and kept in this condition. The number of coats must depend upon the
absorbent nature of the boards. One coat must be allowed to dry
thoroughly before another is applied. Over night is a sufficient
time for this. Varnishing also should be done rapidly to prevent
dust settling on it. It is best done in a warm room, without draughts.
Do not use stains ready-mixed with varnish, as these do not last as long,
nor look so well as pure stains varnished after application. When the
boards are in bad condition they should be first sandpapered. Cracks
should be filled with wedges of wood hammered in and planed smooth.
They can also be filled with thin paper torn up, mixed with hot starch
and beaten to a pulp. This can be pressed into the cracks with a
glazier's knife. The use of putty or plaster of Paris for this purpose
is not so satisfactory as these methods.

For sleeping-rooms and living-rooms, which for sanitary reasons it
is advisable to scrub, the stain should be left unvarnished.




CHAPTER VII

FURNITURE AND DECORATION

The Carpet Square--Furniture for the Parlor--Parlor Decoration--The
Piano--The Library--Arrangement of Books--The "Den"--The Living-room--The
Dining-room--Bedrooms--How to Make a Bed--The Guest Chamber--Window
Shades and Blinds.