Australian Handyman 201311

AUSTRALIAN
DIY MADE EASY
BUILD THIS RELAXING
DAY BED
SORT THE
GARAGE
MAKE THROW-AND-GO
SHELVES TO FREE UP
THE FLOOR
PLUS CONCRETE ESKY

AND BARBECUE BENCH
DIY OR
BSAUVEYBI?G
FUN AND FAST

SILK SCREEN
TECHNIQUES
BUC KS
19
OUTDOOR
SOLUTIONS
n Deck the courtyard in a day

n Install a pond in a box
n Rescue weathered furniture
SPACE MAXIMISER
A picture frame turns into
a dining table, page 50
DO IT NOW GARDENING
NOVEMBER 2013
GROW FRANGIPANIS PLANT BEANS ZAP APHIDS
contents novemBeR
a room
62 Divide
for extra storage
a concrete
30 Build
barbecue bench
Build
page
16
16 desiGneR day Bed

page
84
Enjoy the ultimate in backyard

relaxation with this outdoor sofa
22 sUmmeR pRints
Create decorative cushions using
screen printing techniques
page
9
page
22
page
74
page
50
page
100
page
38
cover photography Chris L Jones

styling gema beneitez
This month
9
Handy stUFF
DIY ways to save money
14 BUyeRs GUide
Multipurpose painting tools
page
116
29 modeRn livinG
Use concrete to add an industrial
look to your entertaining area
ConCrete bbq benCh for
outdoor cooking with style
ConCrete CooLer keeps drinks
chilled and mobile
38 Revive GaRden FURnitURe

Extend the life of timber, wicker
and metal tables and chairs
44 Relax oUtside
Spend more time outdoors with
a designer setting for any budget
Decorate
49 space saveRs
Make the most of small spaces
with three clever ideas
drop-down piCture tabLe
combines art with function
two-drawer Coffee tabLe
features smart built-in storage
armrest tray stores drinks and
snacks with no need for a table
62 veRsatile wall
Put up a partition to mount
a TV screen and extra shelves
garden
132 Stop
pests
91
PRUNERS aNd
CULTIVaTORS
up
122 Brighten
the garden
Renovate
66 bye bye bungalow
A 1930s home is reborn with an
extra storey and modern ideas
74 from poky to pristine

How to transform a cramped
courtyard with decking
Outdoor
100 ponD in a box
Build an above-ground Gshpond
with a decorative trellis
106 lay timber eDging

Create a garden border using
treated pine sleepers
Keep plants trimmed and

improve garden soil
Garden
116 tHis montH
Get the garden ready for the
hot summer months
118 fragrant frangipani

Bring the tropics to your garden
with this attractive fowering tree
122 classic clivias
Workshop
80 towering genius
Keep your garage neat and tidy
with a clever tub storage system
84 tHrow-anD-go
storage bins
Organise your sporting gear

and keep clutter at bay
Add a touch of spring colour

to a shady corner of the yard
126 full of beans

Sow seeds now for a summer
crop of these versatile vegies
132 eraDicate apHiDs

Stop these tiny terrors in their
tracks to protect spring growth
134 planting a ponD

Choose the right aquatic plants
for a healthy water garden
tropical
118 Grow
colour
r u
rt
ux ru sty - St Systs:
eciently t r cool t r
uts inverter technology
v st trtur tr tt continully
monitors t surru vrt
v t ollo Me eture w
utomticlly rs t tprtur r
wrvr t rt tr s t
respons ccoringly
v 4 unique ltr
tur ttrctive, slim esign
us ireless rt tr
r ully complint t t tst u

ry Prr Strs (PS)
nquire toy t the Bunnings Specil Orers esk or

simply visit .uxir.com.u urther inormtion
THIS ISSUE
On page 91, our feature on pruners,

tillers and mulchers illustrates what
the different machines are capable
of, whether powered by battery,
electricity or petrol, plus what you
can expect to pay.
SMALL SPACES
When your home is small, arranging
furniture can be a challenge, so we
have come up with three space-saving
tables. My favourite is the picture
frame that converts into a table. Yes,
you read that correctly! Its on page 50.
SUPER STYLIN
hen youre walking down

the tool aisle in a hardware
store, do you Tnd the sheer
number of products overwhelming?
Handyman is here to help. Every
month we assemble buying guides
to help you select what you need.
This time were focusing on
painting tools. Some of them cost
only a couple of bucks but can do up
to seven tasks, helping you save time
and achieve a professional Tnish.
Check them out on page 14.
Every issue our tool section helps
you pick the right equipment with
a guide divided into usage criteria.
After we explain the features of
these tools and how to use them,
we list a selection to choose from.
Its time for relaxing outdoors and

we have a bunch of great ideas you can
DIY to give your yard a facelift.
Handyman contributor Gema
Beneitez silk-screened her own designs
for the day bed cushions on the cover,
creating instant eye candy. We show
you step by step how to decorate fabric,
timber and even a wall hanging.
Tina Hutton got creative with
concrete and the results are fantastic,
including a barbecue bench and
a portable drinks chiller.
We hope you enjoy all the outdoor
projects and inspiration in this issue.
Water feature
An ornamental pond flled with
fsh brings a sense of tranquillity
to an outdoor space, but the
sheer amount of work involved
in digging the hole would put
most of us off having one.
Not any more. Weve come
up with an easy way of installing
a small pond and water feature
by putting it in an elevated box,
from page 100.
Its a neat and ingenious
solution that takes only about
two days to complete and will
turn your yard into the kind of
peaceful haven youll want to
linger in for longer this summer.
managing Editor
LEE DASHIELL
More inspiration
ed
fy day b
n d co m
a
.
h
s
e
c
li
sty
oor sp a
Build a
an outd
e
d
a
r
g
to up
Looking for inspiration for your

outdoor area? Pinterest lets you
create and organise boards
of your favourite pictures.
Its a great way to fnd
and share ideas for your next
project. Check out Handyman at
pinterest.com/diyhandyman or
scan this code with your phone.
Handyman.net.au novemBeR 2013
Editorial
Editor-in-ChiEf sue carney

MAnAGinG Editor Lee DashieLL
dEputy Editor arTeMis GOurOs
Art dirECtor KaTe TiMMs
ChiEf subEditor aLisOn WriGhT
tEChniCAL Editor FranK GarDner
tEChniCAL subEditor Gun arViDssen
sEnior writEr DanieL BuTKOVich
GrAphiC dEsiGnEr Dania WarMerDaM
EditoriAL CoordinAtor ashLeiGh perriOTT
diAGrAMs sTephen pOLLiTT
adVErtiSiNG
Group AdVErtisinG dirECtor sherOn WhiTe t: 61 2 9018 6280

AdVErtisinG sALEs MAnAGEr KrisTina FrOhLich t: 61 3 8844 5542
sEnior ACCount MAnAGEr scOTT hunT t: 61 2 9018 6281
ACCount MAnAGEr QLd & dirECtory crisTian arraTia t: 61 2 9018 6253
nEw ZEALAnd hAwKhurst MEdiA sErViCEs Kerry McKenZie
t: 64 9 589 1054 E: kerry@eawkeursa.cZ.bz
MarkEtiNG
CirCuLAtion MAnAGEr MaTTheW KinD

wEbsitE MAnAGEr BrOnWyn pOVOLny
ProdUCtioN
produCtion MAnAGEr BaLaji parThsaraThy t: 61 2 9018 6115

produCtion CoordinAtor carLOs Ocana t: 61 2 9018 6116
PUbliShiNG
dirECtors WaLTer BeyLeVeLDT, Lance chrisTie

pubLishEr, MAnAGinG dirECtor WaLTer BeyLeVeLDT
opErAtions dirECtor AsiA pACifiC aDina GherMan
rEadErS diGESt aSSoC. iNC.
prEsidEnt & CEo rOBerT e GuTh

ViCE prEsidEnt & Coo intErnAtionAL Brian KenneDy
Editor-in-ChiEf intErnAtionAL MAGAZinEs raiMO MOysa
Editor-in-ChiEf thE fAMiLy hAndyMAn Ken cOLLier
aUStraliaN HANDYMAN MaGaZiNE

Gpo box 4353, sydnEy nsw 2001
E: eabdymab@rd.cZm
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SUbSCriPtioNS aNd ENqUiriES

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UCH
ONE TO AND
W
SPRAY
AL
N
O
I
S
ES
PROF
LA
GRA
RMU
O
F
E
D
Available at
scottsaustralia.com.au
Handystuff
switch to these DiY options to slash hundreds
of dollars from common household expenses
worDs asHleigH perriott
$1590
Dream steam
So much dirt on your windows it
looks like night time? Take down
window grime with the Karcher
3.6V Window Vacuum Kit, $88.
It takes care of the whole job
without any mess or elbow grease
for a professional clear fnish.
Cleaning your windows yourself
once a month instead of hiring a pro
tallies up to $1590 saved each year.
karcher.com.au
Home foam
$690
pictures [top] ALAmy [right] PIcture meDIA
Bugs beware
LaL down an insect-proof barricade

around Lour home without using
harsh chemicals with Scotts HomH
DHfHnsH surfacH spraL, $40 for 5L.
It dHtHIs pHsts fIom HntHIing
thH housH and stIikHs down anL
that tIL to gHt in. SpIaL HvHIL ninH
months instHad of calling thH
HxtHIminatoI and savH $690 a LHaI.
scottsaustIalia.com.au
Uncover the original colour of

your carpet in two simple steps
with Long Life Carpet Foam,
$7 for 500g. Just spray it over
your carpet then simply vacuum
after the foam has lifted the dirt.
Doing this yourself every six
months keeps professional carpet
cleaning costs down,
putting an extra $280 back
in your pocket every year.
bunnings.com.au
$280
FFnd new and cHeatFve ways to keep
the house clean and save money.
Handyman.net.au NOVEMBER 2013
New KaleidO
Self Styled
Outdoor Umbrellas
tm
One Umbrella, many POssibilities

Why are all outdoor umbrellas the same when
they could be individual, brilliant and spectacular.
Introducing the new Kaleido umbrella range
where you can select your heavy duty frame in
wood or metal and a UV resistant canopy. Its
one umbrella with many possibilities, so you can
express yourself while you protect yourself.
TM
Thats what we call insPired OUtdOOr living!
Handy stuff
$1615
Mix on the move

Save time and money by making your
own smoothies at home with the
Kambrook Blitz2Go, $50. Its 300W
motor blends the smoothie right in the
bottle quicker than it takes to queue
up at the juice bar in rush hour.
Blend a brekkie smoothie at home
instead of picking one up on the way
to work and youll save $1615 a year.
kambrook.com.au
$125
Heaven is not having to choose

between good coffee and new shoes.
picture (top) ThINkSTOck
$718
Filter fresh
If your tap water tastes like it came

from the pool, try the Brita Navelia
2.3L Filter Water Jug, $20.
The Navelia uses Maxtra flters
to taTe out the nasties and is
designed to ft in a fridge door.
Foregoing plastic bottles in
favour of fltered water not only helps
the environment, it will also save you
$718 a year, based on 600ml a day.
brita.com.au
Brain juice
Struggle to function without your

morning coffee? Then get your
caffeine hit before you head out
the door with the Breville Oracle
Espresso Machine, $2500.
An inbuilt grinder, self-tamper
and auto steaming wand will deliver
cafe-quality coffee to your Titchen
each morning, saving you $125
a year over the two-year warranty.
breville.com.au
11
HAndy stuff
$95
Cut the fuzz

Are you one of those blokes who
hates going to the barber? Take
control of your cut with the VS For
Men i-PRO Intensive Clipper, $130.
Create your own hairstyle or use
it to sculpt your facial hair during
Movember (au.movember.com).
Based on a six-weekly professional
haircut costing about
$25, youll save $95
in the frst year alone.
vsformen.com.au
$397
find your signature style and support

mens health this Movember by
cultivating a glorious tache.
Less dough
12
NOVEMBER 2013 Australian Handyman
Happy hour
$2447
Save money and enjoy tap beer at

home with the Tap King Dispenser,
$33. Choose from six popular beers,
starting at $33 for a 3.2L twin pack.
If you drink two scIooners at
Iome on week nigIts instead of at
tIe pub, your wallet will be $2447
Ieavier eacI year. CIeers.
tapking.com
picture (top) ThInKSToCK
Cook your own pizza at home in less

time than it takes to deliver one with
the Amalf Family Pre-Built Pizza
Oven, $1699. Fully assembled and
rendered on delivery, it comes with
a powdercoated door and alloy paddle.
Making two pizzas each week from
your own ingredients will save you
$397 on pizza deliveries each year over
the ovens fve-year warranty period.
woodfredovens.com.au
INTRODUCING THE NEW RYOBI

36V GARDEN RANGE.
Powered by the
36V Lithium Battery
ROL
TR
NO PET
ryobi.com.au/36V
ORDS
NO COR
NO
SLE
ASSLE
NO HA
buyers guide
Before repainting a room,
get rid of faking paint, patch
up the plaster and Pll holes
with putty using the Uni-Pro
3 in 1 Patcher, about $10.
Crafted from stainless steel
this tough, double ended
all-rounder is a scraper,
patcher and trowel. So
whatever the paint prep job,
this tool has it covered.
Beat the clock with the

Painters Assistant Multi
Purpose Tool, about $2. It
makes painting fast and easy
with its eight applications,
which include a pot handle,
brush holder, paint tin
opener, ladder can holder,
belt clip and putty knife. It
also scrapes off excess paint
from rollers and brushes.
picture stuart scott
Never let a fnger cramp get

in the way of an even paint
job again. Uni-Pro Trigger
Grip, about $4, upgrades
a spray can into a spray gun
for greater control. The
lightweight, moulded plastic
handle also gives you better
grip, so that when youve
Pnished, you wont be left
splattered with paint.
14
NOVEMbEr 2013 Australian Handyman
Scrape, seal, fll and prep walls and windowsills

for painting with these multipurpose tools
Tackle crumbling grout

or old sealant with the
Painters Partner 4 Piece
Silicone Tool Kit, $2.
Theres a tool for every
step, including a scraper
to remove damaged or
mildewed sealants in joints
or tiles, and silicone edges
to trim excess sealant for
a smooth, even Unish.
Forget fumbling in your

toolbox and fx up the
bathroom in record time with
the Uni-Pro Multitool Genius
7 in 1, $8. Rip out nails,
scrape bubbled paint and
remove aged grout or
sealant with this ergonomic
tool, then patch up holes,
re-grout tiles or clean paint
off your roller with it as well.
Dripped so much paint on the

Toor it resembles a Jackson
Pollock? Next time, use the
Magnetic Paintbrush Holder,
about $4. It clips to the edge
of the paint tin and holds the
brush when youre not using
it, directing drips back into
the can. Also use it to open
paint tins or clamp drop
sheets in place.
Handyman.net.au NOVEMbEr 2013
15
outdoor
living
designer
Build a luxury sofa to invest in some
serious relaxation this summer
Project Ed FrEndo Main Picture cHris l jonEs stylist gEmA bEnEitEz
diY> $330
HAvE it donE For $1130
sKill> 1 2 3 4 5
timE> 2 dAYs
arden dining settings and

deck chairs have their place,
but nothing tempts you
outside like the prospect of a peaceful
afternoon curled up on a supremely
comfy, well-built day bed.
This simple project might be the
most luxurious outdoor furniture you
will ever own. It is built from primed
H3 LOSP (light organic solvent
preservative) Tnger-jointed pine, and
is designed to Tt a single mattress.
The timber is weatherproof but the
mattress needs to be stored undercover.
If youd prefer to leave it exposed to the
elements, alter the dimensions to Tt an
outdoor mattress of your choice.
tiP If you prefer a natural timber Tnish
you can use hardwood instead of
treated pine, but it will cost a lot more.
16
mAKE it simPlE
Joining legs to rails is a complex task,
but weve made it simple by building
each leg from an outer and inner piece.
The inner leg is shorter by 90mm,
equal to the width of the rail. This
allows the base rail to sit on the inner
leg and Tnish Sush with the outer leg.
Cut the components with a sliding
compound mitresaw, cutting 45
opposing mitres on the baseplates, base
rails and top rails, and mitring the
upper end of the uprights.
For a professional Tnish, Tll the
screw holes with two-part Tller and
sand with 120 grit abrasive paper
before painting. We used matt black
acrylic for an oriental look.
selleys tradies boP, aboKt $17 for 550P.

selleys.com.aK
Fasteners
Use 65mm x 10g treated pine
screws for the base frame, legs
and centre rail. Attach the slat
supports to the baseplates
with 32mm x 8g screws.
Secure the slats with
40 x 2mm nails, and use
number 20 biscuits in the
mitred baseplate joints to
keep them all fush.
build
To get the look, turn to page 22 to decorate the
cushions and side table, adding outdoor lanterns
and candles from Bunnings for ambience.
17
build the
day bed
back base rail
centre base
rail
side base rail
front base rail
base rail
offset
screws
centre base
rail
outer
leg
inner
leg
5mm
hole
baseplate
Make the base frame
Drill 5mm clearance holes through

each inner leg then secure to the outer
leg using adhesive and screws. Assemble
the mitred base frame by drilling
clearance holes through all pieces,
offsetting the screw positions so the
mitred joints are pulled tightly closed.
Attach the legs
Clamp the centre rail in position

then secure using adhesive and two
screws at each end. Use adhesive
and screws to attach the legs to the
base rails 400mm in from the ends.
TIP Slightly recess the screw heads
so they can be flled over.
Secure the baseplates
Assemble the mitred joints of the

baseplate frame using biscuits or
dowels and leave to dry. Position the
baseplate frame with even overhangs
on the base and leg assembly then drill
5mm clearance holes through the
baseplates and secure with screws.
router
baseplate
slat
feed
direction
slat
support
slat
slat
slat
roundover bit
impact
driver
baseplate
adhesive
Prepare the slat ends
Set up a trim router with a 5mm

roundover bit and adjust the depth
to match the existing radius at the
edges of the timber. Rout the slat
ends, working in the correct direction
of feed by moving the router from left
to right. Seal the raw ends with primer.
18
Add the slat supports
Drill 4mm clearance holes through

the slat supports at 200mm centres.
Secure two of them to the baseplate
frame with adhesive and screws, fush
with the underside. Centre the third
slat support along the centre base rail,
securing with adhesive and screws.
Attach the slats
Arrange the slats roughly over

the slat supports then use offcuts of
66 x 30mm timber to space the slats
evenly. Start from the centre slat and
work towards the sides, securing
with adhesive and two nails skewed
through each end of the slat.
Keeping the baseplates fush

To keep the mitre-joined baseplates
fush and neat, we used exterior PVA
adhesive and number 20 biscuits.
Biscuits are oval-shaped
fasteners made from pressed
beech, and they are available
in three different sizes.
A bisIRit Poiner is a power

tool that resembles a small anTle
Trinder with an inteTrated fenIe that
ensRres the slots for the bisIRits are
loIated and IRt preIisely.
TIP Dowels IoRld also be Rsed
to seIRre these Points.
ADhesIVe
BIscuIT
joIneR
BIscuITs
mITReD
enD
sloTs
CUT TWO BISCUIT SLOTS in each

mitred end of the baseplates. Take
extra care not to make the slots too
close to the lonT point of the mitre
so that the blade doesnt breach the
outer face of the baseplates.
APPLY AdheSIve in the biscuit

slots and over the entire surface
of both mitres. Insert the bisIuits
into the slots and press the two
mitred ends toTether. ReinforIe
eaIh Point with two sIrews.
cenTRe uPRIghT
BAck cenTRe
RAIl
sIDe
RAIl
BAck
RAIl
BAsePlATe
TRImmeR
BAse RAIl
Make the back and sides
Build the side frames by securing

the uprights to the rails with adhesive
and screws. Assemble the back frame
by attaching the trimmers and centre
upright to the back centre rail then
secure the uprights, and back, top and
lower rails with adhesive and screws.
Secure the frames
Measure and mark the position of

the back frame on the baseplate frame
so the lower rail is centred over the
base rail. Attach one side frame then
the back frame and the opposite side,
using screws to secure the frames to
the baseplate and one another.
build
designer dAy bed
BaCk
TOp raIl
measurements in mm
SIde
TOp raIl
1900
CenTre UprIghT
TrImmerS
SIde lOwer raIlS
BaCk lOwer raIlS
400
762
SlaTS
42
716
42
UprIghT
BaCk
BaSeplaTe
BISCUITS
SlaT SUppOrT
2080
1040
SlaT
SUppOrT
SIde
BaSeplaTe
FrOnT
BaSeplaTe
BaCk
BaSe raIl
1942
CenTre raIl
SIde
BaSe raIl
FrOnT BaSe
raIl
902
Cutting list
20
PArt
siZe
H3 lOsP Pine
Front and back base rails
Side base rails
Centre rail
Outer legs
Inner legs
BaseSlate front anI bacO
BaseSlate siIes
USrights
Centre uSright
Trimmers
SiIe toS rails
BacO toS rail
SiIe lower rails
BacO lower rails
Slats
Slat suSSorts
1942 x 90 x 42
902 x 90 x 42
1858 x 90 x 42
200 x 90 x 42
110 x 90 x 42
2080 x 138 x 42
1040 x 138 x 42
400 x 42 x 42
156 x 42 x 42
118 x 42 x 42
800 x 42 x 42
1900 x 42 x 42
716 x 42 x 42
1816 x 42 x 42
762 x 66 x 30
1800 x 18 x 18
NOVEMBER 2013 Australian HaHdymaH
nO.
2
2
1
4
4
2
2
6
1
2
2
1
4
2
13
3
Inner
leg
OUTer
leg
Handyman.net.au
dowHload thC tools, matCrials aHd
costs to build a dCsiAHCr day bCd.
The pet lovers way

to compost pet poo
The
Pet Poo Composter the stylish
way to turn your pet droppings into great

organic fertiliser.
The easy way you can make a

difference, with amazing results
Turn your pets poo and kitchen scraps
into rich organic fertiliser
Reduce your dogs carbon paw print
and help your environment
TEXTILE
WORKSHOP
SUMMER pRintS
Create decoratCve cushCons, furnCture and wall art
usCng sCmple screen prCntCng technCques
WoRdS dAnIEL buTKOvIcH pRojECt gEmA bEnEITEz Main piCtURE cHRIS L jOnES
creen printing is an affordable

way to personalise cushions and
furniture, or create an original
wall canvas. The process involves using
specialised ink, stencils and a mesh
screen to apply a design to a surface.
Buy a screen printing kit from an art
shop, or make one using silk mesh and
a timber frame. For a budget option,
buy a blank 300 x 400mm canvas,
about $10, and remove the fabric.
Cut silk mesh to size 50mm larger
than the frame. Pull the mesh taut over
the sides, then attach it at each corner
and at 10mm intervals with staples.
Make your own stencils using
contact paper or masking flm.
TIP Apply acrylic varnish along the
joint to seal the edge and use duct tape
to make a neat border.
PerLaset ScreeK PriKtiKg Kit, $139.

perLaset.coL.au
22
novemBeR 2013 Australian Handyman
Decorating a storage cube

Screen printing is normally used
to apply stencil designs to fabric,
but the technique can be used to
decorate other surfaces.
Flat-packed storage cubes
can be purchased for about $20.
Use a wicker basket as a drawer
to create a versatile side table.
TIP Screen print the panels before
assembling the cube.
n PREPARE THE SuRfAcE by
applying primer to the melamine

panels prior to screen printing.
n PRInT THE dESIgn on the panel
by attaching the stencil to the
screen printing frame and applying
water-based paint with a squeegee.
n ASSEmbLE THE cubE by following
the instructions, then seal the
surface with clear varnish.
BUILD
Summer-themed printed cushions
work well in an outdoor living space.
Handyman.net.au novemBeR 2013
23
stencil
the
cushions
frame
craft knife
frame
stencil
stencil
cushion cover
masking film
Create the stencil
Trace the design for your stencil

onto the back of a sheet of acetate
masking flm using a pencil, then cut
out using a craft knife. Keep in mind
that the ink will be applied to all areas
except the masking flm stencil.
Prepare the frame
Trim the masking flm to the exact

dimensions of the frame, then secure
the stencil to the screen on the outside
of the frame, positioning it so that the
design is centred and there are no gaps
between the stencil and the edges.
Position the screen
Lay the cushion cover fat on

a table with the side that is to be
decorated facing upwards. Position
the screen on the cushion with the
outside of the frame facing down,
ensuring the design is centred.
frame
spatula
frame
stencil
pigment ink
squeegee
cushion
cover
printed area
Add the ink
Place several spoonfuls of pigment

ink inside the screen, just outside the
stencil area, leaving enough space for
the squeegee between the ink and the
frame. Smooth the ink into a thick line
across the screen using a spatula.
24
Apply the design
Grip the frame tightly with

one hand and use the squeegee to
frmly push the ink from one side
of the screen to the other, keeping
the squeegee at a 30 angle and
maintaining constant pressure.
Remove the frame
Hold the cushion cover down with

one hand and carefully lift up one
edge of the frame, then the other.
Allow the ink to dry on the cushion
where it is. Remove the stencil and
wash the mesh using cold water.
Making pattern stencils

To make a stencil, draw your own design or trace
a pattern using tracing paper and transfer onto masking
flm. If usiIg a priItout or a photocopied patterI, Io
traciIg is required. Youll Ieed a craft kIife or scalpel
aId a cuttiIg mat, about $25, from aI art shop.
CuTTIng MaT
paTTErn
MaSkIng FIlM
CraFT knIFE
1 cut the design by positioIiIg the patterI oI

l
a cuttiIg mat, theI put the maskiIg flm oI top, securiIg

both with maskiIg tape. Carefully cut out the areas of
the patterI to be priIted usiIg a craft kIife.
baCkIng
STEnCIl
2 attach the stencil to the screeI priItiIg frame

l
by carefully peeliIg away the backiIg aId applyiIg the
steIcil to the screeI oI the outside of the frame, liIiIg
up the edge of the patterI with the edge of the frame.
Ink
STEnCIl
WWW.GARDENA.COM/AU
SQuEEgEE
3 paint the stencil oIto the cushioI cover by layiIg

l
a liIe of iIk aloIg oIe edge of the frame aId pushiIg
it to the other side usiIg a squeegee. For iItricate
patterIs, practise oI a scrap piece of fabric frst.
GARDENING JUST
GOT SMARTER!
GARDENA Water Controls.
Organised and managed
automatic watering.
BUILD
Transform an outdoor room with

a canvas artwork created using
screen printing techniques.
If you already have a screen
printing kit, you simply need to
buy a blank canvas to create original
wall art on a DIY budget.
To make the stencil for a large
canvas or wall hanging, use self
adhesive paper, such as Contact.
When using this method to paint
a canvas, limit yourself to four or Ive
colours, and consider using an online
palette generator like colourlovers.com
to take the guesswork out of choosing
which colours work best together.
Use acrylic paint for both the
background and the stencil, but dilute
the background colours with water for
a soft effect that wont compete with
your design. Apply the darkest colour
for the stencil pattern.
TIP Allow the background paint to dry
before screen printing.
For large canvases like this, use

adhesive paper to make the stencil.
bruSh
CrAft kNife
frAme
ACryliC
CANVAS
Squeegee
Self AdheSiVe
pAper
Paint the canvas
Use a wide brush to paint vertical

and horizontal lines on the canvas at
staggered intervals, allowing the paint
to dry between layers. Keep in mind
that the top layers will be the more
dominant colours on the canvas.
26
Make the stencil
Sketch the design of the stencil

on a sheet of self adhesive paper using
a pencil, then cut out with a craft knife.
Peel the backing from the paper and
apply the stencil to the outside of the
screen printing frame.
Apply the design
Lay the canvas fat on the table,

then position the frame over the
canvas with the outside face down.
Apply a thick line of acrylic at one end
of the frame, then spread the paint
across the screen using a squeegee.
How to reduce your

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Are you struggling with the rising costs of electricity? One of the simple ways to reduce energy
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LED light globes are an ideal solution providing:
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Instant light output when switched on LED globes offer a great look and feel light effect
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Energy Saving Comparison Example

Eco-halogen
42
Watts
Lifetime of LED globe up to
15,000
Hours
LED wattage replacement*
10
Watts
This will use
76%
Less energy
You will save approximately**
$144.57
per lamp
Guide only.Actual light output may not be equivalent
**
www.philips.com.au/led
Based on an energy tariff of $0.28215/kW hour (including GST)

on energy savings for lifetime of lamp (www.energyaustralia.com).
Calculations include cost of all globes
build
industriaL
materiaL
modern
living
Use concrete to give your outdoor
entertaining area an industrial look
projects tina Hutton main pictUre CHris L Jones
Handyman.ne9.au NOVEMBER 2013
29
Cooking
AlfresCo
concrete
bbq bench
this durable construction material is
ideal for building an outdoor trolley
DiY> $425
HAve it Done for $825
skill> 1 2 3 4 5
time> 1 DAY
oncrete is becoming more and

more popular as a domestic
fnish, with wet-look foors,
benchtops and other surfaces adding
a sleek look to modern interiors.
The cool, industrial grey of this
reinforced concrete bench is warmed
by the treated pine frame. The storage
shelf is made from cypress decking,
and it has castors for manoeuvrability.
instAll tHe benCHtop

To make the benchtop, you need eight
20kg bags of concrete. Pour concrete
into the formwork and let it cure, then
remove the screws and tap the side
boards away with a rubber mallet.
Gently tap the side to break the
bond with the plywood. Get at least
two people to help you turn it over
lengthways, using plywood to support
the top along its length or it will crack.
Lift the slab into position, apply
construction adhesive generously to
the frame and slide on the benchtop.
Ensure the overhangs are even, then
let the adhesive cure for 24 hours.
Smoothing the surface

Using flm-faced plywood for the
formwork will result in a very fat
and smooth benchtop. To iron out any
imperfections, apply a skim coat of
cement slurry and smooth the
surface with a steel foat.
When the benchtop has fully
cured, apply masonry sealer to make
it resistant to water and staining.
30
CrommeliH natural fiHish sealer,

$25 for 1l. crommeliH.com.au
build
A timber bench with a concrete top
offers a smooth surface for food
preparation with built-in storage.
31
build the
bench
film-faced
plywood
pine
formwork
timber
offcut
reinforcing
mesh
screw
wet concrete mix
silicone
sealant
formwork
Assemble the formwork
To build the formwork for the

benchtop, use 40mm x 8g screws to
attach lengths of 140 x 19mm DAR
pine to a 2400 x 600 x 17mm sheet
of flm-faced plywood. Position the
ends between the sides and secure
the butt joints with screws.
Add the mesh
Use bolt cutters or an angle grinder

to cut reinforcing mesh to ft in the
formwork, raising it on bar chairs
so it is embedded with an equal
thickness of concrete on both sides.
Use a caulking gun to apply silicone
sealant in the corners of the formwork.
Pour the concrete
Empty the concrete into

a wheelbarrow and add enough water
to make a wet mix that has the same
consistency as mud. Pour the concrete
into the formwork to 50mm deep and
level with a timber offcut, then smooth
the surface carefully using a steel Poat.
rail
leg
castor
cuphead
bolts
screw
leg
trimmer
trimmer
Build the three leg frames
Clamp the trimmers against

the ends of each set of legs Push with
the outside, securing with adhesive
and 125mm x 14g bugle screws.
TIP Dont centre the trimmers on the
centre leg frame as it will force the rail
bolts too close to the edge of the legs.
32
Secure the rails
Clamp the rails to the leg

frames and drill clearance holes for
150mm x M8 galvanised cuphead
bolts, securing with a socket wrench.
Position the shelf slats on the base
rails, spacing them with 2.5mm gaps,
and secure with 40mm x 8g screws.
Complete the bench
Turn the bench upside down

and on the end of each leg, drill pilot
holes and secure the castors with the
supplied screws. Turn the frame the
right way up, remove the formwork
from the benchtop and secure it
using construction adhesive.
600
CONCRETE BBQ BENCH

measurements in mm
50
2400
TRimmeR
concReTe
Top
Leg
Top RaiL
baSe RaiL
CuTTiNG lisT
PART
siZE
TREATED PiNE
Legs
Trimmers
Rails
CYPREss DECKiNG
Shelf slats
90
NO.
830 x 90 x 90
320 x 90 x 35
2300 x 90 x 35
6
6
4
570 x 70 x 19
28
830
2300
SLaTS
90
Handyman.net.au
320
35
90
Go onGHne to downGoad the tooGs, materHaGs

and costs for makHng thHs barbecue bench.
570
35
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entertAin
outdoors
concrete cooler
For a rock-solid drinks rider thats huge on thermal
mass, you cant beat this icebox on wheels
diY> $165
stAY CHiLLed
HAve it done for $365
When the concrete is dry, which will

take about two days, apply an epoxy
based concrete sealant inside and out.
This will stop the ice from being
contaminated by dissolved minerals
from the concrete, in case people add
it directly to their drinks.
The concretes high thermal mass
means that once its been cooled by the
sKiLL> 1 2 3 4 5
time> 4 Hours
he phrase heavy drinking

takes on a whole new meaning
with this durable concrete
cooler box. With castors for mobility
and an industrial fnish, its a unique
way to keep your guests refreshed.
Use 16mm melamine sheet for the
formwork and a holesaw to bore a hole
for a 150 x 15mm threaded outlet pipe.
To make the void inside the cooler,
instead of building a negative form,
take a shortcut by assembling
a 670 x 345 x 300mm block of
polystyrene insulation and pouring
the concrete around and over it so the
sides and base are about 50mm thick.
Once the concrete has cured,
simply dig out the polystyrene insert.
To fnish, a plywood base is
embedded into the concrete and
castors are secured, with a garden tap
wound onto the threaded outlet pipe.
34
ice you pour into it, it will stay

cold for a long time, keeping the
interior temperature stable.
This cooler is an open design,
since a lid made out of concrete
would be too heavy to handle.
A matching lid can easily be
made from butt-joined decking
boards or plywood, and lined with
a leftover piece of the insulation.
Adding the hardware

To enhance the industrial aesthetic of the chiller, choose an outlet tap
with a polished chrome fnish and heavy-duty castors.
Kinetic 15mm Chrome PlateK

GarKen tap, about $10.
swiLel Castor, 63mm,

about $7 each, from Bunnings.
build
This cooler keeps a constant
temperature for a long time, so your
drinks will always be perfectly chilled.
35
make the
cooler
melamine
formwork
melamine
formwork
formwork
polystyrene
20mm holesaw
outlet hole
polystyrene
Build the formwork
Cut three pieces of 16mm thick

melamine to 800mm wide x 445mm
high, and two to 445 x 429mm to build
the formwork box using 30mm x 8g
particleboard screws. Use a drill with
a 20mm holesaw to bore a hole centred
about 150mm from the top of the box.
Assemble the insert
Use a caulking gun to apply

silicone sealant into the corners of
the formwork box. Cut polystyrene
insulation into fve 670 x 345 x 60mm
pieces then use PVA adhesive to glue
the stack together, and centre it in
the formwork to create the void.
pipe
Install the outlet pipe
Using a utility knife, cut away

a slight recess at the edge of the insert
to house the end of a 150 x 15mm
threaded pipe. Position the pipe in the
outlet hole and seal off the end with
heavy-duty tape to prevent it being
clogged when you pour the concrete.
outlet pipe
concrete
plywood base
formwork
castor
plywood base
concrete
outlet hole
Pour the concrete
In a wheelbarrow, make up a wet

mix of concrete and shovel it carefully
into the formwork, spreading it evenly
around the insert. Tap the side of the
formwork to expel air bubbles and
keep flling until the concrete covers
the outlet pipe by about 50mm.
36
concrete
Insert the base
Use a timber foat to roughly level

the concrete then cut a piece of 18mm
thick exterior ply to 700 x 345mm and
centre it carefully inside the formwork.
Press down evenly until the plywood
is embedded in the concrete, roughly
fush with the surface.
Add the tap and castors
Let the concrete cure for 48 hours,

then disassemble the formwork and
dig out the polystyrene insert. Wind
a chrome plated garden tap onto the
threaded pipe and secure the castors
to the underside of the plywood base
using the supplied screws.

a
a

,
a
,
a a
T
RTV
T VR T
sy vrst Rust-u 2 tr vr trsrs
vryy ts y vr tw t vr s tr
ttv rs y t w wr t v
st T st-ry ru rssts r
beutiful, lolti 1ih.
Rust-u t y s vryt
d 92
RT
Regular maintenance adds years

to the lifespan of garden furniture.
38
pIcTURE thinkstock
REVIVE GARDEN
FURNITURE
BUILD
QUICK
FIXES
Restore your outdoor furniture in an

afternoon with these easy techniques
utdoor chairs and tables are

often the hardest working
pieces of furniture you can
own, despite the fact that they usually
only see use in the warmer months.
Garden furniture is constantly
at the mercy of the weather and
takes a beating from rain, wind
and sun all year round. Without
proper care your tables and chairs

can begin to look shabby and
neglected and will quickly deteriorate
or even become dangerous.
To avoid your outdoor setting
being exiled at the next council clean
up, set aside an afternoon to restore
and protect your furniture so it will
last for many years to come.
Protecting wicker tables and chairs

Keeping wicker furniture outside
leaKes it exposed to full sun and
water which degrades the weaKe.
ProtectiKe coatings and natural
oils become dried out, reducing the
wickers resistance to the elements.
Adding a protectiKe coat of timber
Karnish is a simple way to extend the
life of wicker furniture. It also adds
warmth to the Ibres, giKing

a fresh appearance that takes
only a few minutes to achieKe.
TIP First wasF tFe wicker in
warm, soapy water and leaKe
in tFe sun to dry.
Bondall Clear Timber Varnish
300g, $15. bondall.com
cleAr
vArnIsh
WIcKer
BEFORE
d lost its
ll, the wicker ha
Dried out and du
idated.
ap
dil
ok
lo
e chair
lustre, making th
SPRAy THE WICKER furniture witF

at least two coats of clear timber
KarnisF. Make sure you do it in
a well-Kentilated area.
AFTER
With a few coats of varnish, the
wickers natural colour is restored.
39
SUPERIOR WEATHER
PROTECTION
WA L L S
TRIMS
J A N U A RY D AW N
DOOR
GREY MOTH
ELEGANT EVENING
WANT TO SEE THESE

COLOUR SCHEMES IN
YOUR HOME? SCAN HERE!
and all leading paint and

hardware stores. Stockists
at Taubmans.com.au
*Conditions apply. See Taubmans.com.au for terms and conditions
BUILD
Stained timber furniture

makes a fantastic addition to
a backyard, but without proper
care its colour will start to fade.
Left to the elements timber
furniture will eventually rot,
becoming unsafe to use and tricky
to repair. Restoring faded timber is
simple and it only takes a few hours
to make it look like new.
Clean and protect
your timber furniture
twice a year in spring
and autumn to keep
it strong and looking
great all year round.
cabots Jarrah Water Based GardeJ
FurJiture Oil 1l, $31. Habots.Hom.au
aFTER
a good HleaJ, a few Hoats of oil
aJd the table is as good as Jew.
BEFORE
eH ted
e had been negl
This outdoor tabl
ded.
fa
d
an
ab
dr
ed
ok
for years and lo
brush
deck
cleaner
paintbrush
picture [top] thinkstock
garden
furniture
oil
1 ScRuB iT clEan using a hard

l
bristled brush to remove any dirt
clumps, leaves, twigs and cobwebs,
then soak with a garden hose.
2 WaSH all SuRFacES using deck

l
cleaner diluted in water, focusing on
gaps and joints. Rinse thoroughly
with a hose and allow to dry.
3 pROTEcT THE TimBER by

l
applying at least two coats of garden
furniture oil evenly onto all surfaces
using a paintbrush.
41
BUILD
Coats of paint on metal furniture will
fake and peel after a few years of wear
and tear and exposure to sun and rain.
This furniture set had multiple
layers of paint, which were peeling
to reveal the many colours it had
been painted over the years.
While removing faking paint
is essential, intricate designs make
it harder to strip.
Coating the metal with
a bonding agent seals any
faking paint and rust to
create a clean surface
ready for painting.
Squirts Spray Paint 310S, $8.
whitekniShtpaints.com.au
AFTER
Proper surface preparatRon ensures
the new coat of paRnt wRPP Past PonSer.
BEFORE
S off thRs
paRnt were fakRn
MuPtRpPe PaMers of
decaMed.
d
an
bM
ab
sh
k
Poo
chaRr, makRnS Rt
wire
Brush
Bonding
agent
1 REMOvE FlAking PAinT and rust

l
from all surfaces with a wire brush,
focusing on all joints and corners,
then wipe down with a clean cloth.
42
spray
paint
2 APPly A BOnding AgEnT such as

l
3 FiniSH THE METAl with two coats

l
Penetrol to all surfaces, including the

underside of seats and tabletops, and
allow to dry in the shade.
of exterior gloss enamel. Use spray

paint on intricate designs, holding
the can 300mm from the surface.
With a hanging egg chair for relaxing and

a bar-style setting for entertaining, you can turn
any small space into an elegant hideaway.
MIMOSA DELUxE rESIN

wIcKEr HANGING EGG
cHAIr, $495
MArqUEE 3 pIEcE
STEEL SLING BAr
SETTING, $159
GET THE LOOK

Pairing steel curves with
natural textures creates
a sophisticated setting for
any modern balcony or
courtyard. The egg chair
adds visual impact without
taking up too much space.
MIMOSA pArTY
cOOLEr TUB wITH
STAND, $29
RELAX OUTSIDE
FIND IT AT
BUNNINGS
Spend more time enjoying the warmer weather with

an affordable designer setting for any outdoor area
44
BUILD
Make large family gatherings and backyard barbies much more

comfortable by combining an ample-sized timber dining table
with luxurious cushioned wicker chairs.
mimOsa sEviLLE
TEaK TimbEr
TabLE, $1499
GET THE LOOK

mimOsa pradO
vinTaGE rEsin wicKEr
cHair, $187
Wicker is a timeless and

durable material that suits
almost any patio or deck.
Darker chairs work best with
a lighter table, and colourful
serving plates help to create
a warm and inviting look
with visual appeal.
45
Bring a slice of the tropics to your backyard with

a matching resin wicker bar setting for the deck
and a sunlounge for the pool area.
GET THE LOOK

For a Bali-inspired backyard,
contrast dark furniture with
light coloured pavers and add
exotic cushions and tropical
plants for a splash of colour.
Resin wicker is extremely
durable, making it ideal for
poolside applications.
mimOsA mAndALAy
rEsin wicKEr bAr
sETTinG, $399
mimOsA mAndALAy
rEsin wicKEr
sunLOunGE, $249
46
NOVEMBER 2013 AAstralian Handyman
BUILD
Transform an ordinary patio into a comfortable

and functional outdoor room to make every
weekend feel like its a long one.
maTadOr 4
burnEr OuTdOOr
KiTcHEn, $1599
GET THE LOOK

Spending more time outdoors
can become second nature
when you have a comfortable
lounge setting for relaxing,
and a large outdoor kitchen to
make preparing, cooking and
serving meals much easier.
mimOsa frEscO
TimbEr LOunGE
sETTinG, $799
47
decorate
design
solutions
space
picture thinkstock
Maximise foorspace with three pieces

of furniture you can build in a day
Ha4dyma4.4et.au NOVEMBER 2013
49
double
duty
drop-down
picture table
construct a wall-mounted frame that folds out to
create extra entertaining space when you need it
proJect JoHn boWler Main picture sue Ferris styling gemA beneitez
diy> $105
HAve it done For $505
sKill> 1 2 3 4 5
time> 1 dAy
orks of art are usually more

decorative than functional,
but this picture doubles as
a practical piece of furniture.
The top of the frame can be
unclipped from the wall and drops
down to provide a useful work surface,
with the long stiles of the frame acting
as legs for the table.
When not needed it folds up out of
the way, saving valuable foorspace.
In its upright position, the top of
the frame is at 1750mm from the Ioor,
an optimal viewing height. When
folded down, the 1000 x 600mm
tabletop is a comfortable 750mm high.
duAl-purpose design
The tabletop is made from 16mm MDF
while 90 x 19mm maple is used for the
frame rails and stiles. After the frame is
assembled it is cut into two sections,
50
with the 250mm short stiles secured

to the underside of the tabletop.
The 750mm long stiles are hinged
to the front edge of the tabletop, and
swing down to become the table legs.
Finish the table in three coats of black
satin paint for a dramatic look.
To glaze the picture, cut a piece
of transparent acrylic and slot it into
the rebates of the short stiles.
Drill two countersunk clearance
holes 15mm in from the top corners
and secure the top edge with screws.
tip For safety, attach a desk stay to
each leg and childproof cupboard
catches at the top to hold the frame.
Using dowels
Dowels are short, grooved lengths
of timber with a circular profle.
Dowels are used to join pieces
of timber together edge to edge,
creating a stronger joint than one
secured with adhesive alone.
The grooves allow air to
escape as they are driven in.
To improve precision when
drilling holes for dowels, use
a brad-point bit and clamp
a dowelling jig to the workpiece.
Mark matching hole positions
in the second workpiece using
dowel centres for a perfect ft.
Fasteners
Use PVA adhesive and 50 x 8mm
dowels to assemble the frame.
Attach the piano hinges
and the top of the acrylic with
12mm x 6g timber screws.
Secure the bearer and the
catches to the wall studs using
Haron 8mm FKJted doweKs, $11 for

125, and doweKKing Jig, $20.
haron.com.aJ
decorate
When not in use, the table tucks

away as a decorative wall hanging.
Fold down the picture frame for

a versatile table when guests arrive.
51
make the
picture
table
stile
rail
rail
Drill bit
Dowel
holes
Dowelling jig
circular saw
stile
sash
clamp
long stile
mDF
Cut the tabletop
Clamp the sheet of MDF to a pair

of sawhorses then use a circular saw
and straightedge guide to cut the
tabletop. Clamp the piano hinge in
a vice and use a hacksaw to cut it into
two 600mm lengths then clean up
the cut edges with a fle.
Prepare the frame
Use a mitresaw to cut the framing

pieces to length. Square a line across
the ends and face of the rails 20mm
in from each edge then drill holes for
8mm dowels to 28mm deep using
a dowelling jig for accuracy. Mark and
drill corresponding holes in the stiles.
Assemble the frame
Sand the framing pieces with 180

grit abrasive paper, apply adhesive in
the holes and on the end grain of the
rails then insert the dowels. Assemble
the frame and apply pressure to the
joints with sash clamps. Remove excess
adhesive and check the frame is square.
spirit level
leg Frame
piano hinge
screw
tabletop
piano hinge
tabletop
bearer
Attach the legs
Rout a 3 x 3mm rebate around the

inside of the frame using a straight
cutting bit, square up the corners with
a chisel then cut the frame into 750mm
and 250mm parts. Align the leg frame
Mush with the tabletop, drill 1.5mm
pilot holes and attach the hinge.
52
Mount the bearer
Attach the remaining frame

section to the underside of the
tabletop using adhesive. On the wall,
mark a level line 750mm from the
Moor, then use a stud fnder to mark
the stud locations. Drill pilot holes
and secure the bearer with screws.
Secure the tabletop
Attach the second piano hinge to

the edge of the tabletop and the inside
face of the bearer. Secure desk stays to
the legs, fold the table into its upright
position then mark the location for
hook catches to hold it against the
wall, securing them to the studs.
drop-down picture table

measurements in mm
20
GLazed
Pane
cutting list
part
MdF
Tabletop
Maple
Long stiles
Short stiles
Rails
Bearer
Piano hinge
acrYlic
GlaLGd panG
siZe
no.
1000 x 600 x 16
750 x 90 x 19
250 x 90 x 19
420 x 90 x 19
600 x 16 x 16
1200 x 20
2
2
2
1
1
hinGe
16
BeaReR
1000
TaBLeToP
250
16
RaiL
ShoRT
STiLe
hinGe
deSk STay
750
825 x 425 x 3
LonG
STiLeS
Handyman.net.au
go online to downloFd the tools, costs Fnd
mFteriFls for mFking this picture tFble.
For perfect preparation, Rocket sanding blocks have the fexibility

to get into the hollows without rubbing down the high points of
intricate timberwork. So for a frst class fnish on cornices, mouldings
and skirtings, forget about rigid sanding blocks. Pop into the paint
section at Bunnings for premium abrasives at affordable prices.
90
600
90
portAble
storAge
two-drawer
coffee table
Make a low-line timber table with built-in storage and
castors to make the most of a compact living area
ProJect JoHN boWler MaIN PIctUre sUe FerrIs stylINg gemA beNeItez
DIY> $330
HAve It DoNe For $1130
sKIll> 1 2 3 4 5
tIme> 2 DAYs
his space-saving coffee table is

also a neat storage unit. It has
open shelving for cushions or
decorative items and two drawers to
keep magazines, or to use as a place
to hide the remote controls.
Adding four castors to the base
makes it easy to tuck the table out
of the way when space is needed.
Measuring 720mm square the

table stands 450mm high and has
two shelves and two drawers that are
reversed on opposite sides to make
the assembly balanced and strong.
The table is built from laminated
pine panels with DAR pine used for
the 250mm deep drawers and 3mm
plywood for the drawer bases.
Biscuits are used to join the parts
of the table so no fasteners are visible
once the table has been built.
To Mnish the coffee table, apply two
coats of clear polyurethane and add
slimline handles to the drawer faces.
Using a biscuit joiner

A biscuit joiner is like a small angle
grinder with a baseplate and sliding
carriage. A tungsten-tipped blade
cuts a curved slot into an edge or
face of material to be joined in
corresponding positions and heights.
To hold the joints together,
adhesive is applied to biscuits which
are then inserted into the slots.
54
mAKe tHe DrAWers

The drawers are simply boxes assembled
using screws with a face attached then
runners secured to the sides.
Drawer runners range in length
and are supplied as two parts per side.
They are easy to Mt to box-style drawers.
A gap of 12.5mm is needed on each
side with one part secured to the
drawer and the other to the table.
You can Mnd standard 250 to
550mm long runners at hardware
stores. They are available powdercoated
in black, white or cream and rated
for a speciMc weight.
Fasteners
tIp Biscuits come in three different
sizes, numbered 0, 10 and 20.
ryobi 600W Corded biscuit Joiner,

$99. ryobi.com.au
Join the components of the table

using number 20 biscuits and
PVA adhesive. Attach the castors
to the base of the table with
Use 32mm x 8g timber screws
to make the drawer boxes and
secure the drawer bases with
25 x 1.6mm Jat head nails.
decorate
Multi-tasking furniture is a must
when living space is at a premium.
55
make the
coffee
table
biscuits
biscuit
joiner
straightedge
circular saw
biscuit
joiner
divider
slots
laminated pine
biscuits
top
slots
Cut the panels to size
Mark the cut lines on the laminated

pine panel and clamp a straightedge
as a guide to cut the table parts using
a circular saw, allowing for the width
of the blade. Check for square with
a builders square and combination
square. Sand the cut edges smooth.
Make the biscuit slots
Set out fve evenly spaced biscuit

slots on the edges of the full end panel
starting 75mm in from each end. Align
the panel between the top and base to
transfer the setout onto the inside
faces. Adjust the biscuit joiner to cut
in the centre and machine the slots.
Clamp an offcut to the base to act

as a guide for the lower divider. Set out
fve slots on the divider edges and
transfer the setout onto the base and
lower face of the shelf. Cut the slots
then repeat for the upper divider. Cut
the biscuit slots for the short ends.
tabletop
masking
tape
Prepare the dividers
drawer
base
clamp
drawer
front
table
panel
centre
shelf
roller
upper
divider
short
end
drawer
back
drawer
side
masking
tape
short
end
base
lower
divider
Finish the inside faces
Dry assemble each biscuit joint and

mark the outside face of each part on
its corresponding component. Remove
each and attach masking tape over the
slots. Apply two coats of clear fnish
over all the inside faces of the table
panels, sanding lightly between coats.
56
Assemble the table
Apply adhesive to the slots in the

base, tap in the biscuits and position
the lower divider, short end, full end
and centre shelf then clamp. Position
the upper divider, short end and
tabletop then clamp. Wipe off excess
adhesive and leave to dry.
Make the drawer boxes
Cut the drawer components and

position the front and back between the
sides. Secure with adhesive and screws.
Attach a base to each box with nails.
TIP These drawers will suit 250mm
runners, allowing 12.5mm between
each side and the ends of the unit.
decorate
two-drawer coffee table

measurements in mm
720
720
Top
BiScuiTS
Full
enD
runner
180
cutting list
Part
siZe
laMinated Pine Panel

Top
SSelf
Base
DivideTs
Full end
SSoTt ends
Pine
DTaweT sides
DTaweT fTont/back
DTaweT faces
PlYwood
DTaweT bases
720 x 720 x 30
720 x 690 x 30
720 x 720 x 30
180 x 660 x 30
390 x 720 x 30
180 x 330 x 30
upper
DiviDer
30
no.
19
180
1
1
1
2
1
2
ShorT
enD
ShorT
enD
ShelF
330
lower
DiviDer
BaSe
19
330
180
Drawer
Back
Drawer
SiDe
140
4
4
2
635 x 250 x 3
Drawer
BaSe
174
Drawer
Face
runner
caSTor
250 x 140 x 19
597 x 140 x 19
654 x 174 x 19
250
597
Drawer
FronT
Handyman.net.au
doHnload the tools, materials and costs
Mor making this tHo-draHer coMMee table.
Drawer
BaSe
Drawer
SiDe
BaSe
Screw
Drawer
runner
caSTor
Drawer
FronT
22
Drawer
Face
maTing
runner
comBinaTion
Square
attach the runners
Secure the drawer runners to

the base of the drawer boxes. Using
a combination square as a guide, set the
mating runner 22mm from the front
edge of the short and full ends. Secure
the runners through the pre-drilled
holes using the supplied screws.
add the drawer faces
Cut the drawer faces with a 3mm

clearance on all sides. Drill 4mm
holes through the drawer fronts and
insert the screws so the tip just comes
through. Position the drawers with the
front on the face with even gaps, then
secure the screws from the inside.
Secure the castors
Sand the table with 180 grit paper

and apply two coats of clear fnish
using a roller. Turn the table upside
down on a soft surface and position
the castors in the corners, 30mm from
each edge. Drill pilot holes and secure
with screws, then add drawer handles.
57
custom
build
armrest tray
this mini table can hold a cuppa and a snack, as well
as the remote control, while taking up hardly any room
PrOJeCt gun Arvidssen maIN PICtUre sue Ferris stylINg gemA beneitez
diY> $40
HAve it done For $240
sKill> 1 2 3 4 5
time> 4 Hours
offee tables are useful for drinks,

books and remote controls but
can take up a lot of foorspace,
especially in a narrow room.
An end table is a good alternative,
but if squeezing it in means having
a shorter sofa most of us would go
without to be able to stretch out.
The space-saving solution is to
abandon traditional tables altogether
in favour of a tray that is designed to
ft over the armrest of a sofa or chair.
It could be made industrially out
of moulded plastic, sheet metal or
steam-bent plywood but we simply
used lengths of 8mm dowel and
18mm thick plywood fnished with
timber stain applied using a cloth.
This armrest tray may look like
a high-end designer homeware but
its very quick and easy to make. And
if you have plywood offcuts and stain
left over from other projects, you just
need to buy the dowels for $40.
tiP A fat, square-shaped armrest works
best for this type of tray.
58
WorKing WitH PlYWood

Plywood is a versatile material, with
the grain of each successive ply or layer
running perpendicular to the last. This
allows it to be cut into irregular shapes
without splitting along the grain.
For furniture and pieces that will
be on show like this tray, use quality
plywood of at least BC grade.
To make an armrest tray to match
your lounge, measure the arm width
and the drop down the side required
for easy access to the storage tray.
Next, draw a half-template grid
that is easily reversed to make a full
template, with the arm hook and
storage tray the same width.
tiP Test-ft the cardboard template
on the sofa arm before you cut out
the plywood, making sure its snug.
HAlF temPlAte
measurements in mm
25mm grid
cutting list
PArt
soHtax 43mm collar drKll guKdP, $23.

soHtax.Fom.au
size
no.
bc PlYWood
Sides
440 x 280 x 18 2
tAsmAniAn
oAK
Dowels
340 x 8
61
decorate
Get a top designer look for a fraction
of the price with this simple tray.
59
make the
tray
clamp
drill
drill
temporary
screw
temporary
screw
spade
bit
brad
point bit
template
drill
guide
tray
side
clamp
blank
stacked
plywood
drill
Prepare the blanks
Enlarge the diagram, transfer it

to cardboard, cut out and test the ft.
Stack two offcuts of 18mm plywood
cut roughly to shape, called blanks.
Temporarily join the blanks with
screws, attach the template using
tape and trace it in pencil.
dowel
dowel
hole
Drill the dowel holes
Use a centre punch to mark the

hole locations for the dowels, remove
the template and drill the holes with an
8mm brad-point bit, using a drill guide
to ensure they are perpendicular. Work
from both sides to minimise breakout.
TIP You can also use a drill press.
Cut the tray sides
Clamp the blanks and cut out

the sides with a jigsaw, using a drill
and 25mm spade bit for the curves.
Switch off the pendulum action and
go slowly so you dont bend the blade.
TIP Insert dowels in the curves to
prevent shear movement.
clamp
clamp
protruding
dowels
mitresaw
tray
side
dowels
sander
tray
sides
stop
block
tape
key
dowel
dowel hole
Round over the edges
Use a belt sander to make the two

clamped tray sides into perfect copies,
then separate and round over the
edges. Start with a random orbital
sander then fnish the details by hand.
TIP Roll abrasive paper into a cylinder
to round over the internal curves.
60
key
dowel
Cut the dowels
Gather the dowels into a bundle

and tie tightly with elastic bands and
masking tape. Use a mitresaw with
a Rne-tooth blade, and a stop block
clamped at 340mm from the edge to
cut the dowels. Let the saw spin up to
full speed before cutting the dowels.
Assemble the tray
Insert the dowels in one side so they

protrude about 15mm, leaving a few key
dowels fush with the outer face. Align
the other side, insert the key dowels
and clamp the assembly. Apply PVA
adhesive to the dowels and push them
into place, Rtting the key dowels last.
styis its, no ites
a a a aa Wa a .
a a a a a a a a
, a a a a - a .
a a, & , a a a a a a.
waxworksworks.com.au
sPAce
sAVer
versatile wall
install a foor-to-ceiling partition in a bedroom to hang
a fatscreen tv and create extra hidden storage
uilt-in wardrobes provide plenty

of bedroom storage, but
can take up an entire
wall, meaning hanging
surfaces may be limited.
Renovation expert
Cherie Barber has
cHerIe
a simple solution
to this problem that
wont reduce foorspace.
She recommends
adding a stud wall to create
two extra surfaces, one for mounting
a fatscreen TV and one for shelving.
TIP Choose a TV with a built-in DVD
player to avoid excess clutter.
BuIld A PArTITIon wAll

A stud wall consists of a timber
framework clad with sheets of
plasterboard. Use 90 x 45mm pine for
the framework, cut with a circular saw.
Determine the length of the wall
to cut the top and base plates. Measure
from the foor to the ceiling and
subtract 90mm to cut the studs to size.
n ArrAnge THe sTuds on the foor,
spacing them to accommodate the
shelf brackets, then secure the studs
to the top and base plates with screws.
62
n cuT THe noggIns to size and secure
between the studs at staggered heights

between the top and base plates
using screws. Add extra noggins
for the TV bracket.
n secure THe FrAMework
by attaching the top and
base plates to the foor and
ceiling joists using screws.
n cuT THe PlAsTerBoArd
to ft and attach with stud
adhesive and plasterboard screws.
Making storage
To create hidden shelving for shoes,
mount foating shelves on the
reverse side of the wall, securing the
brackets to the studs using screws.
The shelves keep shoes easily
accessible without cluttering the
room or your wardrobe.
white style shelf 600 x 190 x 24mm

$11, Mith bTacPets, $18.
haVdy-stoTage.com.au
n coVer All JoInTs
with paper tape

and three layers of joint compound,
let it dry then sand using 150 grit
abrasive paper.
n APPlY PlAsTerBoArd seAler
then two coats of acrylic using
a roller. Install and paint skirting
boards to complete the wall.
TIP For a raked ceiling like this one,
transfer the angle of the slope with
a sliding bevel, using a mitresaw to
cut the top of the studs to match it.
Decorate
Tv on
THIs sIde
sHoe sTorage
on THe flIP sIde
Mounting the TV
Make a silhouette of the TV on the
wall using painters tape.
Fit the mounting bracket to the
TV and measure from the top of
the bracket to the top of the TV.
Use this distance to position
the wall bracket inside the tape
and secure to the studs with
screws, then hang the TV from the
wall bracket and lock into place.
TIP Have an electrician install low
profle 240V and antenna sockets
out of sight behind the TV.
63
Whats new
Summer essentials
GRAB WeeDS and grasses

by the root wSth a Weed Comb
Garden Weeder, $12.98.
StAY Cool thSs summer by SnvestSng

Sn a Red Drum Fan, 300mm, $59.
Be BloWn AWAY wSth thSs sRSmRSne

tSRt tower Fan, 1000mm, $129.
lop AnD CHop branches

wSth a RyobS 36V poRe
pruner KSt, $319.
CleAn tHe pool using a HY-CloR

Robotic Vacuum, $699, and
SaRt Water ChRorSnator, $799.
HAnG pAint tinS and tooRs

on a handy ladder lSmb that
acts as a thSrd hand, $19.98.
SHApe tHe lAWn Sn

no tSme wSth a RyobS
36V edger KSt, $339.
Head in-store for all your kitchen storage needs, cooling

fans, outdoor equipment and timber treatments
Kitchen organisers
treat iNdoor timber to

FXNst wNtson wipX-on Poly
oil, $29.95 foU 1L.
orgaNiSe groCerieS on thX

6 tSXU ChUomX PNntUy Pullout
PSth dooU rNck, $299.
Save SPaCe Nnd kXXp

gNUbNgX hSddXn PSth N 15L
SlSdX out bSn, $69.
SPrUCe UP UNderFoot
PSth FXNst wNtson wXt Look
dXck, $82.90 foU 4L.
Store mUCH more Sn

thX duNl blSnd CNbSnXt
ShXlf UnSt, $299.
beat tHe Heat by SncludSng

intXUgUNSn Hot wXNthXU
addStSvX, $10.95 foU 340g.
LigHt tHe way when you

switch on the Click
NightguNrd, $19.90.
Prime oUtdoor timber

usSng intXUgUNSn PoPXU
PUXp, $54.90 foU 4L.
get better Coverage

by using rust-oleum
2X UltUN CovXU, $11.95.
LiNe UP tHe PaNtry usSng

N rotNtSng CoUnXU CNUousXl
PSth dUNPXUs, $269.
CoNtaiN waSte Sn
N dooU-opXUNtXd 14L
ChUomX SPSng out bSn, $59.
Using timber cladding on the

exterior of a house is a popular
way to add a durable, attractive
fnish that also works to soften
architecture, particularly in
suburban or rural settings.
It comes in sheets, panels,
shingles, boards or strips, as
used on this house, that can be
arranged in any direction or style.
Treating the cladding is
mostly a matter of taste. Left to
the elements, timber fades to
a silvery grey. The other option
is to paint it or apply a stain to
achieve the desired colour.
66
NOVEMBER 2013 Australian Hand6man
pIcTUres pIcTUre medIa
Timber cladding
renovate
bye bye
bungalow
Flipping the foorplan turns a retro
family home into a modern wonder
Words SitA SimonS
icturing how a home could be

transformed takes time and
imagination. For Lisbeth and
Peter, it was the birth of their third
child that made them look at their
original 1935 property with new eyes.
When they bought in the late 90s,
the couple were charmed by their
traditional red-brick bungalow.
I grew up in a house like this,
so it was something comforting and
familiar for me, says Lisbeth.
It was mostly hidden by trees and
vines and we liked the way it seemed
so much a part of the landscape.
AFtER
A new stHrey and tFmber
claddFng turn the bungalHw
FntH a spacFHus, mHdern hHme.
BEFoRE
this small red-br
ick hHuse frHm th
e 1930s
needed an upgrad
e fHr a grHwing fa
mily.
The pitched roof made space

for fantastic picture windows at the
north side of the house, so it was
fooded with light. For Peter and me,
as artists, it was just perfect.
Room to gRow
Last updated in the 70s, the bathroom
had orange and yellow tiles, while
the kitchen featured multicoloured
cupboards and bold vinyl fooring.
The ceiling in the living room
was painted in glossy red and paired
with a psychedelic carpet.
It was actually quite tastefully
done and I appreciated the sense
of style the previous owners had
but some of the more garish elements
had to go, says Lisbeth.
As the family grew, demands on
the 92 square metres of living space
became ever tighter and by the time
their youngest was a year old, they
could no longer wait to start planning.
We spent at least a year trying
to imagine how we could keep the
feel and spirit of this home we loved
so much, but get some much needed
extra room so we could all grow
comfortably together.
67
SwitcH tHe lAyout

The frst idea for the renovation was
to dig down to the basement but it
quickly became clear this approach
would be problematic.
There were a number of structural
challenges but mostly wed have
ended up with dark spaces that no one
would enjoy, says Lisbeth.
Building up was the solution and
after consulting with architects, the
couple decided on a plan that would
double the living space to 184 square
metres and provide enough privacy
and common areas for everyone.
What was unusual was the
approach to the foorplan. Unlike
most two-storey homes where living
is on ground level and bedrooms
upstairs, this design fipped the norm.
The entire foorspace of the
original bungalow was transformed
to accommodate four bedrooms and
two bathrooms on the entry level.
design tAicks like cuGe shelves help

cAeate zones in the open-plan aAeas.
68
NOVEMBER 2013 AustAalian HandHman
Ground floor
bathroom
bathroom
bedroom 3
kitchen
bedroom 1
bedroom 2
stairwell
bathroom
lounge
bedroom 4
bedroom 2
bedroom 1
before
After
renovate
tHE nEw dEsign

Each bedroom features large windows
and built-in wardrobes, and two of
them share an ensuite bathroom.
It was a little odd to comprehend
the plan at frst. I was worried it would
feel unwelcoming to enter the house
and then bypass the ground Eoor, so
initially I resisted the suggestion.
But Im so glad I was sold on it
because it led to the greatest success
of the home, the light-flled second
level, says Lisbeth.
In the downstairs hallway is an
enclosed staircase thats designed to
take up as little space as possible but
is the opposite of dark and confning.
Pale timber treads, skylights and white
walls turn it into a lightwell.
Leading into the kitchen, the
walls of the staircase extend to create
waist-high partitions that help to
divide the open-plan upper storey
without creating a visual block.
Cleverly zoned into multiple
areas, the top Eoor has an eat-in
kitchen, dining area, lounge room,
two offce nooks and a studio in
which Lisbeth paints.
A central column features an
architectural freplace visible from two
sides, and windows or glass doors are
included on every wall, with skylights
set into the beamed ceiling.
All four bedrooms are on the ground

Hoor of the renovated bungalow.
Zoning open-plan spaces
Enclosed but Hooded wEth natural lEght,

the staErcase leads to the new level.
Open-plan living spaces can pose

a decorating challenge.
Creating zones for specifc
activities and providing enough
storage is the key to making them
work, preventing them from
becoming cluttered or stark.
For overall harmony, keep the
fooring consistent and the wall
treatments simple and neutral.
Use furnishings to inject colour
and personality to the home but be
selective. Too much contrast and too
many small pieces in an open-plan
area can look and feel chaotic.
Clever Cube Handy storage 2 x 4 UnEt,

$89. handy-storage.com.au
A tactic interior designers use is

to think big. Large items of furniture,
like an oversized sofa or rug, are
positioned to delineate spaces.
Bookcases and cube shelving are
another trick of the trade, as they
add storage and create partitions
without being visually dominating.
69
renovate
the sKreamlHned kHKchen opens onKo

a prHvaKe, easK-facHng balcony.
KitcHen witH a view
top level
balcony
kitchen
dining area
stairwell
fireplace
studio
lounge
terrace
Because its the area in which a family

will spend the most time together, the
kitchen is usually the starting point
when designing an open-plan layout.
Lisbeth and Peter wanted to
capitalise on the stunning views from
the elevated position, so the kitchen
found its natural place on the east side
of the house, fanked by windows.
A two-metre island doubles as
bench space and a breakfast bar,
creating an inviting area to sit and
socialise while a wall of storage keeps
everything accessible and neat.
An east-facing balcony extends
off the kitchen and its the perfect
place to catch the early morning sun.
My little offce is at the other side,
so I often have a cup of tea on the
balcony and take in warmth while
I ponder ideas. Its a very serene and
private spot, says Lisbeth.
lisbetHs
studio
creative living
Lisbeths studio is opposite the
kitchen, taking advantage of the
natural light that foods the
open-plan upper level via glass
doors and skylights.
Light timber fooring is used
throughout the top foor and the
walls are all painted plain white.
The limited colour palette unifes
the different areas and large artworks
inject interest and contrast.
71
renovate
Airy and bright, the top foor iH

furniHhed to feel warm and inviting.
two offce nookH provide a place to work

while Htill being part of family life.
72
The dining area is next to the

kitchen and can seat 10 comfortably
but a clerestory window and wall of
books give it a cosy and intimate feel.
Next to the bookshelves, tall
windows open the lounge area to
the leafy views and a large terrace
extends off the adjacent wall.
There are no walls delineating the
different eating, living and working
areas but each functions as a zone.
A Persian-style foor rug helps
to defne the dining area while the
large leather sofa separates the lounge
from Lisbeths studio.
I love being able to work in my
studio or cook a meal without being
removed from the action. And its
surprisingly quiet too.
Our style is fairly eclectic, and
the house features things weve
made and collected over the years.
I think it all works together.
On tHe Outside
All the old trees were preserved and
the level gardens around the home
remain largely unchanged.
It was very important to both
Lisbeth and Peter that the house stay
connected to the landscape despite
its signifcant increase in size.
Cedar boards were used to clad
the exterior walls of the house and
left to age naturally. The vertical strips
of timber cladding give added depth
and warmth to the facade.
The sculptural shape of the home,
along with the cladding, help it blend
in to its surroundings in the same way
as the original bungalow. The old
pitched roof was replaced with a fat
one made from insulated Colorbond.
Get more online

ViHit handyman.net.au/mag for more real
life advice on Building Your drBam HouHB.
ACHIEVE THE LOOK

WITH PORTA
Scan here for more

decorating ideaS
5
1
4
4
1
1
3
3
2
2
Porta has a wide range of timber mouldings to bring your rooms to life.
You can easily transform the look of your home with the wide range of panel mouldings,
wall trim, architraves and skirting boards by Porta Mouldings.
1
Architrave
Skirting
Wall Rail
To view the full range, scan the QR code

or visit www.porta.com.au
Insert/Panel Mould
Picture Rail
VirtuAl
mAkeoVer
BeaABifAl Bimber boards

have reviBalised Bhis
oABdoor enBerBaining area.
Ask Cherie
Cherie Barber is director of

Renovating For ProCt, a company
dedicated to teaching people how
to add value through renovation.
Cherie is offering a free
virtual makeover to Handyman
readers in need of inspiration.
Send us a photo of an area in
your home that needs work and
well show you what can be done.
Go to handyman.net.au/mag
and enter your details.
74
renovate
From poky
to pristine
Warm timber decking could turn this
ramshackle courtyard into a sanctuary
small inner-Sydney studio

with its own private outdoor
area is a rare luxury. The only
problem with this courtyard is that it
just isnt very inviting.
Its covered in leaves and the
rampant greenery is rapidly swallowing
the small patch of useable space.
The yard needs a complete overhaul
to become an attractive, functional
extension of the indoor living area.
THe CHallenge
At just 12 square metres, its a small
space. Well need a few creative tricks
to make it look much bigger than it

actually is, while at the same time
incorporating storage and seating.
The doorstep interrupts the fow
between indoors and out. Well need
to raise the level of the courtyard so
the two areas are seamlessly linked.
Everything is mismatched, from
the lonely table and chairs to the
makeshift barbecue. This courtyard
is crying out for a uniIed look.
With a new deck and much needed
pruning, this courtyard has been
virtually transformed into a resort-style
outdoor room for under $2000.
Tricks of the trade

1
l
6
l
OverCrown veCetation made the

cour tyard cramped and untidy.
2
l
5
l
3
l
4
l
n USe One COlOUR in a small area

to make the space seem bigger.
Punctuate with a few coloured
highlights, like cushions or plants.
n InCReaSe SPaCe with folding
tables, stackable seating and
benches that double as storage.
n leSS IS MORe when it comes to
small courtyards. One focal point
like a water feature or a piece of
wall art will have a bigger impact
than lots of small items.
75
renovate
1 cleAr tHe jungle

l
Pruning unruly vines and
overhanging branches is
the frst step. Greenery
is great, but too much just
makes a small area feel
claustrophobic and unkempt.
A little bit of TLC will not only
tidy up the courtyard but also
make it seem much bigger.
2 rAiSe tHe level

l
Foundations for tIe deck need
to be installed to raise tIe
courtyard so tIat its level
witI tIe inside foor, creating
a seamless transition.
Treated pine is perfect for
tIe structural framing as
its cIeap, virtually rot-proof
and resistant to termites.
3 lAy tHe deck

l
Treated pine is a relatively
inexpensive and durable
decking material which, once
stained with a decking oil,
will look great in this
courtyard. Well keep that
lovely frangipani tree by
making a cutout in the deck
for it to grow through.
fiskars QuanQum
HedSe Shears, $85.
au.fskars.com
140 x 45mm f7 H3 treated

Pine, $7 per metre,
from BunninSs
90 x 22 x 3000mm
treated Pine deckinS Boards,
$7, from BunninSs.
6 Build tHe dAy Bed
l
In balmy Sydney, every

outdoor space must Iave
a barbie for entertaining.
Well integrate ours into
a custom-built bencI
made witI tIe same
treated pine as tIe decking,
giving us tIe coordinated
look were after.
5 Add furniture
l
We could extend the bench
for an eating area, or simply
buy a timber table that can
seat several people for when
guests pop over. Add a few
stackable chairs to save
space, or benches that will
tuck away neatly under the
table when not in use.
Once all tIe practical

elements are taken care of,
well add a day bed as tIe
LnisIing toucI, made witI
tIe same boards. Give tIe
timber two coats of exterior
decking oil in Merbau and
scatter tIe day bed witI
a few coloured cusIions.
Matador classic 4 Burner

Built-in Barbecue, $599.
matadorbbqs.com.au
Mimosa three-Piece timber

SettinS With Benches,
$498, from BunninSs.
cabots Aquadeck Merbau

decking Oil, $35 for 4l.
cabots.com.au
picture ThInkSTOCk
4 inStAll tHe BArBecue

l
76

b b .

.
:
b
b

.
vtu
dOnt miSS the

next iSSUe Of
Garden
Outdoors
BBQ special
How to keep the lawn looking

lush during the hot season and
grow juicy summer vegies.
PLUS Beat the heat with
easy-install drip irrigation.
Design a deck to suit your

space and build a concrete
retaining wall in a weekend.
PLUS Build a luxury doghouse
and pet food dispenser DIY.
Cook a traditional Christmas

feast on the barbie with recipes
for turkey, ham and dessert.
PLUS The ultimate guide to
choosing a barbecue.
PLUS
the BeSt
deckS
BUiLd a new One Revive an OLd One
picture GETTY IMAGES
4D n
EC sa
EM l
BE e
R
Say goodbye to garage chaos by

installing a tidy row of storage towers.
80
workshop
garage
storage
towering genius
Build simple shelving to hold standard plastic bins that
will keep your workshop essentials organised and tidy
DIY> $480
Have It Done for $880
sKILL> 1 2 3 4 5
tIme> 1 DaY
inding space for tools and

equipment can be challenging in
a garage that also functions as
a workshop and storage room.
Stackable plastic storage bins are
a great way to keep your essentials tidy,
but the lower ones are troublesome to
access, and stacking any more than
three of them can be risky.
This solution lets you arrange the

bins into whatever order suits you,
such as heavy items in the lower bins,
without having to put items you use
often in the top bin of a stack.
Each of these shelf towers can
safely accommodate fve storage bins,
and is made from just over one and
a half sheets of 17mm plywood,
plus a half sheet of 7mm ply.
Three towers can be built in a day
with only basic power tools, but
tacking the panels together using
a brad nailer before securing them
with screws will speed up construction.
freeIng up space
The towers allow you to utilise
vertical space to store all your
belongings, rather than taking up
valuable room on the garage foor.
They are designed to hold bins
measuring up to 590 x 450 x 440mm,
providing plenty of capacity.
These dimensions can be
easily adapted and the number of
shelves increased to suit containers
of a different size.
tIp Add sturdy hooks to the sides
of these towers to create additional
hanging space for garden tools.
Choosing storage boxes

There are all kinds of storage boxes available, from lightweight snap-lock containers which are useful for paperwork
and smaller items, to more robust, heavy-duty crates that can cope with heftier loads such as power tools.
Willow 44L HLro storKge contKiner,

555 x 391 x 290mm, $20. willow.com.KL
Kis 48L stripes storKge contKiner,

550 x 385 x 305 mm, $35, from BLnnings.
awKrd 50L storKge contKiner,

570 x 380 x 320mm, $9, from BLnnings.
81
build the
tower
plywood
circular
saw
clamp
circular
saw
flaw in
layer
spatula
straightedge
plywood
straightedge
filler
plywood
cut line
Cut the sides and back
Position the 17mm plywood on

sawhorses and mark cut lines 590mm
from each long edge. Cut the sides and
back with a circular saw, clamping
a straightedge parallel to each cut line.
and offsetting the distance from the
blade to the edge of the baseplate.
Cut the shelves
Use a builders square to mark

the top, base and shelves then clamp
a straightedge and cut the pieces using
a circular saw. Mark each panel after
cutting the last, or measure the blade
width and correct for this to mark up
all the panels in one go.
brad
nailer
Plane the edges
Clean up all the cut edges with a

hand plane and check for square with
a builders square across the face and
a combination square on the edges.
As cut plywood reveals imperfections
in the layers, apply multipurpose fller
to any gaps with a spatula.
brad
nailer
spacer
shelf
roller
back
side
bearers
side panel
shelf
side
panel
base
front
bearer
base
plywood
Paint the plywood
When the fller is dry, sand the

edges with 120 grit abrasive paper.
Apply at least two coats of acrylic paint
to all surfaces of the panels and the
inside face of the backing with a roller.
Lightly sand between coats with 150
grit abrasive paper for a smooth fnish.
82
Assemble the tower
Using an offcut to space the shelves

with 460mm gaps between them, tack
the base, shelves and top to the sides
using a brad nailer. Drill pilot holes
and secure with 30mm x 8g screws.
TIP Dont use the spacer for the last gap
as it will be 2mm less than the others.
Attach the backing
Use the factory corners of the

backing to square up the tower. Start at
the top and work along the side panel,
securing the backing to the edges of
the base, top, shelves and sides using
a brad nailer. Attach the bearers using
30 x 1.6mm bullethead nails.
storage tower
450
590
measurements in mm
590
Top
siDe Panels
Side
Back
Side
2400
toP, base anD

shelves
ShelF
BaSe
FronT
Bearer
Side Bearer
548
Cutting list
Part
CD PlywooD
Sides
Top/base/shelves
Backing
Dar Pine
Front bearers
SiFe bearers
siZe
484
no.
2400 x 590 x 17
590 x 450 x 17
2400 x 484 x 7
6
18
3
484 x 42 x 19
548 x 42 x 19
3
6
42
Handyman.net.au
RIN
IL
IT
BE
ERSE FOR DE
TA
REV
IL
EE
TENT L
SIS
O
N
AD
CO
go online to download the tools, costs and

materials to make these storage towers.
G AB
clutter
buster
throw-and-go
storage bins
organise sports gear with a practical solution that
leaves the kids with no excuse to be messy
DIY> $240
HAve It Done for $640
sKIll> 1 2 3 4 5
tIme> 1 DAY
helves and cabinets are handy

places for storing sports stuff,
but when youre in a hurry and,
lets face it, kids always are, its much
easier to just throw and go.
These roomy bins have no doors
and theyre not too high for little
people to reach, so its never been
easier to keep your laundry and
hallways clear of sports equipment,
schoolbags and other clutter.
Theyre also handy to have in
the garage where they can be lined
up along the wall to hold anything
from golf clubs to power tools.
They could even be used in the
backyard to store gardening tools,
clothes pegs and pet supplies.
Their practical design offers
a decent amount of capacity
but they also look good, with
84
an eye-catching shape that can

be painted to match your colour
scheme or as a feature unit.
PrePArInG tHe ProJect

This project requires one full sheet
and one quarter sheet of 17mm
plywood for the sides, shelves,
base and top, plus a half sheet of
7mm for the backing.
The front sections of the bins are
made from 135 x 19mm pine, secured
with 50mm x 8g screws.
We used a brad nailer with 40mm
brads to save time, but if you dont
have one, just hammer in 40 x 2mm
bullethead nails by hand instead.
If your bins are going to be sitting
on a concrete foor in the garage or on
a verandah, attach treated timber
bearers to the underside to protect
the plywood from rising moisture.
Fill over the fasteners and give all
surfaces a light sand before applying
two coats of bright semi gloss enamel.
tIP You can also use acrylic paint, but
apply a primer frst.
Dulux super enaYel seYi GlWss in

signal red, 1l, $45. dulux.cWY.au
bosch 530W cWrded Jigsaw, $99.

bWsch-dW-it.cWY.au
workshop
Avoid tripping over the kids sports

kits and school bags by containing
them all in one tidy place.
85
DECKING FASTENERS SPECIFIC

TO YOUR NEEDS
Quick and Easy
The Self-Drilling decking screws that will
take hours off your next decking project
For the best result in achieving a

Fastener-Free look in Hardwood
and Treated Pine
Self-Drilling decking screw from Buildex,

for fastening timber decking to Steel Joists
Full range of traditional Type 17 Decking screws
workShop
build the
bins
clamp
zigzag
lines
side
combination
square
builders
square
straightedge
pencil
marks
circular saw
side
plywood
Cut the parts
Use a circular saw and clamped

straightedge guide to cut the top,
base, shelves and centre boards
from plywood. Cut the basic
rectangular shape of the sides,
then use a mitresaw or handsaw
to cut the front panels from pine.
Set out the sides
Plane the edges and check for

square using a builders square on the
face and a combination square or speed
square on the edge. To set out one of
the sides to use as a template, start by
marking points 388mm and 776mm
from the base, 100mm in from the edge.
Mark the cut lines
Complete the side proKle by

marking 100, 488 and 876mm up
from the base along the edge of the
side. Mark zigzag cut lines connecting
these points with the previous setout
points, Knishing 100mm in from the
edge at the base and top.
random
orbital
sander
front
shelf
jigsaw
side
panel
brad
nailer
side
side
panel
Cut the side panels
Clamp the side panels together

in pairs and cut the edge profle on
the frst pair using a jigsaw. Trace
the profle onto the second pair
and cut it to shape.
TIP Keep the jigsaws pendulum
action switched off for a Kner cut.
Match up the pairs
Use a random orbital sander to sand

the cut proKles of both pairs of sides,
taking care to maintain a square edge
as you go. Unclamp the pairs and align
them back to back then square lines for
the shelves between the inside points
of the zigzag edges.
Assemble the bins
Secure the shelves using a brad

nailer, then tack the fronts in position
with brads and reinforce each joint
with screws. Cut the backing and use
brads to attach it to one shelf assembly.
Square it up, then add the centre boards
and secure the second assembly.
87
workshop
THrow-And-go sTorAge bins

measurements in mm
100
300
1200
Top
BaCk
ShelF
876
FronT
1166
776
Side
1166
Cen T r
e Boa r
Side
ShelF
488
FronT
388
Cen T
re Bo
100
a rd
BaSe
side seTouT
FronT
100
CenTre BoardS
CuTTing lisT
Top
Side
BaSe
Side
Side
Side
ShelveS
PArT
Cd Plywood
Sides
Top/base
Shelves
Centre boards
Backing
dAr Pine
Front panels
siZe
no.
1166 x 400 x 17
1200 x 300 x 17
370 x 280 x 17
392 x 50 x 17
1200 x 1200 x 7
4
2
4
2
1
370 x 135 x 19
Handyman.net.au
CuTTing lAyouT
88
NOVEMBER 2013 Australian HanAyman
go online to AoHnloaA the tools, materials

anA costs to builA these storage bins.
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Trim plants to a healthy size and keep soil in

tiptop shape with these garden must-haves
keeping the garden in check
Whether you take pride and pleasure
in trimming topiary, or if pruning is
just another garden chore, its still
important to know what tools to use.
handyman technical subeditor
gun arvidssen says, technology
has come to our rescue, not only
for the job of pruning itself, but

also for dealing with the offcuts
and improving the soil.
ingeniously designed power tools
aside, hand pruners also beneft from
clever features such as a geared
cutting action to snip through the
toughest branches with ease.
TILLER
PRUNINg Saw
MULCHER
the health and prosperity of your

garden depends on keeping the
plants in shape and looking after the
soil. Using these three tools, you can
create a healthy, attractive garden.
PRUNERS come in a variety of power
and manual options to shape your
plants and trees. From small bushy
shrubs to thick tree branches, there
is a tool for every cutting job.
MULCHERS can shred the offcuts

from your Fruning into either
woodchiF mulch or fner comFost
to mix into the soil.
TILLERS cut through soil to aerate
and mix through organic material
such as the leaves and branches you
shredded after Fruning them. tillers
are Ferfect for starting new garden
beds or reviving old ones.
91
picture [left] ThinKsTocK
Regular pruning of bushes and

shrubs can be the difference between
a ragged, straggly garden and an
attractive, lush outdoor living space.
Every bush has a characterEstEc
shape and sEze, and for each there
Es a prunEng technEque to brEng out
Ets best and encourage fowerEng.
For optEmum results, EdentEfy your
busFes and learn about tFeEr needs.
CUT THE BRANCH TIP just beyond
a new bud and tFe followEng years
growtF wEll be cFannelled Ento
tFe sEde brancFes, creatEng
a mucF fuller appearance.
TFEs FeadEng-off tecFnEque
stEmulates growtF En tFe smaller
sEde brancFes, creatEng new buds
tFat wEll fll En vacant areas.
Keep track of tFe results
to gauge Fow mucF braKcFEKg
youll Keed to do Kext year.
TIP TFEs tecFKEque works
best oK busFes tFat grow
mostly from sEKgle stalks,
as opposed to oKes tFat
coKtEKually seKd up Kew sFoots
sucF as FydraKgea aKd forsytFEa.
Prune branches just abUve a bud tU

prUmUte denser grUwth next year.
if you oKly Fave a couple of rose busFes to tEdy up oKce a year, tFeK a paEr of secateurs or possEbly a lopper Es all you wEll Keed.
But Ef you Fave lots of Fedges aKd busFes, or fruEt trees tFat Keed regular maEKteKaKce, you may decEde to use some power tools.
fISkARS
$65
BYPASS SECATEURS Fave

a sEKgle curved blade tFat
cuts wEtF a scEssor actEoK
aloKg a wEder Fook. ideal
for small Keat cuts.
92
CYCLoNE
$47
ANVIL SECATEURS Fave

a straEgFt cuttEKg blade.
TFey are great for large
braKcFes, but less Keat
tFaK bypass secateurs.
CYCLoNE
$46
HEDGE SHEARS resemble

oversEzed scEssors aKd are
good oK tFEck folEage as well
as small twEgs. TFe perfect
cFoEce for sFapEKg topEary.
HoMELITE
$189
HEDGE TRIMMERS are tFe

powered versEoK of Fedge
sFears. TFey Fave a loKg,
Karrow blade tFat moves
back aKd fortF at FEgF speed.
For bushes and small trees, start

by pruning off any dead or damaged
branches. Not only do they look
terrible, they encourage rot and
disease to take hold.
Also cut out wilted, dry or
diseased branches as soon as you
spot them, as the infection or pest
could spread to the rest of the tree.
Branches that rub against each
other should be cut back, even if
they seem relatively strong and

healthy. The rubbing will wear
away the bark and cause problems
further down the track.
Low-hanging branches that
stick out at an angle or cause an
obstruction should also be removed
in case they injure someone.
TIP When in doubt, cut it out, as
pruning also thins out the bush,
opening its interior to more light
and air, which in turn encourages
fuller, healthier growth.
Bushes such as forsythia and

hydrangea send up new canes from
their roots every year. To control
the bush height, the best method is
to prune out the oldest wood.
Trim out newer canes to thin the
interior of the plant, letting light in
and helping to control its spread.
If it has become too large and is
more trouble to bring under control
than its worth, you can generally cut
off all the canes and the roots will
send up new shoots, giving you a neat
new bush within a year or two.
Cut off dead, damaged or dangerous

limbs as soon as you spot them.
CYCLONE
$65
BYPASS LOPPERS have long

arms for maximum grunt
and cut with a bypass action.
They can handle limbs up to
40mm in diameter.
RYOBI
$199
POLE PRUNERS come in

electric, petrol and battery
models. Their extendable
handles allow for easy
access to higher branches.
HORTEx
$8
PRUNING SAWS have an

ergonomic curved design
and coarse-pitched teeth
for easy push-pull action
and a swift, clean cut.
IRWIN
$15
BOWSAWS are great for

cutting small to medium
branches. Their blades
have multi-serrated teeth
to ensure quick cutting.
93
Dont be tempted to take shortcuts

by simply trimming off the ends
of a bushs branches.
This fat-top haircut approach
may look fne for a year or two,
but it stimulates growth on the
outermost branches, forces the
bush to grow into an unnatural
shape and fails to control size.
The bush will actually grow
larger and become more diffcult
for you to bring back under control
without it being ruined.
TIP This doesnt apply to hedge-type
bushes such as box or lilly pilly,
which respond well to tip-pruning.
Cutting corners by fat-topping will

create more work in the long run.
Most bushes will eventually grow

too large and dense if they are
left to their own devices.
Within a year or two, a plant
may become so overgrown that it
will be impractical to prune back
into shape, as there will simply be
too much new growth crowding
and competing for space.
If you are faced with this
problem, its best to control size
and shape by selectively pruning
out a few whole branches, cutting
them right back to the trunk.
This opens the plant to
light and encourages healthy
growth at the interior.
94
Unlike cane-type bushes,

evergreens grow from their
existing stems, developing a more
permanent branch framework
and needing less pruning.
If your landscaping was well
planned, these bushes will grow to ft
their spot with relatively little help.
Theyll only need a light annual
pruning to remove dead branches
and control size and shape.
Make cuts just above the collar,

which is the slight bulge at the point
where a branch joins the main trunk.
If left intact, this collar will grow
over the cut, sealing off the wound
and healing it. Make the cut square to
the diameter, rather than diagonal,
for the smallest wound.
TIP Dont leave a stub on any of the
limbs when pruning, as its likely to
rot and become diseased.
Improving the quality of a new garden

bed can take hours of slaving away
with a mattock and hoe to aerate the
soil and mix in organic matter.
A power tiller makes the job
faster, and its an easy way to add
compost or mulch, increasing
drainage and water-holding capacity.
Tilling also makes the soil
more permeable, encouraging
root growth and attracting
microorganisms and worms that
leave nutrients in the soil.
DONT USE A TILLER in wet soil as it
will clod up and dry in thick crusts.
If a ball of soil sticks together when
dropped, it is too wet to till.
Ensure the soil is deeply tilled.
If only the top surface is ploughed,
a hard layer forms below. This will
When creating healthy soil, a power

tiller is much faster than a fork.
impede roots and reduce moisture

intake, leading to a lower crop yield.
In addition to mixing in compost
and the output from your shredder,
apply plenty of organic matter over
the top of freshly tilled soil as it helps

retain moisture and reduces weeds.
Keep plants growing throughout
the year to avoid having to prepare the
soil from scratch again in spring.
There are many varieties of cultivator available, and theyre all capable of different workloads. Before selecting
a tiller, consider how large an area you will be planting, and how often you are likely to use it.
MINI CULTIVATORS are the smallest

and lightest type, designed to remove
weeds and turn soil in average-sized
domestic garden beds.
Their manoeuvrability makes them
ideal for small spaces, but they are
not suited for heavy workloads.
REAR-TINE TILLERS are the largest,

offering a tilling width of up to 700mm.
Usually self-propelled, they
feature either synchronous tines that
spin in the same direction as the
wheels, or counter-rotating tines that
turn in the opposite direction.
FRONT-TINE TILLERS are less

expensive than rear-tine machines and
are generally pushed by the operator
rather than being self-propelled.
They feature similar power and
tilling capacity to rear-tine models, and
are great for larger planting areas.
95
96
Once all your bushes and trees have

been pruned to perfection, youll
need to do something about all the
material youve trimmed off.
A mulcher, also called a shredder
or chipper, is an invaluable garden
accessory that converts the waste
from pruning into a useful resource.
If you only undertake a major
pruning mission once or twice a year,
or if you are faced with a one-off task
such as cutting a damaged branch
from a large tree, hiring a heavy-duty
chipper might be the best option.
But if you Ind yourself with
mountains of prunings every
fortnight during the warmer
months, you might Ind theyre just
too much for the compost heap.
This is where a tool that
transforms them into Ine mulch
will probably be a worthwhile
addition to your power tool collection.
TIP While most mulchers handle
branches quite well, only the
higher-end models are really
effective at shredding Iner
material such as leaf litter.
PETROL MULCHERS or chippers with

a powerful four-stroke engine might
be the better choice for offcuts from
more ambitious pruning.
These are similar to the industrial
machines used by arborists and
professional tree fellers to create
a truckload of mulch at a time.
ELECTRIC MULCHERS or shredders are

likely to be the best option unless you
have a large property and regularly
need to prune and maintain large trees.
These are easy to operate,
require virtually no maintenance,
and can easily chew through branches
of up to 35mm in diameter.
TRIMMINGS such as fowers and

foliage should be shredded Irst.
Take care not to use organic
material that might have been
sprayed with chemicals.
LEAF LITTER mixed with small

shredded branches from your pruning
makes excellent mulch. Avoid using
this type in bushIre-prone areas
because it can be highly fammable.
CONIFER OFFCUTS make a good

wind-resistant mulch that helps
lower the pH of the soil, making
it particularly hospitable to azaleas,
rhododendrons and camellias.
In most cases, covering areas of

bare soil with a layer of organic
mulch greatly simplifes your
gardening chores.
Mulch reduces water loss from
the soil, slowing evaporation and
improving water absorption when it
rains or when you use a sprinkler.
It slows weed growth while
returning nutrients to the soil
as it breaks down.
Mulch also protects plant roots
from extremes of hot and cold
weather, and evens out dramatic
fuctuations in temperature.
It can also add colour and
texture, which is a big improvement
for areas of plain soil.
TREE BARK and woodchip from larger

branches drains well and its acidity
makes it good for mulching around
strawberries. As a general rule, dont
use it on a vegetable garden.
AlwaEs mulch around new plantings

as soon as theE have been bedded in.
The best time to apply mulch is

in spring, then keep it topped up
throughout the year.
The key is to avoid leaving any
soil bare, so always mulch around
new plantings straight away.
LUCERnE HAy breaks down over time

to feed the soil, which means you will
have to keep it topped up. Use it around
roses to help repel black spot.
TIP Chop it up for easier spreading.
Before mulching, dig out all

traces of perennial weeds and water
the garden beds before and after
applying the mulch.
Spread your shredded prunings
over the soil about 75 to 100mm deep,
but avoid mulching right up to stems or
trunks as it may cause them to rot.
PEBBLE MULCH is worth mentioning

as a complement to the organic
material. It works well around
trailing vegies such as pumpkins
because it helps prevent rotting.
97
Investing in a pruner, mulcher and tiller may be expensive, but if you have a large outdoor area to look after it will pay off
through the time and effort you save. Even the light-duty options make life much easier for a very reasonable outlay.
PRunERS
Easy to use and weighing only 3kg,

this is the ideal way to give hedges
a regular haircut, with a 480mm
blade and ergonomic handle.
This tool features a grip for locking

onto unsupported branches. It can
handle limbs up to a whopping 80mm
in diameter yet weighs just over 1kg.
Makita 400W Hedge Trimmer, $99.

makita.com.au
Bosch Keo 10.8V PruViVg Saw, $149.

bosch-gardeV.com.au
Allowing you to reach high branches,

this pruner features a 2.7m
extension pole, powerful two-stroke
engine and 150mm cutting capacity.
Ryobi 25cc Two-stroke PoWe PruVer,
$299. ryobi.com.au
MulCHERS
Simple to use, with a 35mm input

capacity and overload protection,
this unit has reversible blades and
weighs 13kg, so its easily portable.
With a feed capacity of 42mm and

a 53L collection box, this is a powerful
shredder. The hopper is removable
to easily deal with blockages.
This petrol model cuts branches up

to 50mm in diameter and has nine
fail hammer blades to reduce all
your prunings to fne mulch.
Ozito 2400W Rapid EWectric Shredder,

$159. ozito.com.au
Bosch 2300W TurbiVe EWectric

Shredder, $799.
Masport 5HP Chipper, $1198,

masport.com.au
Great for average-size gardens, this

mini-cultivator has a tilling width of
258mm at a depth of up to 198mm,
with a sand ballast for stability.
This compact front-tine tiller unit has

a cut width of 550mm and a working
depth of 280mm. It comes with optional
accessories for ridging and ploughing.
With a 700mm cutting width and

350mm cultivating depth, this
self-drive rear-tine unit can propel
itself either forward or in reverse.
Ryobi 25cc Two-Stroke

CuWtivator, $479.
McCuWWoch MFT55-170R Compact TiWWer,

$749. mccuWWoch.com.au
Briggs & StrattoV 6.5HP CuWtivator

TiWWer, $675. agrmachiVery.com.au
TillERS
98
Very handy
to have around.
The extensive range of Ozito power
garden tools will be very handy to have
in the garden this Spring.
From edging the lawns, trimming around
trees and bushes, shredding branches and
cuttings, to blowing it all away!
Check out our power garden tool range
at your nearest store and remember to
give it a go with Ozito.
Check us out at ozito.com.au

or call 1800 069 486
wAter
feAture
Pond in a box
build an above-ground fshpond and decorative
trellis made from pine and ply in just a weekend
HAve It Done for $1830
SKILL> 1 2 3 4 5
tIme> 2 DAYS
ormally, installing a fshpond

involves digging a sizeable
hole in the ground, which
in turn means hours of back-breaking
toil with a spade and shovel.
This pond requires much less
elbow grease, with an elevated design
that comprises a simple box with
a pond liner for a no-dig solution.
Before you start, check with
your local council to fnd out
the maximum permitted depth
of a water feature before any
fencing is required.
In many areas a maximum depth
of just 300mm is allowed. This
legislation was introduced to protect
young children from tragic accidents.
100
The elevated design of this project

makes it a safer option than a typical
in-ground pond, as its less likely that
a toddler could trip and fall in.
Choosing a suitable location is
important, since prolonged direct
sunlight will excessively heat up the
water, promoting algae growth.
Even worse, it would only take
one severe summer scorcher for your
goldfsh to cook in their pond.
You will also need to install the
pond close to an outdoor power source
so you can connect the pump that
supplies the fountainhead.
similar so the structure will be strong

enough to hold the weight of the water.
Use 30 x 30mm treated pine quad
beading for the corner blocks and
25 x 25mm aluminium angle for the
fashing over the baseboards.
To fnish the project, install
a reticulating pump and feed the hose
through the slot in the liner capping.
Round over the edges of the top
capping, secure a fountainhead to the
trellis and apply two coats of exterior
enamel or acrylic paint.
CHooSe tHe mAterIALS

Use concrete stepping stones and
roadbase as a foundation, with H4
treated pine for the footing plates and
baseboards. The rest of the structure
can be built from H3 treated pine.
Hardwood can be used instead of
treated pine, but keep the section sizes
ryKbi one+ CKrdless Impact Driver,

cKLsKle KLly, $99. ryKbi.cKm.au
Picture (toP left) ThinksTock
DIY> $1030
outdoor
Fasteners
Use 65mm x 10g exterior timber
screws for the main structure,
including the footing plates, stud
walls, base and top plates, capping
and trellis frame. Attach the
cladding boards to the stud walls
with 40 x 2mm galvanised nails.
Skip the back-breaking excavation

with this easy-build water feature.
101
outdoor
build the
pond
trellis
capping
trellis
battens
post
pond
frames
base rail
spirit
level
ledger
post
studs
ledger
footing
plates
concrete
pavers
baseplate
roadbase
Build the trellis
Assemble the pond front, back

and side frames. Make the trellis
by securing the battens to the base
rail, posts and arch then add the
capping. Attach the ledgers to the
back frame then secure the trellis
through the posts with screws.
Prepare the pond site
Set out the pond using marking

paint and position stepping stones at
the corners. Dig 100mm deep trenches
between then Jll with roadbase and
use a straightedge to check for level
in all directions. Add extra roadbase
to adjust the height if needed.
Lay the footing plates
Compact the roadbase then drill

5mm clearance holes at an angle on
the inner and outer edges of the
footing plates. Secure with skewed
screws, check for square by comparing
the diagonals, check for level and
make any necessary adjustments.
lining
studs
top
plate
top
capping
cladding
lining
footing
plate
pond
liner
baseplate
flashing
baseboard
Build the box
Join the frames by securing

screws through the inside of the
studs, then use screws to attach
the box to the footing plates.
Attach the lining then add corner
bead cut from 30 x 30mm treated
pine quad in the corners.
Secure the pond liner
Use scrap bricks to build up the

inside of the pond so the maximum
water depth will be 300mm or less.
Add Jne sand to Jll the gaps and cover
the bricks with a layer 20mm thick.
Fold the pond liner neatly in the
corners and staple it to the top plates.
Add the fnishing touches
Fill the pond with water, attach

the liner capping and trim the liner.
Secure the baseboards using screws
and attach the fashing with silicone
then add the corner and top rails.
Secure the cladding with equal overlap
and Jnish with the top capping.
103
outdoor
138
Pond in A box
measurements in mm
1200
TreLLiS
CAPPing
ArCH
575
38
HorizonTAL
BATTenS
63
ArcH setout
PoST
100
75
100
200
VerTiCAL
BATTenS
1300
275
LedgerS
2000
SLoT For
PumP HoSe
BASe
rAiL
ToP
CAPPing
100
Liner
CAPPing
Corner
BeAd
600
598
Lining
ToP
PLATeS
Corner
BoArd
42
42
STudS
475
1150
42
479
1150
23
ToP
rAiL
1200
90
CLAdding
1200
FLASHing
BASePLATe
970
140
BASeBoArd
FooTing
PLATe
cuttinG list
PArt
siZe
90
no.
cd exterior PlYWood
LiLiLg
600 x 970 x 12
2
600 x 946 x 12
2
H4 treAted Pine
FootiLg plates
1200 x 138 x 42 2
924 x 138 x 42
2
Baseboards
1188 x 140 x 19 2
1150 x 140 x 19 2
H3 treAted Pine
Studs
475 x 90 x 42
20
Baseplates
1150 x 90 x 42
2
970 x 90 x 42
2
Top plates
1150 x 90 x 42
4
970 x 90 x 42
4
CorLer bead
600 x 30 x 30
4
Ledgers
1150 x 90 x 42
2
Posts
2000 x 138 x 42 2
Base rail
1100 x 138 x 42 1
HorizoLtal battHLs
1100 x 42 x 42
5
104
VHrtical battHLs
Arch
TrHllis cappiLg
LiLHr cappiLg
CorLHr boards
Top rail
CladdiLg
Top cappiLg
AluMiniuM AnGle
FlashiLg
1300 x 42 x 42
1150 x 138 x 42
1200 x 138 x 42
1150 x 90 x 19
970 x 90 x 19
479 x 90 x 42
1054 x 42 x 42
970 x 42 x 42
1054 x 140 x 19
970 x 140 x 19
1300 x 240 x 42
820 x 240 x 42
4
1
1
2
2
6
1
2
4
8
2
2
1054 x 25 x 25
970 x 25 x 25
1
2
Handyman.net.au
GG GHliHe tG dGwHlGad the tGGls, materials
aHd cGsts tG build this pGHd iH a bGx.
LANDSCAPE
SOLUTION
AFTER
The borders of the garden beds are
defned and the grass cant encroach.
106
OUTDOOR
Lay TIMBER
EDGING
Create a defned border between the
lawn and garden in an afternoon
WoRDs aND PICTuREs JeCCa blake
veryone likes a carpet of lush

green grass but no-one likes
runners that creep their way
into garden beds and under plants,
making it a constant battle to
maintain a tidy edge.
A simple solution to stop grass
invading beds is to install edging.
Its affordable and can be done in half
a day, dramatically decreasing the
time spent on garden maintenance.
On this coastal property, treated
pine sleepers were used to defne
a border between the murraya hedge
and buffalo grass.
A trench was dug and
lengths of timber buried
to half their height in the
soil, with hardwood stakes
positioned in the bed to
support the edging.
A few runners may work
their way under the edging
but they are easy to pull out.
If after a few years the
beFOre
level of the edging drops too
low it can be lifted out and
buffalo gr as s cr
HHps righP up Po
a row
of hHdging, blur
a layer of sand added before
ring PhH bounda
riHs.
replacing the timber.
Cut tHe timber

For this project, choose H4 grade
treated pine which is specifcally for
in-ground use outdoors. It is treated
to resist rot and insect attack.
We used 3000 x 200 x 50mm
sleepers buried to half their width
underground. This created a raised
edge, making it easier to use a line
trimmer to cut the grass.
If the sleepers are too long to
transport in your vehicle you could
ask the supplier to cut them down for
you, but this will make it much harder
to get a straight border and affect the
overall look of the edging.
tiP Drill clearance holes in the
hardwood stakes and use galvanised
screws to secure them if theres a lot
of movement in the ground.
H4 trHaPHd PinH SlHHpHrs,

3000 x 200 x 50JJ,
aboOP $12 Hach, froJ bOnnings.
Handyman.nHt.au NOVEMBER 2013
107
INSTALL
THE
EDGING
HEDGE
borDEr
SpIrIT
LEvEL
TApE
mEASurE
SHovEL
TrENcH
GrASS
Mark the border
To mark the position of the border,

measure the area and set a stringline.
Choose the size of treated pine to be
used for the edging and carefully select
straight lengths that are as long as
possible to reduce the number of joints.
Check the level
Dig the trench
Use a square-nose shovel to

excavate a trench for the edging to
a depth of half the width of the timber,
making sure the wall and base is fat so
the edging sits straight. Remove any
large roots, rocks or debris in the way.
Measure from the base to the

top of the trench to check the height
is uniform all the way along and use
a spirit level to check the base is level,
then remove or add soil in places if
needed, frming it down.
HAmmEr
GALvANISED
NAIL
mALLET
EDGING
corNEr
STAkE
bAckfILL
EDGING
GArDEN
bED
EDGING
GrASS
STAkE
TrENcH
Position the timber
Lay the timber lengths end to end

in the trench following a set stringline
and tap down with a lump hammer or
mallet. Position hardwood stakes
evenly along the edging to hold it in
place, tapping them into the soil.
108
Join the corners
Butt the end of a length of timber

against the side of another to take the
edging around a corner, hammering
in galvanised nails skewed at 45 to
secure the two pieces.
TIP Drill pilot holes to prevent splitting.
Backfll with soil
Use the soil that was dug up

when excavating the trench to fll
the garden bed behind the edging,
frming it down by hand as you go.
Add a layer of bark mulch in the bed
to suppress weeds and retain moisture.
ARE
GGrden edging is G simple DIY option thGt comeI in rollI
of plGItic, metGl Gnd pine. JuIt cut off whGt you need Gnd
Iecure it with pegI or ItGkeI in the IGme mGteriGl.
Tough, durGble Gnd fexible, edging rollI Gre
ideGl for curved boundGrieI. ChooIe the mGteriGl
thGt beIt IuitI the Ityle of gGrden.
n Plastic iI eGIy to mGnipulGte Gnd cGn be uIed to
mGke tree guGrdI. ChooIe G UV ItGbiliIed product.
n Pine edging iI treGted to reIiIt rot Gnd creGteI Gn
GttrGctive, nGturGl-looking border.
n metal edging iI mGde from gGlvGniIed Iteel Io it
iI Itrong, durGble Gnd wont ruIt.
HOMES
icon Plastics 125mm

Garden edge, $30 for 10m.
GconplastGcs.com.au
picture (right top) GeTTY ImaGes
Rockdale corrugated
150mm Garden edgGng, $22
for 6m, from BunnGngs.
Rolapak treated PGne

150mm ezy edge, $20
for 3m, from BunnGngs.
Get more online

Visit handyman.net.au/mag for the instructions on how
to build a raised vegie patch using timber sleepers.
SHERLOCK
WHEELBARROWS
S L K 0 1 0 / H M
Choosing the material
AUSSIE
HOMES
easy install garden wall
Treated with a merbau stain fHr a rich

fnish, the three stacked sleepers with
capping reach abHut 650mm high.
sPiriT
level
600mm
wAll
sPiriT
level
corner
PosT
sTringline
end
PosT
joiner
PosT
bAse
sleePer
bAse
sleePer
1 secure THe end PosTs by diTTinT
2 insTAll THe joiner PosTs usinT
3 Build THe corners by concreting
two 550mm deep hoPeU and poUitioninT

the 1100mm poUtU. Pour in concrete up
to 600mm from the top of the poUt, uUinT
a Upirit PeveP to check for pPumb.
TiP A 20kT baT of cement mixed with
TraveP and Uand fPPU three hoPeU.
a strinTline as a Tuide then puttinT

a base sleeper in each end post. Position
the joiner posts then diT 550mm deep
hoPes and concrete them into position.
UUe a Upirit PeveP to pPumb, aPiTninT them
with the UtrinTPine and PeavinT to dry.
the corner posts in position, using

a builders square to install the
sleepers at 90 to the wall.
TiP To build steps later add a 1200mm
deep and 2400mm wide recessed area,
incorporatinT four corner posts.
Build a boundary without using fasteners, spending just

$400 on a D.I.Y. galvanised post system for pine sleepers
uilding a lRw wall is an effective

way tR deal with landscape issues
such as a slRping Rr terraced site.
Walls can alsR We used tR create raised
Weds in gardens with pRRr Rr WRggy sRil.
Using the Retain-iT systeT a DIYer
can install a garden wall in a weekend Rr
even just Rne day. The systeT uses
galvanised pRsts with treated pine
sleepers. FRr this prRject, treated pine
capping and a set Rf steps were added.
TR start, estaWlish the line Rf the
wall, excavating 200TT Wehind it, then
use a laser level Rr duTpy level tR set
the fnished height Rf the wall either end,
setting Rut a stringline as a guide.
be sure tR install drainage Wehind
the wall using geRtech flter clRth,
agUR pipe and gravel.
TIP Check lRcal cRuncil regulatiRns tR
fnd Rut if yRu need apprRval frst.
CalCUlaTIng THe MaTerIalS

measure the length Rf the wall, set the
pRsts at the right distance tR Tatch the
sleeper sizes and Tultiply the spaces
Wetween pRsts Wy the nuTWer Rf vertical
sleepers tR fnd hRw Tany yRu need.
This prRject used 1100TT pRsts fRr

a 600TT wall, which is three sleepers
high with a sleeper thickness Rf 75TT.
It needed 15 sleepers at 2400TT lRng
plus six each Rf 1200 and 1800TT fRr
16 Tetres Rf wall with steps in Rne panel.
Simple post system

MadM Lrom high tMnsilM galvanisMd
stMMl thM RMtaiR-iT posts arM a sTmplM
solutToR Lor trMatMd pTRM walls.
ALtMr thM posts arM coRcrMtMd TRto
posTtToR thM trMatMd pTRM slMMpMrs arM
droppMd TRto thM 40mm dMMp rMcMssMs
wTth Ro LastMRMrs rMquTrMd.
ThM posts comM TR thrMM hMTghts
Lor walls 200, 400 aRd 600mm hTgh, to
Ut 50 aRd 75mm thTck slMMpMrs.
whTtMsgroup.com.au
JoIner PoST
end PoST
Corner PoST
AgfLo
pipe
400mm
CoRneR
poST
wALL
bUgLe
SCRew
MiTRed
CoRneR
bASe
SLeepeR
pine CApping
4 SloT In THe SleePerS, positioning
5 InSTall draInage with a geotech
the base sleepers frst. Level and pack

them to leave 400mm oL post above,
then install the middle and top rows.
TIP Check the height oL the top sleeper
matches the post so the capping sits
fush along the wall.
flter cloth positioned behind the wall

and Lolded over the sleepers. Lay 20m oL
100mm agfo pipe with clear exits at the
ends then cover with 20mm gravel to
300mm deep, Lolding the cloth back to
separate the drainage and backfll.
6 fInISH THe wall by adding capping.
Square cut and mitre the capping then

apply construction adhesive to the ends
and secure to the sleepers with 75mm
x 14g galvanised bugle screws. Use
a router with a roundover bit to trim the
edges. Apply two coats oL decking stain.
For blooms within 12 weeks, get

these Fower seeds in the ground.
n AfricAn mArigold
n cAliforniAn poppy
n mexicAn sunflower
n sAlviA
n vincA
n choose a frangipani to add

colour and fragrance to the garden,
and learn how to propagate them
from stem cuttings, on page 118.
n grow French or runner beans
in the vegie patch for a summer
harvest of Favour-packed pods,
from page 126.
n ZAp aphids before these
sap-sucking insects take hold,
using natural methods
to keep edibles and
ornamentals safe from
attack, see page 132.
Start growing these vegies for

fresh ingredients to use for
summer salads and barbies.
n Borlotti BeAns
n chilli
n squAsh
n tomAto
n Zucchini
November marks the end of spring

and is the time to get the garden
ready for the heat of summer
For a colourful display up high,
line wire baskets with coir
then Gll with potting mix
and plant with summer
Fowering annuals.
Hang the basket from
a pergola or verandah
beam, or secure a hook in
an exterior wall, making sure
the fastener can take the
weight of the basket.
Choose a sunny location with
easy access for watering, as
baskets will dry out faster
than pots on the ground.
116
NOVEMbEr 2013 AAsBralian handyman
n cut
the dead leaves

off spring bulbs to
keep them tidy.
n pinch tips off
summer annuals
to encourage
bushy growth.
n trim back
spring-Fowering
shrubs and trees after
theyve bloomed.
Give these plants an application

of a fertiliser specially formulated
for the species.
n AZAleA
n rhododendron
n cAmelliA
n gArdeniA
n orchid
garden
The end of spring is a great time to

sow sweetcorn seeds for a summer
harvest or transplant seedlings into
the garden in cold climates.
Sow SEEDS 25mm deep in three
rows about two metres long, for
a block that will keep the average
family in corn for weeks.
The seeds germinate within
two weeks and most varieties are
ready to harvest from 12 weeks.
PLAnt SEEDLingS in a block,
spaced about 250mm apart
in each direction.
The wind will cross
pollinate block-grown
plants when in fower.
tiP Water sweetcorn
PLAnting
regularly while the
SEEDLingS
crops are growing.
pictures thinkstock, gEtty imagEs
Prepare your garden beds for

the long, hot days of summer
in three easy steps.
CHECK watering and irrigation
systems to make sure theyre
working effciently,
replacing worn or
broken fttings.
APPLY soil wetters to garden beds

and water plants at the roots.
Ensure transplants, seedlings,
leafy vegies and plants in Eower
are kept moist so they survive the
transition to hotter, drier weather.
SPREAD mulch over beds to keep
plant roots cool and help the soil
retain moisture, making sure
its not too thick or it will act as
a barrier to water penetration.
BLoCK-gRown
PLAntS
BuDDLEjA Buzz
VELVEt
Known for their fower spikes,

easy-care buddlejas are stars in
large gardens. For small spaces,
Aussie Winners has come to the
rescue with the Buddleja Buzz
series (aussiewinners.com.au).
In ivory, blue, purple or magenta
these dwarf plants grow to 1.5m
and can be kept to under a metre
with pruning. They do well in pots
and look great mass-planted.
HaBdymaB.BeD.aC NOVEMbEr 2013
117
FRANGIPANI
For the scent of summer, add an

easy-care potted frangipani to
the deck, balcony or garden.
118
GarDEN
PLant
PrOFILe
Add a touch of the tropics to your yard

with an easy propagation technique
Words Jecca BLake
pictures sHuTTersTock, GeTTy imAGes, THinksTock
est known as a small tree

featuring fragrant white blooms
with distinctive yellow centres,
frangipanis actually come in more
than 300 different varieties.
Native to Central America and
Mexico, frangipanis belong to the
Plumeria genus and are a small to
medium deciduous tree.
Frangipanis have glossy dark green
foliage, and the stems and leaves
contain milky white sap. The fowers
come in shades of pink, yellow,
orange, red and even purple.
Relatively slow growing, the
majority reach up to about eight
Going native
The Australian rainforest tree
HymeHosporum favum is called
the Hative fraHgipaHi because of
its creamy yellow, sweet-smelliHg
fowers but is Hot related to the
Plumeria species. GrGwiHg well iH
mGst areas Gf the cGuHtry, its aH
natIve
FrangIPanI
evergreeH tree that reaches 20m.

The braHches grGw iH hGrizGHtal
layers aHd the glGssy, dark greeH
leaves have hairy uHdersides.
metres high and four metres wide,

making them a great choice for
small gardens. The dwarf varieties
are ideal for growing in pots.
As frangipanis are frost tender
they grow well in the warm coastal
areas of Australia, but with a bit of
TLC can be container grown in
slightly cooler zones.
They are very tolerant of dry
conditions and once established they
dont really need much watering
except during long periods of drought.
In tHe garden
Frangipanis can cope with light sea
breezes but prefer protection from
strong winds. In cooler climates, its
essential to give them the warmest
and sunniest spot in the garden.
If grown in pots, move them
to a sheltered area in late autumn, in
a north-facing position against a brick
wall where at night the tree will get
the heat stored from the day.
A frangipani tree is perfect for
creating summer shade and letting
in winter sun when its leaves drop.
Hang small baskets planted with
brightly coloured pansies or petunias
from the branches of a bare tree in
winter to brighten up the garden.
tIP The variety with yellow-throated
white fowers is the most commonly
grown and earliest to fower.
H9ndym9n.net.9u NOVEMBER 2013
119
GARDEN
Frangipanis grow well in most

types of soil but good
drainage is essential.
PoSItIoN in a location
that receives at least
six hours of sun a day.
They tolerate part
shade but grow faster
and fower better
in a sunny spot.
wAtEr young
trees during
the growing season
until established
then only during
extended dry periods.
Let pot plants dry
out between waterings.
FEED with organic
fertiliser high in phosphorous
when the leaves appear, to
encourage lots of fowering
and strong root growth.
Use a liquid seaweed solution every
14 days during the growing season.
MULCH the soil to keep the roots
cool in summer and warm in winter,
retain moisture and suppress weeds.
To avoid stem rot problems,
dont apply mulch near the trunk.
PrUNE only to shape the tree and

maintain the size during late winter or
early spring before leaf growth starts.
For a compact, dense and leafy
tree, prune branches back by a third
to half their length, creating lots of
shoots near the pruned ends.
Make cuts vertical so sap drips off
and water cant penetrate the branch.
wAtCH For stem rot caused by frost,
drought, lack of sunlight or old age,
pruning any dry or withered growth
back to healthy tissue.
Frangipani rust causes orange
pustules to appear on the underside
of leaves while the tops go brown.
Gather and destroy fallen foliage,
then spray the tree with fungicide in
the warm months and again in winter
as a preventative measure.
YaLes rose Shield InsecLicide, MiLicide

& FunMicide, $13 for 200ml. yaLes.com.au
CHooSINg A vArIEtY
FrangRpanRs are selecSed bL colour, so vRsRS Lour local nurserL So buL one Rn Power ShaS suRSs She clRmaSe of She area,
or go onlRne So buL a Sree from a specRalRsS supplRer lRke SunshRne coasS FrangRpanR Farm (frangRpanRfarm.com.au).
BLack ReD
n Dark red fowers
n Spicy perfume
120
canDy StRiPe
n WhRSe, red and Lellow So
orange sSrRped Power
ceRiSe
monSoon
n HoS pRnk blooms wRSh
n Round orange Powers
orange cenSres
wRSh a pRnk blush
n Grows up So 4m high
n SweeS perfume
n Grows So 5m hRgh and wRde
n Red veRnRng on blooms
n Reaches 4m wRde
n Grows up So 9m hRgh
n Peachy sweeS scenS
n Grows So 4m hRgh
n For warmer zones
n Reaches 9m wRde
n Long, sSrappL peSals
n HRghlL scenSed
picture [left) tHinkStock
How to grow
Propagating from a stem

Frangipanis are easily propagateF from a stem in early
spring or winter when there is less sap movement.
FinF a broken piece of branch or cut one off the tree
anF trim the enF. Leave the cutting outsiFe for a couple
of weeks to Fry out the Lilky sap in the steL, allowing
the cut to heal anF Fevelop a callus.
Pot up the steL cutting in a gooF quality potting Lix
anF in a few weeks it will forL roots anF grow leaves.
TIP Water regularly Furing the growing season.
cutting
stem
handsaW
Pot
1 CUT off PIECEs of

l
steL about 300LL long
using a hanFsaw, being
careful to not tear the
bark, then scrape one
enF with a sharp knife.
2 PlanT THE sTEM into

l
a container PlleF with

potting Lix anF water in.
TIP Plant large cuttings
600LL Feep in a beF anF
stake until establisheF.
ButteR yeLLoW
singaPoRe White
n ViviF yellow petals
n Large white fowers
n Large fower clRsters
n dark green leaves
n heavy blooLer
n grows up to 5L high
n sweet fragrance
n Reaches 5L wiFe
n grows Rp to 3L high
n evergreen in warL areas
spring
bloomers
CLASSIC CLIvIAS
The harbAngers of sprAng, clAvAas

brAng vAbrant colour to the garden.
122
NOVEMBER 2013 AustralAan Handyman
GARDEN
These landscape lovelies colour up a shady corner and

can be divided after spring fowering for lots more plants
Words and projecTs AdAm WoodHAmS
hether you grow them in

beds or pots, clivias are
among the most versatile,
hardy and beautiful plants you can
include in your landscape.
Given the right position theyll
reward you with luxuriant foliage and
blooms with a minimum of care.
The standard colour is salmon
but they also come in near white,
buttery yellow and fame orange.
Leaves are emerald green, varying
from long and narrow to very broad.
Clivia miniata, the most often
seen species, fowers in late winter
but C. nobilis and C. caulescens can
bloom a couple of times a year.
TIP Variegated forms are available but
are costly and often unstable, reverting
to plain green as the plant matures.
A good ProvIder
Clivias are showy but surprisingly
low maintenance and are easy to grow
from seed or propagate by division.
Over time clivias naturally form
an ever-expanding clump in beds,
while in pots they can become too
crowded to perform well.
After spring fowering,
a large garden clump or
root-bound container plant
can be divided for lots more
clivias that can be potted up.
Most clivias set a large
number of seeds every
year. These take a year to
ripen so its not unusual to
see a plant fowering while
holding a ripe seed-head from
the previous season.
Selective breeding
Also called kaffr lily, all clivia
species originally hail from
SoutS Africa and Save been mucS
sougSt after since tSeir discovery
by Europeans in about 1815.
TSey were named for Lady
CSarlotte Clive, DucSess of
NortSumberland, wSo frst
cultivated tSem in tSe UK.
Today tSe most
desirable Sybrids
come from CSina,
after decades of
extensive breedinT.
Certain top quality
varieTated forms can sell
for tSousands of dollars.
Dividing a clump
picTures (lefT) ShUTTERSToCK (righT cenTre) ThiNKSToCK
To lift a plant from tSe Tarden, drive in a spade from tSe edTe at 45, workinT your way around until tSe entire clump
comes loose tSen remove most of tSe soil from tSe roots. TIP You may need to break tSe pot to free a crowded plant.
RooTS
DiviDED
pLANT
LEAvES
poTTiNg mix
poTTED
CLiviAS
1 CUT THe rooTS for plants witS

l
100mm of rSizome and a leaf set.
Remove any soRl and damaTed roots.
TrRm tSe leaves by a tSRrd and put Rn
a cool, dry spot untRl tSe cuts seal.
2 Add eACH PLANT to a pot part-Ulled

l
wRtS pottRnT mRx, Sold Rt uprRTSt and
backUll around tSe roots and rSRzome,
UrmRnT tSe mRx down.
TIP Use tSe same metSod Rn beds.
3 PoSITIoN THe PoTS Rn a sSady

l
spot and water Rn tSe plants well.
Dont keep clRvRas too moRst wSRle
tSey establRsS, as tSRs can lead to
funTal problems and rot.
123
GARDEN
How to grow
The roots and leaves of clivias grow
from a feshy rhizome that branches
out, creating offsets or pups that in
turn shoot new leaves.
Clivias need free-draining soil
and dont like frost but tolerate heavy
shade. In cold climates they are often
grown as indoor plants.
PoSItIoN in a warm, shady spot with
protection from afternoon sun. The
dappled light under trees is ideal.
wAtEr regularly in spring and
summer but let them dry out in
autumn and winter. Clivias are quite
drought-tolerant but wont survive
wet feet, so dont use pot saucers.
FEED in spring after Cowering with
an all-purpose fertiliser and give them
regular applications of seaweed tonic.
ProPAgAtE by division or grow from
seed after Cowering. Divided plants
usually Cower in
two years while
seed-grown plants
take four to six.
tIP Wear gloves to
handle clivias, as
they contain low
levels of alkaloids
that irritate skin.
Scotts osmocote Multi PuPpose PottinM
Mix, $8 foP 25L. scLttsaustPalia.cLm.au
YellLN vaPieties can be expensive,

sL alNays buy in blLLm if yLu Nant
clivias in a paPticulaP cLlLuP.
Growing from seed

Spring is when clivia seeds are ripe and ready. Sow them in pots and the frst leaves shoSld be visible in a month or two.
The seeds have a high viability rate sT yTS may be able tT grTw 20 Tr mTre plants a year frTm a single plant.
Seed
beRRy
SkinS
beRRieS
STalk
SeedS
Seed-RaiSing
mix
1 trIM tHE SEED HEAD Ssing

l
secateSrs then remTve the berries.
tIP The ripe berry skin indicates the
fTwer cTlTSr, with red fTr Trange
and yellTw fTr white blTTms.
124
2 rUB tHE BErrIES tT remTve the

l
3 PoSItIoN tHE SEEDS 30mm

l
feshy skin and reveal a nSmber Tf

pearl-like seeds with near transparent
skin that is alsT best remTved.
tIP Reject withered Tr very small seeds.
apart in pTts Tf seed-raisinR mix.

PSsh the seeds dTwn sT a small area
shTws and water in. Sprinkle mix Tn
the seeds if they becTme expTsed.
Picture (toP) adam woodhamS
SecaTeuRS
- a aa a a a
a a
& a . W a a
aa a , a
aa , -
aa
a , a
.
* aa a 922-06 2331.3.1 aa - , aa, 3.9
aa a .
Mela 4035
growing
guide
full of beans
Get seeds into the ground now for a bumper summer
harvest of fresh, sweet and crunchy pods
Words ArTemis gouros
asy to grow and tasty to eat,

beans are a top backyard crop.
Part of the legume family, these
podded vegies are a good source of
vitamins B and C, and fbre.
Fast growers, they provide
abundant fresh food for little work,
adding colour to the vegie patch when
in full Cower and laden with pods.
Late spring is the time to sow
seeds for a summer harvest but you
can grow beans all year in tropical
to subtropical regions and spring to
autumn in temperate to cool climates.
Beans are at their most tasty

and sweet right after picking, before
their natural sugars turn to starch.
Harvest pods when young to prevent
them getting tough and stringy.
TiP Beans freeze well and varieties
like kidney and haricot can be dried.
FrencH vs runner
Beans are divided into two main types
called French and runner. Both have
climbing and dwarf bush plants.
FrencH varieties include snap, string,
kidney, haricot, borlotti and more.
The pods range from long and

thin to full and fat in green, yellow,
purple and red, and the beans also
come in different colours.
runner or perennial beans grow
and produce all summer and autumn
then die down in winter when they go
dormant, emerging again in spring.
Most are climbers that feature
red Cowers and large seeds in green
pods. Certain types have white, pink
or multicoloured blooms.
TiP Runner beans are hardier than
French and better suited to cool areas.
Planting runner beans

Ideal for small gardens, runner beans take up little room if theyre grown on a tripod or wigwam. Plants tied loosely
when they are young will usually Ilimb naturally.
rIdgePole
seedlIng
WIgWam
tWIne
seedlIng
bamboo
cane
1 PLAnT seedLings in spring

l
every 150mm in double rows
spaIed about 600mm apart.
126
2 mAke A wigwAm by tying the

l
tops of bamboo Ianes with twine to

make triangles, adding a ridgepole.
3 guide THe sTems up the Ianes

l
from inside the wigwam. Water
regularly in hot, dry weather.
Garden
Three bean salad with lemon and walnut dressing
picture (top) GeTTy imaGes
PreParation time 10 mins

Cooking time 7 mins
SerVeS 4
ingreDientS
8 thick baguette slices
2 tablespoons olive oil
Grated zest of 2 lemons, juGce of 1
3 tablespoons honey
1 clove garlGc, crushed
3 tablespoons walnut oGl
200g green beans
400g can red kGdney beans
400g can butter beans
1 PreHeat tHe griLL to hot. Brush
l
the baguette slGces wGth half the olGve

oGl. Toast on the grGll pan for 2 mGnutes
or untGl golden. Turn and brush wGth the

remaGnGng oGl and toast for 2 mGnutes.
Cut Gnto croutons and set asGde to cool.
2 to make tHe DreSSing, whGsk the
l
lemon zest and juGce, honey, garlGc and
walnut oGl Gn a large bowl. TrGm the
green beans then draGn the red kGdney
beans and butter beans.
3 Put tHe green beanS Gn a pan.
l
Cover wGth boGlGng water and brGng back
to the boGl then sGmmer for 3 mGnutes or
untGl lGghtly cooked but stGll crunchy.
DraGn the beans, shake off the cookGng
water and toss Gn the dressGng.
4 aDD tHe otHer beanS and toss
l
well. DGvGde the salad among four
bowls, scatter wGth croutons and spoon
over any remaGnGng dressGng to serve.
bean SaLaD
127
Garden
How to grow
French and runner beans are frost
tender, warm-season crops. Dont
grow them where you have raised
beans or peas in the last few years.
Sow seeds 50mm deep in moist soil
with a pH of 5.5 to 7 in a sunny
position sheltered from wind.
Dig in well-rotted compost frst
then make a trench.
Space dwarf varieties every
bEAn rUSt
200mm in staggered double
rows, and climbers 300mm apart.
Earth up the soil around the
stems of dwarf seedlings and give
climbers some support.
wAtEr regularly in hot weather to
prevent wilting. Increase water when
in Iower and the pods begin to swell,
making sure the soil never dries out.
MULCH seedlings by spreading organic
matter on top of the soil to retain
moisture and promote growth.
HArVESt from eight to 12 weeks
when the pods are 170mm or shorter,
so theyre young and tender.
Dwarf varieties crop for a shorter
period than climbers.
Picking beans regularly, two or
three times a week, encourages new
Let bean pods hang on a healthy
Iowers and more vegies.
plant for as long as possible
wAtCH For slugs and snails, picking
before
the risk of any autumn
them off the leaves of young plants.
frosts then pick and remove the
Plants can suffer from fungal
seeds from the pods.
diseases like bean rust. If leaves drop,
Put them in a paper bag then
wither or yellow, and brown or red
label and store it in an airtight
spots appear on the foliage, pods and
container in a cool place until
stems, apply a fungicide.
planting time next spring.
tIP To prevent fungal issues, water
at ground level, rotate crops and
choose disease-resistant varieties.
128
MM FILheMgills runneM bean, aHIuL $4.

mMfILheMgills.cIm.au
picture getty images
Harvesting seeds
choosing a variety
GroN the beans that LoR like to eat, choosing a varietL to sRit LoRr climate and
space. Pick dNarf varieties for pots and groN climbers in beds Nith sRpports.
JaDE stRiNGLEss
CHERokEE wax
n French dwarf variety
n French dNarf varietL
n RoRnd pods Rp to 170mm long
n FleshL LelloN pods
n Disease resistant
n Good Lields
n Rich favoRr
n FRll PavoRr
BoRLotti
sCaRLEt RuNNER
n French dwarf variety
n Climbing rRnner bean
n Red and green streaked pods
n Red-PoNering earlL varietL
n Pick yoRng as a green bean
n Large, bright green pods
n Excellent for drying
n HeavL cropper that needs sRpport
PuRPLE kiNG
n French climber
PaiNtED LaDy
n Climbing rRnner bean
n Long pRrple pods to 180mm
n Bears orange and Nhite PoNers
n Needs a tripod or canes
n Heirloom seed tLpe
n HeavL bearer
n Long, tender green pods
November is the last

month of Spring, and your last opportunity
to get the garden ready for Summer.
In temperate and cool climates the next
few months might be very dry, so make
sure you keep your garden beds well
watered and mulched. Mulch will help
keep the soil moist, reduce evaporation,
and provide much needed organic
materials throughout the Summer.
November is still a relatively mild month
in most areas, which provides an opportunity to get more Summer annuals
growing. Marigolds
begin blooming in
as little as 4 weeks,
and Mower right
through to Autumn.
Nasturtiums are
also fast growing,
produce attractive
Mowers, make
excellent ground covers, are known for
pest-repelling properties and you can
also eat their leaves and Mowers!
November is also great for planting
more beans in fact varieties such as the
Snake Bean and Soybean need higher
soil temperatures and are
therefore best planted
after 1st November.
Chillies also prefer
higher soil temperatures
so sow their seeds directly in
the garden now.You can also
plant small fruited tomatoes that ripen
quickly. Other veggies you can continue
to plant in most areas include favourites
such as Lettuce, Capsicum, Eggplant,
Silverbeet, Pak Choi, Leek, Cucumber,
Zucchini, Pumpkin, Squash, Sweet Corn,
Carrot, Rocket and Beetroot.
Christmas craft projects

Get into the festive spirit and add a personal touch
to the home with simple and low-cost decorations
festive drink coAsters
1 wrAp electricAl tApe around square tiles to create
various patterns. Use small high gloss tiles such as Johnson

97 x 97mm Mosaic Wall Tiles.
2 pAint crAftwood sHApes with different Christmas
colours, then attach them to the front of the tiles using craft
glue. Boyle Five Point Stars are the ideal size.
3 seAl tHe coAsters with Bondall Monocel Gloss Clear
Timber Varnish to make them waterproof and easy to clean.
130
rustic tAble centrepiece
1 cut cHicken wire into a 1000 x 1500mm rectangle using
wire cutters, then roll the wire to form curves. Use gloves to
protect your hands from scratches.
2 tHreAd gArden brAncHes through the chicken wire,
then spray the foliage with metallic paint such as Dulux

Spraypak Silver Enamel Spray Paint.
3 decorAte tHe centrepiece with lights, candles and
baubles to create a Christmas glow on the table.
DIY Workshops
Brush up your knowledge and gain new skills
with workshops for everyone, including the kids
HIliday fFHtivitiFH
Bring the family into your local Bunnings on Thursday 5th of December (Wednesday 4th of
December in WA) from 6:00pm to 8:00pm and enjoy a fun and festive evening. Activities will
include D.I.Y. workshops for both adults and kids as well as an appearance from Santa!
saturDaY 2 november
outDoor buIlDIng Projects
kIDs worksHoP wooDwork
sunDaY 17 november
outDoor entertaInIng
kIDs worksHoP nature
sunDaY 3 november
outDoor buIlDIng Projects
kIDs worksHoP mosaIcs
saturDaY 23 november
kIDs worksHoP art class
saturDaY 9 november
DeckIng
kIDs worksHoP sPrIng
sunDaY 24 november
kIDs worksHoP Fun wItH PaInt
sunDaY 10 november
DeckIng
kIDs worksHoP garDen craFt
PrePare For cHrIstmas
kIDs worksHoP santas lIttle HelPer
as lIttle HelPer
kIDs worksHoP nature
sunDaY 1 December
PrePare For cHrIstmas
kIDs worksHoP santas lIttle HelPer
Our workshops are held every weekend at 11am, 12.30pm and 2pm. For speciVc topics, ask in-store or go
to bunnings.com.au. If you live in South Australia, speak to a team member about one-on-one sessions.
lADYBiRD eAting
An ApHiD
pest
clinic
ERADICATE APHIDS
Blast these sap suckers off the plants in your garden
before they eat their way through new spring growth
WoRDS ARteMis gOUROs
132
NOVEMBER 2013 AustralAan Handyman
MetHODs Of cOntROl
Aphids multiply rapidly, so a control
program is very important.
picK aphids off by hand and squash
them, making sure to wear gloves.
BlAst aphids from plants by hosing
regularly with a strong jet of water.
Wipe off indoor plants with a cotton
ball dipped in methylated spirits.
spRAY plants with insecticide, using
low-toxicity formulas to protect
edibles, pets and benefcial insects.
AttRAct natural predators like

ladybirds into the garden by planting
achillea or Queen Annes lace.
pRUne and bin heavily infested stems
and shoots to stimulate new growth.
ApHiDs On
A ROseBUD
Mixing home remedies

insects are repelled by garlic and
cayenne pepper, so use it to make
a spray that can be applied to plants
as often as needed.
handle the solution carefully
because capsaicin, the active
ingredient in pepper, is a very
powerful eye and skin irritant.
cOMBine six unpeeled and crushed
garlic cloves with one tablespoon of
cayenne pepper in a clean bucket.
ADD a litre of warm water and stir

the mixture well for one minute
then cover the container and leave
in a location out of direct sunlight,
letting it stand for two days.
stRAin the solution into a plastic
spray bottle and use within 24 hours.
PICTuRE (lEfT ToP) thinkstock
phids are small, soft-bodied

insects that feed on sap and
leave a sticky deposit as they
suck the juice from leaves and stems.
They love nasturtiums but attack
everything from herbs and vegies
to vines, shrubs and trees, including
roses, camellias, stone fruit and citrus.
Aphids can be green, yellow,
pink, brown, grey, black or woolly, and
are only 2mm to 4mm long.
These tiny insects are usually
found clustering in large numbers
on stems, fower buds and leaves,
causing curled or distorted growth.
Populations start building up
in mid and late spring, developing
from small colonies into heavy
infestations in a matter of days.
They dont just destroy new
growth but also spread disease,
transmitting broad bean wilt,
cucumber mosaic and other viruses.
Aphids also secrete a sugar-rich
substance called honeydew that
attracts and feeds a type of fungus
called sooty mould.
garden
SPOTTINg aNd TREaTINg INfESTaTIONS

Aphids usually attack soft, new young growth and can cluster unseen on the underside of leaves. Monitor plants
throughout spring, checking the leaves for signs of aphid activity, and treat infestations immediately.
HERBS
vEgETaBLES
PROBLEM Leaves are distorted,

yellowing or sticky
SOLUTION Companion
plant with nectar-rich
species like scabiosa
or sweet alyssum and
include dill, fennel
and chives to attract
benefcial insects.
PROBLEM Leaves are curled,

puckered or sticky
SOLUTION Spray insecticidal soap
directly onto
aphids. To make
your own, mix
two tablespoons
of pure soap fakes
in a litre of water.
Mr fotherUills fennel Seeds,

$4. mrfotherUills.Som.Tu
Lux Pure SoTp flTkes, Tbout

$7 for 700U, from supermTrkets.
fLOwERS
PROBLEM Insects cluster on

buds and leaves are curled,
distorted or yellowed
SOLUTION Apply
a botanical
insecticide such
as neem, spraying
the foliage in the
early evening.
ESo-neem BotTniSTl InseStiSide, $20
for 100ml. eSoorUTniSUTrden.Som.Tu
SHRUBS
fRUIT TREES
cITRUS SPEcIES
PROBLEM Distorted, sticky leaves

SOLUTION Make a pepper
and garlic spray for
heavily infested
foliage and use as
needed. It will very
effectively protect
roses from both
sucking insects
and fungal issues.
PROBLEM Leaves are misshapen

and stunted
SOLUTION Prune
off and dispose
of infested leaves,
stems and shoots
then spray the tree
with white oil,
making sure to
coat the pests.
PROBLEM Black insects cover new

growth, leaves wither and buds drop
SOLUTION Prune affected shoots
to encourage
new, healthy
growth and
apply pyrethrum,
also spraying
it around the
base of the tree.
cTyenne Pepper ground ExtrT Hot,

$3 for 34U, from coles.
HortiSo white Oil conSentrTte,

$12 for 500ml. hortiSo.Som.Tu
YTtes Pyrethrum InseSt Pest Killer,

Tbout $12 for 200ml. yTtes.Som.Tu
133
AquATIc
uPkeeP
planting a pond
give your water garden a little maintenance now for
a lush display throughout the summer months
Words ArTemIS gOurOS
ate spring is when the water

temperature begins to rise
and marks the beginning of
the year for pond plants.
There are fve types of pond plants.
Deep-water varieties grow over 400mm
deep, shallow from 200 to 400mm,
and marginal at 200mm. Bog plants
grow around the edge and foating
aquatic plants sit on the waters surface.
A good balance of plant types will

stabilise water temperature, reduce
evaporation and algae, oxygenate the
water, provide shade and shelter for
pond life, and help control erosion.
For an easy-care pond, grow deep
and shallow water plants plus marginal
plants in rigid plastic mesh baskets.
TIP Always use a specially formulated
aquatic potting mix for water plants.
AqNapIo roNnd Lily PlantinO BasLet,

220 x 130mm, $4. aqNateHeqNipment.Hom
Planting water lilies

Water lilies are deep-water plants that need a pond depth of 450 to 600mm or more. To pot up for a water garden,
trim the fbrous roots and cut off any dead or rotted sections of the stem or rhizome.
lily
meSh
bASkeT
lily
pond
WATer
heSSiAn
1 LINe THe BASkeT with hessian to

l
keep the growing medium contained
then half-fll with a specialist potting
mix formulated for aquatic plants.
134
grAvel
2 POSITION THe LILy in the centre, add

l
mix to 30mm from the rim and frm it

down. Add coarse graTel, trim the liner
and saturate the mix with pond water.
3 LOwer THe BASkeT into the

l
pond until the shoots reach the
surface. Sit it on bricks if needed and
remoTe them as the plant Srows.
GARDEN
picture THinksTock
Test the water
Most ponds look their best in late spring,

when many plants are in fower and others
are enjoying a surge of new growth.
The health of a pond is delicately

balanced and one of the factors
that negatively affect aquatic
fora and fauna is a change in
the pH of the water.
Testing kits are available
from aquarium and hardware
stores to accurately test the
acidity or alkalinity of pond water.
Readings between 6.5 and
8.5 are good but if the water has
a pH above or below these levels,
plants and Hsh will suffer.
TIP Add peat tA lAwer the pH Ar
baking sAda tA raise it.
135
GARDEN
Keep it HeAltHy
To maintain the delicate balance of
life in your pond, now is the time to
control rampant water plants and
ensure part of the surface is kept clear.
DiViDe plANtS that are overgrown or
old, creating healthy young plants.
tOp Up the gravel in the baskets of
submerged plants to weigh them down.
CleAR weeds from one-third of
the water surface. Use a rake to
drag out big layers of blanket
weed, leaving it on the side
blANKet
overnight to give water snails
WeeD
and benefcial insects a chance
to crawl back into the pond.
tRANSplANt aquatic plants while
in active growth to give them a long
time to establish in their new position
before the onset of winter weather.
GROW oxygenating plants from
150mm long tip cuttings. Tie eight
together at the base then plant each
bunch, with the string buried, at the
bottom of the pond.
plANt three bunches of oxygenating
plants for every square metre of pond.
They absorb minerals and carbon
dioxide in the water and are essential
to maintain its clarity and quality.
ADD foating plants like native
bladderwort and fairy moss to the
surface to provide shade and stop the
build-up of algae and blanket weed.
As the weather gets warmer the water

KeveK of a pond can drop fast, so check
Nt reguKarKy and top up wNth the hose.
CHOOSiNG A VARiety
136
DEEp WaTER
shaLLoW WaTER
ponDsiDE
n Water lily
n Water snowfake
n Japanese sweet fag
n Lotus
n Tall spike rusL
n Canna tropicanna
n Water LawtLorn
n Water poppy
n ElepLEnt eErs
n Water violet
n Ribbon grass
n WEter buttons
pictures gETTy iMagEs, ThinksToCk
Most bEcJMErd ponds Ere creEted using E preformed sLell or dug to E uniform deptL, so tLeir needs Ere simple. Use deep
or sLEllow wEter plEnts tLEt cEn be plEnted Ebout 300mm down, End bog vErieties Eround tLe edge for lEndscEping.
Pixel.
Perfect.
Be a clear winner. Use Antsig

to get a perfect picture.
Heavy duty bracket
design for durability
and sag prevention
VHF
CHANNELS 6 - 12
Integrated balun
design for tight and
secure connection
Machine pressed
front elements
for extra strength
UHF
CHANNELS 28 - 38
To meet the demands of digital broadcasting

Antsig has created the new D-max series of
HD digital antennas.
Designed, tested and engineered in Australia
to perform in all environmental conditions,
these antennas are your link to a perfect picture.
Antenna
Installation
Guide
antsig.com

Australian Handyman 201311

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