Cut your winter energy bills, prevent burst pipes, be really cosy and have some fun. Our round up of simple solutions, DIY tips and step by step instructions will give you a rosy glow and save you lots of money.
Cut winter energy bills
There are number of simple things you can do to make your home warmer this winter. They’re good for the environment and they’ll cut your energy bills.
How to draft proof your letter box
Up to 27% of heat can be lost through a draughty letterbox. It’s an easy DIY job, even for beginners. There’s even a video to show you how at the end of this article.
» Follow our easy step by step instructions with pictures
Still time to sew curtains and blinds
Every single window in your home should have a curtain or blind. Ideally, these should be closed as soon as it gets dark (or as soon as you get home in the evening). Around 20% of heat is lost through windows and doors. Curtains and blinds create a pocket of air between the room and the window and act rather like double glazing. There are some great blind-making kits – plus Clare shows you how to run up a simple blind.
» Follow Clare’s easy instructions for making a Roman blind
In praise of hot water bottles
The good old fashioned hot water bottle is a great way of staying cosy in front of the TV and keeping your tootsies warm in bed at night. Here are some great instructions for making a hot water bottle cover from an old sweatshirt. Remember, a cover will keep the water warmer for longer.
» Hilary’s hot water bottle cover
Staying warm the old fashioned way
Your great granny didn’t turn up the thermostat on the heating – she got her knitting needles out! We’ve got some great old fashioned tips for keeping warm plus some lovely retro knitting patterns for you to use.
» Traditional keeping warm tips and knitting pattern download
Or stay warm like Cheryl
If granny knits don’t rock your boat, what about celebrity fashion with this knitted, Cheryl Cole style bobble hat? We show you how to knit a simple woolly hat and then give it the superstar treatment with a supersized bobble.
Colour yourself warm
And did you know that the colours you use can make you feel or warm and cosy? Of course you did! But if you need a reminder, here are some great ideas about what colours to use and why.
