amateurs' manuals

"This book features DIY how-to wall painting techniques that will help readers discover the possibilities of paint and see their walls as their canvas. Authors Phoebe Cornog and Roxy Prima take readers through wall preparation and paint selection and then teach how to achieve different techniques step by step, from marbling to sponging to geometric design to lettering and more"--.

A guide to basic home repair and maintenance that explains the skills and techniques used in carpentry, masonry, plumbing, electricity, and other building trades and provides in-depth coverage of a wide range of topics related to home care.

"Discover the amazing wonders of the night sky with this expanded edition to 100 Things to See in the Night Sky, perfect for every amateur stargazer and armchair astronomer! Keep your feet on the ground and experience the night sky to the fullest by exploring planets, satellites, and constellations with this all-inclusive reference guide to space. 100 Things to See in the Night Sky, Expanded Edition is full of information on the many amazing things you can see with a telescope, or just your naked eye! From shooting stars to constellations and planets to satellites, this book gives you a clear picture of what you can see on any given night. Learn about the celestial bodies that have captured people's imaginations for centuries, with specific facts alongside traditional myths and beautifully illustrated photographs and star charts that will help you know where to look for the best view. With this illuminating guide, you'll enjoy hours of stargazing, whether you're travelling, camping, sitting in your back yard, or simply flipping through the beautiful images in this book."--Publisher's description.

"The author gives detailed information on the science behind metalworking, how metal moves, and how to work with heated metal. He explains the origins of blacksmithing, the required equipment, and safety precautions before presenting step-by-step illustrated instructions for making useful and decorative items for indoor and outdoor use in the home, in the yard, and on the farm"--.

A reference guide covering the many parts of a vehicle provides step-by-step instructions for automotive repair and maintenance, as well as a list of the ten most common problems.

"Presented like a recipe book, ... [this guide shows readers how to make robots] from random flea market finds and some unwanted junk through 23 quirky 'robot recipes'. Each of the 23 robots is shown through the transformation of a group of 'found objects' into a finished sculpture with accompanying instructions on inspiration, assemblage methods and bonding techniques"--Provided by publisher.

Provides background information about the Shaker style of furniture; discusses materials, tools, and building techniques; and includes measured patterns for forty-five projects, including four-and six-drawer side chests, bookcases, trestle tables, and chairs.

A guide to building or upgrading a personal computer for gaming.

"[A guide to] auto body repair--updated and revised to cover water-based paints, the latest panel adhesives, and other body repair technologies."--Provided by publisher.

Presents a guidebook to conducting home plumbing installations and repairs, covering updated plumbing codes and jobs like fixing a faucet to installing a drain line in the basement floor. Each project includes step-by-step instructions, color photographs and diagrams, and required tools and materials.