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<title>Latest Articles by goldvein</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/</link>
<description>Articles at Populate.NET</description>
<language>en-us</language>
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<title>Sailing Away on a Luxury Yacht</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Recreation_and_Leisure/Outdoors/Boating/sailing-away-on-a-luxury-yacht.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Recreation_and_Leisure/Outdoors/Boating/sailing-away-on-a-luxury-yacht.html</guid>
<pubDate>Wed, 02 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Most people fantasize about sailing on a luxury yacht, but most people don't quite have $10 million or so to make their fantasy a reality.

Luxury Yachts for Charter

The good news is you can rent a luxury boat or yacht for a few days or a week. Most charter companies provide a full crew, so that you can just relax and enjoy the high life. See how the other half lives on a luxury boat charter and enjoy exquisite surroundings. You'll have all of your meals prepared by a professional chef, and waiters will bring you drinks. The charter company crew members are on hand to provide instructions for water sports like deep sea fishing, scuba diving, or windsurfing. 

You don't need to bring anything with you except your clothes. The boats come fully equipped with everything you'll need including dinnerware and linens. Depending on your choice of route and style, they can also provide scuba equipment, canoes, kayaks and fishing equipment. Before you sail you'll fill out paperwork detailing your requirements. On the food preference sheet you'll list your like and dislikes, and all your drink choices, including sodas, wine, beer and spirits. Then the crew will take care of you in ultimate style. 

Plan an offshore party with up to 12 guests or a romantic getaway for two. It's a great idea for a family vacation. There are a wide variety of charter companies eager to rent out the most luxurious of boats. You can enjoy a few days cruising on a lake or river, or head out to explore the Seven Seas. 

Owning a Luxury Boat

Sailing on a luxury boat is definitely an opulent experience, but if you want to truly consider yourself a potentate, you must own a yacht. Some yachts are so large and magnificent that they are like cruise liners. A high-end yacht can sell for sixty million dollars. Others are small two person yachts that are meant for sailing. Even the least expensive yachts sell for hundreds of thousands of dollars. It's important to know your budget before you set out to buy a yacht.

Yachts come in a wide range of types, sizes, and styles. Before you start pricing luxury boats, you need to know what you're looking for. If haven't ever been on a yacht before, try a crewed charter to get an idea what a treat you're in for. It can help give you some preferences and an idea what you're looking for. 

Unless you are an experienced sailor, you will probably be looking for a motor yacht. They can run by propeller or jet engine. A small yacht can have a couple of small cabins and a galley. Not very luxurious is it? A true luxury yacht has several decks and includes many splendidly appointed cabins, an office, family rooms, a library and a theater. There's a formal dining room, bars, salons, and of course a state of the art galley. For entertainment you will have a swimming pool, several Jacuzzis, an arcade, a disco, smaller pleasure boats, and possibly even a helicopter landing pad.

Whether you decide to rent or own, sailing on a luxury boat is a pleasure that you will not soon forget. It is the ultimate vacation experience to visit exotic places in super extravagant style. ]]></description>
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<title>Fishing Boats for Everyone</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Recreation_and_Leisure/Outdoors/Boating/fishing-boats-for-everyone.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Recreation_and_Leisure/Outdoors/Boating/fishing-boats-for-everyone.html</guid>
<pubDate>Wed, 02 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Fishing is an ideal activity. There's nothing better than spending time on the water with a line in your hand. For many, fishing is THE recreational getaway for the whole family. Others like to go fishing with the guys or with other couples. Whatever your angling style, if you spend all your free time fishing, eventually you are going to think about buying a fishing boat.

There is a huge variety of choices in boats designed especially for fishing, so it's a good idea to spend a little time doing some research. First you'll want to ask yourself a few questions about your perfect fishing boat. If you are looking for freshwater fishing, in rivers, lakes and streams, then forget about the fancy, more expensive boats and think about an aluminum or fiberglass fishing boat, a runabout or walleye, or even a canoe.

If ocean fishing is your thing, then you are looking for a saltwater boat. Your first consideration is whether you like fishing inshore or offshore. If you are an inshore fisherman, then your choices are a bit less expensive, as a 25 foot boat should work well for you. However, if you wish to pursue deep sea monsters, then you will need to spend money for a fishing boat that is designed to withstand much more pounding from Mother Nature.

Freshwater Fishing Boats

Bass Boats

The bass boat is a specialized design especially for bass fishermen. Bass boats are fast and low to the water. They usually have casting platforms in the bow and stern, and come with trolling motors. Because of their sleek, specialized design, you can expect a new or used bass boat to be a little more expensive.

Runabouts

With aluminum or fiberglass, or more rarely wooden, hulls, a small fishing boat, like a runabout or bow rider, is the perfect way to get out on a lake or river for a day's fishing. These small fishing boats usually have either an inboard or an outboard motor, and are between fifteen and thirty feet. They do not have cabins or amenities, these lightweight boats are meant to get you out to the center of the pond with your rod and reel, and to bring your catch back to shore.

Canoes

If you are a solitary fisher, and don't like the noise and pollution of gas motors to ruin your fishing experience (or if your favorite lake doesn't allow them), then a canoe might be the ideal fishing boat for you. A canoe is easy to transport, it usually doesn't require a trailer, and easy to put in from almost any spot. A swift, silent canoe is the perfect way to find that special, secluded fishing hole that nobody knows about but you. A canoe is ideal for fishing with one or two other people like your kids or your sweetheart.

Float Tubes

A canoe is much cheaper than a runabout, but if the cheapest way to get out on the river is your goal, then consider a float tube. You heard right, a float tube is now a popular fishing vessel. There are two different styles. A traditional tube is round with an opening in the middle. There is also a pontoon tube which is v-shaped. This shape makes it much easier to maneuver, and these updated float tubes have storage space and a seat, and they can even come with oars or come in a two-person style.

Saltwater Fishing Boats

If saltwater fishing is what you love then you will need a larger, sturdier boat to sail over the ocean waves.

Inshore Boats

If you like to fish in inshore saltwater areas for something like tarpin or redfish, then you will be fishing in shallower areas. This means that you will need a shallow draft boat, one that floats higher in the water, such as a flat boat or bay boat. These offshore day runners are generally under twenty-five feet in length, and will be lightweight fiberglass or aluminum with an outboard motor. They feature lots of deck space for casting and plenty of storage for fishing equipment.

Offshore Boats

If deep sea fishing is your passion, then you will need a heavy duty fishing boat designed to withstand the elements. These vessels are going to be more expensive because of the increased safety features and size. Often they have a cabin and dual, powerful outboard or inboard motors. An offshore fishing boat can be a luxury boat because they often come with high-end features like fishing machines or plush salons. ]]></description>
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<title>Your Wedding Photography Checklist</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Relationships/Weddings/your-wedding-photography-checklist.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Relationships/Weddings/your-wedding-photography-checklist.html</guid>
<pubDate>Wed, 02 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Checklists are important when planning for the big day. There is so much to consider and do, that you would never be able to manage without having a checklist to organize it all. Well, here is your wedding photography checklist all made out for you.

1. Hire a professional - Under no circumstances you should take any chances on this matter. There are many fine points that only a professional can handle well, and that is why you should go only for the best there is. If the photographer is an amateur he or she might not have experience with angles, tricky lighting situations, and so on. 

2. Consultation sessions - After hiring your photographer, have a few sessions so the photographer would meet your family and will understand what you want included in your album. How many long shots, how many portraits, who to include in the group photos, the photographer should have a list of what you prefer. He or she should also know your best angle so your photographs come out great. 

3. The rehearsal - You should have a person from your family who is not actively involved in the ceremony in charge of keeping people together for the family photographs. You should also allot a specific time for this purpose, which should be included in the program. 

4. The style of the photography - This is the silent aspect of the wedding photography. Find out what style would be suitable for your wedding photographs. This will depend on whether the wedding takes place outdoors or indoors, inside a lighted hall or a dimly lit church or chapel, etc. When searching for professional wedding photographers, look at the different styles in his or her portfolio to see what you like. It is very important that you agree on the style in the beginning, so you have the best results.

5. The contract - A wedding photography contract agreement is a formal document signed by the couple and the photographer that binds specific obligations to each other. It must be carefully looked over before you sign it and agree to the terms. It should not be difficult to understand; however, ask questions and make sure you understand each line of the form before signing. While the price is primary item in the contract, also discuss things like the exact date and times and possible overtime charges, whether the photographer will have back up equipment on site and who will take his or her place in case of an emergency, all the items in your chosen package, the delivery time for the completed prints, and who retains the rights to the photographs.

6. The package - Well before your wedding, decide on all the minute details of the wedding photography package. This will be a part of your contract and will be what you receive in the end. Talk to family members and look at their wedding albums. Do you like the size of their pictures?  Do you want them to all be 8x10s or mix of 8x10s and 5x7s? Do you want all posed pictures or candids? Consider how many prints you may want to give as gifts.

7. Book enough time - Look at your event. Generally, the photographer will want to take pictures of the bride and bridal party about an hour before she walks down the aisle. They allot an entire hour so she's not rushed, and so that if there are out door pictures, the groom and other guests don't see the bride before she walks down the aisle. Include one hour before the event, the actual wedding, the cake, and the first few dances. 

8. Location - After you've decided on the location of your ceremony and reception scour the surrounding areas for unique places to take your pictures. If you're having a traditional ceremony in a church, a lot of times you can find nice gardens or walkways on church grounds. Also look for interesting places within the church. Stained glass, for example, can provide a gorgeous backdrop for your wedding photography. Concentrate on smaller elements, not necessarily larger backgrounds, to create beautiful wedding portrait photography. Look for a doorway with an ornate frame, or a spot near a window that bathes you in sunlight. If the weather permits taking your wedding portrait photography outdoors is also a great idea.

There are so many details that surround the planning of your wedding, and the photography is just one of them. However, remember that your wedding photography will be your most important keepsake of your wedding, so taking the time to put some serious thought into the final product will be well worth it in years to come. ]]></description>
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<title>Fun and Profit Collecting Barbies</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Hobbies/Collecting/fun-and-profit-collecting-barbies.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Hobbies/Collecting/fun-and-profit-collecting-barbies.html</guid>
<pubDate>Wed, 02 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ One of the most popular collector's items is dolls.  Collectible dolls can range from antique dolls to modern collectible dolls. If you are interested in collecting dolls, it would be a good idea to focus on a particular type of collectible doll.

Certainly one of the most rewarding and exciting is collectible Barbie dolls. Barbies have become extremely popular since they first came out in 1959. What little girl is there that doesn't own at least one Barbie? The value of collectible Barbies is quite high, so much so, that today there are even Barbies that can be specially designed according to collectors' needs.

People Who Collect Barbies

While every little girl owns a Barbie, most of them do not collect them. Let's face it, the fun of a Barbie is dressing her and doing her hair for those dates with Ken, but the price for this fun is that the doll now has little or no monetary value. 

Most of the people who actually collect Barbies are adults. It is believed that there are well over a hundred thousand adults that own these wonderful collectible dolls. Nearly all these adults are women, and about ten percent of Barbie collectors are male. Furthermore, the women that own such collections are statistically usually in their forties, and purchase an average of twenty such dolls each year, sometimes spending about a thousand or more dollars in the process.

How to Collect Barbies

Rule Number One: Keep It in the Box

If you wish to maintain the value of your collectible Barbies, you must leave them in their boxes. Part of the value of a Barbie is the original box; therefore most experienced collectors do not ever remove their collectible Barbies from their boxes. The value of collectible Barbies can depreciate by as much fifty percent if they are taken out of their boxes.

As a collector of Barbie dolls you have a choice to make about whether to take the doll out of its box to enjoy while losing out on value, or simply console yourself that the doll in its box is beautiful and will maintain its value even though you will not get a chance to touch and play with it. However, you can buy a collectible Barbie doll packaged in a lift-off box, so you can still enjoy playing with and feeling your Barbie. In this way it will still look great while it retains its value as a collectible.

Rule Number Two: Ask An Expert

Finding collectible Barbies is not a difficult task, but getting to know the value of your collection can require a bit of effort. Before you are able to accurately judge the value of collectible Barbies, you may need to ask an expert or read up on the literature pertaining to collectible Barbie dolls. If you are new to this activity, be sure to realize that there are a number of sources for you to tap into in your quest for information on collectible Barbie dolls. 

There are two classes of collectible Barbie, vintage and modern. Vintage dolls are those produced from 1959 to the early eighties; modern dolls are produced from the mid-eighties on. Both classes have collectible value.

The value of your Barbie can depend on several factors. For example, if you look on eBay, the price can vary according to who is selling the Barbie (if it is a reputable dealer the price will be more), also on the photograph of the doll, and the spending power of the purchaser. Evaluating the current value of collectible Barbies can be a bit confusing. You will find that a Barbie gift set in perfect condition can fetch anything from one hundred thirty dollars to two hundred fifty five dollars.

What Styles of Barbies to Collect

Most collectors who collect Barbies because of their value will gravitate towards Label dolls. These pieces have very detailed attention paid to clothes and accessories. The Platinum Label doll is produced in limited editions that do not exceed a thousand such dolls, and are sometimes only found in a specific retail shop. The White Chocolate Obsession Barbie Doll is a wonderful example of such a collectible doll, and the name refers to the scent of white chocolate that exudes from the doll's hair. Other similar collectible Barbies include Faerie Queen, Badgley Mischka Bride Barbie, as well as the very restricted Nurse Barbie doll that has been designed by Robert Best.

However, Barbie dolls are so popular that they are also made based on TV shows, movies, and famous personalities. Collectors find them appealing, and the value of these popular Barbies will often appreciate. When considering collectible Barbies, these are perhaps the type of collectible Barbie doll that will come to mind first.

There are many elements to consider when collecting Barbies, so it is important that your first and foremost consideration is how well you like a particular Barbie. For most collectors the fun is in the owning and enjoying of a special Barbie, and if it happens to become valuable, so much the better. ]]></description>
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<title>My Favorite Knitting Patterns for Beginners</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Hobbies/Arts_and_Crafts/my-favorite-knitting-patterns-for-beginners.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Hobbies/Arts_and_Crafts/my-favorite-knitting-patterns-for-beginners.html</guid>
<pubDate>Wed, 02 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Knitters were first believed to have begun their craft in the first few centuries AD. Egyptian artifacts and art have led many historians to credit the creation of knitting as a way to design clothing to the Egyptians. Since the craft is quite simple, it caught on and spread to other cultures rather quickly. By the middle of the 1500s, the first knitting groups had been established in France. 

Patterns for knitting: garter stitch scarf

First-time knitters and those new to the craft often start with a pattern like the garter stitch scarf. This simple pattern is quite basic in that is requires only the knit stitch. The end result, however, has a more complicated looking ribbed design and is an attractive fashion accessory that makes an ideal gift for loved ones. 

Patterns for knitting: stockinet stitch scarf

The stockinet stitch scarf pattern is one that is simple for even the most novice knitters to learn, and is a good transition pattern for those hoping to graduate from basic to more intermediate patterns. The finished stockinet stitch scarves are quite attractive, but tend to curl up on the edges. This can be used as the fashion and design in which these scarves are designed, or try knitting the stockinet stitch scarf with fuzzy yarn. 

Patterns for knitting: baby blankets

Many knitters first become interested in the craft so that they can create blankets for their friends and family. Baby blanket knitting patterns are available, and because of the square design, are quite simple for beginners. The baby blanket pattern is highly customizable in both size and design. A baby blanket is the perfect place to practice more complex pattern stitches. And if you decide to go larger, be sure to try to the square afghan patterns. The stitches are much the same as the baby blanket design, but the final product is nearly twice as large. 

Patterns for knitting: party wrap patterns

Ready for a knitting challenge? When it's time to move on to a more difficult stitch, try out the party wrap pattern. This design is circular and requires a few more advanced stitches to make it the end product come out correctly. However, the design is especially good for beginners because it helps to hide and camouflage any minor mistakes that are made in the creation of the party wrap. 

Patterns for knitting: washcloths

When you want to create some products that offer more functionality and usability, consider checking out a washcloth pattern. These usually utilize the basic stockinet stitch, which makes them ideal for beginners. And with their small size, it will take even a newcomer very little time to complete the project and enjoy that rush of accomplishment and success. 

The basics of knitting

Learning the art of knitting is relatively simple, and is enjoying a surge in popularity among new generations. Although machines do much of the commercial knitting necessary in the production of clothing, knitting by hand still has a very important role in modern culture. When knitting by hand, the artist also controls the colors, needles, and overall design of the final product. 

There are two kinds of knitting: weft knitting and warp knitting. With warp knitting, only one string of yarn is necessary for each stitch. This type of knitting is most often done by hand. However, weft knitting involves multiple yarn strands and is commonly done by machine as part of commercial knitting. 

Why use knitting patterns

Patterns for knitting provide a strong outline and foundation for starting any new knitting project. While knitting patterns can offer suggestions for design and color ideas, it is ultimately up to the artist to decide what the final product what look like. 

Most new knitters should start with some of the basic patterns listed above and work on mastering basic stitches. Once you learn the basics of knitting, you will want to continue progressing to more advanced stitches and knitting patterns. You may also want to consider finding a local knitting group or meeting online others who share your hobby. Not only will this provide a nice social outlet, but your new knitting friends may also be able to help you locate and use new knitting patterns and new ideas for knitting projects. 

Be sure to try using other available resources, such as local craft and hobby stores. There are often professionals and enthusiasts who can help you find great knitting patterns to start with. You can also find great information about patterns for knitting at online message boards, chat rooms, and knitting Web sites. ]]></description>
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<title>The Art of Stamp Collecting</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Hobbies/Collecting/the-art-of-stamp-collecting.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Hobbies/Collecting/the-art-of-stamp-collecting.html</guid>
<pubDate>Sat, 15 Mar 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Stamp collecting takes place all over the world. Indeed, there are likely few, if any, hobbies that are as widespread as stamp collecting. Stamp collectors come from all backgrounds, which is again reflected in the diversity of stamp collections, as each individual will find a particular type of stamp that interests them. Stamp collecting can also be a relatively inexpensive hobby, making it accessible for individuals on any budget. 

The first stamp and the start of stamp collecting

To find the first postage stamp you have to go back to England in the mid-nineteenth century. The famous "Penny Black" stamp, featuring an image of Queen Victoria, was released in 1840. As soon as the 1860s, children were drawn to growing range of postage stamps in production, and stamp collecting was born. As those children grew into adults, they continued stamp collecting, thereby making it common hobby for adults. By the inter-war years, stamp collecting had taken a firm position as one of the most popular hobbies in the United States. The hobby has continued to be popular for both children and adults alike well into the 21st century.

Types of stamp collections

One of the great things about stamp collecting is that there is such a wide array of postage stamps and similar items available, which means that there can be countless different types of stamp collections. Whatever your personal interest, be it animals, Americana, cartoon characters, sports, or even Elvis, you will find stamps from all over the world just waiting to be collected. Stamp collecting is not just limited to postage stamps, either. Oddly enough, Federal Duck Stamps are one of the most popular and well-known collectible stamp series. Other stamp types that are popular include souvenir sheets, postal stationary.

Beginning a Stamp Collection

To start collecting stamps on a casual basis, start looking at your mail as it comes in and keep the ones you find interesting or beautiful. After a while, you should get an idea about what kind of collection you want. Once you have a basic idea of where you want your collection to go at first (and keeping in mind that it is always easy to expand or change the focus of your collection) it is time to invest in some proper tools. Of course, if you are on a tight budget, stamp collecting can be done on the cheap. But for best results you should get some clear plastic sleeves and a notebook to store your stamps in a manner that protects their condition and keeps them safe from the elements. You should also think about investing in other specialized tools, including specially designed stamp tongs. These tongs prevent skin oils from coming into contact with the stamp, which will further promote sustainability in the stamp.

How do you get stamps?

Your first and best resource for stamps will be your friends and family. Let them know you are a collector, and have them send the stamps they receive over to you, they will likely be happy to save the stamps from their incoming mail for you to look over and select from. There are also products where companies send out a selection of stamps for the collector to look over. Generally, these programs allow the collection to keep the stamps for up to a month without charge. After a month's time, the collector can choose to purchase the stamps that are of interest, and return those that do not fit into their collection. Just remember to return the stamps you do not want on time!

Putting a value on your stamps

Although they are collectables, most stamps are actually valued at face value or less. That means that most stamps are worth a negligible amount of money. This is fine for most casual collectors however because they are simply collect for personal enjoyment, not financial investment. This is not to say of course that stamp collecting can never be lucrative. Stamps that range in value up to $50 are not uncommon. 

Finding out more about stamp collecting

Stamp collecting is an extremely popular and old hobby all over the world. For this reason, there is no shortage of hobby groups that any prospective or experienced stamp collector can join. The main organization in the United States is the American Philatelic Society. The American Philatelic Society is one of the oldest and most well known organizations. All of these stamp collecting groups often sponsor trade shows, conventions, and other events, which promote networking, trading, and transactions involving stamp collections. And of course, as with so many things, there are also a host of online resources available for anyone interested in stamp collecting. Online beginner's guides are a great place to start for those new to stamp collecting, while price guides, social stamp collecting networks, and other resources are available for more seasoned collectors. ]]></description>
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<title>Start Your Own Sword Collection</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Hobbies/Collecting/start-your-own-sword-collection.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Hobbies/Collecting/start-your-own-sword-collection.html</guid>
<pubDate>Sat, 15 Mar 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Are you interested in world history? Or are you an avid fan of fantasy fiction? In either case, you are probably fascinated and intrigued by swords.

Why collect swords?

Maybe you have thought about collecting swords as well. If you have, then it is time to start your collection; collecting swords is a great way to learn more about world history, or to build on your interest in fantasy fiction. But before you start building your collection you should take the time to give yourself a sound basic knowledge of the field in order to avoid getting scammed by an unscrupulous internet dealer.

What kind of swords should you collect?

Sword collectors primarily fall into two camps: collectors of historical swords, and collectors of fantasy swords.

People have been making swords since at least 2000 B.C.E. Obviously, since swords have been in existence since the Bronze Age, collecting historical swords opens you up to an almost unlimited number of historical periods. Of course, despite the wide range of swords available to the collector, a few historical periods have become particularly popular among collectors. The most popular category is medieval swords such as long swords or broad swords. Another popular category is Japanese samurai or katana swords. When you are dealing with historical swords it is important to keep in mind whether you are dealing with actual antiques or replicas. Of course, for some collectors a well made replica would be a wonderful addition to their collection. Nonetheless, you will still be disappointed if you buy a replica thinking you were purchasing an actual antique.

The other important category for sword collectors is fantasy swords. These weapons are based on works of fantasy fiction, such as the Lord of the Rings. They usually involve dragons, elves or other similar motifs. A subset of fantasy swords is futuristic swords.

How should you care for your swords?

If you can afford it, the best thing that you can do to keep your sword collection in perfect condition is to put your swords in a display case where you can control the humidity and temperature. This is not a realistic option for most people, however. At any rate, as long as you are not living in an area with high humidity, your swords will be fine mounted on a wall.

The primary risk to your sword collection is rust. Luckily, there are some simple steps that you can take to make sure that your collection stays in perfect condition. The first step is to make sure that nobody ever touches the blades on your swords. There is of course an obvious safety issue involved in preventing people from touching your blades; but besides that, the oil and salt on people's hands can eat away at the metal on your swords. If your sword is ever touched, be sure to wipe it down afterwards. In any event, you can help preserve your blades from rust by wiping them down periodically with a non-organic oil. ]]></description>
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<title>What You Need to Start Knitting</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Hobbies/Arts_and_Crafts/what-you-need-to-start-knitting.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Hobbies/Arts_and_Crafts/what-you-need-to-start-knitting.html</guid>
<pubDate>Sat, 15 Mar 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Of all the different types of needlework, knitting is one of the most popular. Knitting is a specific type of needlework that is identified by the process of looped stitches pulled through one another. Knitting is commonly used to make clothing and accessories such as hats, scarves, sweaters and gloves, as well as blankets and afgans. Most commercially produced knitted items are made with knitting machines; their high speed is indispensable for meeting the demands of the world economy. Knitting machines have not done away with human knitting, however; far from it, knitting has gone through a recent resurgence in popularity as a craft and hobby.

One of the great things about knitting is that you can make a wide variety of items with the same relatively simple steps. Just select a different type of yarn and a different variation in your stitch, and you can come up with a very different end product.

The origins of knitting

Archeologists have found evidence of knitting as far back as the first millennium. Obviously, knitting has been around for a long time. Indeed, even the ancient Egyptians are known to have knitted colorful socks and other accessories. It is generally thought that the first peoples to use knitting to make blankets and clothing were the ancient Arabians.

The history of knitting was pretty straightforward until the invention of the knitting machine. The knitting machine completely changed the purpose of knitting. Before the industrialization of knitting, it was an essential task for many families, a means to keep warm and clothed. After the knitting machine, blankets and clothing were mass-produced far more cheaply than any one person making it. For this reason, knitting today is primarily a recreational pursuit. Knitters enjoy gathering together to socialize. People love to knit because it can be an extremely relaxing way to pass the time and ease one's nerves. The products of their pastimes are often presented as gifts, which can save you some money as well.

The demographics of knitting are changing as well. Knitting used to be the sole preserve of primarily older women. More and more, however, knitting is becoming popular with younger generations. Indeed, some studies show that knitting has risen in popularity among the 25 to 35 age group by as much as 150%.

Different types of knitting

The two main types of straight-needle knitting are weft knitting and warp knitting. Weft knitting requires only one string of yarn at time, but can be more susceptible to snags and runs. Warp knitting, on the other hand, is usually done by machine, so when most people think of knitting, they are usually thinking of weft knitting. Another important type of knitting that is commonly done by hand is circular knitting. This method uses a circular needle, and creates a tube of yarn when completed which is great for socks and other tubular garments.

What materials do you need to start knitting?

Knitting is an ancient and rudimentary craft. As such, the materials that you need to knit are fairly basic; when it comes down to it, all you need to knit is some needles and some yarn. You should pay close attention to the type of yarn you use, however, as it will have a significant impact on how your final product looks and feels. For instance, certain yarns are appropriate for stretchy materials, while other yarns will produce less stretchy, more solid final results. The width and thickness of the yarn should be taken into account when selecting knitting needles to use. Picking out the yarn can be one of the more pleasant steps in making an item, as knitting yarn comes in a variety of colors and styles and it is always fun to play around with your imagination. Some are solid colors, others have multiple colors for striping, and others include sparkles and other embellishments. 

Knitting resources

The best thing for those serious about knitting is to join a knitting circle. In a knitting circle, members will meet with their yarn and needles at the home of different members or local coffee shop and just knit, share tips, and socialize.

If you are on your own, you can always turn to the Internet for a wealth of knitting resources. Groups, forums, and message boards provide a means of communication and getting together for knitters. Through these avenues, many knitting enthusiasts share tips, techniques, patterns, and tales of successful projects. The Internet is also a great place to order knitting materials and patterns, and can help novice knitters get past some of the challenges that face those new to the craft. 

Craft and hobby stores will also carry a robust selection of knitting needles, yarns and patterns. Do not be afraid to ask employees in these stores for help because more often than not, you will be able to find experienced knitters who can offer you some sound advice and tips. ]]></description>
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<title>Sunglasses: Necessary Eye Protection and Eminently Stylish</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Beauty/Fashion/sunglasses-necessary-eye-protection-and-eminently-stylish.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Beauty/Fashion/sunglasses-necessary-eye-protection-and-eminently-stylish.html</guid>
<pubDate>Sat, 15 Mar 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Humans have been protecting their eyes for thousands of years. Protective eyewear has come a long way from when the Inuit of North America cut holes in caribou antlers in order to protect their eyes from snow blindness. Goggles and sunglasses are now designed to protect the wearers eyes from all kinds of dangerous intrusions, both small and large. And increasingly, protective eyewear is designed overwhelmingly as a fashion accessory. 

Sunglasses: protecting your eyes, and making them look good at the same time

The primary purpose of sunglasses is to protect your eyes from the harmful ultraviolet radiation given off by the sun. Exposure to ultraviolet radiation can have dire consequences to the health of your eyes, causing problems as diverse as cataracts, photokeratitis, and even a number of eye cancers such as retinoblastoma or melanoma. Fortunately, well made sunglasses can provide adequate protection against the development of all of these problems. The trick for consumers is to find sunglasses that actually provide the desired protection. In order to ensure that you are getting the protection you think you are getting (or that the sunglasses claim to provide), be sure to look for some sort of identifying mark on the sunglasses that shows that the sunglasses have meet the required government regulations for protective standards. 

Of course, the great thing about sunglasses is that they can be completely functional and at the same time be completely fashionable. Although there are already a myriad of good reasons why everyone should be wearing sunglasses, the health benefits of wearing sunglasses are well proven and conclusive, and if you have ever tried to drive into the sun you will recognize the importance of using sunglasses to block out the glare. On the other hand, it is good enough for some people to wear sunglasses just because they make them look good. Indeed, sunglasses have an uncanny ability to make anyone immediately cooler just by putting them on.

Sunglasses were first introduced in the 19th century as protective eyewear. It was not until sunglasses were first mass produced and sold to the masses in the 1950s on the beaches in Atlantic City that sunglasses entered the fashion mainstream. Since that time, sunglasses have been a highly sought after accessory, a must have item for any day at the beach. With hipsters like James Dean in the 1950s, sunglasses cemented their image as a cool fashion accessory. Sunglasses became more refined in the 1960s with the oversized styles of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis and Katherine Hepburn. It says something about the quality of these styles that current fashions are turning back the clock to the original designs. Oversized sunglasses are currently very popular amongst women, and men are even turning back to aviator sunglasses first introduced in the 1930s for American pilots.

As for future developments, designers are starting to think of ways to integrate new technologies into sunglasses. For instance, a number of sunglasses designers have already come out with models that come with an attached earpiece that can either be part of a small MP3 player or part of a Bluetooth enabled cell phone.

Goggles: protecting your eyes

The main purpose of goggles is to protect the wearer's eyes. Goggles are usually designed with larger projectiles in mind, such as dust or chemicals, or in the case of goggles designed for ball sports, sport balls. This makes goggles immediately different from sunglasses, which are more concerned with protecting the wearer's eyes from harmful ultraviolet rays. Goggles are also different from sunglasses in that they have for the most part failed (or even tried) to make the jump into fashionable life. While this may not be completely true for goggles used in outdoor sports such as skiing or waterskiing, this is certainly true for industrial grade goggles, or even goggles designed for use in sports such as basketball or squash. Of course, there will always be some people who think that wearing blowtorching goggles to school is a good fashion statement. 

One way that goggles are becoming more like sunglasses, however, is that they are taking into account more and more the protective function of sunglasses in blocking harmful ultraviolet rays. This can be very important with goggles that are used in outdoor sports such as skiing or waterskiing where the glare of the sun on the snow or water can be debilitating. For this reason, it is important to ensure that when you are buying protective goggles for skiing or waterskiing or the like that the goggles will give you the full protecting from the sun's harmful rays that you need. Consumers can also expect goggles to make the same technological advances that sunglasses are in terms of the integration of new technology such as mobile telephones and MP3 players. ]]></description>
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<title>Design Beautiful Windows for Your Home</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Home/Home_Improvement/design-beautiful-windows-for-your-home.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Home/Home_Improvement/design-beautiful-windows-for-your-home.html</guid>
<pubDate>Sun, 02 Mar 2008 00:00:00 -0800</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Designed to allow light and air in through solid walls, windows are a staple of any basic architecture. Most homes and businesses have windows for both practical purposes of light, as well as for aesthetic value. Windows can be made from a variety of material, including glass, plexi-glass, plastics, and more. 

How and Why Do Windows Allow Light In?

Daylight needs to be both allowed and controlled, and many windows are designed to allow for customization of the amount of light that goes through. Skylights and open windows allow for the radiance of the sun to get into the room, while sills and overhangs often prevent daylight from getting into the structure. 

Commercial contractors often struggle with allowing ample daylight through the window. This is because many local and national governments have established minimum energy codes that contractors must meet. The preservation of energy is important to most established nations, and it is often much more difficult, and energy deficient, to maintain temperatures in rooms with large windows that allow a lot of light in. 

How Do We Use Windows for Decor?

Whether or not most homeowners realize it, windows play a pivotal role in the overall decor and atmosphere of their home. Although even standard square windows can act as a design element, many windows are of a unique design and composition. When establishing the decor for a room, the room layout and the windows are a great place from which to start. Living room windows are often great decor elements if they are designed horizontally to allow ample light and to take up plenty of design space on an otherwise empty wall. In bedrooms, many people choose to place sitting areas and furniture near windows for reading, writing, and relaxing. 

Why Did We Ever Start Designing Windows?

Warmth and safety were the two main reasons why windows were established on housing designs. Allowing the sun through the windows provided warmth in the home, while the window also provided a way to watch for potential attackers. Early on, windows were nothing more than holes cut out of the structure. Eventually, people began added an early shutter system that allowed the windows to be opened or closed to allow or prohibit light from getting in. 

It was not uncommon to see paper windows in most lower class homes around the world until the dawn of the 17th century. Until that time, it was mostly nobility alone who had glass windows. 

How are Windows Classified?

As previously mentioned, windows come in a variety of styles and designs. These include casement windows, which are cranked to open and close them. A user turns the crank to open the window, and turns it the other way back to close the window. Most casement windows also feature locks so that, once fully closed, the window can be secured against being opened from the outside. The hinges on these types of windows are designed to allow for easy operation of the crank handle.

Gliding windows are, as their name suggests, windows that glide along a horizontal system. The ease with which these open and close make them quite popular in residences. While gliding windows are popular for their functionality, other windows are popular for their design. These include bay windows, which feature angles at the wall and ceiling to provide an additional design element. 

Other popular windows include sash windows, round top windows, polygon windows, and others.

What Color Are Windows?

Although most windows come in standard neutral colors like white and beige, more and more windows are featuring a wide spectrum of colors. These windows allow homeowners and business owners to design their rooms around the decor of the window. If, for instance, a bold room is desired, the window may be painted bright red or black. These allow the designer to then create the rest of the decor of the room around the color of the window. Whether you are seeking cool colors or hot passion in your decor, the windows that will complement your designs are available. 

What Design Styles Are Available for Windows?

The style of the window largely depends on the architectural design of the structure. For instance, a modern, contemporary home or business would likely feature contemporary windows with straight lines, few or no panes, and clear class. Colonial homes, likewise, would feature many-paned sash windows. And grandiose homes might include windows with remarkable embellishments and lavish designs such as stained glass or unique shapes and colors. ]]></description>
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