Photo by PhotoMIX Ltd. via Pexels
Worried about package theft, break-ins and other crime? Even if you have a home security system, there are still steps you can take to make your home less appealing to thieves and criminals. From installing some high tech (but surprisingly affordable) gadgets to caring for your home’s exterior, you can help make your house an unappealing target for would-be thieves.
Trim overgrown or large shrubbery: According to SafeWise, criminals want to have plenty of privacy, so overgrown greenery and hedges are very appealing, particularly if they are around windows and access points. Keep the landscaping under control – and keep even the manicured pieces near the house low enough to allow for full visibility.
Put tools away when you are done: Your second floor windows won’t be easy to access – unless you leave the ladder out after you finish hanging the Christmas lights. Put things away in a secure location and your own tools can’t be used against you. Tools used for outside projects also have inherent value, a thief could easily abscond with your pricey equipment if you do not secure it.
Upgrade your doorbell: Opt for one of the new high tech, smart doorbells so you can see what is happening on your front porch. This not only allows you to see who is there before you open the door to a potentially dangerous stranger, it also records activity. You’ll be able to see the UPS guy tossing your package of glassware onto the porch, discover who is stealing your packages and even spot solicitors before they can take up your time.
Light it up: Your yard should have lighting for both safety and home security. Opt for spotlights that are motion sensitive to respond to movement in your yard. Most respond to dogs or wildlife that weigh more than 50 pounds, so any human presence will trigger them. You can also use landscaping lighting to highlight your home (and expose anyone trying to break in) and to make it easy for residents and guests to navigate the yard safely at night.
Be discreet about vacations: Homes that are empty are prime targets, so broadcasting your week-long cruise is a good way to invite criminals to your doorstep. Make sure you stop the mail so it does not pile up and don’t start sharing vacation pictures online until you are actually home.You can’t stop criminals from breaking into homes, but you can make your own home too much of a risk to deal with. By implementing one or more of the above methods, you’ll cut your risk of criminal activity and get the peace of mind you need to relax and enjoy life.
Popsicle sticks are an inexpensive and readily available crafting material with countless uses. These extremely versatile pieces of plywood are useful for far more than making frozen treats. While there are many excellent home decor options for popsicle stick crafts, we’ve gathered a few that are fun and useful for DIY enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels.
For a craft that can help you inside and outside the home, consider using popsicle sticks to make plant markers. The sticks are a small enough size to fit into pots and planters without taking up too much physical or visual space. However, they’re also just large enough to label with the names of your plants. For a young vegetable garden where every sprout looks the same, this can save you guesswork and prevent the risk of applying the wrong type of care.
For some easy and vibrant plant markers, color one or both sides of a popsicle stick with water based marker or paint. Then, use a permanent marker to write the name of the plant on one end. Use this method for your houseplant collection, outdoor gardens and seed propagation stations and enjoy the satisfaction of a truly functional DIY project.
With some popsicle sticks and some unused cans or jars, you can create charming flower and plant vases brimming with farmhouse style. This project will not only liven up your living space but give you the chance to upcycle unused materials that might otherwise go to waste. All you need are popsicle sticks, paint or markers for decoration, a can or jar and some twine.
If you want to decorate your popsicle sticks either with colorful paint, a wood stain or otherwise, make sure you do that before attaching to the vessel. From there, you can use hot glue or other adhesive to attach the popsicle sticks to the outside of the jar or can. Arrange them side-by-side as if you were mimicking the look of a wooden fence. To finish it off, tie a loop or two of twine around the middle and tie it off with a knot or bow. Now you have the perfect mini-vase ready to fill with fresh flowers, herbs or other seasonal decorative contents.
Coasters are a household item that can seem constantly in short supply. Using popsicle sticks to make your own coasters can save you money and time when trying to find somewhere to set your drink. For this craft, it’s a good idea to use acrylic paint or some kind of clear sealant for the popsicle sticks first. This will protect the wood from condensation on the bottom of the glass and prevent the sticks from warping with use.
Once you have your sticks prepared, arrange them in groups of 12. Using glue or another adhesive, attach two sticks perpendicular on each edge and two in the middle. This will serve as the middle part of your “pallet.” Layer the sticks until you have your chosen thickness or simply leave as-is for a quick and simple coaster. If you decide to do a second layer, simply lay another 12 sticks over the supports and glue. Now you have a perfect piece of functional decor for entertaining and daily life.
Popsicle sticks are truly versatile in crafting. There’s no limit to what you can accomplish with a little creativity and some glue. Try these DIY crafts and add some handmade charm to your home decor.
