Question: We moved into an old home and we are excited to use the wood-burning fireplace. What do we need to do before we use it, so that we don't burn down the house? Any tips? Peter, Lorette
Answer: Before lighting your first fire, inspect the chimney exterior for broken bricks or crumbling mortar. Shine a light inside the chimney, and be on the lookout for bird nests and cracks. Check to make sure that the damper opens and closes properly. Clean the chimney and loose ashes or contact a professional for seasonal maintenance. Retailers also sell chimney sweeping logs which are designed to reduce and treat creosote buildup.
It is also important to note the wood you burn in your fireplace should be seasoned for at least one year before use. Properly seasoned wood burns hotter and creates less creosote.
Question: I have two flannel-backed vinyl tablecloths. They were obviously wrapped in tight plastic packaging for a long time, because they have a lot of deep creases. What methods would you recommend I use to remove the creases without melting the vinyl? Thank you. Joan, Winnipeg
Answer: Fill a bathtub with cool water. Soak the tablecloths in the tub for a couple of hours to drench the creases. Hang tablecloths to dry. If creases persist, cover folds with a damp tea towel and iron on low setting to remove creases.
Question: I own a suede jacket that has a big dirt mark on the sleeve because I fell on my elbow into a puddle. I also have a few scuff marks on the opposite sleeve. What should I use to clean the area? Garry, Randolph
Answer: Hope you are not hurt from the fall! Get rid of scuff marks by rubbing the marks with a pencil eraser and then wiping the nap with your nail brush. Sprinkle the suede fabric with baking soda and then brush the nap back and forth with a damp nail brush. If the suede is a synthetic fabric, you will be able to clean it with plain old water and dish soap. Rinse and let dry. P.S. Love the Neufeld Garage in Randolph, very clever!
Question: Can you please give me a simple recipe for homemade garlic butter? Thanks, Carolyn, Winnipeg
Answer: For the easiest garlic butter recipe, stir together 1 cup softened butter with 1 tablespoon garlic powder. For garlic butter with a kick try the following recipe:
Into a bowl stir together 1 cup softened butter, 1 tbsp. minced garlic, 1 teaspoon garlic salt, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tsp. Italian seasoning salt, 1/4 tsp. black pepper and 1/2 tsp. paprika. Spread on bread before toasting. Store remainder in a sealed container in the fridge.
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