(Family Features) Whether you’re into woodworking, metalworking, building models or another craft or hobby, the right tools allow you to work faster, easier and smarter.

A capable and versatile project partner, the IQ Vise System by Work IQ Tools is a problem-solving bench vise system that is transforming the way DIYers, craftsmen, hobbyists, makers and pros get the job done. It features a ball and socket design that articulates and rotates 360 degrees for optimal work positioning while complementing task-specific jaw sleeves are crafted to create the perfect grip for an extensive range of shapes and materials.

Plus, with four ports built directly into the vise, you can attach the plug-and-play workshop accessories including the IQ Connect Work Light, Magnifying Glass and Cell Phone Holder directly to the vise or take them where you need them around your workspace.

With three mounts – a bench mount to screw directly into your workbench or stud wall, a magnetic mount that can attach to any metal surface and a clamp mount that functions like a common c-clamp for quick and temporary mounting to any surface edge 2 1/4 inches or under – it’s like having an extra set of hands to help tackle whatever project you’re taking on.

Find more tools to help you work smarter at workiqtools.com.

SOURCE:
WorkIQTools.com

4 DIY projects with a touch of Irish flair

(Family Features) Pairing Shepherd’s pie and potato soup with green pints and Irish delights are surefire signs of St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. Food and drink may be the stars of the show, but a little festive ambiance can transport guests from your dining room table to the streets of Dublin.

A few seasonal touches are all it takes to complement a menu of corned beef and cabbage. Consider these DIY decorations for this year’s St. Patrick’s Day party.

• Set a St. Paddy’s Mood – Show off your holiday spirit for all to see with a homemade wreath that gives your front door a perfect welcoming touch. Cut shamrock shapes out of green construction paper then glue together, edge to edge, to your desired size. Punch a hole in the top shamrock and run string or ribbon through to hold up your work of art.
   
• The Gift of Green – Lend a helping hand to guests who forget their green with shamrock-shaped pins they can attach to shirts or hats. Wooden shamrocks tend to work best with small pins glued to the back. Arrange these easy party favors near the door so your friends and neighbors can grab one as they enter.
   
• A Homemade Pot o’ Gold – Send guests chasing the rainbow and reward their adventures with canning jars filled with candies wrapped in gold. Simply spray paint jars green, fill with gold-wrapped candies and place in various gathering areas for easy-to-reach treats.
   
• Custom Cups – Upgrade boring drinkware with a leprechaun look. Find green cups (plastic or paper) and wrap with black ribbon using hot glue to secure. For a final touch, add a gold sticker as the belt buckle.

Visit eLivingtoday.com for more at-home decor ideas.

Photo courtesy of Unsplash

SOURCE:
eLivingtoday.com

Observed annually on February 8th, National Kite Flying Day is a celebration that encourages people to embrace the joy of kite flying and making. Across the country, enthusiasts eagerly take part in this day by launching their kites or planning to attend vibrant kite festivals.

The history of kites traces back to ancient China, around 470 B.C. Chinese folklore tells captivating tales of how kites were inspired by the wind’s influence on various aspects of life, such as leaves on trees, ships’ sails, and people’s hats. Kites were even used for espionage and communication purposes. Interestingly, the people of the South Sea Islands were also utilizing kites for fishing during that time.

Early kites were crafted using bamboo or sturdy reeds as frames, with sails made from leaves, silk, or paper. Vines or braided fibers completed the lines or tethers. While kites initially served practical purposes, they also held deep symbolic significance in ceremonial contexts, whether used to send messages to the heavens or elevate offerings to the gods.

Today, kites have become popular hobbies and sources of outdoor fun. They come in a variety of designs, from simple diamond kites to intricate box kites and giant sled kites. Stunt kites, known as sport kites, allow operators to perform thrilling maneuvers, including dips, twists, and dives.

To ensure a successful kite flying experience, here are some helpful tips: assemble the kite correctly, check the wind conditions (a light breeze of 5-20 mph is generally ideal), prioritize safety by avoiding power lines, trees, and other obstacles, refrain from flying in the rain, launch the kite with your back to the wind, and gradually release the line at a pace that matches the kite’s ascent.

On National Kite Flying Day, you can celebrate by flying a kite, making your own kite, exploring upcoming kite festivals, hosting a kite flying lesson, learning about the science behind kite flying, engaging in kite projects, and sharing your experience on social media using the hashtag #NationalKiteFlyingDay. So grab a kite, embrace the wind, and let your spirits soar!

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