Switch Plates – MyKnobs Blog

Instructions for Replacing Switchplates

Posted on January 7, 2011 by MyKnobs Editor

Replacing switchplates is one of the easiest ways to brighten up a room and is often overlooked. The plate covering the electrical switch or outlet is often never even noticed as you reach out to turn a light on or off or plug in an appliance. They are also rarely remembered during daily cleaning routines. No wonder they accumulate dust, dirt and grime of everyday living.

There is no reason to limit yourself to a plain switchplate. An artistic, personal and decorative element can be brought into the area simply by choosing a switchplate that reflects your personal taste and style.

When looking for a replacement switchplate, keep in mind that they are also called wall plates and outlet covers.

Choosing the Appropriate Home Theme

Posted on September 12, 2010 by MyKnobs Editor

If you have just purchased a home or are tired of your existing décor, you may be thinking of a new home theme. There are so many new ideas and DIY kits out there to make a home truly memorable that it can be difficult deciding on just one. There are many ways to create a theme for your home. Some may be more appropriate than others. You may need to take into consideration how much of your home bears this theme such as if the theme is going to include the outside of the home as well as the interior.

Many gated communities or condominium complexes have strict rules regarding the decorative aspects of the exterior of the home. They want a unity to all of the exterior colors so check with your homeowners association before doing any projects to the outside of the home. You may find your home looks great on the outside just to be told you have fines to pay and that you need to repair the home back to a state that conforms to the rules of the homeowners association. This does not mean you cannot make improvement to the exterior; you just need to do them within the guidelines.

The interior of the home offers much more leeway. There are usually no standards to go by when choosing a theme for the inside of the house. Just figure out what is appropriate for your theme and you can work away on it. You can find pieces that fit the theme as well as cabinet hardware that matches and follows this theme. The following are a few themes for a home that can be used:

Tips for Decorating with Switch Plates

Posted on August 7, 2010 by MyKnobs Editor

There are many small changes that you can make within your home to enhance your decor and one great way to make a difference is by installing decorative switch plates. The switch plate was originally designed as a way to protect you and your family from the electrical wires within the walls. They still serve this very important function but they’re not all just plain and simple anymore.

Decorative switch plates come in a variety of styles and colors. For example, some of the finishes include antique bass, copper, flat black, satin pewter, marble, nickel plated and chrome but there are still other options available. They’re also available in many different designs from the simple to the extravagant. They come in a variety of prices but most all of them are very affordable making it possible for you to choose a designed that suits your needs and décor perfectly.

Some of these are plain while others have designs etched into the edges and some of them are themed orientated to make them more decorative. For example, you can buy switch plates designed for nurseries, children’s rooms or ones that are animal or sport themed. Some are designed especially for bathrooms and kitchens and some can be used anywhere. There are many options to choose from.

End of Summer Home Improvement Projects

Posted on August 7, 2010 by MyKnobs Editor

As summer is coming to an end, you begin to realize that your summer renovation and home improvement projects haven’t been finished or haven’t even been started. No need to worry, these quick and easy tips will make it seem as if you spent your whole summer remodeling.

When it comes to a quick kitchen spruce up, I’m not looking to start replacing or painting cabinetry. The easiest way to make your kitchen look brand new is to start with the details. Updating details like hardware, lighting, accessories and your paint job will surely give your kitchen a face lift, while saving a buck!

1. Let’s see what you have to work with. Take a look at the elements of the space that can’t change. Typically these would be your countertops, cabinetry and appliances. See if you can notice a theme or design style that is already there. Look for details in the shapes and colors of your space. Since we are not going to be changing these elements, we need to make everything work as cohesively as possible. Do you have knotted, rustic cabinets; reminiscent of an old world villa? Do you have sleek modern countertops with a bold color screaming contemporary bistro? The bones of your kitchen are there, it’s up to you to decide what to dress it up with.