Rugged, durable hypertufa for tables and more.

What the heck is hypertufa?  It's a mixture of cement, peat moss and perlite that makes a fabulous surface for an  outdoor table. It's as durable and strong as concrete, but weighs significantly less.  You don't need to seal it, ever, and the textured appearance is natural.  If you're handy with small tools, and have 2 days, you can make a base and tabletop.   Visit THIS OLD HOUSE for detailed measurements and directions.

TOOLS: Miter saw, jigsaw, drill/driver, utility knife, mixing tub & hoe, chip brush, hammer, nail gun


MATERIALS FOR A 30" x 20" x 20 3/4" TABLE: 1x4 scrap lumber for the form, 1x4 and 1x2 cedar for the table crosspieces, stretchers and legs, 1 1/4" deck screws, 2 bags of perlite, large bag of peat moss, 47 l b bag portland cement, an acrylic fortifier to add to the mix, 3/4" foam insulation, vaseline or cooking spray to coat the form, hardware cloth and plastic sheeting for protection and to cover your form, gorilla glue or other polyurethane glue, 1" brad nails and dust mask and gloves.

Spring Color

When it comes to bold color, Spring is the high season for fabulous finds to update your home. Take a look at these favorite items:

From Ballard Designs. A more creative way to hang plants. Fill with
flame-less candles for a unique ambiance.

Fun floral plates from Horchow.

Love these outdoor glasses (BPA free) by Pottery Barn.

A bright yellow that can work outdoors too by Crate & Barrel

Pottery Barn kilim area rugs...great to update your entry or kitchen.

Brights from West Elm.  For indoors or out!

5 Outdoor living ideas for the fall..

To extend your living spaces through an Indian Summer - warm enough to use through October - be sure to incorporate some of these ideas!  At Touch of Tradition - Home we stock throws, lanterns and outdoor fabrics for every style.

1) Lighting  As the days shorten, you'll need to add light to work or entertain by. With a simple outdoor extension cord, hanging string lights over trees, under the eaves of the house, wound onto a trellis or fence, and draped under an umbrella, will add enough light and are easy to do. Many big box store sell lighting for outdoors so don't hesitate to use a table or floor lamp. It will make the room feel more like indoors!


2) Lanterns There is nothing like candle-light to create a relaxing mood for a balmy outdoor evening.  An enclosed lantern with regular or flame less candles, adds an element of safety to a great architectural detail. Stand them on tables, next to chairs, hang 

them from shepherd hooks in your garden. Instant ambiance! 


3) Pillows  When the hot weather abates, you can get a cozy feel by adding pillows to your outdoor spaces.  From accent pillows on chairs to floor pillows for seating, they create a softness and invite you to spend time.

4) Area rug  Using an outdoor area rug can make an outdoor space more welcoming.  End of season sales are abundant, so take advantage and get a great rug that suits your style.

5) Throws  To ward off the chill of a late fall, drape throws over your benches and chairs so guests (and you) can keep warm while you enjoy another outdoor evening.  

Tips for outdoor living.

When you have an outdoor space that's comfortable, you are more likely to use it. Extend your living spaces by moving your indoor style outside. Here are my favorite ideas from the shop.

1) Get comfortable seating.  If you don't dine outside, don't get a dining set. Make the chair or sofa comfortable so you WILL use it. 

2) Add lighting. To extend the space and the time you will enjoy it, be sure to add portable or permanent lighting. Solar fixture and low voltage fixtures can be installed. String lights can be temporary and easy or made permanent.

3) Dress up the table. A set table is inviting. Use a tablecloth than can be washed. Set out dishes and silverware...mismatched sets work well for many styles.  Add flowers or a plant.  Place candles for ambiance.

4) Use color. Have your dishes stand out from the table.  With a redwood table, add some bright yellow flowers to your white dishes. Use a red and white classic table cloth and add blue dishes. With our selection of dinnerware and unique serving pieces that work as well outdoors as indoors, you can create the ideal look.

5) Surround yourself with interior items.  Don't overlook pillows, accessories and art. An outdoor area rug can make a space feel more inviting.  Some colorful or comfy pillows or cushions will dress up a picnic table. Iron and resin pieces work well outdoors in nearly any climate, and add a finishing touch to an outdoor room.