#Veneer lathe

[minghungwoodmachinery1983]

plywood veneer sheets peeling machine

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[saintsenara]

💝💌

thank you for the ask, pal!

[writing ask game here]

💝what is a fic that got a different response than you were expecting?

the velveteen rabbit. i had underestimated how many haters the system of institutionalised childcare has in the harry potter fandom. as it should.

💌 share something with us about an up-and-coming work that has you excited!

do you like albus dumbledore?

do you like lord voldemort?

do you like dumbledore living? do you like voldemort being sent to azkaban because harry flops in the final confrontation? do you like dumbledore having some sort of thing for imprisoned mass murderers?

do you like a story with this as an extract?

Gellert was robust; a creature made strong and broad by Carpathian air and spring water, his back corded with muscles and his hands square and firm. Gellert was golden, a child of the forge and the lathe, a milk-and-honey boy with bright blue eyes and cheeks of burnished amber. Tom was none of those things. He was consumptive, brittle. Always a little too pale and a little too thin, with friable nerves and poisoner’s fingers. He would sit behind his desk and glower at me with his fathomless eyes, a smudge of black ink in a classroom filled by the rich and healthy - pink-cheeked and soft-bodied - and the bones of his face were like razors, as beautiful as they were deadly. The tendons in his wrist would flex, bird-like, whenever he moved his wand. His robes were secondhand, they were too short in the cuffs. The gin-soaked woman who attended to the orphanage had rattled off a list of ailments to me - as she herded me from her dominion after I had met him for the first time and been terrified - that he seemed to have been lucky not to have been finished off by. Influenza, scarlet fever, bronchitis, pneumonia. I ought to have told her that there was nothing she could have done. Snakes have an inherent loathing of the cold, his sickliness was genetic. I ought to have told the staff at Hogwarts this too, ought to have told the elves to stoke the fires in the dungeons high and lay an extra blanket on his bed. He was poorly-suited to the glacial damp of winter at Hogwarts. He was often ill, often absent from my classes with chills and wheezes. He still topped the year in every exam. He is still ignoring me, glaring out of the cell window, red eyes narrowed against the spray which dances from the sea. Azkaban cannot be doing him any favours, now that he is mortal once more. There is a veneer of damp clinging to his robes, tiny flecks of salt beginning to crust at the hems. There are chilblains on his skeletal fingers. I am not sorry that we allow him to live like this. But I am not triumphant either. ‘Tom -’ ‘That is not my name.’ ‘I will ask the Wizengamot to do something about the damp in here.’ ‘I have no objection to the damp.’ His voice sounds huskier than I remember even as he says this. It has lost a little of its effete malice. He must have a cold. ‘You won’t hold that opinion when you develop pneumonia,’ I say to him, a school-teacher’s admonition in my tone. ‘I have survived pneumonia before.’ ‘You should -’ ‘I have no desire to waste my time on hypothetical misery, Dumbledore. I am focused on the here-and-now.’ He turns to look at me. ‘I am still alive. That is all that matters.’ And this, this is why I told Harry we could not risk imprisoning him. Because there is a fire in his gaze, a fire which fever will only make worse, driving him to take, to fight, to survive. ‘I am alive,’ he says again, stepping towards me. ‘Which means you lost. Your precious little soldier could not bring himself to do the one thing you have trained him for since birth.’ He draws even closer. ‘I am not Grindelwald, Dumbledore,’ he croons, ‘content to stay put forever, dreaming of your caresses. This is not Nurmengard. The walls of Azkaban will not contain Lord Voldemort for long.’ He cannot know that Gellert once said much the same thing. I will not stay locked up here, Albus. I will escape. And my affections for you will mean nothing when I burn Britain to the ground. Nurmengard cannot hold Gellert Grindelwald. All that is stopping me from escaping right now is that I cannot think of a suitable way to kill you. ‘The only thing that hinders me is an inability to decide how I am going to kill you.’ He is irritated by the laugh which escapes me. I can picture quite clearly the way his nose would twitch, if he still had one, as it always used to when he was told off. Gellert was the same. Gellert was always the same… It is that, I will tell myself later. It is the fact that he is, both in that moment and forever, so exactly like Gellert, that causes me to forget myself. And to kiss him.

then you should watch this space!

[haiimrowie]

i am being so nosey rn but i am so intrigued by your wood crafty things, what does your process look like? and got anything cool you’d be down to show off?

also what’s your tattoo of?

+ i hope you’re having a good day/night ◡̈

I welcome noseyness, it's fine 💖

Tattoos I've got like a dozen so far

Makers mark and botanical design with trees n plants relevant to my life; Celtic cross (this is gonna become a shield with queer flags), Ankh-Morpork symbol from Discworld and a combo of the trans enby and peace symbols; B natural on my outer wrist, and on my inner left arm is crossed mallet n chisel, abutilon flower my mum drew, cauldron of soup, and a heart shaped globe for the love of frens round the world 💖

I have also a queer chevron on my bicep, a pansy on my ankle and the symbol Galadriel put on the box for Sam on my thumb

My woodwork process is basically this: an idea strikes, I see what I can do to execute it, I sand it well to hide the mistakes :P

Current project is a walking stick commish which someone asked for upon seeing other walking sticks I'd made, so I sent them pics of wands I've carved to show that I can in fact do certain shapes and that my subpar drawing skills don't match what I can do in timber

This is the piece of cherry I'm currently working down; a couple years ago a relative called and said he had a cherry tree blown down, knew I had a chainsaw and a passion for timber so would I like to be the one to cut it up? So of course I did, cutting the pieces into the absolute maximum that I could carry and load into the van

Fast forward to now, that relly passed on some months back but I honour his memory by working the timber he gifted me cos it's dry now, I used axe n hammer to split off a segment which has gorgeous grain lines, chatoyancy, some solidified red resin, and it's gonna look lovely once it's finished up 💖

Handle of the walking stick is gonna be lathe turned, inspired by one of my wands, and glued up from a block of walnut with some veneer highlight stripes to make it pop

Wands is a great way to show what I can make, and I've got a lot in stock so I can rephoto them to show details n such

The middle wand in that last pic is turned tulipwood and inspired the handle design for the walking stick ^~^

And here's a close pic of the cherry grain shining in the sunlight 💖 I have many pics of many things but I don't wanna ramble on too long lol

Hope you're having a decent day of it too ^~^

[sheridanexterior]

Brick Siding Installation: A Timeless Choice for Durability and Style

Brick siding is a popular exterior choice for homes and commercial properties due to its classic aesthetic, durability, and low maintenance. Whether you're constructing a new building or updating an existing one, brick siding installation woodbury mn adds value and character to your property.

Benefits of Brick Siding

1. Durability and Longevity

Brick siding can last over a century with proper installation and minimal maintenance.

Resistant to weather conditions, pests, and fire.

2. Energy Efficiency

Acts as an effective insulator, reducing energy costs by keeping interiors cool in summer and warm in winter.

3. Aesthetic Appeal

Offers timeless beauty with a variety of colors, textures, and patterns to match architectural styles.

4. Low Maintenance

Does not require frequent painting or repairs, making it a cost-effective option in the long run.

5. Increased Property Value

Adds curb appeal and is a selling point for prospective buyers due to its durability and attractiveness.

Steps for Brick Siding Installation

1. Preparation

Inspect and prepare the surface where the bricks will be installed.

Install a moisture barrier and flashing to prevent water penetration.

2. Installing the Brick Veneer

Attach a metal lath or brick ties to the surface for added stability.

Begin laying bricks from the bottom, applying mortar evenly between each layer.

3. Ensure Proper Spacing

Use spacers to maintain consistent gaps for mortar joints.

Leave space for expansion joints to accommodate structural movement.

4. Apply Mortar

Fill gaps between bricks with mortar, ensuring no air pockets remain.

Smooth out excess mortar for a clean finish.

5. Final Touches

Clean the brick surface to remove any mortar residue.

Seal the brick siding for added protection if desired.

Cost of Brick Siding Installation

Material Costs: Brick veneer ranges from $4 to $10 per square foot, depending on the type and style.

Labor Costs: Professional installation typically costs $6 to $12 per square foot.

Total Costs: Expect to pay between $10,000 and $25,000 for a standard 2,000-square-foot home.

DIY vs. Professional Installation

DIY Installation

Suitable for small projects or experienced DIY enthusiasts.

Requires specialized tools and knowledge of masonry techniques.

Professional Installation

Ensures precision and long-lasting results.

Includes proper moisture management and structural reinforcement.

Maintenance Tips for Brick Siding

Regular Cleaning

Use a soft brush or pressure washer to remove dirt and debris.

Inspect for Damage

Check for cracks or loose bricks and repair them promptly.

Seal the Bricks

Apply a breathable sealant every 5–10 years to protect against water damage.

Maintain Mortar Joints

Repoint damaged mortar to preserve structural integrity.

Brick siding installation is a valuable investment for any property. Its durability, timeless appeal, and low maintenance make it a preferred choice for homeowners and builders alike. By choosing professional installation and proper upkeep, you can enjoy the beauty and benefits of brick siding for decades.

[willpaul229]

Spotlight On Rare Woodworking Machinery Found At Auctions

Auctions spotlight rare woodworking machinery, offering unique opportunities to acquire vintage and specialized equipment. Items like vintage industrial lathes, custom-built planers, CNC routers, and combination machines frequently surface, providing exceptional value. Rare sanders and exotic tools, such as veneer presses and dowel-making machines, often appear, catering to collectors and professionals. These wood tool auctions present a chance to upgrade workshops with high-quality, hard-to-find machinery at competitive prices.

[custombuildershouston]

Common Issues and Answers with Stucco in Houston

Stucco homes have become much more popular the last 30 years in the Houston home market. Stucco allows home designers to introduce a variety of architectural home design themes and features into their design portfolio that would otherwise not be available to capture unique home elevations. During this brief history of stucco's increase in popularity in Houston there have been many reports of adverse incidents with stucco systems failing and leading to expensive home repairs. Many of the issues have resulted in collateral damage to the home, principally associated with water intrusion moisture getting trapped behind the stucco and either leaking through windows or rotting the plywood sheathing that exist behind the stucco and structural timber of the homes structure. We are going to examine the different types of stucco systems, the properties of stucco and many of the root causes that are the origin of many of the problems.

The Nature of Stucco

Stucco is product that has been used for exterior cladding for thousands of years. It is a product that is part of the masonry family of construction products. The more modern version of stucco was created using Portland cement as the main ingredient for strength and durability more than a century and a half ago. The name stucco is interchanged with plaster and is commonly used for interior and exterior decorative veneers for both residential and commercial structures.

When stucco is used over stabilized brick, block or stone it can be directly applied as a finish to the surface. When stucco is applied over a wooden structure, it requires to be reinforced with wire lath to avoid stucco cracking when timber members move under loading or thermo changes. The lath is fastened mechanically to the substructure with staples, nails or screws. This is designed to allow the wood to slightly move independently from the lath and stucco system without cracking the monolithic stucco base.

Stucco by its very nature was developed to be a weather resistant material that could stand up to heat, snow, rain and wind. As with most cementitious products, stucco is very porous and allows water to penetrate its surface. It is a breathable material that lets water in and out. The stucco will absorb water and discharge excess amounts without affecting the integrity of system. The issues which we will discuss in detail further on, is when the water gets trapped behind the system and cannot be naturally discharged.

Masonry Stucco System

The masonry stucco system typically consist of a 3 coat system. They are referred to as the scratch coat, the brown coat and the finish coat. The general thickness of the system can vary from 5/8"to 1"in thickness. The scratch coat is a 1/4" application coat that is uniformly applied to lath or a brick/block surface. Before it sets up hard, it then is raked to create a grooved surface, that allows the brown coat to adhere more effectively when cured. It is essential to allow the scratch coat to cure before applying the next coat.

Once the scratch coat has cured, the brown coat is applied. The brown coat is troweled on in a thickness of nearly 1/2"and a screed is used to create a flat uniform surface. This second coat is designed to be level, flat and a smooth finish. This coat can be temperamental in the curing process. The ideal conditions for curing should be mild levels of humidity and warm temperatures. If the weather is dry and hot, the brown coat surface can experience shrinkage cracks from improper curing conditions. Water should be applied during these conditions. During cold and wet weather conditions, curing will take much longer than the 7 to 10 day normal period. Stucco installation like any new masonry work should be avoided if the temperatures are not at least 42 degrees and rising. The last coat is appropriately called the finish coat. The finish coat is typically about 1/8" in thickness and can be a variety of textures and colors. The finish coat provides the visible appearance of the stucco. The finish can also include elements like sand or other small aggregate to enhance the appearance of the surface.

EFIS Stucco

Exterior Insulation and Finish System stucco (EFIS) also known as Synthetic Stucco was introduced in Europe shortly after WWII during the reconstruction era to save labor and complete construction faster. In the 1970's EFIS was introduced in the United States. Its appeal to builders was to save money on construction cost and to reduce the required amount of labor that is required in 3 coat stucco systems. If installed properly, it is difficult to visually tell the difference between the two systems. The modern version of EFIS is now a six layer process. It requires a protective membrane over the wood sheathing acting as a water resistant barrier. The Styrofoam is then mechanically attached over the moisture barrier to the plywood substrate. Then a special polymer base coat is applied to the foam and a fiberglass reinforced mesh is embedded in the base coat while wet. The final coat is then applied for both water protection and decorative appearance. The EFIS system does not breath like the traditional stucco system.

The primary property difference between traditional 3 coat stucco and the EFIS system is that unlike conventional stucco, EFIS is designed as a non penetrating surface. The system is designed to keep water from breaching the surface. It is due to the failure of this innate property that the initial EFIS system experienced large scale failures due to water intrusion between the Styrofoam and the structural substrate. The water would work into cracks and poorly prepared joints and sit behind the Styrofoam and rot out the wood members. This was very common with the early systems and led to massive class action law suits.

Waterproofing Stucco

Waterproofing stucco is an essential element of its long term serviceability. As referenced earlier water intrusion is the enemy. If water gets behind the EFIS system it causes the wood to rot. If water continues to get behind the stucco and moisture barrier it can cause the metal lath to deteriorate. The waterproofing is a different process for each of the two systems.

It is best practices to paint your new conventional stucco system with an elastomeric paint. Elastomeric paint is a latex base paint that contains higher quantities of latex and give the paint flexible and stretching properties that most latex paint do not possess. If this paint is installed in the recommended millage, if the stucco experiences slight movement the paint can bridge the stucco from cracking. With conventional stucco it is important to fill hairline cracks that will materialize over time. Unattended to they provide a conduit for water to the lath.

In the case of synthetic stucco, it is required to keep up the maintenance of caulking windows and doors as well as the perimeter of the system to keep water from finding its way in. Routine inspection of flashing and joints is also required. The systems original finish coat holds up well over time and does not require periodic painting.

Stucco Cracks

Stucco cracks can come from various sources. They can result from too little or too much water to Portland cement ratio during the mixing period. They can come from improper stucco curing, improper expansion joint layout and they can result structural movement. The more severe the cause of action, the more severe the crack.

Stucco cracking from improper mixing will often result in spider web cracking or what is known as crazing. These cracks are a result of too wet of mixture, which can lead to stucco weakening in it strength and over hydrating. Long lateral and diagonal hairline cracks in the stucco surface are often the result of not letting the stucco to fully cure before apply an additional coat.

The improper spacing or use of expansion joints can also cause finish stucco to crack over time. As stucco reacts to thermal temperature change, it expands and contracts. As sections of larger amounts of stucco volume move, it causes stress and causes the stucco to natural create unplanned expansion cracks. Stucco is a very durable exterior finish wall system, but much like brick, if the foundation settles or fails, so will the stucco.

Installation Issues

Most of the problems that develop in stucco are a result of installation problems as we have discussed in cracks symptoms. There are a host of additional issues associated with improper installation. We have previously mentioned water intrusion as one of the more serious problems that can result from improper installation. Another common issue is improper moisture protection for wood sheathing. Protecting window openings with proper techniques and covering all exposed lumber is essential in preserving the structure and preventing unwanted consequences.

The lack of improper installation of weep screed can result in moisture being blocked from exiting the stucco system. That also goes for not fastening the lath per specifications, not trimming the lath and metal trim reglets can result poor bonding and cracking. When stucco abuts items like stone or siding normally warrant the proper use of flashing to mitigate water intrusion. Any of these details not followed for best practices of installation can end in the removal and reinstallation at great cost.

Houston Climate and Stucco

There has been much published about stucco not being a sound choice to use as a home cladding product. The product critics point to the wet humid climate not being favorable for any stucco system. They claim that the rain fall, humidity and general climate are conducive for automatically creating mold and rot issues. My contention is that Florida has been using stucco cladding since WWII vets returned. They have a subtropical climate just like Houston and experience similar amounts of rain, temperatures and seasonal weather changes. They have not had the publication of large amount of stucco failures that Houston has been documented having.

We believe that the majority of stucco issues and failures are a direct result of poor workmanship and careless installation procedures. Much like any permanent building product that relies upon the craftsmanship of installation, the success of the products longevity and problem free serviceability is in the details of installation. The devil is in the details not the product. Stucco has hundreds of years of service proven beauty and durability all over the world.

Source. https://www.marwoodconstruction.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Common-Issues-and-Answers-with-Stucco-in-Houston.pdf

[qualitystoneveneer]

Enhancing Your Home's Aesthetic Appeal: The Allure of Stone Siding in the USA

Introduction

In-home design and exterior architecture, stone siding has emerged as a timeless choice that combines aesthetics, durability, and sustainability effortlessly. Stone siding adds a touch of rustic elegance and offers long-lasting protection against the elements. This article dives deep into a stone siding in the USA, discussing its types, benefits, installation process, and more. Drawing from my expertise and first-hand experiences, I aim to provide valuable insights into why stone siding has become a popular choice for homeowners nationwide.

Understanding Stone Siding

Types of Stone Siding

Various types of stone siding are available in the USA, each with its distinct characteristics and benefits. Here are a few popular options:

Natural Stone Veneer: Derived from actual stone, natural stone veneer offers an authentic and sophisticated appearance. It is available in different types, such as limestone, granite, and sandstone, allowing homeowners to choose a style that matches their vision.

Cultured Stone: Also known as manufactured stone, cultured stone is a cost-effective alternative to natural stone. It replicates the look of natural stone while being lighter and easier to install.

Brick Veneer: While not entirely stone, brick veneer is often considered in the same category due to its similar durability and aesthetic appeal. It comes in various sizes, textures, and colors, providing versatile design options.

Benefits of Stone Siding

Elevated Aesthetics and Curb Appeal: Stone siding instantly elevates the visual appeal of any home. It exudes a sense of luxury, sophistication, and timelessness that other siding materials might struggle to match.

Durability and Longevity: Stone siding is renowned for its exceptional durability. It can withstand harsh weather conditions, including extreme temperatures, heavy rainfall, and UV exposure, making it a long-lasting investment.

Low Maintenance: Unlike traditional wood siding, which requires frequent painting and sealing, stone siding is low-maintenance. It doesn't rot, warp, or attract pests, reducing the need for constant upkeep.

Energy Efficiency: Stone's inherent thermal mass helps regulate indoor temperatures. This can contribute to energy efficiency by reducing the need for excessive heating or cooling.

Increased Property Value: Adding stone siding can significantly increase the resale value of a home. Potential buyers are often willing to pay a premium for a property with such a luxurious and durable feature.

Installation Process and Considerations

Installation Process

The installation of stone siding requires careful planning and expertise. Here's a general overview of the process:

Surface Preparation: The existing exterior surface is cleaned and prepped. A weather-resistant barrier is applied to prevent moisture penetration.

Lath Installation: A metal lath or mesh is affixed to the surface, providing a secure base for the stone veneer.

Mortar Application: Mortar is applied to the lath, and the stone veneer pieces are pressed into it. Proper spacing and alignment are crucial to achieve a seamless look.

Grouting: Once the stones are in place, the gaps between them are filled with mortar or grout. This step enhances the appearance and structural integrity of the siding.

Sealing: A protective sealant is applied to the finished stone siding to prevent water infiltration and enhance longevity.

Considerations for Stone Siding

Weight: Natural stone siding can be heavy, and the house's structure needs to be evaluated to support the additional weight.

Cost: While stone siding offers numerous benefits, it can be more expensive upfront than other siding materials. However, its durability and long lifespan can offset this cost over time.

Aesthetic Compatibility: Stone siding should complement the home's overall architectural style. Choosing a type and color of stone that harmonizes with the existing design is essential.

Professional Installation: Due to the complexity of the installation process, it's recommended to hire experienced professionals for a successful outcome.

Conclusion

Stone siding stands out in home exteriors as a symbol of elegance, durability, and timeless beauty. Its myriad benefits, from enhanced aesthetics to increased property value, make it a worthy investment for homeowners seeking functionality and style. As someone who has witnessed the transformational power of stone siding, I can attest to its ability to turn a house into an actual work of art. By understanding the various types, benefits, and considerations associated with stone siding, you can make an informed decision that adds value to your home and enriches your living experience.

For more in-depth insights and information about stone siding options available

[civiconcepts]

Drywall Alternatives: Pros and Cons of Popular Choices

A drywall alternative is any material that can be used instead of traditional drywall, which is a type of wall and ceiling panel made of gypsum plaster sandwiched between two layers of paper. Drywall is a common building material used in residential and commercial construction because it is relatively inexpensive, easy to install, and fire-resistant. However, there are situations where drywall may not be the best choice, such as in areas with high moisture or humidity, or where a different aesthetic is desired. In those cases, a drywall alternative can be used. Some examples of drywall alternatives include wood paneling, plywood, cement board, metal panels, fabric panels, and plaster. The choice of which material to use will depend on factors such as budget, durability, aesthetics, and ease of installation.

11 Different Drywall Alternatives

1. Wood Planks

Wood Plank Wood planks are an age-old drywall alternative, and certainly stood well the test of prolonged duration. It gives an elegant and rustic feel to the home without much bothering for maintenance issues as against traditional drywall. Pros - There is no need to maintain it apart from keeping them dry, once the plank has been hung, especially if planks are sealed with a light lacquer finish that can be easily wiped to remove the marker. - Gives the flexibility of a lot of variety due to the different availability of woods and finishes. - It is a cost-effective drywall alternative, especially suited to country-style homes. - Wood planks covered from floor to ceiling can pull off a cabin aesthetic easily. - Easy to install. - Washable. - Suitable for high moisture areas. Cons - Honestly, it is out of style in the 1990s. - Wood plank walls won’t be the best fit unless the bottom half is covered and protective chair rails are installed. Read More: What Is Gabion Wall | Gabion Retaining Wall | Gabion Basket Wall | Gabion Basket Retaining Wall | Gabion Wall Construction 2. Veneer Plaster

Veneer Plaster Veneer plaster is almost like mudding the entire surface of the wall. It is very similar to the stucco that is used on the exterior of the house along with wire mesh of any type. Usually, this style of décor is found in dry states(desert areas) like Arizona and Rajasthan possessing the influence of Mexican-style adobe architecture. Pros - Simpler to use than traditional drywall as it doesn’t require as many skills or tools as hanging traditional drywall does. - Lighter - Cost-effective Cons - Although it is not difficult practically it can take up the whole day to get the job done. So, it is proven to be the most laborious and time-consuming drywall alternative. - Less durable 3. Lath & Plaster

Lath and Plaster Lath is a narrow strip of wood installed horizontally between studs or ceiling joists. Lath & Plaster consists of plastering the lath. This is similar to medieval-style (middle-aged architecture) wattle and daub (a material consisting of a network of interwoven sticks and twigs covered with mud or clay). Wood, hand-split timber, newer rock, or metal can be used as lath. Pros - Gives an elegant aesthetic due to its non-flat walls or curvy surface nature in the corner of the room, which isn’t possible in other methods except stucco. - Plaster incorporating the horsehair gives a stronger and more visible texture to the surface. Cons - Can look great by adding some texture to the wall but it is out of favor due to advancements in plasterboard and drywall. 4. Plywood and Sheet Wood

Plywood and Sheet Wood Plywood and sheet wood, are fairly straightforward to work, and less complicated than drywall. Pros - The cheapest drywall alternative to drywall without taking on the expenses of wood planks, veneer, or drywall. - When coupled with certain types of wall decoration especially surfaced sheet wood can pull off a deep country feel. - Can be colored as per convenience. - Lightweight and water-resistant. Cons - Unlike drywalls, certain types of plywood do not have the access to more features like hanging decorations and moving them. - It is very hard to cover mistakes through screw or nail holes. - Not fire-resistant. 5. Texture Wall Panels

Wall Texture Panel Texture wall panels are nothing but marble itself, which adds a lot of elegance and beauty to the home. Earlier its generally seen in hotels and expensive cocktail lounges. It consists of 3D textured panels that are easy to install and can be placed right on top of your existing wall, possessing a thickness of 3/4” to 1.5”. Pros - Facilitate the different kinds of designs and colors, mimicking aged bricks as per one’s choice. Cons - Unique but expensive. - Brick & Masonry Read More: Precast Compound Wall Cost Calculator | Boundary Wall Construction Cost Calculator 6. Brick & Masonry

Brick Masonry Stone or brick walls are the evergreen style of walls. Usually seen in suburban homes. It is also possible to have one brick wall along with three drywalls. Pros - Facilitates dynamic coloring depending on choices. - Sustainable options that last without maintenance and cleaning except dusting. Cons - This is more expensive than all drywall alternatives and even costlier than drywall. - Exposed Concrete Block 7. Exposed Concrete Block

Exposed Concrete Block The exposed concrete block is a raw, untouched finish, which means leaving the structural surface of the wall as it is. Its beauty lies in the incompletion, which can be painted to achieve a textured panel look. In combination with modern décors such as glass and black furniture and high ceiling will ultimately give an amazing look. Moreover, the arrangement of room furniture, light in the room, etc governs its aesthetic. Pros - Attractive - Strong - Durable - Fire-resistant Cons - Tougher to decorate the exposed concrete wall frequently. - Holds dirt and water. - Possess minimal insulation properties. 8. Cement Board

Cement Board Cement board is similar to brutalist architecture as it possesses lots of right angles, flat surfaces, and concrete everywhere. Pros - Suitable in areas having high moisture. - Use to visualize staircase pop. Cons - Price. - If used on all four walls, it gives the feeling of a dystopian nightmare. So, it is recommended to use them for one wall out of four. Read More: What Are Wall Texture | 10 Types of Wall Texture | Drywall Texture Types 9. Pegboard

Pegboards Pegboards are preferred in art rooms, hobby rooms, or garages. Pros - Easy to install, with the help of screws, that can be further painted of color same as of boards. - Possesses lighting characteristics, i.e., the ability to double the brightness without installing any extra light fixtures. - Facilitates the hanging of the heaviest as well as largest tools. - Possesses the next level of strength, capable to support shelves. Cons - Huge weight can cause a meltdown and might fall off. 10. Cork Board

Corkboards Drywall Alternative Corkboards are similar to pegboards with a limitation of incapability to support much weight. Pros - Facilitate a variety of choices due to hues of color, thickness, sizes of cork chip compressed, etc. - Helps in scattering the light. - Provide thermal and acoustic insulation. - Fire and moisture resistance. Cons - Inadequate randomization of design across an entire wall. - Capable to hang photos or thumbtack of lightweight. - Not durable. 11. Wahoo Walls

Wahoo Walls Wahoo walls are meant for covering a cinderblock or concrete basement wall. It looks similar to drywall. So, It become one of the simple drywall alternatives on the market. Pros - Moisture resistant. - No need to screw in the walls. - Easily removable panels. - Fast installation. - Breathable walls and ceiling. - Good R-value. Cons - Expensive. - No DIY option. - No flooring. - The walls have seams. - Reinforced Fiberglass & Gypsum Panels Read More: What Is Skirting | 12 Types of Skirting | Skirting In Construction | Skirting Meaning | Skirting Wall Design

Conclusion

A drywall alternative is any material that can be used instead of traditional drywall, which is a type of wall and ceiling panel made of gypsum plaster sandwiched between two layers of paper. Drywall is a common building material used in residential and commercial construction because it is relatively inexpensive, easy to install, and fire-resistant. However, there are situations where drywall may not be the best choice, such as in areas with high moisture or humidity, or where a different aesthetic is desired. In those cases, a drywall alternative can be used. Some examples of drywall alternatives include wood paneling, plywood, cement board, metal panels, fabric panels, and plaster. The choice of which material to use will depend on factors such as budget, durability, aesthetics, and ease of installation.

FAQs:

What is a DryWall?Drywall construction is a plasterboard or wallboard that consists of two paperboards that sandwich gypsum(a non-combustible, lighter, and cheap), a powdery white or gray sulfate mineral. What is an Exposed Concrete Block?The exposed concrete block is a raw, untouched finish, which means leaving the structural surface of the wall as it is. Its beauty lies in the incompletion, which can be painted to achieve a textured panel look. You May Also Like - What Is Gabion Wall | Gabion Retaining Wall | Gabion Basket Wall | Gabion Basket Retaining Wall | Gabion Wall Construction - Precast Compound Wall Cost Calculator | Boundary Wall Construction Cost Calculator - What Is Skirting | 12 Types of Skirting | Skirting In Construction | Skirting Meaning | Skirting Wall Design - What Are Wall Texture | 10 Types of Wall Texture | Drywall Texture Types Read the full article

[minghungwoodmachinery1983]

Spindle Veneer Peeling machine

Our product Spindle 8feet Veneer Production Line includes 8feet log debarker, 8feet wood peeling machine, log conveyor, and 8feet vacuum veneer stacker.

The function of veneer peeling line for processing wood and produce wood veneer, as you know, wood veneer is material for making plywood, wooden furniture and others. So its quality are very important. This requires the veneer machine are good quality and strong enough.

This 8feet veneer production line can process max log length 2600mm, and max log diameter 600mm, and thickness can be 0.5-3mm.

With advanced and mature production technology, and experienced workers and professional technicians, So our veneer machine structure and characters are good. And we use good and thick materials, super machine accessories, good electric box and upgraded electric parts, So our log peeling machine are strong enough to peel kinds of hardwood like beech, birch and others, and can help you produce very accurate wood veneer with smooth surface, which will help you create much value.

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[woodveneermachine]

11 years old veneer peeling machine still working good

[plywoodmakingmachinery]

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[itsmethewoodworker-blog]

Oak nightstand with stone drawer front.

[newamericaconstruction]

Siding Installation in Woodland Park, NJ

Siding is an important part of your home in Woodland Park, New Jersey. Not only does it add aesthetic appeal to the exterior, but it also protects your home from extreme weather conditions. It is important to hire a professional for this important task, so that you don't have to worry about compromising the safety of your home.

Cultured stone is more durable than natural stone

Cultured stone is an artificial stone that resembles natural stone in appearance. These stones are used for exterior cladding and architectural details. They are cheaper and easier to install, but their quality and durability is not as good as natural stone. The color and texture of natural stone is different from the colors and textures of cultured stone. Unlike natural stone, manufactured stone is not susceptible to UV rays.

Cultured stone is made from concrete poured into a mold and colored to resemble natural stone. It was first introduced decades ago, and was far lighter than four-inch-thick building stone. This new technology made installation much easier. It also pushed the natural stone industry into lighter sawing processes and the development of thin-cut natural stone veneer. However, before choosing a cultured stone product, it's important to consider how much the raw material cost, installation costs, and finished look will cost.

Cultured stone is less expensive than natural stone

When it comes to siding options, natural stone and cultured stone have some advantages and disadvantages. For one, stone siding tends to be more expensive than natural stone, because it requires more labor to install. Another disadvantage of stone siding is that the material can trap moisture, causing issues later. Therefore, it is better to use a professional stone siding contractor in Woodland Park, NJ.

If you want to get your home's exterior looking like stone, cultured stone is a good option. It can cost between $5 and $10 per square foot. The installation process for cultured stone is similar to natural stone siding installation in Woodland Park, New Jersey, including the use of metal lath and a scratch coat of mortar. It also requires the installation of wall anchors to ensure it is secure. However, it is important to note that it is not as authentic as natural stone, and you need to have it installed correctly to get a high-quality finish.

Cultured stone is less expensive than vinyl siding

Whether you're in the market for a new siding material or looking to make your existing home more beautiful, cultured stone siding is a great option. Cultured stone is a manmade version of natural stone that can cost anywhere from $5 to $10 per square foot. The materials are similar in weight and durability to traditional materials. However, these siding options are not as environmentally friendly as natural stone, and they require periodic light washing with a hose.

Stone and veneer siding has been recognized by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) for over 40 years. However, each city and state has its own building codes, and installing stone and veneer siding requires a special license. Additionally, the material and labor costs increase with the size of a home.

Vinyl siding installation is less expensive than wood siding

Vinyl siding is a popular option for residential homeowners. This kind of siding is mostly plastic and has several advantages over wood. It is more durable and comes in different textures and colors. In addition, it can be easily customized according to the exterior style of a home. Moreover, it doesn't require regular maintenance or repainting. Besides, there is no need to worry about insects as vinyl is pest free.

The cost of vinyl siding installation in Woodland Park varies depending on the style, thickness, and manufacturer of the material. There are also factors such as the type of house and its location. However, it is a good option for homeowners who are looking for a cost-effective siding option.

New America Construction 256 Bergen Blvd Suite 205, Woodland Park, NJ 07424 973-804-9400 https://newamericaconstructionco.com/

[architectnews]

Forest Hill Garden and Pavilion, Toronto

Forest Hill Garden and Pavilion, Toronto, Ontario Building and Landscape Design, Modern Canadian Home

Forest Hill Garden & Pavilion in Toronto

4 Jun 2022

Design: Amantea Architects

Location: Toronto, ON, Canada

Photos: Doublespace Photography

Forest Hill Garden & Pavilion, Canada

Toronto’s Amantea Architects has transformed the landscape of a single-family home in the city’s Forest Hill neighbourhood, clarifying its program while maintaining its lush, layered character. The Forest Hill Garden & Pavilion project comprises a fully redesigned backyard including dining terrace, patio, sports lawn, swimming pool and pavilion—all efficiently programmed within a 560-square-metre space—as well as a new front garden and entryway.

The exterior project began with Amantea’s collaboration on an extensive renovation of the primary residence. The client wanted to preserve elements of the existing landscape—notably the mature trees along the rear garden, which add to the backyard’s leafy seclusion—while extending the material palette and language of the house’s now-modern interior.

The landscape’s focal point is a new 47-square-metre pavilion spanning nearly the entire width of the backyard and pushed as close to the rear property line as permitted. Hovering above native grade on piers to mitigate its impact on the adjacent trees, the pavilion’s linear form is configured to preserve the existing vegetation. Clad in black to contrast with the surrounding foliage while visually receding into the background, the pavilion functions like a screen, creating the illusion of limitless space beyond. The house-facing elevation is an assembly of vertical cedar battens that gradually transition from wide and shallow at the building’s ends, which house storage and mechanical, to narrower, deeper and more widely spaced at its centre. The resulting moiré-like effect is especially striking at night when the pavilion is illuminated like a lantern, with warm light filtering through its screen and full-height translucent glass walls.

These glass panels admit ample daylight, limiting the need for artificial lighting while still providing visual separation; after dark, daylight is supplemented with tunable LEDs integrated into the ceiling. The pavilion’s core, finished with a warm and natural palette of marine-grade ply with cedar veneer and oiled cedar boards, is turned over to a washroom, a change room and a shower next to an opening in the roof that frames a birch tree and a view of the sky—zones deftly partitioned yet open to the surrounding landscape and pool activity.

From the interior of the pavilion, ipe flooring connects to the oiled ipe decks that frame the swimming pool. Mirroring the pavilion’s geometry, the new rectangular pool is lined with Algonquin limestone that extends horizontally on one side to form a deck wide enough for lounge chairs; nearest the house, the same limestone acts as a bridge to the dining terrace. The pool’s remaining sides are flanked by decks of oiled ipe that sit flush with the level of the lawn. The use of continuous walking surfaces throughout the backyard unifies the pavilion with its setting—an effect enhanced by a planted roof that visually extends the lawn to the perimeter vegetation when viewed from above.

Opposite the pavilion, the new dining terrace replaces an existing balcony-like platform framed by a masonry wall and accessed by a narrow set of eight stone steps; now, an extended sequence of wide platforms elaborates the transition from ipe dining terrace to limestone patio below, dispensing with the need for a guardrail and enhancing the feeling of openness. Raised to meet the level of the main floor interior, the new enlarged terrace also includes a generous custom barbecue station set against horizontal black-stained cedar lath with a powder-coated aluminum heat guard.

From dining terrace to pool, the elevation change is managed by a berm—sandwiched between two low limestone retainers, further subdivided by black aluminum planters and densely foliated to negotiate its steep descent—inserting a middle-ground to create a sense of distance between pool and terrace. Here and elsewhere, plantings (selected in collaboration with Tina McMullen) are structured for a modern look that nonetheless retains the loose, shaggy feel of the original garden.

In the front yard, Amantea updated an existing horseshoe driveway and intersecting front walk with new heated surfaces of concrete and limestone. The entrance, too, is modernized, with a new square stoop, orthogonal limestone bench and corresponding planting box framed in blackened metal; here, as in the areas flanking the front walk, a carefully proportioned composition of shrubs and low plantings replaces turf.

Forest Hill Garden & Pavilion in Toronto, Ontario – Building Information

Design: Amantea Architects – https://www.amarchitects.ca/

Site size: 1084 sqm Completion date: 2019 Building levels: 1

Landscape Contractor: Coivic Contracting Ltd. Pavilion Contractor: Niet Outdoors Planting Plan Designer: Bosque Landscape Architecture Structural Engineer: Blackwell

Photographer: Doublespace Photography

Forest Hill Garden & Pavilion in Toronto images / information received 040622

Location: Toronto, Ontario, Canada, North America

Toronto Architecture

Toronto Architectural Designs – chronological list

Ontario Architecture News on e-architect

Therme Canada | Ontario Place, West Island Design: Diamond Schmitt image courtesy of Diamond Schmitt Therme Canada Ontario Place

Edition, 764 St. Clair West, Wychwood-Cedarvale neighbourhood, Midtown Architecture: StudioAC photograph : Double Space Photo Edition’s Second Location

La Belle Maison Mansion photo : Property Vision Media La Belle Maison Mansion

Toronto Architecture

Comments / photos for the Forest Hill Garden & Pavilion in Toronto designed by Amantea Architects page welcome

The post Forest Hill Garden and Pavilion, Toronto appeared first on e-architect.

[davepetillo]

PETILLO Custom Acoustic Guitar: (Made for my dear friend Gene Deetz & family/completion date - December 12, 2020)

Specs/Notes:

Soundboard: Spanish cedar

Back & Sides: Brazilian rosewood (dark straight grain)

Finish: Nitro

Pickguard: clear Martin style

Neck: Hondorous mahogany

Neck Heel Cap: Nigerian ebony

Fingerboard: Nigerian ebony

Fingerboard Inlays: abalone rings

Fingerboard Side Dots: Mother of pearl

Frets: stainless steel low profile style

Nut: Woolley Mammoth

Bridge/Pins/Saddle: Nigerian ebony

Binding: Hawaiian Koa figured with German white holly and American maple dyed black purfling lines

Rosette Inlay: Paua abalone ring

Front Headstock: Marquetry strip inlays with ebony diamonds in the center of the piece, the angled elbow design in the right hand side of the headstock is a lamination of Nigerian ebony, American maple dyed red/blue, Indian rosewood and German flame maple, the final step is the round pinstripe NEW YORK YANKEES style black and white circle motif inlay highlighted in red burl wood in the top circle cut out, the Petillo logo is done in sterling silver

Back Headstock: art deco blue metallic 3d fan sunburst with raised smooth to the touch stinger point

Tuning Keys: nickel key-stone button Gotoh brand

Tuning Key Gear-Box Carving: dyed red/blue engraved sunflowers

End Pin: hand lathed round pinstripe NEW YORK YANKEES style black and white plastic veneers glued together (this motif was also used on the headstock and bridge)

Strap Button On Neck Heel: traditional nickel cone shape

[roguelioness]

What Could Have Been

Inspired by this post and @ma-sulevin​‘s addition 

Her heart’s going to fly clean out of her chest any second.

It certainly feels that way. She stares blankly at the ceiling in the darkness, the last tendrils of the dream slowly unwinding from her mind, slithering back to the void. Her breath is rapid, and shaky, and she’s not surprised to feel wetness on her cheeks.

Reality comes back in inches. It’s so quiet here; the only sound is the wind playing with the trees outside their window. There’s a softness covering her, the flannel blanket that carries the familiar, soothing scent of the laundry detergent that she uses. 

She pushes herself up shakily.  A soft snore on her left has her turning sharply towards the source of the sound; and her heart flips over - in relief or shock, she can’t tell - when her eyes land on the sleeping form of Solas, of her husband, resting on his back with an arm carelessly covering his eyes. As she stares greedily, he snores again, and she makes a low, half-choked sound of disbelief. 

He’s… here. He’s here, by her side, and not-

Her hand moves towards him, unbidden, and she touches his face. Feels the softness of his skin, traces over the freckles dotting his nose. He’s real. He’s real. He’s real. When she rubs a finger against his lips, he stirs, moves his hand away from his face to blink blearily up at her.

“Vhenan?” his voice is thick with sleep, but it still sounds like him. “What’s the matter?”

His concern, even in his half-aware state, breaks open some dam within her. “Oh,” she breathes through her tears. “You’re here. You’re here.”

“Where else would I be?” She can tell he’s fully awake as he sits up next to her, his thigh pressing against hers. He’s awake, and alarmed. His brows are furrowed as he takes in her tears. “What’s wrong?”

“I had a dream-” she hiccups, then cries harder as he wraps his arm around her shoulder. “A bad one.”

He rubs her back, his warmth seeping into her. “Do you want to talk about it?”

She hiccups again, sniffs in a futile attempt to clear her blocked nose. Wordlessly, Solas hands her several tissues, and she takes them gratefully. She blows her nose, once, twice, places the used tissues on her nightstand in favor of the glass of water she keeps there. The liquid soothes her throat, replenishes what she’s lost in sleep-sweat and tears.

“Better?” Solas asks. His long, slender fingers softly massage the base of her neck sending frissions of relief up to her scalp.

“Yes.” She takes in a deep breath. The dream’s coming back to her, faint echoes of the vivid, overwhelming images, but shielded as she is by Solas’ touch, she feels none of the emotions that threatened to drown her. It makes it easier to speak about- it.

“I saw you,” she murmurs, hands fidgeting in her lap. “You were dressed funny. Your face was so… blank. So expressionless,” she shivers. He gently takes one of her hands and holds it between his, silently encouraging her to continue. “You had this- this strange orb. It was pulsing with power, so much power… you gave it to a monster…” she exhales. “Some corrupted magister, I think it was. And- and the monster, he- he used it to kill so many people. He blew up the… I think it was the Temple of Sacred Ashes. It looked like it… and he just- so many people died,” her voice trembles, just a little. “And I- I had a cut on my hand,” she stares at the palm of her left hand, half-surprised to see it smooth and unblemished.  “It oozed green light and it hurt so bad. And- people hated me for it, but- but they also wanted me to fight the monster. So I did… over and over… and it just… hurt.” She describes the breach, that swirling, vengeful vortex in the sky that spat out demons and death. She talks about red lyrium. “It turned normal men into hate-fueled beasts,” she mutters, blinking blankly into the darkness of the room. “They slaughtered everything for no reason. There was so much blood…” She tells him of the giant demon with too-many eyes and too-sly voice, of betrayal and deadly games played from behind masks and veneers, of ancient places lost and rediscovered and then defiled, of dragons tamed and conquered, and of monsters finally slain.

The silence that falls when she’s done feels deafening. Finally, finally, Solas shifts, pulling her between his legs, her back pressed to his chest so she’s enveloped by his arms and legs. She sighs, softly, contentedly; she feels safe, at last. He presses kisses to her temple, over and over, nuzzling his face against hers. 

Something else comes to her. “You left me,” she blurts out, hastily rolling away from him. “You broke my heart, and you left me all alone. And then- and then when I finally found you, you-” she raises her left arm, looks at it. It’s whole, and entirely normal; there are no poisonous green lines snaking up the length of it, no pulsing power in the palm that will burst out in a flash of agonizing pain. “You took my arm,” she whispers, rubbing her left arm with the fingers of her right. “You- you said you were the Dread Wolf, that you were going to destroy the world, and then you amputated me and… and you abandoned me,” the words are heavy with accusation and anger. “You turned your back on me, and you just… walked away.”

He sighs. “Vhenan,” he shifts, attempting to coax her to look in his direction. “Vhenan, you cannot truly be upset with me over something you saw in the Fade.” She staunchly refuses to look at him. He sighs again, shifts till he’s within her line of sight. “No, I have never given an artifact to a corrupt magister. You would know if I had. No-” he forestalls the objection that wants to pour out of her mouth, “not everything you see in the Fade is a memory.” 

She sulks, deliberately turns her head from him. Solas takes in a deep breath, and lets it out slowly. The sound is loud in the quiet of the room. “Vhe-” she jerks her head away from him again. “Vhenan, please.”

“You left me!” she hurls at him again, as though it explains everything.

“It was a dream. I would never leave you.” Slowly, as though he’s attempting to calm a skittish horse, he reaches across the distance between them. She lets him touch her, lets him turn her so she’s facing him once more. “Ar lath ma, Neria. You are my heart, my home. Leaving you would be like depriving myself of air; I would perish.”

Her eyes fill up with tears again; she sniffles. “Promise you’ll stay with me?” she sobs, flinging herself at him, wrapping her arms around his neck.

Solas holds her to him, so tight he’s almost crushing her, but she welcomes the pressure. “I promise.” He waits till the tears stop, stroking her back slowly the entire time, before suggesting they go back to sleep. She agrees, but she doesn’t get any rest.

She’s not really sure if she believes him.

----

Monday

It’s silly to let a dream haunt her so, Neria knows. She’s aware of it, but she can’t seem to stop herself from giving Solas the cold shoulder. Each time he asks her a question, she replies with one-word answers, tersely spoken. Creators bless him, he hasn’t pressed her, hasn’t demanded an explanation for her strange behavior - for it is strange, and out of character for her. Instead, he gives her gentle affection, coming back to her again and again even when she pushes him away. 

She thinks she hates him more for how damn understanding he’s being.

He’s at work, and she’s got the T.V. on as she prepares dinner. It’s some trashy reality show about the heiresses of Orlais; one of them’s getting married, apparently, and to accompany the raucous laughter and the garish opulence of the yacht wedding, fireworks are set off, bursting in the sky in a shower of sparks of blue, red, and green- green, like-

Her fingers turn boneless, and the knife clatters to the floor, but she doesn’t hear it.

She’s there. Arms bound, and the sky is falling, and there are people shouting at her; her heart thunders, she’s so confused, so terrified. There are people shouting at her, strange ghostlike figures with hoods over their heads and viperous green eyes, smoke curling out of their ears and noses and mouths. They scream at her, spit at her, but she can’t hide, there’s nowhere to go, she’s being pulled forward, forward, forward- she doesn’t know what’s going on, but there are soldiers, and she’s running up a snow-covered mountain, amidst bodies charred to the bone, and- it’s horribly, horrifying, it’s wrong, so, so wrong, she knows this, she knows this, but how can she fix this, she can’t- she didn’t cause this, how is she meant to fix this, she tries to shout at the ghosts but they don’t listen, they scream at her over and over and their voices are too high and they hurt her head and her hand is throbbing now, viciously, violently-

an arc of too-green light, and more pain, so much more pain, but the ghosts are pleased-

She can’t breathe, her chest is clogged with the freezing wind and panic and terror- but she can’t stop, can’t stop, this - whatever this is - is too urgent, too important, she has to keep going, has to, it doesn’t matter that no one believes her, it doesn’t matter that everyone hates her, she has to- do- something- and there’s green high up in the sky, so wide and large and massive and it’s scary and she doesn’t want to be here she wants to run away she wants to hide she wants to-

The phone rings, and she’s jolted back to her kitchen, with the sunlight streaming in through the windows, where an advertisement for laundry detergent is playing on the television.

Her heart’s still racing. She picks up the knife from the floor, but she can’t seem to stop her hand from shaking.

Vhenan. Would you mind picking up dinner on your way home?

She half-expects him to refuse. It’s what she would do, were she in his place…

Of course. Is there anything you’re craving?

Damn him. How dare he?

She sinks to the floor, phone clutched to her chest, and cries. She’s not sure why.

----

Tuesday

She can’t stay home. She’s already on edge, but walking into their bedroom makes her too jittery. Makes her feel as though everything is going to come crashing down around her. Desperate for a change of scenery, she texts her best friend.

How ‘bout some coffee? My treat.

Dorian’s quick to reply, as always. Of course. How does three sound? I’ll splurge on the donuts.

They sit by the window in the farthest corner of the room - their usual table. She’s eschewed coffee in favor of some strawberry lemonade - the last thing she needs is caffeine ruining her already fitful sleep.

“So,” Dorian asks, peering at her over the rim of his cup, his moustache quivering slightly. “What’s wrong?”

“What do you mean? We do this all the time.”

He quirks an elegant brow. “You look like death. You have more bags under your eyes than I take on vacation with me, and that would actually be an understatement, not an exaggeration. Something’s clearly got you all shaken up. Did you have a fight with Solas? Do I need to have words with him?”

“No, I-” her hand trembles, and some of her drink spills on her white shirt. “Dammit,” she grabs at a napkin, goes to prevent the stain from setting-

The red liquid is spreading outwards on the cloth. It’s so- red. So angry. So like-

-like blood blooming from a wound-

She’s running through walls lined with red, dark rank-smelling liquid around her feet, the scent of iron and copper in her nose and on her tongue.  There’s too much red, too much, and- there’s a humming sound, loud and haunting and it’s so furious and she doesn’t know why- how dare it be angry when she’s the one who deserves to rage- always that sickening squelch before the red sprays out, she doesn’t want to do it but she does, wants to hurt them the way they’ve hurt everything around her- 

Dorian calls out to her, concern ripe in her voice, and she lifts her head towards the sound, eyes not fully seeing- he was there too, running by her side, running amidst the muck and the filth and the ichor, so desperately optimistic despite the grim and the dark and the bleak

Red, red and dead everywhere- and Solas is here,, too-red and too-sad and too close to death with haunted and hopeless eyes and she can’t bear it, can’t bear it, it’s too much, there’s no hope there’s only fear and despair and she’s helpless as she watches the love of her life die spilling more red than she thought he had and it isn’t fair it isn’t right IT ISN’T RIGHT IT’S TOO MUCH SHE NEEDS TO GET OUT SHE NEEDS TO GET BACK-

“Neria!” she jolts as she’s shaken roughly. Dorian’s looking at her, unsettled but deeply worried. “What’s gotten into you?”

“Dorian-” he mouth is too dry, but the sight of her drink makes her recoil.

“Talk to me, please.”

She does. She tells him everything, then turns to look out of the window as she waits for him to tell her she’s crazy.

He doesn’t.

Instead… “I’ve had dreams like that before,” he confesses quietly. She stares at him, wide-eyed. “They can be… haunting.” There’s so much sympathy in his eyes she can’t quite bear to look at his face.

“How do I get rid of them?” she asks.

“They’ll leave, with time.” He reaches out, covers her hand with his own. “You’re not crazy, if that’s what you’re thinking.”

She’s not convinced. “Thanks, Dorian.”

----

Wednesday

Neria is being kind to herself, as Dorian suggested. The long, tapered candle gives off a pleasant, soothing scent, filling the air with vanilla and lavender. There’s a stack of magazines on the table, a cup of tea by her side, and she’s curled up on the couch with a soft wool throw tucked around her legs.

She hasn’t registered a single word she’s read.

With a deep sigh, she shifts, pulls another issue from the stack. Jostles the table as she does. The candle falls over before she can stop it. The flame touches the paper, which instantly ignites.

There’s a goddamn fire on the table; she knows she should do something, that she needs to put it out, but- she cocks her head to the side and finds herself just staring at it.

Yellow and orange and heat, so much heat it blisters and warps-

Shouting, and screaming, and panic; smoke handing thick and heavy in the air, wood charred black and glowing red, help us, save us- There’s too many of them, too many, what can she do- nothing, nothing, there’s nothing to do, she’s going to die, they’re going to die, everything is going to burn to ash and she can’t do anything- but- wait- she can, she can, she’ll do all she can so he lives- he is everything to her, she won’t lose him, she can’t lose him- it hurts, it’s anguish that shakes her bones, she doesn’t want to leave him, she doesn’t want to die, but there’s nothing else she can do-

she’s scared and terrified and petrified and she wants to curl up and cry. There’s panic in her belly and it’s desperate and gnawing and everything around her is burning, burning, it’s too hot even with all the snow and her fingers blister and her toes blister and her face blisters and she’s screaming and she’s falling and she’s burning and she’s falling-

Warm arms - not hot, but warm, and so familiar and so welcome - wrap around her. Solas’ arms are trembling as he rocks her back and forth, his lips pressed to her forehead.

“Are you okay,” he asks, his voice hoarse, when she finally pulls away from him.

Her throat feels strangely sore. “Yes,” she croaks, then remembers the fire and jerks upright. There’s nothing there; the candle’s been put out, the only victim a few pages half-burned. “You put out the fire?”

“It was a small one,” he murmurs, still unwilling to let go of her. “What happened?”

“I don’t know,” she mumbles.

She knows he isn’t convinced.

----

Thursday

The news feed is uninspiring. There’s a new picture up of Sera and her newest girlfriend at the beach. It’s time for a Widdle fun! the caption exclaims. Photos of Orlesian Fashion Week posted by Vivienne, with little remarks under the designers she admires. A slightly-blurry video of Cullen and his mabari pup; she can’t help but smile at their antics. She scrolls past a banner advert for Rainier’s Furnishings, and she absently makes a note to check it out; Solas could use a new desk and bookshelves for his study.

The Thedas Travels page has a slideshow of pictures. Ten Places You Must See Before You Die, it’s titled. Curious, she checks it out. Boulevard of the Seas in Antiva City, The Winter Palace in Halamshiral, The Argent Spire in Minrathous, Adamant Fortress in the Western Approach...

She stares at the picture of the large, grey-stoned bastion. An Orlesian fortress constructed by dwarves, this relic of the Divine Age stands on the very edge of the Abyssal Rift and once belonged to the Grey Wardens-

Clang of metal striking metal, scent of blood fresh in the air. Ichor on her face, in her hair, on her hands. She’s running again, chasing a ghost, frustration ripe on her tongue- the ground shatters beneath her and now she’s falling, she’s falling and plummeting and dropping and it’s endless and she lands into nightmares and terror and everything is sickly and wrong and makes her skin crawl and the sly voices lick at her ears and make her shudder and cloud her mind and sap her resolve- 

but she’s grim and she’s determined and she punches ahead and she’s a leader and she has to she has to there’s no other choice- until a choice has to be made and she doesn’t want to make it but she has to but she doesn’t and she tumbles out with grief blocking every pore and loss flooding her chest but there’s too many eyes on her to falter so she can’t even cry but that’s all she wants to do is cry and apologize and weep and- what has she done what has she done

When she wakes up, she’s in bed, the covers tucked around her shoulder. Her head throbs viciously. Weakly, she sits up, and finds a cup of warm tea and several chocolate chip cookies waiting for her. 

There’s also a small bottle of aspirin.

She starts to cry again.

----

Friday

It’s a bright, sunny day. There’s not a single cloud in the sky. Outside, she can hear the distant rumble of a motor as someone mows their lawn. There’s faint birdsong drifting in, and the scent of warm spices  from the stove. She’s smiling and humming along to the music in the radio as she pours the batter into a greased pan.

She’s happy, and she’s in love, and she’s going to surprise Solas with his favorite cake. Life is good.

A ballad floats out through the speakers. It’s soft, and sweet, all violins and cellos, and it builds up to something deeper, something that thrums in her veins and fills her blood with desires, until her core aches and throbs-

Come, dance with me before the music stops. It rings so clearly in her head she finds herself turning, seeking him out. Her hand in his. His hand at her waist, heavy and warm. She’s floating across marble, the stars in the sky insignificant in measure to the light in his eyes. Scent of rose and jasmine thick, almost cloying. The rustle of vines as she’s pressed up against the wall, his mouth at her neck, teeth nipping, tongue soothing, fingers drifting under her dress moving slowly upwards, teasing, stroking, there but not quite where she wants him, where she needs him-

Champagne on his tongue, passion on her breath, his gaze locked on her as he pushes into her, slow, steady, filling her so perfectly till he’s hilted as deeply in her body as he is in her heart. Her gaze never leaving his as he begins to move, hips slapping against hers, the sound muffled by the low hum of conversations from below the balcony. The music hangs in the air as he guides her to peak, as he makes lovely, lewd promises against her lips, her legs wrapped around him, trapping him, demanding more, neck bared up in offering, his mouth latched to her pulse-

Close, so close, so high up- she leaps off, soars, dives off the cliff into the sea of pleasure, washes up on the shore sated and breathless- he loves her and she loves him and she wants him and he wants here and it's lovely, beautiful, magnificent-

Solas walks out of the study. 

She strides towards him. Plucks the book from his hands. Pulls him down to her, slides her mouth against his.

He goes willingly with her.

----

Saturday

Elfroot, spindleweed, embrium. They’re growing well in their troughs, the leaves and stems a pleasing, soothing shade of green. She sighs when she sees that the trays in the shaded spot she’d reserved for growing deep mushrooms are empty. Still, she’s quite pleased with the crop of dawn lotus and crystal grace - she might even have enough to send over to Merrill.

She makes her way to the dragonthorn tree. It’s such a strange one, with it’s palmately lobed leaves that shine a deep, glossy green, and large orange-red berries that cluster in groups of two or three. Native to the Forbidden Oasis, it serves as a reminder of that one vacation she’d taken with Solas, just the two of them in a well-hidden paradise away from the rest of the world.

The sun glints off the swaying leaves. The wind whispers into her ear, cools the sweat that’s beaded at the nape of her neck. The scent of the earth hits her, loamy and rich-

The land is lush and verdant, more shades of green than she can count. She moves through grass softer than a dream, trails her fingers along slender, fuzzy leaves, the canopy above her dappled with sunlight. The smell of petrichor mingles with that of herbs, both known and unknown. Flowers bloom, a hundred different colors and sizes and scents. This is paradise unknown. It’s a marvel, and awe swells within her, wonder and amazement that such a place exists… so much beauty, such exquisiteness, then- flashes of gold, towers of red, hulking, misshapen, dead-eyed- pools of red, splashing up her legs, smeared across her face, running down her arm- the air changes from sweet to bitter and and she tramples all that is pretty beneath her feet as she rushes to stop greedy hands from grasping, from drinking- and she despairs that something so marvelous is despoiled, befouled, and she’s angry now, raging at those who would so  pollute and defile so sacred a sanctum-

Something brushes against her arm. It’s a branch, laden with blooming red flowers, and she has, in her daze, clipped it while it was still growing.

Distressed, she takes it with her when she enters the house, places it in a vase filled with water.

The flowers are dead the next morning, withered and sadly drooping. Dry, shrivelled red petals lie scattered across the table.

She carries the ache in her chest all day.

----

Sunday

Neria watches Solas check his wallet, making sure the printout of his boarding pass is safely within. His small green carry-on suitcase is waiting by the door. He shrugs on his coat, checks the time on his watch before looking up at her. “It’s time to leave, I think. I do not expect traffic, but it’s better to be safe.”

She nods.

He crosses over to her, cups her cheek. She nuzzles against his palm. “It is only four days,” he watches her carefully. “Not years. I will be back. I promise.”

“I know,” she replies, but it rings hollow even to her own ears.

He places his luggage in the trunk, and she drives him to the airport. A strange kind of silence fills the air - it feels ominous, almost. Like the Fates are watching the two of them with bated breath. It gives her goosebumps, prickles the back of her neck.

The airport is bustling as it always is, and she parks in the short-term parking. He’s clearly surprised, but makes no comment. “I’ll walk with you,” she explains, and he accepts without question. They share an embrace before he walks away to join the line for the security check. He doesn’t look back, his focus on the screen of his phone.

It slams into her then.

There’s rubble and dirt and ruins of ruins and she’s bloodied and bruised and aching in places she shouldn’t ache, but she wanders around, desperate, despairing; he’s not there- she’s terrified, her skin feels frozen not with the cold but with the lack of his warmth, his essence- he’s not there, she can’t tell where he’s gone, she’s alone- he’s gone, and left her alone, and the loneliness steals her breath and leaves her gasping and her heart bursts into razored shards that pierce through her soul and she can’t breathe, where is he, where is he- she is victorious, triumphant, she should be happy, she can sense it, but instead she’s filled with dread and heartache and there’s a gaping hole in her chest and she’s empty, so empty, and she- she can’t-

“Solas!” she bursts out, loud enough to catch the attention of everyone around her. Her husband turns towards her, a quizzical look on his face. “Don’t go. Please.” There’s a desperate don’t leave me that’s hanging in the air over them.

For a moment, they stare at each other. She doesn’t dare to breathe. 

Solas makes the slightest, most imperceptible nod. It’s enough of a response, and all the air in her lungs whooshes out of her. He picks his way through the crowd, and makes his way to her side.

Tension, that she hadn’t known existed, flows out of her. Neria’s shoulders slump with relief. She feels as though they’ve passed some unknowable test.

“You’ll stay?” she questions, hardly daring to believe.

“I will always be where you are, vhenan.” He takes hold of her hands. “Shall we go home?”

She doesn’t care that he’ll miss his meeting. Doesn’t care that everyone’s looking at them. Doesn’t care that she’s been acting so strange and aloof and afraid all week. 

Because it doesn’t matter, not any more.

He stayed, when she asked him to. And that’s all she needed.

The last of the dream dissipates from her consciousness, leaving only the certainty of his love in its wake.

“Ar lath ma.” She smiles up at him, bright and beatific, rises up on her toes to kiss him. “Let’s go home.”