Christmas is coming, and the tax man’s getting fat, but with some careful tax planning, you can ensure that you and your staff aren’t the ones filling up his plate.
Christmas is a time for giving and a seasonal bonus is a fantastic way to show your appreciation.
Your supply of Christmas spirit will soon be running low, however, if your generosity results in painful additional tax deductions or a visit from the HMRC.
The most traditional way of delivering bonuses to staff is through a cash gift, but could there be a more tax efficient way to reward your staff? All cash bonuses are subject to income tax, meaning that your staff won’t receive the full amount, and even physical goods with a significant monetary value are subject to a tax liability.
At Accountant’s Plus we specialise in helping businesses find a smarter way to handle their taxation obligations at all times of the year and have put together this helpful guide to help you minimise the tax impact of Christmas bonus giving.
Can a Christmas Bonuses be Tax-Free?
It is possible to give your staff small tax-free gifts at Christmas, but you must be careful to comply with certain legal conditions.
Tax-free gifts must not be given in cash, or in vouchers that can be exchanged directly for cash.
If you do use vouchers, and this can be a good option, the value of the voucher must not cost you as an employer more than £50, nor can is form part of a salary sacrifice scene. The voucher cannot be included in the employees’ contract either, as an entitlement or as a performance incentive.
These vouchers fall under ‘trivial benefit’ exemption and are a highly effective way to deliver tax-free Christmas bonuses for financially savvy businesses.
If the vouchers that you intend to give your staff fall into these rather tight restrictions, they can not only be given as a Christmas bonus alternative that is exempt from Income Tax Liability, but their cost can actually go down as a tax-deductible business expense.
If you do wish to reward staff with cash instead, just be aware that you will need to add this to your employers’ earnings total and deduct the appropriate PAYE and NI via your payroll as normal.
What about a Christmas Party?
Another great way to reward your staff without unnecessary tax deductions is to throw them a cracker of a Christmas party.
Depending on the size of your workforce, a Christmas celebration could range to anything from a quiet meal for just a few people to a major function for hundreds. Either way, tax rules apply, and you must meet certain criteria to be able to write off parts of the event as tax-deductible expenses.
The most important of these is that the event must not cost more than £150 per head. This doesn’t just include each individual’s food and drink, but also the hire of the venue, any entertainment, the bar bill, and any transport or accommodation paid for by the company.
Mobile tyre fitting has boomed in popularity in recent years and it isn’t too difficult to see why.
Remarkably, some car owners still don’t even realise that mobile tyre fitting is a thing and are missing out on a whole lot of convenience and time.
If you break down in your local area due to a puncture, or any other area of the UK for that matter, calling a local mobile tyre repair or replacement expert is the easiest and safest way to get back on the move as quickly as possible.
This isn’t a purely emergency only service either, although it is perfect for those who find themselves in difficult situations. Say you are looking to change your tyres for the winter or simply want a new set installed because your are coming to the end of their lifespan.
Mobile tyre fitters can carry out the work whilst you at work or come to your home to do so, at a time that suits you the best.
In this article, we will examine 5 of the biggest advantages to using a mobile tyre fitting company.
Arranging the time of your appointment
With mobile tyre fitting you not only have complete control over where you want your tyres to be fitted or replaced but also at what time.
If it is indeed an emergency and you have broken down at the roadside, a local mobile tyres Edinburghfirm will be with you as soon as possible.
The benefit of using a local firm is that their technicians won’t have far to travel and can often be with you in a matter of minutes.
If it is not an emergency, you can pre-book so you can have the exact tyres that you want at the exact time you want them, minimising the disruption to your day.
Minimal disruption to your day
The convenience of mobile tyre fitting is the number one attraction. You don’t need to visit you’re your garage, or take time out of your day whilst you wait around for your new tyres to be fixed.
Simply show the fitter to your car, and wait for them to do what they do.
Local Advice
Mobile tyre fitters spend all day every day in your area repairing punctures and replacing tyres. They not exactly what types of issues are most common on local roads and which tyres are best suited to the nearby area. If you know what tyres you want next, great, if you don’t, there is no-one better to ask.
24/7 Service
Most mobile tyre fitters operate on a 24/7 schedule. The whole point, after all, is that they are close by when you get a puncture, and punctures don’t tend to stick to a 9 to 5. In emergencies, there is no-one better to call.
Safe Driving
If you know there is a minor issue with your tyres such as a very slow puncture, it can be tempting to go about your day until you have the chance to visit a garage.
With a mobile tyre fitting company you never need to take this risk.
In today’s digital era, a captivating and user-friendly website is the cornerstone of success for businesses in Belfast. With an increasing emphasis on online presence, web design plays a pivotal role in engaging visitors, establishing brand identity, and driving conversions. In this blog article, we will explore the vibrant web design scene in Belfast, highlighting its innovative spirit and the crucial elements that make it stand out.
Belfast’s Creative Hub for Web Design:
Belfast has emerged as a thriving creative hub, fostering a dynamic web design community. From startups to established agencies, the city is teeming with talented designers who push boundaries and create visually stunning websites. The web design industry in Belfast continuously evolves, embracing the latest trends, technologies, and design principles.
Striking the Balance between Aesthetics and Functionality:
Great web design in Belfast is all about achieving a delicate balance between aesthetics and functionality. The city’s designers possess an innate ability to blend artistic elements with seamless user experiences. They create visually appealing websites that not only capture attention but also provide intuitive navigation, easy accessibility, and optimal performance across different devices.
User-Centered Design Approach:
Belfast’s web design professionals prioritize user-centered design methodologies. They conduct thorough research to understand the target audience, their preferences, and behaviors. By incorporating user feedback and usability testing, they ensure that the websites they design deliver an exceptional user experience, fostering higher engagement and conversions.
Mobile-First Design:
With the surge in mobile device usage, web design in Belfast places a strong emphasis on mobile-first design strategies. Designers understand the importance of responsive layouts and optimize websites to seamlessly adapt to various screen sizes. This approach guarantees that users on smartphones and tablets have a smooth browsing experience, boosting overall engagement and driving mobile traffic.
Showcasing Belfast’s Identity:
Web design in Belfast goes beyond functionality; it encapsulates the city’s unique identity. Designers leverage visual elements, color schemes, and typography that reflect Belfast’s culture, history, and vibrant spirit. By incorporating local landmarks, photography, or even subtle nods to Belfast’s famous industries, websites become not just functional tools but also reflections of the city’s essence.
Collaborative Approach:
Belfast’s web design community thrives on collaboration. Designers, developers, and content creators come together to create cohesive and impactful websites. This collaborative approach ensures that each project benefits from diverse perspectives, resulting in innovative and memorable web experiences.
Conclusion:
Web design in Belfast is a perfect fusion of creativity, functionality, and user-centricity. The city’s designers consistently deliver stunning websites that capture attention, engage users, and elevate brands to new heights. By embracing the latest trends, employing user-centered design practices, and showcasing the unique identity of Belfast, web designers contribute to the city’s vibrant digital landscape. Whether you’re a local business or a global brand, partnering with Belfast’s web design professionals can unlock the potential for online success in today’s competitive digital landscape.
The dream of every real estate investor is to get to the point of being called a Real Estate Magnate, and not too many have attained that climax. Grant Kelley is one of the few to be referred to as such due to his overwhelming success in the industry. The famous question remains, how can one achieve this? While you might want to assume that his success is a product of an overnight miracle, I’d rather you know that it results from years of consistency and strategic planning.
One thing that cannot be over-emphasized in real estate investment is having a working strategy. Everything you do needs to be defined and have a clear-cut purpose, that way; you know where you are at every point of your career. Here are two key strategies you can copy from Grant Kelley that contributed to his success.
Build your team of professionals
Having a team of professionals you can work with repeatedly is a plus. This eliminates the need to vet people before any new deal, leading to increased efficiency. To climax in the real estate industry, you need a team of professionals you have vetted and certified to be nothing short of the best.
In your team, you need to know the strength and weaknesses of every individual; that way, you know who to assign for any deal without giving it much thought.
Have a working business plan
After assembling a team of professionals, your next step should be to create a great business plan. A good business plan must have clear-cut mission and vision statements. This will ensure you and your team know where you want to be long-term. This is the differentiating factor between a successful investor and one who is struggling in the industry. For instance, when you close a good deal, you know you have done well and may be forced to sit back and ride on the reigns of that success. But with a working plan, you can ascertain if that is all you need to achieve within that period or if you still need to do more. That way, you can only relax after completing what was outlined, even if there are other successes.
Final Thoughts
Grant Kelley’s ability to envision and implement a working strategy has helped his climax in the world of real estate. It is one thing to have an operational strategy, and it is another thing to follow it through to the latter. This is where commitment to excellence and hard work comes in. Even when it seemed as though he was failing, he stayed committed to his goals and never relented in putting in the required work. This is why he can now comfortably be referred to as a real estate magnate.
Whether you’re buying from a dealer or a private party, purchasing a used vehicle may be a stressful experience. So, if you’re looking to buy a used car, here’s some guidance from us.
There is always a measure of danger involved with purchasing a BMW dealership used cars in Cornwall, whether from a private seller, a dealership, or the internet. You may save a lot of money and head off any unpleasant surprises if you take the time to do your homework, discover your rights as a buyer, and know what to look for. If you follow this advice and apply our used car checklist, you may feel confident about purchasing your dream car and drive it away with confidence and a smile on your face.
Generally speaking, the “sweet spot” for secondhand cars is between three and five years old. Because most new Cars are leased for 36 months or less through corporate fleets or financial packages, after that time they are returned to the dealer or sold at auction.
There is still a lot of life remaining in a car specially in TYR Cars (click here) that is three years old, and depending on the type and mileage, you can get it for half of what it cost brand new. As a rule of thumb, the reliability of vehicles declines after five years, so it’s probably a good idea to start shopping for a new one at that time. This information comes from warranty providers.
Although there are still many reliable vehicles that are 5 years or older, you should be aware that they may have higher operating and repair costs than newer versions.
Tips for Buying a Used Car
There are different challenges to overcome when looking to purchase a Used BMW in Cornwall as opposed to a brand new BMW, but doing so is just as important. Some fundamental things to keep in mind when you shop for and inspect that used engine… (
First, you need to get your financial house in order.
In order to avoid overspending on what is likely to be a sizable purchase, you need first establish a realistic budget. Investigate your options for paying for your car if you need to, including credit cards, a personal loan, car payments, and cash. Determine the down payment you can make and the monthly payment you can manage. If you do this, the salesperson’s question, “how much do you have to spend each month?” won’t leave you looking so bewildered. (
2. Always be aware of the current state of the Used Car industry.
Looking around online at different dealerships and classifieds is a wonderful way to get a feel for the market and your budget when shopping for a used Car. With so many options, you won’t feel rushed into buying a BMW you’re not sure is appropriate for you, and you’ll have a better idea of whether or not you’re getting a decent deal. If the asking price is too high, there will always be other instances of the mainstream model you’re interested in.
3. Carefully examine all necessary papers
If you’re not going to look over the stack of documents that come with a secondhand car, you shouldn’t give them any weight at all. If you’re in Bude or Cornwall, UK, and you want to buy a used BMW from an individual rather than a dealer, you should double-check the V5C logbook’s listed keeper’s address to make sure the car is actually for sale there, and then compare the vehicle’s VIN and chassis number to the ones listed on the logbook.
The next step is to examine the car’s service records for anomalies, check to see whether the cambelt needs to be replaced (which can be an expensive job for some vehicles), and look at the sales receipts to confirm the car’s ownership and the termination of any credit agreements. A thorough HPI investigation will also help to reveal any outstanding debts or concealed past. For example:
4. Perform a thorough pre-trip inspection of the vehicle when weather and daylight are favorable.
Cars are easier to inspect in good weather, and you should always do it in daylight. Rain on paintwork, as well as streetlamps or a torchlight, can mask a multitude of faults. Look through each and every panel, as well as the interior trim surfaces, carefully. While minor dings and scratches are to be expected in older vehicles, it is more critical to check that all of the controls and features are in good working order. Do all of the electronic windows open at the same rate, and does the air conditioning make you feel cold?
5. Do a complete trial run
It’s crucial to test the car’s performance and handling to make sure they are up to par. Is it simple to turn the key in the ignition? How does the braking and engine sound? Does it seem like the vehicle is pulling to one side when you’re guiding it? Is there any lingering smoke from the tailpipe? Make sure you’re covered by insurance before you go for a spin. “
Is everything you need present and accounted for?
Verify that the original jack, tools, and locking alloy wheel nuts are present, as well as the spare tire, under the trunk floor. To learn more about the car, consult the owner’s manual that should be in the glove compartment, and inquire about any spare keys. Not all vehicles have built-in navigation systems, thus a sat nav disc or SD card may be necessary. It would be very unfortunate if any of these were lost, and they would be very costly to replace. (
Step Seven: Closing the Deal
Make sure you and the seller each have a copy of the signed receipt detailing the details of the BMW sale once you’ve agreed on a price. Identifiable information about the car being sold, as well as the names and addresses of the seller and purchaser, should be included. (
In this case, number eight is paying for the car.
There shouldn’t be any issues if you’re purchasing from an authorized BMW dealer, but the standard cautions still apply when purchasing a vehicle from an individual. Take care if you need to borrow a lot of money to buy an Car. Use a wire transfer if at all possible. Never meet someone outside of their home to exchange cash.
BigCommerce is the world’s most rapidly growing SaaS eCommerce platform. BigCommerce, in my opinion, is one of the greatest eCommerce systems for giving both B2C and B2B capabilities at the same time. In recent months, there appears to be a high demand for web developers, particularly in the eCommerce market. I see a lot of recruiters seeking for Shopify and BigCommerce developers. If you are looking to hire bigcommerce web designers, I highly suggest to check out Always Open Commerce.
This blog post will go over the abilities required to become an excellent BigCommerce theme developer. In upcoming blog posts, I’ll discuss how to become a BigCommerce App developer, SEO specialist, BigCommerce solution architect, and so forth.
This post will be written as instructions for someone who is absolutely new to web programming. You may already have some core knowledge and can skip forward, but don’t discount the significance of refreshers.
Understanding the Fundamentals of the Internet/Web
Understanding how the internet works
What is DNS? What are the most prevalent DNS Records?
What is a domain registrar?
How do webpages work? What is web hosting?
Here are a couple films I think you’ll find useful:
DNS Made Simple Videos
DNS Records by IT Training
The difference between a domain name registrar, DNS, and hosting by 48 in 48
Semantic HTML
HTML is one of the initial stages toward becoming a web development specialist.
In my 12+ years of experience, I have frequently encountered applicants/people who claim to be HTML experts yet are unaware of web semantics, web standards, and so on.
So, when learning HTML, I strongly advise you to master web semantics and W3C standards. Writing relevant HTML can improve your website’s user experience, accessibility, performance, and SEO.
There are several online courses accessible (Free or paid).
CSS
I’m adding CSS as a second step here, although it’ll basically work with HTML.
There are numerous CSS frameworks available, however I strongly advocate mastering pure CSS. When you understand the principles of a language, you can rapidly adapt any framework. Coding in pure CSS will help you enhance your stylistic abilities.
While learning CSS, you should also learn about responsive web design and the mobile-first approach.
Design Tools
A basic familiarity of design concepts and tools will be extremely beneficial in your web development career. You don’t have to be an expert in these design tools, but you should know enough to extract assets and other information from the design files.
Figma, Photoshop, Sketch, and Adobe XD are common design tools used in front end web development.
After you’ve finished learning HTML/CSS. Try to find some web page design files and adapt them into an usable responsive webpage using HTML/CSS.
JavaScript/ES6
A thorough understanding of Vanilla JS will be quite beneficial to you.
Find an online course that teaches you the fundamentals of JS. Make sure you’re understanding ES6 advanced features like arrow functions, fetch/await, map functions, and so on. Basically, look for a course that teaches you the fundamentals of JS as well as the most recent advanced features of JS.
Once you’ve finished learning JavaScript, I strongly advise you to PRACTICE. There are some YouTube classes that include some practice JS projects. This is an area where many applicants fall short, therefore consistent, comprehensive JS practice will put you ahead.
jQuery
There are numerous JS frameworks and libraries available. It will be simple to customize any framework once you have a basic understanding of JavaScript. In this list, I’ll include jQuery as a necessary ability. Because the BigCommerce Cornerstone theme and many websites on the internet still use jQuery, it is a good idea to learn it.
Knowledge of the BigCommerce Platform
This is a critical stage. You cannot design BigCommerce websites unless you are familiar with the various options offered within BigCommerce.
Before designing themes or websites on the BigCommerce platform, I prefer that developers have a solid understanding of the platform’s fundamentals.
You can build a sample BigCommerce store, navigate through the admin panel, and experiment.
Setup simple and sophisticated products
Create categories with a parent-child relationship.
Import-export products
Create customer groups
Payment methods, shipping, discounts, taxes, and so on
Examine each choice and learn how it works.
BigCommerce Videos
SEO Fundamentals
If you are creating a website for a customer, they will want it to appear in search engines and generate business. I don’t expect engineers to be SEO gurus, but they should have a fundamental understanding of SEO ideas.
Developers are frequently working on an existing website CRO implementation or collaborating with a team for on-page SEO things.
Check that you understand:
Canonical tags
XML Sitemaps
HTML sitemaps
Meta Descriptions and Title Tags
Rich Snippets
in addition
Web Accessibility
Many retailers have been sued in recent years for failing to follow ADA compliance rules.
There are third-party apps that make the website accessible, but they are limited and will not fix every problem.
When building or developing a website, keep web accessibility requirements in mind.
Understanding the ADA compliance checklist and approaches will be highly beneficial to you as a developer. This ability will set you apart from other applicants.
Understand Web Performance Optimization
Slow websites are bad for conversions. There are approaches and development workflows that can assist you in developing quick websites.
Learn about Core Web Vitals. Google now uses CWV as a ranking element.
I believe that online performance optimization is a critical ability that can help you design high-quality, speedy BigCommerce websites and set you apart from other developers.
Integration of Third-Party Apps
Most BigCommerce websites may necessitate the download or configuration of one or more apps. There are numerous possibilities accessible, such as: reviews app, filters app, incentives app, back in a stock app, or other features.
To be a successful BigCommerce Developer, you must understand how to install these third-party apps.
Project Management Tools
It is important that you understand the fundamentals of Project Management tools in order to work efficiently with a team or manage your personal projects. For example, Basecamp, Asana, Teamwork, JIRA, Trello, and so on.
You do not need to understand every tool because they all perform the same functions (like tasks, time tracking, progress tracking, etc.). But the primary concept is to understand the communication method and workflow of the firm with which you are working.
Good communication is essential when dealing with a firm or client, therefore start documenting your efforts on a daily basis.
Tools for testing and bug tracking
After you finish developing the site, you should test it on various platforms, devices, and browsers. I use BrowserStack, but there are other platforms available. Similarly, I use BugHerd for bug tracking, but there are other tools available.
The goal isn’t to learn every tool, but rather the concept and process. You could go through one tool and learn how it works and how it can improve your development workflow.
Please contact me if you are looking for mentorship, career guidance in web development, or one-on-one BigCommerce development training sessions.
With a billion websites available online, it might be difficult to stand out from the crowd and reach the desired visitor level. By establishing an audience-pleasing design, you should be able to enhance the functionality of your website and reap more advantages.
In light of this, this post will examine 11 beginner-friendly website design suggestions to enhance user interface and experience. Each of these suggestions comprises tried-and-true methods for carrying out your vision in daily life.
11 Tips For Newbies In Web Design
1. Understand Your Audience
Understanding your audience and putting them front and center are necessary for creating a visually appealing website and achieving meaningful outcomes. Better conversions, a rise in consumer interest, and business sustainability are all benefits of doing this. Understanding your audience’s tastes is different from simply knowing their demographics.
Engage with your audience frequently and pay attention to their suggestions or requests. Analyze your audience and establish some goals.
2. Pick a Template with Good Design
Even for new users, a well-designed website is simpler to browse. A well-designed template also takes into account the website’s mobile usability. Given that mobile devices account for 50% of website traffic, you should concentrate on this area. You need to choose a website template after having established your goals and knowing the kind of material you’ll publish.
Planning out your website’s content and user experience appropriately is one of the most important web design advice for beginners. Start the designing process after that. Zyro is one such tool that aids the process. It offers designer-made templates for website builders that are appropriate for any industry. Using a builder also saves you time and effort vs creating it from scratch. It’s a particularly user-friendly choice for those who have never created a website before.
Given that first impressions are 94% tied to design, it is unquestionably crucial to ensure that your website leaves a positive first impression on your visitors.
3. Keep the homepage straightforward.
Having only the required information on the site and deleting extraneous pieces are examples of keeping it simple. Better scannable material is provided, which keeps website visitors engaged. Technically speaking, a straightforward homepage loads quicker. One of the simplest web design advice for beginners to do is to have a straightforward site that addresses questions like who you are, what you do, and what sets you apart from the competition.
It provides pertinent material and makes effective use of whitespace, calls to action, and website style. Alternately, draw out a wireframe and then do a user tour. Study how other websites handle it. Slack, Dropbox, and StudioPress are a few instances of straightforward homepages.
4. Utilize brand colors.
Utilizing brand colors makes it easier for people to remember your company’s message and allows for greater message absorption. Recognize the psychological effects of various colors and match them to your brand, which is actually quite important.
Set your brand’s colors early on. Fill the backdrop and logos with your brand’s colors. Make the appropriate color changes to links, buttons, and dropdown menus to improve aesthetic value. Check how the colors appear on various devices after that.
5. Select the Correct Fonts
Both design and fonts have importance for branding. When choosing the typefaces for your website, take both aesthetics and usability into account. The correct typefaces improve a website’s readability and overall value. Additionally, it supports website accessibility.
Try out several typefaces that your audience may like. Limit the variety of typefaces. Recognize the font that complements your brand’s colors and website the most. For instance, the bulk of websites’ headlines are written in sans serif fonts. For inspiration, visit sites like Typography.com or Myfonts. Never forget how important it is to use websafe fonts.
6. Add Quality Images
Visuals improve communication, but high-quality visuals have more lasting effects. Images not only enhance the overall quality of a website but also complete the user experience, reduce bounce rates, and increase lead conversion. Use human-looking photographs wherever you can since they affect visitors’ emotions more.
To prevent seeming generic, though, avoid using stock photos. Use ethical SEO techniques by providing alternative text for each picture you use.
7. Think about including videos
Visitors to your website can better comprehend your products or services by watching videos on it. The location of the video and its duration, which cater to the audience’s attention span, are the keys to effective video marketing.
Create and add videos that serve your objective, such as tutorials, instructional films, or introductory videos, to do this. Make the video thumbnail appealing and keep it brief (between 30 and 60 seconds). When pressing the play button, check that the movie loads quickly.
8. Clearly state the call to action
Calls to action on websites motivate users to take action, boosting sales and leads. There are many calls to action, but it’s crucial to match them to your content. Your call to action’s clicks enable more accurate website analysis.
The web page’s content and call-to-action selection are influenced by each other. To increase clicks, strategically arrange the call to action beside your page navigation. To underline your intention, use trigger words.
9. Use carousels sparingly
Utilizing carousels hurts the performance of your website more than it helps. Visitors who simply view the first slide might not be motivated to take any further action. Additionally, carousel pictures cause a slower loading time, which has a negative impact on a website’s rating.
If not for specialized situations like portfolio websites or e-commerce catalogs, carousels are rarely necessary. As a result, stack the photos to encourage scrolling down. Another crucial piece of advice for those just starting out in web design is to either utilize videos in place of long pages to increase user awareness.
10. Enhance the menu of options
Enhancing the navigation menu boosts SEO and user experience. Additionally, menu optimization produces a well-organized website directory, which helps Google better index your website.
Orbit Media’s study indicates that there is a standard for where buttons or navigation menus should be placed on websites.
The logo might be positioned in the top left corner, the primary navigation across the top, and the contact us button at the top right. The search feature might also be your main focus. Alternately, make sure the navigation matches the depth of the entire page.
11. Add Social Proof, please
Social proof is related to human psychology, where people follow the crowd when making judgments, including whether to buy something. Your brand’s reputation is enhanced by adding social proof to your website, which also boosts lead generation.
In actuality, social media platforms are where social proof performs best. Utilizing Instagram stories, including client testimonies in the form of images or videos, and weaving a story through the website’s content are some common techniques.
Applying Beginner’s Guide To Web Design
A website’s visual appeal involves more than just how it is presented. It covers some technological tactics to improve the look and feel of your website even further. The 11 web design ideas for beginners in this post have all been tested and proven to work.
It’s important to be meticulous when putting these website design suggestions into practice, but don’t go overboard. While you should draw ideas from other companies, your primary attention should remain on your target market. Keep in mind to consistently update and optimize the website to guarantee that your material is constantly current. These pointers need to significantly enhance your website.
Providing Web Designer in Manchester , logo branding, print, SEO, and digital design services is Manchester-based Markustudio. Our team of professionals is here to help you if you need assistance developing a style guide or maintaining your brand’s consistency. We’ll collaborate with you to develop a distinctive and memorable brand that will make you stand out from the crowd. To begin, get in touch with us today!
To discover the ideal mattress for a restful night’s sleep, we assist you in sorting through the available choices. You consequently require a new mattress. Generally speaking, a mattress will endure between eight and ten years, according to conventional thinking. However, the greatest ways to tell if you need a new mattress are by how comfortable and restful you are. A high-quality mattress might last 15 years, according to some research.
Spending some time trying out several brands and styles of mattresses will help you find the one that feels best to you and will increase your likelihood of being happy with your new mattress. Don’t purchase an old mattress if you can help it because mattresses are personal items and are likely to be infested with bedbugs and dust mites. If you want to buy mattress near me, check out Icon-Sleep.com as they most affordable USA made mattress online.
Four Types of Mattress
Innerspring
Innerspring mattresses, which are still the most popular kind, may have been your mattress of choice growing up. Wire coils, which also cause the recognizable mattress bounce, provide support in an innerspring mattress. It’s possible for salespeople to claim that the number of coils matters, but that’s not always the case. The experts at WebMD advise on how to choose the ideal mattress. Individually encased coils are now found in the majority of innerspring mattresses. No matter what a salesman says you, you won’t need more than 390 coils.
Hybrid
Hybrid mattresses are innerspring mattresses that include cushioning elements, such as foam, gel, or a plush pillow top, for example.
Air mattress
According to WebMD, air mattresses have foam-covered chambers filled with air in place of coils. There are advanced types of air mattresses designed for couples that let each person customize the hardness level of their side of the mattress by adding air or deflating it. These air mattresses are ideal for sleeping partners who have very different needs.
Latex
In a thorough examination of mattress shopping, The Wirecutter claims that latex is a “springier” sort of foam. . An innerspring and memory foam mattress are compared to describe how it feels. According to WebMD, you should anticipate robust, bouncy support. Some people actually find latex to be too firm, according to The Spruce. Unsure if a latex mattress is the right choice for you? You can test out this kind without making a significant investment by purchasing a latex mattress topper.
Memory foam
Memory foam mattresses lack the springiness of innerspring and latex mattresses. Instead, because they absorb movement, you are less likely to be bothered by a restless spouse. By NASA in the 1970s, memory foam was created. For persons who experience back pain, for instance, it is a wonderful option because it adapts to the body’s heat and weight. Memory foam has a cult following among some users. Some people claim it makes them sweat as they sleep. As a solution to this problem, several producers add gel to their products. Gel-infused innerspring mattresses do make the sleeper feel a little bit cooler, according to the mattress buying guide. However, mattresses made of foam that had been infused with gel did not make for a cooler sleep.
Buying Advice for Mattresses
With all the many varieties, prices, bells, and whistles, mattress buying might be difficult, but it’s still important to take your time and make an informed decision.
1. To begin with, go shopping at stores
Online mattress purchases could come at some point. No amount of online research, however, can replace the experience of trying mattresses out at a store because mattress preferences are so subjective. A mattress should be tested for at least 15 minutes, according to some buying guidelines, and you should bring your own pillow with you so you can imitate your personal sleeping environment. You can compare prices online after deciding on the style you prefer. Best online mattress retailers are Amazon and Icon-Sleep.com.
2. Identify your ideal mattress before it goes on sale.
When purchasing a mattress during a sale, the crowds and active salespeople can make the experience tedious and challenging if you haven’t done your homework beforehand. Consider your options carefully before seizing a deal on a mattress you like.
3. Be aware of the mattress’ height.
If you want to use your current fitted sheets, measure the height of your mattress and buy a new mattress that is the same height.
4. Include a companion.
Do not let someone else shop for you when you need a mattress. Both of you should try out the possibilities in stores if you and your partner will be sharing the mattress.
5. Avoid falling for sales gimmicks.
Don’t feel like you have to spend a fortune on glitzy features if you’re a frugal shopper. According to Consumer Reports, which tests mattresses under conditions meant to simulate use for eight to ten years,
Warehouse clubs and online stores both sell high-quality mattresses for reasonable prices. ”
6. Choose a return policy that is accommodating.
Choose a retailer that allows “comfort returns,” which entitles you to return the mattress if you’re unsatisfied with it for any reason, though you might have to pay a charge. Make sure you are aware of the return policy’s details and the warranty’s specific coverage before making a purchase.
7. Strike a bargain
Mattress dealers may place hefty markups on their products, giving you leeway to haggle. You should do so, even during a discount. Ask for non-monetary benefits instead, such as new pillows or bedding, if you can’t negotiate a cheaper price.
Scratchboard art is a creative, unique medium of drawing that has been used for many years to create images on paper. It uses an image, usually made from a photograph or other original artwork, then scratches the surface with a sharp object such as a needle to reveal the white layer underneath.
It is not just about drawing outlines in the dark but instead creating images by removing the darkness to reveal your white image underneath. Scratchboard can make dramatic impressions as figures emerge from their heavy-black background.
Scratchboard art or scraperboard is beautiful because you can frame it like any other piece of artwork and because it’s affordable to get started with this hobby.
If you are an art enthusiast in Tucson, AZ, Scratch Board University can help you unleash your creativity.
Let’s take a look at how to make scratchboard art.
How to Start Making Your Scratchboard Drawing?
Scratchboard is an exciting medium that can make your drawings look three-dimensional. When you use Scratchboard, you apply black ink to a white surface and then scratch away the parts of it which aren’t part of the drawing or design to show what remains underneath.
You may find it easier if you are using reference material such as photographs so that you’ll know where not to scrape off the paint with your knife.
When you are just starting, it’s often easier to see what gets scratched off if you use artwork as a reference. However, once you have a feel for Scratchboard – then, and only then, can you do something creative with your ideas.
The Tools that you Need for Scratchboard Illustration
Let’s start with tools and materials.
Scratchboard is a type of fine art that uses clay, whiteboard, white or colored layer, dark ink, and colored inks to create drawings or images on the board’s surface. But, the most common is black Scratchboard.
Bottom Layer Tools
The bottom layer has stiff paper for stability. It is thick, so it lasts longer than other boards when you scratch off all the material from this top layer.
White clay covers up most areas but leaves some uncovered – hence “scratch” board artwork.
Pre-made Panels
Pre-made panels are available in various arts & crafts stores if you want one ready-made before getting started. Otherwise, you can get your plain board at any art store; hardcover papers work nicely.
Then, apply these three layers: a thin layer of black lightfast pigment over a thicker base coat of black ink.
Direct engraving
If you’re cutting into the board, you must invest in precision craft knives or sharp tools. These are great for creating depth and dimension and giving a higher quality to the finished product because they make clean cuts rather than tearing the paper’s surface.
To remove large black areas from your project or design, artists use sandpaper or steel wool to create more exciting textures on their work if desired.
Another helpful tool when working with dry media as opposed to wet materials like paints would be chalk.
It allows an artist greater control over how much ink will get onto their drawing.
Art techniques for Beginners and experienced Scratchboard Artists
If scratchboard art is your first introduction to the world of mixed media, it can be not very comforting.
To get started, try sketching out an idea on paper and then transferring that drawing onto a scratchboard surface using graphite or carbon transfer sheets.
Black Ink Scratchboard Art Work
Then, gently trace your drawing and allow the chalk outline to appear on the black ink surface. And carefully take a knife or point and jab into it.
It will permanently etch onto your board, so you’re ready for anything. Next, brush off all of that excess chalk dust, then go ahead and start creating whatever masterpiece comes to mind next.
Adding a Vibrant Color to your Scratchboard
To add color, use Scratchboard-Claybord Inks that are both waterproof and transparent.
For best results, build up the intensity of your colors in diluted washes following the directional lines in the drawing to allow for a beautiful blend between one hue into another.
Other inks can leave a heavy residue on black surfaces, and it isn’t easy to rub off if not quickly wiped away.
Lastly, apply black repair ink around the edges of the subject matter as an extra touch-up or cover any leftover paint or overpainting with precision.
Once all the color is in, go back and scratch out the highlights. It will give your drawing volume and dimension by revealing shapes that might be hidden behind a solid sheet of paint.
Add colors to those areas where needed as you repeat this process until you are delighted with how it looks.
Repairing your Mistakes
When you need to repair a surface, you must do so with the utmost care. The result might not look exactly as perfect as before because of how ink reacts in water.
Seal and Frame without a Glass
Ensure your Scratchboard is clean and free of debris by using a soft cloth. Next, seal the surface with acrylic spray fixative as directed on the can, being sure to do it in low humidity or warmer temperatures.
When you finish framing your work without glass, be aware that fingerprints will leave streaks. In addition, it may damage other art pieces around them if they come into contact with each other.
While you can create anything on Scratchboard, it does not mean black ink only. You can add vibrant colors as well.
The scratchboard medium is not just for drawing and can also be used to create many projects. Check out Scratch Board University in Tucson, AZ, where you will find helpful information, tutorials, scratchboard art workshops, and more!
The Scratch Board University website offers many different classes for beginners and experienced artists of all ages.
To learn how to use scratchboards in your next project, sign up today!
If your dog is suddenly acting anxious when you leave the house, it could be a sign that he’s trying to tell you something. Although it may seem like leaving your dog home alone is no big deal – after all, there are plenty of dogs who spend every day by themselves with nothing but food, water and shelter – doing so can actually cause him a good degree of stress. This is large because dogs are simply not wired to do well alone, and when they’re left by themselves for long periods of time, it can lead to them developing some pretty unhealthy habits.
“Many dogs have a ‘velcro’ personality,” says Dr. Lisa Radosta, a board-certified veterinary behaviorist with the Veterinary Behavior Clinic in Philadelphia. “They are more comfortable being next to their person rather than alone.”
Those dogs who’ve spent much of their time with their owners may even experience separation anxiety when left alone, which can often manifest itself in ways that are physically damaging to the dog. For instance, some dogs will try to escape their homes to try and find their owners, while others will resort to destroying objects like pillows or crates in an effort to alleviate some of the stress they’re feeling.
The good news is that there are plenty of things you can do to help your dog cope with being left alone.
1. Keep Him Entertained
If you’re the kind of person who leaves the house and, as soon as you do so, your dog immediately starts crying and barking, it could be because he’s bored.
To avoid this problem, it’s important to keep your dog entertained when you leave. So if he loves chewing on bones, bring him one with you so that he has something to occupy his time with. You could also install a doggy daycare system or set him up with some toys that dispense treats as he plays.
2. Get Him A Pal
Dogs who are left at home alone all day long tend to be much happier and less anxious if they have another dog to keep them company. If your dog is used to having a canine companion, make sure you get him one. If this isn’t an option and he’s still barking and crying while you’re gone, try bringing another dog home for the day.
3. Use CBD Oil
If you’re not comfortable bringing another dog into your home, CBD oil is an excellent alternative. This special extract from the cannabis plant has been shown to have a relaxing effect on canines, which could help stop anxiety in its tracks. Make sure you have in mind the essential info about CBD oil before you give it to your dog for safety.
4. Leave Him With A Sitter
If you have to leave your dog home alone often, it could also help to hire a dog sitter. This will allow him to get the socialization he needs while still allowing you the freedom of not having to drag him along for errands.
5. Exercise Him Before You Go
Tired dogs tend to sleep more, and if you exercise your dog before leaving him alone for the day, you might be able to cut down on the barking and whining. When exercising him, make sure not to tire him out too much so that he’s still able to get some rest while you’re gone.
If your pup is doing all of these things and still gets anxious when you leave, then it might be a sign that he’s suffering from separation anxiety. For more information about how dog anxiety can be treated, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian today. Good luck!
