Acronyms - Yet another new FAQ?
Buehl
7 years ago
last modified: 7 years ago
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Buehl
7 years agolast modified: 7 years agoBuehl
7 years agoRelated Discussions
FAQ - front page challenge!
Comments (150)OK...we're going to run out of bumps today or tomorrow...so, here's my suggested draft for the next thread: +++++++++++++++++++++ Subject: Read Me If You're New To GW Kitchens! (Help keep on Page 1) Welcome - If you are new here - you may find the following information and links helpful. The Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) pages contain helpful information about how to navigate this site as well as the world of kitchen renovations. The Kitchen Forum Acronyms will help you understand some of the acronyms used frequently in posts. The Finished Kitchens Blog has pictures and information about many GW members' finished kitchens. Not only can you see them alphabetically, but there is also a category list if you're looking for specific things like a kitchen w/a Beverage Center or a kitchen w/a mix of dark and light cabinets. The Appliances Forum is very useful when you have questions specific to appliances. To start off the process...take the Sweeby Test. Then, move on to Beginning a Kitchen Plan. Other topics such as planning for storage can be found by doing a search on the forum. Tip: When using the "search" function, be sure to use the search box on the bottom of the page, not the top! Again, welcome and good luck! The journey is wild, sometimes bumpy, but fun! +++++++++++++++++++++ Comments? Suggestions? Did I miss anything? And thanks kKailuaMom for getting this idea moving! You were very successful; let's hope the next thread is as successful! Maybe someday we'll be able to get some permanent links (ike the FAQ & FKB & possibly a "Getting Started w/Your Kitchen Remodel"), but until then, let's keep this going!...See MoreTamara-- post to FAQs all these questions? AND, another Q.
Comments (21)Hi Kirkhall -- I think your questions were mostly answered. The related forums links and color change are all things I have on a list. The FAQs are another project that we'll be looking at once the dust settles. If there was something that wasn't answered or you have other concerns, don't hesitate to post here or you are always welcome to contact me directly. I know this has been a crazy day and everyone is finding their way. But, I really appreciate everyone hanging in there and giving it a few days to get used to the changes....See MoreBacksplash Basics - New FAQ?
Comments (60)FOR TAMARA AND THE FAQ I've gone back and reviewed what everyone has said and came up with the following: ================================================== Title Subject: How do I choose a backsplash and when do I choose it? =============== CONTENT BELOW ================== To the age old question, "Do I need a backsplash?", the short answer is yes. You need some sort of backsplash in wet zones to protect your walls, cabinets, floors, and subfloors from deterioration due to water infiltration, and in your cooking zone to protect your drywall from cooking oils, spills, odors, and cleaning chemicals. That said, plenty of Houzzers have chosen not to have a backsplash, or to delay the choice for budgetary or other reasons. To review some of these threads, search for threads with "ABB" (All But Backsplash) in the Subjects to check those out. (See the current "New to Kitchens" thread for more information regarding searching the Forum.) . How does one choose a backsplash? First, like every other process here, we encourage you to do some research on your own, then post your particulars and ask for feedback. One fundamental question you must consider before all others is what is the focus of your space? Cabinets? Counters? Backsplash? Something else? Multiple focal points are generally not recommended, so determine what you want for your focal point and select your backsplash (and other components) based on your preference. For example, bold counters and attention-grabbing backsplashes rarely work well together. How do you determine your preferred focus? Look at pictures of Kitchens you like as well as those with various items as the focal point. Some will have simple cabinets and floors with a busy/bold counter and calm/simple backsplash. Others will have simple cabinets, floors, and counters with a busy or commanding backsplash. Which do you find yourself drawn to? The images of the Kitchens you like will help you determine which you prefer – is there a pattern to what you like? Another consideration is whether you want a backsplash that's only a few inches tall, one that goes to the ceiling, or something in between. You don't have to have a backslash that covers every inch of wall. In some cases, you don't need a backsplash (e.g., an island sink or cooktop), but that's rarely the case. In most situations, at least a small backsplash is needed in key locations. . To Wait or Not To Wait There is no right or wrong answer – many Houzzers have done both. Wait…Waiting to buy your backsplash until you have had your counters installed allows you to see samples in your space and in your light throughout the day with your actual installed materials and with proper orientation/location (e.g., backsplash samples should be vertical between the counter and upper cabinets, flooring should be horizontal below the cabinets when viewing). For example, if your installed cabinets are warmer than you expected or your counters cooler, you are free to search for a backsplash material that can pull things together. The only drawback to waiting is that you may have to wait for your backsplash material to be fabricated or to arrive, causing possible delays in the completion of your space. Don't Wait…Choosing your backsplash in concert with your other materials, prior to demo, allows you to be certain they all work together both in terms of design and cost. This keeps you from running the risk of falling in love with a backsplash that doesn't look right with your already installed counter or fit within the budget that is leftover after you have made all of your other choices. There are also advantages in terms of lay outing things like electrical outlets to best work with your chosen backsplash. Finally choosing your backsplash before demo starts allows you to order any necessary material so project completion isn't delayed. However, a major drawback to this is that you are making decisions on colors and finishes based on samples -- sample cabinet finishes, sample counter swatches, sample backsplash materials, etc. -- and samples don't always represent the final product accurately. If you are in the "pick all the elements now" camp, consider creating a "mood board" to get at least an idea of how things will look together. In addition, bring home samples to at least check how they will look in the light of your Kitchen – both natural and, if possible, artificial light. The majority wisdom on this site favors waiting, if that is possible. Regardless of which approach you choose, you should consider your backsplash as one part of the whole picture of your beautiful new space! . Inspiration Images These really help you to focus on what your kitchen as a whole will look like. They also give the folks responding to your queries an idea of what you like so they won't recommend, for example, white subway tiles if all your inspiration images feature hand painted Mexican tile. As mentioned above, search the web for images of kitchens with your other materials (white cabinets, walnut floors, etc.) and select which ones you like the best. What type of backsplash do they have? The idea is not to copy the look, but to get a feel for what you like and communicate those likes to others. . Budget Finally, we'll need an idea of a materials budget. Installation can account for half of the budget for a backsplash, so take that into consideration in your planning and deduct accordingly. Let us know how much you want to spend in $/sf for your materials and/or overall cost. It's not very helpful falling in love with a handmade tile in a custom glaze if it costs $100/square foot and your budget for tile is $10/sf, but Houzz Kitchens Forum members are fantastic at finding similar (and occasionally the same) tiles for less money. Without budget numbers it is very difficult for us to truly be of help to you. (Be aware that labor costs will vary by the area where you live as well as how complex your installation will be.) . How we can help The way it works is that we can recommend a surface (usually tile, sheet glass, metal, slab stone or laminate), advise for/against a choice (color, or busy-ness are the usual things discussed), provide you with layout and pattern feedback, and find images you might have missed of materials that have worked for us or caught our eye. For example, you might ask: "How can I find a backsplash tile to go with my green floors, counters, and purple cabinets?" The answer might be that you have to paint your cabinets or change your floors to make it right, or maybe some Houzzer somewhere will show you an image of a kitchen with a painted tin backsplash that pulls it all together. It has happened! Some Houzz members are great at photoshopping images together to give you an idea of what a small sample of your backsplash might look like in your space. It is time and effort on their part that can be truly helpful. Remember to say thank you! . . Regardless of our advice, remember that it is just that, advice. In the end, it's your Kitchen and it's up to you what you want to put in it – take or leave the advice we give, but at least you are making an informed choice and know the pros & cons of your choice! We hope we can be helpful and good luck with your project! . . . [Eam44, Crl_, Buehl, and other Houzzers]...See MoreKAW - What's your favorite Easter dessert?
Comments (26)A bunny cake, but mine is made differently. Cut layers in half crosswise. Slice those horizontally. Spread lemon curd and seedless raspberry jam, alternating layers. Set layers on cut edge. Cut a wedge bear one end - you now have a head/neck fir your bunny. Rajesh wedge and put at other end - you now have a tail. Frost the cake with Italian meringue, filling in shape with extra - it will gave a LOT to name a nice plump bunny. Take white paper and cut out ears. Use food coloring to watercolor the inside of the ears so they are pink. Stick them on the head. Use black jelly beans fir eyes, pink for nose. Candied violets are nice if you can find them. Dye coconut green and arrange around bunny - sprinkle jelly beans around grass. Real flower blossoms can also be added. i think this was on TV in the 50's when I was a child and my mother and I made it. Then I made it for children, now grandchildren. No bunny date thus tear - get home from London around 10pm night before and thus old lady no longer attempts heroics! It will be all I can manage to get to church on Easter!...See Moresmm5525
7 years agotownlakecakes
7 years agoBuehl
7 years agoBuehl
7 years agolast modified: 7 years agomama goose_gw zn6OH
7 years agoeam44
7 years agoBuehl
7 years agoBuehl
7 years agolast modified: 7 years agoMDLN
7 years agoBuehl
7 years agoBuehl
7 years agolast modified: 7 years agoBuehl
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