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Shelter sites you don't want to miss

Decked out
http://www.bobvila.com/DesignTools/DeckDesigner.html

Just when we thought we were truly DIY, we come crawling back to Bob Vila. But not without good reason! The Deck Designer tool featured on Mr. Vila’s website is the perfect instrument for those who don’t know where to start on their summer deck-building projects. Unlike with other design software that requires website membership or costs money to download, this one is free—perfect for those who just want to experiment. Using the tool is fairly easy, though you are required to estimate a few measurements, such as the beam size, post size, and footer depth. When you’re all done, your project is exported into a handy-dandy report that contains models of your new deck, guides for installation, and even a shopping list. A somewhat limited color palette is the tool’s only drawback—well, that, and the fact that it doesn’t come to your home and build the deck for you.

Craft rock
http://craftster.org

If you have craft envy but can’t stomach the lonely, painstaking hours demanded by Grandma’s needlework, Craftster has just the right materials. Leah Kramer, computer-whiz and part-time craftster, designed this interactive forum where users can show off their finished products with photos and instructions. Feel-good vibes abound: Craft-makers do service to the Web by passing on their wisdom while raking in the compliments from fellow members. And Craftster cares about the planet—many projects are inspired by things you might find in your trashcan. For example, if you desire a creative solution for scratched CDs (and why wouldn’t you?), the website offers instructions for mobiles, disco balls, and beaded curtains. Browse as a guest for fun, or become a member and build up your crafting cred. The best part about the site is the open and energetic personality of its members, who craft to the motto of “Rock is dead. Long live paper and scissors.”

Shhhhh.com
http://citysoundproofing.com/

You know what they say: “Good sound barriers make good neighbors.” In the spirit of this, City Soundproofing offers a comprehensive guide to the art of blocking noise. If you’re interested in soundproofing your home (though the site also offers solutions for recording studios and conference rooms), the residential section of the site explains the materials you can use and shows you how to install them. From sealing cracks with caulk to installing door seals, or even choosing what kind of drywall to use during new construction, City Soundproofing presents a full range of problem-solvers.  If you’re interested, you can even read about how sound works on one of the many in-depth FAQs. If silence was golden, this site just made it platinum.


Home grown

http://lifeinsugarhollow.blogspot.com/

Some gardeners think they’re “one with nature,” but this relationship can only go so far. Ever tried chatting with an azalea bush? For many, this has proved unrewarding. If you’re a lonely-hearted gardener, Tracey Gerlach’s blog, “Life in Sugar Hollow,” is great therapy: It offers tips and stories from her garden in the heart of Central Virginia. How’s that for sympathy? Not only does Gerlach possess the know-how on raising plants in Virginia’s moody climate, she also visits local spots, such as the Crozet Farmer’s Market, that are of interest to other garden enthusiasts. While Gerlach’s voice is both accessible and didactic on the topic of plants, readers who seek the focused approach might dislike having to skim through her musings about her personal life. Mostly, though, the beautiful photos and personable writing make a visit to this blog an enjoyable one.

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