, mildew and algae growth in areas that are dark and damp. That could create problems on another type of exterior, but one of the benefits of having a brick exterior is that it is durable and low-maintenance. Algae doesn't ruin your brick, and it can be removed with a few household items and a couple of garden tools.

• 1

  Remove loose dirt and debris from the bricks with a hand broom or vacuum.

• 2

  Put on a pair of rubber gloves and goggles to protect your skin from bleach splashes.

• 3

  Mix one ounce of bleach and one quart of water in a large bucket.

• 4

  Dip a stiff bristle plastic scrub brush into the bleach cleaning solution and scrub the algae spots on the bricks. Continue to dip the brush and scrub until you have scrubbed away all the algae.

• 5

  Rinse the bricks clean with fresh water from a garden hose.

How to Remove a Fire Smoke Smell From Furniture

After a fire, the smell of smoke lingers for a long time and can be hard to remove. Smoke permeates fabric and gets into the material of your furniture, leaving the odor there to stay after the fire has long been put out. Don't give up on your furniture; try to remove the smell instead of getting rid of it. It may take several attempts, but it can be done.

• 1

  Sprinkle baking soda liberally over the furniture. Let it sit overnight. Baking soda is good at leeching bad odors from surfaces.

• 2

  Vacuum up the baking soda without using use any attachments.

• 3

  Neutralize the smell of the smoke with an anti-odor spray. Apply the spray over the entire piece and allow it to dry. Furniture sprays may also work, but anti-smoke or anti-odor sprays will probably work faster and better.

• 4

  Steam clean the furniture. Rent a steam cleaner meant for carpet and use it to clean your furniture. The hot water and deodorizing soap will remove the smell from your items. Scrub your furniture using the attachments that come with the steam cleaner for best results.

• 5

  Hire a professional to perform an ozone treatment, if other methods fail. The ozone treatment removes oxygen from the room, releasing particles that negatively affect the smoke smell and counteract it. You can rent a machine yourself, but it would be much easier --- and safer --- to have a professional do it.

How to Remove Magic Marker From Painted Canvas

Whether you have painted artwork, a painted canvas bag, or something else made of canvas, it is almost inevitable that it will become stained. When that stain is a magic marker, you may think it is permanent. However, magic marker stains can be removed using the proper solution and the right cleaning procedure. The key to successfully removing magic marker from painted canvas is to work slowly so you do not smear the ink over a larger area.

• 1

  Dip a cotton swab into rubbing alcohol. Blot the tip of the swab on a paper towel to remove most of the moisture.

• 2

  Place the tip of the cotton swab directly on top of the magic marker stain on the painted canvas.

• 3

  Rub the cotton swab back and forth very lightly only on the marker stain. Do not move the cotton swab to other painted areas of the canvas.

• 4

  Discard the cotton swab, and blot the canvas gently with a white paper towel. Do not rub the canvas, since this can smear the marker.

• 5

  Examine the canvas to see if the marker stain is gone. If it remains, repeat Steps 1 through 4.

• 6

  Blot the area with a clean paper towel. Continue until the magic marker is gone.

Can Rocks Be Covered in Resin for Countertops?

Custom countertops can be created by covering rocks, recycled glass or porcelain with resin. With such a large range of materials used as imbediments, each composite countertop is unique.

Rock Imbediments

• When using rocks for countertops, the material can either be whole pieces, shards or flecks covered with resin. Pieces must be small enough to fit in the mold. Rocks are placed in the casting mold, and then covered with a polyester resin. The resin can be clear or tinted to create a translucent or opaque finish.

Rock Preparation

• Before being embedded into a countertop, rocks must be washed and allowed to thoroughly dry. Porous rocks should be sealed first to prevent bubbles from gassing. Pieces that will float are glued in place before the resin is poured.

Advantages of Composite Countertops

• Countertops composed of rock and resin can be customized to fit the style and theme of the location where they will be installed. Depending on the cost of the rock used, these countertops are typically less expensive and easier to maintain than a stone slab or tile countertop.

How to Clean & Shine Wooden Kitchen Cupboards

Wood kitchen cabinets take a lot of abuse from spilling food and splashing, spluttering grease. It is important to regularly clean and shine your wood cabinets to prevent grease and oil from penetrating the finish. Once penetrated, the finish may loose its color or begin to chip off. A simple cleaning and a shining will restore the look of your cabinet, making it look brand new and prevent damage that may shorten the life of the cabinets.

• 1

  Fill a bucket with water and dish washer detergent. Add 1 part soap to 10 parts water.

• 2

  Wipe down the cabinet to remove any dust, debris and food. Make sure to remove any and all grease spots as best as possible. Wipe down the cabinet with clean water to remove the soap residue from the wood. Dry the wood with a dry towel to prevent water damage.

• 3

  Apply a wood polisher to your rag making it slightly moist but not soaking wet.

• 4

  Wipe the wood of the cabinet with the rag in a circular motion to shine the wood. Allow the wood to dry and apply another layer if necessary.

How to Remove Gummed Labels With WD-40

Labels can be found on just about any item you purchase. From price tags to sizing information, labels are use in a variety of ways to inform the consumer of important details. Unfortunately, these labels use adhesive to adhere them to the surface. This adhesive can be difficult to remove and create a gummy, sticky mess. Fortunately, you can remove the gummed label and its adhesive residue with the help of WD-40. WD-40 is a water-displacing spray that has thousands of uses, including removing tough labels.

• 1

  Pull off as much of the label as possible with your fingers. If needed, use the back of a butter knife to scrape the label off.

• 2

  Spray the WD-40 onto what is left of the label and the glue. Allow the WD-40 to sit on the surface for several minutes.

• 3

  Dampen a cloth with cool water. Rub the gummed label with the cloth.

• 4

  Continue applying the WD-40 and rubbing with the damp cloth until you have removed the gummed label.

• 5

  Wipe the surface clean with a clean, soapy cloth. Rinse the area with a clean cloth dampened in cool water. Wipe dry with a towel.

Hoppe's Bore Light Instructions

Whether you are cleaning your rifle, pistol or shotgun or inspecting a used one, being able to clearly see the condition of the bore is very useful. Visually inspecting the bore is difficult under regular lighting conditions, fortunately, the Hoppe's Bore Light makes the process easy. The light is powered by two AAA batteries and features a clear plastic tube that channels the light into the bore of your firearm. The light tube turns 90 degrees to allow you to easily place your light in your gun's action. Before inspecting any weapon make sure that it is unloaded.

• 1

  Open the action of the rifle, shotgun or pistol: if inspecting a revolver, remove the cylinder.

• 2

  Press the clip on the side of the Hoppe's Bore Light to turn it on. The light will stay on as long as pressure is applied to the clip, if you wish to keep the light on, slide the plastic band (supplied with the light) over the clip.

• 3

  Place the end of the light tube into the weapon's action, pressed up against the end of the barrel and pointed down the bore.

• 4

  Look down the end of the barrel and visually inspect the condition of the bore.

• 5

  Turn off and remove the Bore Light.

How to Clean a Dirty Mattress

Accidents happen. No matter how careful you are, drinks get spilled, pets and children urinate, and before you know it, your mattress is a total mess. In addition, we all sweat, and sweat can collect in a mattress until it has a funky odor and just doesn't smell as clean as it should. Regardless of the cause, mattresses should be cleaned every six months to a year to help them last as long as possible.

• 1

  Remove all sheets, and thoroughly vacuum both sides and the edges of your mattress.

• 2

  Spray on a commercial mattress cleaner, following the directions on the can. Allow the spray to dry, then vacuum the mattress thoroughly.

• 3

  If a mattress cleaner is not available, spray one side and the edges of your mattress with an upholstery shampoo. Follow all manufacturer's directions. Allow the shampoo to dry, and then thoroughly vacuum the sprayed areas.

• 4

  Turn the mattress over, and spray the other side with upholstery shampoo. Allow it to dry, and vacuum it.

• 5

  Spray urine stains with an equal mix of vinegar and water. Use a towel to blot the area after spraying. Spray up to three times (and blot each time) for particularly troublesome urine stains.

• 6

  Lay the mattress on a clean area in the sun for two hours. Flip the mattress over, and allow it to receive two more hours of direct sun.

• 7

  Cover your mattress with a mattress protector to keep it from becoming dirty again.

How to Control Mildew

Mildew thrives in environments with excess moisture and humidity. If you live in a particularly humid climate, or if your home has fallen into disrepair and lacks the construction necessary to protect the interior from outside elements, you may find yourself susceptible to mildew contamination. To control mildew inside a home you must take steps to control moisture and eliminate existing spores that could spread.

• 1

  Insulate your home. Observe any vulnerabilities that can hinder the insulation of your home, such as warped window sills, cracks in walls and broken roof shingles. You can use commercial caulking, spackling putty or other sealant. Just make sure to read the labels of all products and use a compound safe for your type of wall (plaster or drywall). For more serious repairs, like roofs and windows, inquire about replacement.

• 2

  Keep your home clean. Mildew breeds in dirty environments, according to a report by the University of Illinois Extension, and mildew spores travel through dust. Vacuum your carpets weekly, and clean your countertops, windows, furniture and floors.

• 3

  Wipe down your windows frequently with paper towels. Wipe the windows on both sides until the glass dries thoroughly.

• 4

  Remove moisture from the interior of your home. For best results, place a dehumidifier in the center of a room and allow it to run on the highest setting until the room dries. Repeat this process in each room where you find humidity or dampness. To find out precise humidity levels, purchase a hand-held relative humidity sensor, and use it to measure each room.

• 5

  Eliminate moisture even as you create it. Wipe down your shower tiles and floors immediately after each shower, cover your pots while cooking, wipe up spills as soon as they occur, and minimize your use of steam-generating hot water.

• 6

  Circulate your air. On non-humid days, open windows to improve air circulation and prevent the air in your home from becoming stagnant. You can also improve air circulation by using your air conditioner.

• 7

  Clean up any traces of mildew that you find. When you see traces of gray, green or black discoloration, sometimes powdery and sometimes liquid-based, accompanied by a musty odor, clean it up immediately to prevent it from spreading. Wipe down small areas of mildew with soft cloths dampened with a mold-fighting product such as hydrogen peroxide (3 percent) or chlorine bleach (diluted with two parts water). Wash mildew-stained clothing with one cup of chlorine bleach (white fabrics) or non-chlorine bleach (colored fabrics).

How to Remove Mold From Gyprock

Gyprock is a name brand of plasterboard and plaster products that are used in the home to create ceilings and walls. These products can create porous and non-porous surfaces. Mold is nature's natural cleaner and decomposition substance. This is a type of bacteria that breaks down dying vegetation in nature, but inside the home, this can be dangerous. Some molds create respiratory issues and other systemic conditions, and in severe cases, result in poisoning and death.

• 1

  Put on the old clothes. Bleach will discolor most fabrics, so make sure you are wearing clothes that you don't mind getting ruined. Take precautions and wear a respiratory mask and rubber or latex gloves.

• 2

  Fill the spray bottle halfway with warm water. Spray down the moldy areas on the Gyprock. This will prevent the mold spores from getting into the air when you begin to clean the mold.

• 3

  Tear out and discard any porous Gyprock products. The mold can never be successfully removed from porous surfaces and they must be replaced. If you have a non-porous Gyprock product covered in mold, continue to step 4.

• 4

  Mix ½ cup of bleach into the warm water left in the spray bottle. Fill the spray bottle the rest of the way with warm water. Label the spray bottle with the permanent marker.

• 5

  Spray the moldy area with the bleach solution and allow the bleach solution to sit for at least 15 minutes in order for the bleach to penetrate, kill, and disinfect the surface.

• 6

  Scrub the area with an old, clean cloth. Rinse the Gyprock surface well with clean, hot water. Allow the surface to air dry if at all possible. If it is not possible for the surface to dry naturally, then set up fans or heaters as appropriate.

How to Apply Tail Light Tint

People use taillight tints in an effort to either customize the appearance of their cars or add a protective layer to the car's outside. Tinting taillights, also referred to as smoking taillights, involves applying a film or spray to the outer surface of the taillight cover. Films are removable -- and can be repositioned before they dry -- whereas sprays are permanent.

• 1

  Clean off any dirt on the taillight cover using glass cleaner, rubbing alcohol or a combination of dish soap and water. The directions for the specific film might specify a particular combination. Dry the area thoroughly and don't leave bits of lint on the taillight cover.

• 2

  Hold the tint film up to the light cover to ensure you know which way it's supposed to fit. Having to turn it around after you've peeled off the backing increases the risk of accidentally crumpling the edge or having the film stick to your fingers.

• 3

  Peel off the backing from the film and hold the film sticky side up, flat on the palm of your hand.

• 4

  Spray the light cover with the cleaning mixture again but don't dry it this time. The website Rvinyl.com says this step will allow you to move the film around to position it and reposition it if necessary. Manufacturer instructions might require spraying the sticky side of the film, too.

• 5

  Place the film on the taillight cover. The website StangWriteups.com notes that if it slides around a lot, you'll need to let it dry for a few minutes before proceeding. Hold the film in place until it doesn't move around as easily.

• 6

  Place the edge of the squeegee in the center of the film and scrape toward the edges of the light cover. This gets rid of air bubbles and extra cleaning fluid that might be stuck under the film.

• 7

  Trim off any extra film with a utility knife if you see any overhanging the light cover. Go slowly to avoid slipping and scratching surrounding paint or the film itself.