Adhesive Tape

A paint sprayer is a wonderful thing when used properly. If you have a large painting project looming, and are not afraid to get a bit messy, this might be for you. Anyone can rent a paint sprayer from most local hardware or paint stores and with some instruction, get good results. Here are a few pointers for the serious do-it-yourselfer.

To start with, a sprayer can be very dangerous, in fact deadly if used improperly. When the spray comes out of the tip, it is usually under high pressure which will cut like a razor or produce a very nasty injection wound. When the paint or stain is injected into your bloodstream, it can be deadly if it reaches a critical organ like the heart, brain, etc.

Never set up or clean out the machine with a spray tip on the gun. First, remove the tip housing and lower the pressure to a minimum. Second, if your paint hose develops a leak, no matter how small, do not touch the hose or try to stop the pinhole leak with your hands. Go to the machine and open the bleeder valve to release pressure from the system, and then shut it down. If you try to stop this tiny stream of paint it will surely puncture your skin and cause the injection wound I just mentioned.

Once, on a job where I was spraying, a pinhole developed in the hose and while I did tell the helper not to touch anything, he did. He thought that he would be able to stop the stream with his thumb bad move. The thin stream of oil based paint injected his skin and went clear through his thumb, streaming out through the other side! We rushed him to the hospital and he laid there for over two weeks with his thumb laid wide open like a hot dog cut in half lengthwise. The nurses came in twice a day to literally scrub the raw meat so as to stop the flow of chemicals to his vital organs. Do I need to say more? Spend a little time with the rental person and make sure you know how to properly operate the sprayer before you take it home.

For the most part, there isnt much that you cant use a sprayer for. The main idea is to reduce the labor time for any given project. Sometimes it can be quicker to use conventional brush and roll methods rather than take the time needed to properly mask areas not to be painted. Youll have to survey the situation and make that determination. If spraying, you will need to gather a few items before beginning. You will need to cover anything that you dont want painted or over sprayed. Wear clothing that you can get paint on, and perhaps a spray hood from the paint store to cover your head. You will also want to purchase a respirator so that you dont breathe in any paint. Get some good drop cloths, rags, staples and staple gun, two inch tape, and perhaps some plastic to start.

Wrapping, as it is frequently called, in and of itself is quite a task on larger projects and is a bit of an art form for professional painters. You may need other more specialized sundries as well, but these will get you going. If you run into an unusual situation where these arent sufficient, go to your local paint store and explain your dilemma, they can help. When wrapping any item, keep in mind that the sprayed paint is under pressure, so keep you coverings tight so that the paint spray doesnt loosen your covering job. Staple plastic and drop cloths to wooden surfaces when possible, and then tape over the stapled edge to create a straight line. If you cant use staples at all, consider pre-taped plastic on a roll. This is available at the paint store and is handy for windows, cabinets, tubs and the like. In any event, make sure that your wrapping is not loose as the spray will cause it to flop wildly and eventually come off.

It is also helpful to note that when using tapes, there are a wide variety of sizes and styles. The white tapes are cheapest and have the strongest adhesives. When taping outside or in direct sunlight, you may consider using a blue or green tape. While these tapes can cost up to seven dollars per roll, they are designed to come off easily for up to a week in direct sunlight, which can be a huge problem if ignored. The sun seems to bake the adhesive onto the surface it protects, making removal very aggravating and slow. Once you have all of the necessary areas covered, its time to set up the machine and begin painting!

There are a couple things to remember before you begin. First, always use the lowest pressure possible to accomplish your task. Once the machine is set up and primed, begin in an inconspicuous spot, with very low pressure and raise the pressure slowly until the spray pattern is full and even, without lines. You should keep your spray gun about twelve to fourteen inches away from the surface and move with it so that distance and a 90 degree angle to the surface are maintained. You will need to overlap your spray pattern depending on the surface and its texture.

On exterior wood, you should always backbrush the paint into the wood for the first coat, which means that the spray pattern is not very important. You should apply plenty of paint, even to the point of it running. But on subsequent coats that wont be back brushed or rolled, your spray pattern and the amount of paint applied will be crucial. All I can say is to practice, and be prepared for mistakes.

If spraying inside, it is always a good idea to backroll the final coat of paint so that you can touch up the paint over time with the same size roller nap. Use a roller on a pole with a 3/8 inch nap for smooth walls or a 3/4 inch nap for textures. Roll from floor to ceiling in long strokes. If you dont do this, the sprayed finish will be shinier than any subsequent attempts to touch up with a roller, since the roller nap will leave a slight texture. Back rolling is best accomplished with the help of another, so that you can continue to spray and backroll simultaneously. Again, each job is different, so you may want to ask your paint supplier for more detailed instructions to fit your specific needs.

Whether or not you will be attempting this yourself, let me dispel the myth that I frequently hear in dealings with my clients. The truth is, it is ok to use a sprayer to apply paint to cedar shakes and other wooden surfaces. In fact, if a painter tells you otherwise, he probably doesnt have any experience with using a sprayer. You might be surprised how many contractors dont have that experience. The problem occurs when the sprayer is used improperly. As I mentioned earlier, when painting wooden surfaces or any other porous surface for that matter, the first or prime coat must be worked into the tiny cracks and crevices with a brush or roller. When back brushing is omitted, the paint will not penetrate as it should. As the underlying surface expands and contracts with the seasons and moisture, the paint will begin to lose adhesion, causing peeling of the paint. If this all seems a bit much for you to handle, dont worry, you are not alone. As I mentioned before, not even all painters can spray properly. If you do think that you might try this, just remember to take notes while getting your info on how to set up and use the machine. If you make a mistake, you can always paint over it, or clean up the mess. Spraying is absolutely high on the difficulty scale for do-it-yourself projects, so consider all of the suggestions above before starting, to determine if this is really for you to attempt, or if you would be better off hiring a professional.

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Many people believe that when they choose a frame for an art print, they should pick one that is aesthetically pleasing to the eye. While aesthetics is important, many overlook the true reason for framing an art piece – protection. A well chosen frame will not only enhance the art work and make it look good; it will also protect the material and increase its lifespan for the years to come.

A beautiful art piece, when left unprotected, can sustain unsightly damage over time, and become an eyesore in your home.

Here are some of the more common damages to your art print:

A decorative art print, when simply stuck on the wall without any form of framing, could start to show damage in as little as a few weeks. The material could tear along the corners or edges. This is because the print has been in a rolled up state for most of its life - when it was in the merchant store before you bought it. When you try to spread the print open to stick on the wall, the paper is still trying to roll into itself. The adhesive tape that you’ll probably use will not be strong enough to prevent the print from creasing in on itself, thus causing the tears.

The other concern you should be worried about is fading or discoloring. If an unprotected art print is exposed to the elements like direct sunlight, the ultraviolet effects could cause the paper to discolor and become brittle, thus tearing easily. Over time, dust and moisture in the air will also cause a great deal of damage to the print.

Here are some things you should do to prevent damage to your art print.

Choose a professional framing service to frame your art print. Note that some framing materials contain acids that may cause damage to the art piece, so make sure the frame shop provides acid free backings, mats and mounting materials so that damage to your art print is avoided. Choose a UV filtering glass to give the art work extra protection from ultraviolet light. Make sure to use proper hanging materials to mount your art on the wall. Never display your art piece in direct sunlight or near a heat source. UV light, as mentioned, will certainly cause fading and discoloring of your art print.

Maintain your art piece regularly by cleaning it with a soft and damp cloth. Never spray cleaning fluid directly on the glass. The fluid may seep in and cause damage. Get rid of the dust and clean the glass to remove any stains like grease or fingerprints. A simple decision in framing will certainly go a long way in preserving the life of your art print. It truly is a small investment for a lifelong return.

Happy framing!

Copyright 2007 Edwin Mah

Edwin owns www.abstract-prints.com, an online art gallery offering more than 20,000 contemporary art prints for home and office decorating. Visit Abstract Prints for your interior decorating needs today!

Our dog's health is important to us. When we suspect our dog is ill, we want to do the right thing. Unfortunately, distinguishing between a minor illness and health problems that need emergency attention is not always easy. It's important to be prepared for and know how to identify serious dog health problems.

Know where to take your dog in an emergency

If your dog falls seriously ill, time wasted locating emergency services can be fatal. Know in advance where to go. Many veterinarians offer 24 hour emergency services. Find out if this includes your vet. If not, find out where the nearest veterinary emergency hospital is located. Keep this information in a convenient place.

So how do you know if you are experiencing an emergency?

Most veterinarians will advise you to not to take a chance but call the nearest emergency veterinary service if you suspect that your dog's health needs immediate attention. Staff will assess the situation and usually advise that you bring your dog in for an examination.

The following information will help you identify and respond appropriately to the most common dog health emergencies.

Severe stomach pain

Signs that your dog is experiencing abdominal pain include an abdomen that is tender to the touch, standing with their back arched, and refusing food. Take your dog to the nearest emergency veterinary service immediately. Abdominal pain can be (and often is) a sign of a serious health problem.

Other signs of abdominal distress include vomiting, whelping, shakiness and breathing difficulties. Your dog may be suffering from gastric torsion. Gastric torsion develops suddenly and rapidly and tends to affect large, heavily-chested dogs more than most. This condition needs immediate attention.

Abdominal distress may also be a sign of bloat, constipation, kidney or liver disease, urinary stones, poisoning, an intestinal obstruction or a simple tummy ache. Err on the side of caution. A visit to the emergency veterinarian is advised to safeguard your dog's health and give you peace of mind.

Control heavy bleeding

A laceration that results in heavy bleeding must be dealt with immediately. Apply direct pressure to the wound with a clean, dry bandage. Bleeding should stop within ten minutes.

With the bleeding controlled get your dog to the vet as quickly as possible. With dogs, there is only a small window of time for stitching a wound.

If the bleeding does has not stopped within twenty minutes, or if your dog is bleeding from the chest take your dog to the emergency clinic immediately.

Breaks and fractures

If your dog has had an accident and possibly broken bones, the first step is to call your regular vet. If they are unable to see your dog soon, take your dog to the emergency clinic. X-rays will determine whether or not your dog has broken bones.

Do not try to clean or straighten the wound. If you have a small dog, use pencils or pens as a splint. For larger dogs, use rolled magazines or newspapers. Place them on either side of the bone, then roll cloth or adhesive tape progressively up the splint material.

While traveling to the vet, touch your pooch's toes every few minutes to be sure circulation is normal. If they get too cold, rewrap the splint material more loosely.

Difficulty with breathing

If your dog develops breathing difficulties, don't hesitate. Take them to the closest emergency hospital immediately. Breathing problems are a sign of several health problems, many of them serious.

Vehicle accidents

When a dog is hit by a car, take him to the closest emergency clinic immediately even if he appears to have come to little harm. They may have suffered internal injuries that need to be identified and taken care of as quickly as possible. Shock can also pose a threat to your dog's health. To prevent shock, wrap your dog in a blanket.

Keep away from your dog's mouth. Dogs in pain may bite, even if they have never bitten you before.

Convulsions

Any degree of seizure is a problem. Call your veterinarian at once. If convulsions last for more than a few minutes, place a blanket over your dog, keep away from his mouth and take him to the nearest emergency service immediately.

Seizures are a sign of serious health problems including epilepsy, metabolic problems, brain tumors, and poisoning. Seizures themselves can be life threatening.

Whenever you are seriously concerned about your dog's health, don't hesitate to seek immediate veterinary advice. You know your dog well enough to know when something is seriously amiss. And you love your dog well enough not to take chances. Remember, veterinarians love animals too, and understand your concern.

Calling emergency services first will give clinic staff an opportunity to assess the situation and, if necessary, ensure that a medical team is prepared for your arrival. For further advice on emergency dog health problems, consult your veterinarian. A good veterinarian will be more than happy to help with any issue concerning your dog's health.

Best Wishes,
Colleen

Discover how you can reduce vet fees and keep your dog healthy and happy… http://dogandpuppyhealth.com/guide. Get free dog health and dog training information at http://dogandpuppyhealth.com.

Detoxification is now being marketed as a necessary concept to restore the body's inherent ability to keep healthy. Since toxins are abundant everywhere you go, there is really no arguing with the thought. You will probably readily fall in with this endeavor as you realize that you can benefit from detox yourself. Having combined modern technology with many traditional Asian medicine practices such as reflexology, crystal therapy, and herbalism, health companies are now peddling amazing products that have made detoxification more accessible to everybody. Detox patches are the simplest detoxification tool they are pushing so far.

Detox patches were really made to be placed on the soles of the feet, but it is all right to place them on other areas that have a more pressing need for detoxification. Foot detox patches consist of natural ingredients such as wood or bamboo vinegar and tourmaline, which has far infrared and negative ion emission properties. Together, these things cause the acupressure points on your feet to be stimulated leading to the removal of blockages in the circulatory and lymphatic systems. This makes toxins easier to discard.

Results are quickly achieved by using foot detox patches. You will feel an improvement overnight, but it is usually recommended that application be continued for a fortnight. Foot detox patches help you in:

• Toxin elimination

• Blood circulation improvement

• Immune system fortification

• Water retention prevention

• Metabolism increase

• Sleep pattern improvement

• Fatigue prevention

• Revitalization

• Pain management

The following are some things you have to keep in mind regarding the use of foot detox patches:

1. Detox patches may be applied on other areas that obviously need relief.

2. They are not to be placed on open wounds, mucus membranes, or around the eyes.

3. Foot detox patches may be used during the day, but nighttime use is more preferable.

4. To keep the foot detox patches in place while you are sleeping, wear socks over them.

5. Cover detox patches with adhesive tape when placed on areas that are active, sweaty, or curvy.

Toxin build-up is prevented with the regular use of detox patches. Remember, less toxins in the body means a stronger immune system and better overall health. Don't allow yourself to be susceptible to ailment; invest in detox patches.

Now you can improve your health through natural detox with detox foot pads! Visit http://my-foot-detox.com/ to learn how.

3M(TM) Polyester Tape 8901, 1 1/2 in x 72 yd [PRICE is per ROLL] Review

3M(TM) Polyester Tape 8901, 1 1/2 in x 72 yd [PRICE is per ROLL] Feature

• Width: 1 1/2 IN
• Length: 72 YD
• Model: 8901
• Sale Unit: ROLL

3M(TM) Polyester Tape 8901, 1 1/2 in x 72 yd [PRICE is per ROLL] Overview

Clean removing high temperature silicone adhesive and tough non-slivering polyester backing makes this tape a popular choice for powder coat paint masking. 2.3 mil (0.06 mm) total thickness.

3M(TM) Polyester Tape 8901, 1 1/2 in x 72 yd [PRICE is per ROLL] Specifications

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*** Product Information and Prices Stored: Feb 18, 2010 18:45:03

One of Xyron's strengths is creating devices that can apply adhesive to craft projects, storyboards, posters, and other items. The company manufactures such top-selling products as the Create-A-Sticker series and they also have a lineup of professional-grade laminators for this type of use. However, as helpful as their machines are, sometimes you just need to apply a little bit of glue to a document. If that's the case, Xyron has some very convenient hand-held products you can use. Here's what they have available....

• 
  Adhesive Runners. Xyron Adhesive Runners are available in both 2- and 4-inch widths, and there's a smaller one with a width of 3/8". These supplies are great for applying acid-free glue to just about any medium (paper, photographs, etc.). These devices apply the bonding agent in a dotty pattern so you won't experience the wrinkling and mess that comes when you use too much glue, nor will you have to deal with the odor that comes with using spray adhesives. These products are refillable and they were designed with ergonomics in mind, so they will feel just right in your hand. These items are affordable, as well: the 2-inch one retails for $12.99, the 4-inch model is priced at $16.99, and the 3/8" runner is the cheapest of them all at $9.99. Each of these comes with 30 feet of glue.
  
  


• 
  Adhesive Eraser. One of the best things about Xyron adhesives, aside from them being non-toxic, is that if you accidentally use too much glue, it won't ruin your project. You can rub the excess glue away with the Adhesive Eraser. This is a product will get rid of the excess sticky stuff so your project will look great. This product is cheap, too, and is available for around $2.00.
  
  


• 
  Mounting Tape. This is one product that will be really helpful when you need to mount photos in a scrapbook, on a greeting card, or a piece of posterboard. Each roll has 30 feet of tape that's 1/2" wide, and this tape is acid-free. It goes for $3.99 and just about everyone who works with photographs should have a roll.
  
  


• 
  Magnet Tape. Xyron has a number of devices that can make magnets, such as the Creatopia and the Creative Station series. However, if you want to simplify the magnet-making process, you can use a piece of this magnetic tape. Each roll has 25 feet of magnet backing that can be easily torn so you can create your own magnets in seconds. This product is priced at $6.99.
  
  


• 
  Sticky Spots. Another great product for scrapbookers, Sticky Spots are essentially little pieces of really sticky tape that can be used in a wide array of craft projects. Each piece measures 3/8" and there are 200 Spots per roll. These are a great alternative to messy (and smelly) glue, and they're easy to apply. A roll of Sticky Spots costs $4.99.
  
  

Although these supplies may cost a little bit more than your typical glue stick or roll of tape, keep in mind that they're made by Xyron, so you'll be using some of the best materials you can buy. These adhesives are all acid-free, non-toxic, and they'll help you achieve professional-looking results every time you use them. So if you're in need of a high-quality adhesive product, Xyron offers some great choices.

If you're interested in buying one of these Xyron Adhesive Products, you should really visit MyBinding.com. They have these great items as well as a wonderful selection of Paper Handling Equipment, and they're all available at low prices. Plus, they offer free shipping on all orders over $75.00. Check it out for yourself now!

3M 00021200453854 8951 3"x72yds Blue Polyester Tape Review

3M 00021200453854 8951 3"x72yds Blue Polyester Tape Feature

• Package Quantity: (1) 72 Yard Roll
• Masking Tape Type: Polyester Masking Tape
• Masking Tape Style: High Temperature Masking Tape
• Color: Blue
• Width (Inch): 3
• Length (Yards) (Yards): 72
• Tensile Strength (Pounds): 30
• Thickness (mil): 2.8
• Tape Number: 8951

3M 00021200453854 8951 3"x72yds Blue Polyester Tape Overview

Masking And Painters - Industrial Tape Masking Tape Type: Polyester Masking Tape Masking Tape Style: High Temperature Masking Tape Color: Blue Width: 3 Length (Yards): 72 Tensile Strength: 30

3M 00021200453854 8951 3"x72yds Blue Polyester Tape Specifications

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*** Product Information and Prices Stored: Feb 16, 2010 15:00:04

1/2" x 60 yds. (12 Pack) 3M - 465 Adhesive Transfer Tape-Hand Rolls Review

1/2" x 60 yds. (12 Pack) 3M - 465 Adhesive Transfer Tape-Hand Rolls Feature

1/2" x 60 yds. (12 Pack) 3M - 465 Adhesive Transfer Tape-Hand Rolls Overview

Double coated transfer tape is great for splicing paper, foil, corrugated and film. Apply adhesive side down so the liner can be peeled off when needed. 3" core size.

1/2" x 60 yds. (12 Pack) 3M - 465 Adhesive Transfer Tape-Hand Rolls Specifications

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*** Product Information and Prices Stored: Feb 15, 2010 01:25:03

Minn Kota Trolling Motors

Henkel 50-42912 Professional Grade Duck Tape 5 Yd Blue Review

Henkel 50-42912 Professional Grade Duck Tape 5 Yd Blue Feature

• Professional grade duct tape
• Polyethylene coated cloth tape with a high tack rubber adhesive
• High tear strength
• Repairs furniture, upholstery air conditioner covers and many other household applications
• ASTM and PSTC, 1.88" x 5 yds, Blue

Henkel 50-42912 Professional Grade Duck Tape 5 Yd Blue Overview

"ACE" PROFESSIONAL GRADE DUCK TAPEProfessional grade duct tape Polyethylene coated cloth tape with a high tack rubber adhesive High tear strength Repairs furniture, upholstery air conditioner covers and many other household applications ASTM and PSTC 1.88" x 5 yds Blue Carded.

Henkel 50-42912 Professional Grade Duck Tape 5 Yd Blue Specifications

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*** Product Information and Prices Stored: Feb 14, 2010 01:10:03

Minn Kota Trolling Motors

Have you ever heard of sign fixings? This is essentially the hardware or other items that are used to mount or stabilise signs, and this is also a term used when determining the mounting options of notice boards and such as well. Most people only think in terms of the board or the sign, without giving careful consideration to how that sign or board will be mounted, which is usually a very big mistake. Here are some things that you need to know.

- Mounting Options - This is very important in determining what type of hardware you need. There are essentially two mounting options - mounted or un-mounted. Obviously, if your sign or board will be mounted, it will be on a wall, whether that wall is interior or exterior. If it is un-mounted, however, there are various options available, such as fixed poles or posts, caster frames, or large stand-alones.

- Sign Fixings for Stabilisation - The mounting options that you choose, and the hardware used for that mounting will be greatly determined by how much stability is required, and how much stability the various options offer you. Think carefully about how much stabilisation is required, and consider where the sign or board will be mounted as well. For some mounting options, studs must be present in the wall. For other options, this won't matter at all.

- Adhesive Options - Adhesive options are very good for a number of situations. For example, if your sign or board will only be affixed temporarily, and you do not want traces of the sign or the hardware used to secure it left behind, adhesive is a great option, as long as you aren't using permanent adhesives. Two sided tape is the most common type of adhesive used in this situation. Adhesive options do not require the presence of studs.

- Screw and Bracket Sign Fixings - This is the most secure option available for affixing signs and notice boards. Screws and brackets can be used on walls with studs, or with pole mounting options as well. Of course, in the case where the mounting is being done to a wall, you should note that there will be small holes, and possibly other marks, left behind should the sign or board and the hardware be removed at some point.

- Magnetic Options - This is a popular option, because magnets can be very strong. Of course, this requires a magnetic surface, or the use of magnets and magnetic surfaces attached to a wall and the back of the sign or board that is to be placed on the wall. The best use for this option, because of this, is a surface that is already magnetised. Of course, the weight of your sign or board will also be a determining factor concerning this option as well.

While you should consider your options carefully, and know what is needed at the time that you order your sign or board, it is important to realise that you can use just about any option that you want when it comes to sign fixings, as most signs and boards are available for all fixation options.

Visit TSNN.co.uk to place a quick quote for Sign Fixings for conference, meeting and other events from display boards suppliers. TSNN.co.uk is the largest UK conference and event website and by submitting a quick quote, your requirements will be sent to multiple suppliers so that you can find various items including exhibition stands and display boards.

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