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Will Kalif - EzineArticles.com Expert Author
Will Kalif is a writer with two published novels. He is currently working on his third entitled "The Left Handed Sword" Look for it to be released in late 2006
He is also an artist and an avid classical guitarist.
[View Will Kalif's Extended Author Bio]
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- Fun and Creative Summer Projects For Fathers and Sons
[Home-and-Family:Crafts-Hobbies] Summertime is the time for getting outside and having some fun. And there are lots of traditional ways to do this but this article looks at some unusual and different ways to enjoy the summer. The focus here is on projects that adults and children or teens can do together and with an eye toward learning and or making things. And although the title of this article says for fathers and sons all the projects and ideas would be great for fathers and daughters too!
- A Look at Some of the Medieval Castles of Japan
[Travel-and-Leisure:Destination-Tips] When we think of Medieval castles we seldom think about Japan. But Japan went through a very long period of feudal warfare and as a result hundreds of fortress like castles were built. They look significantly different than their European counterparts but functionally they are much they same. They were meant to protect the people inside from all sorts of dangers. This article reviews some of the medieval castles in Japan and talks about their tricks and techniques for fortification.
- How to Write a Massive Battle For Your Epic Fantasy Novel
[Writing-and-Speaking:Writing] If you are writing an epic fantasy novel you are no doubt thinking in big broad strokes. This is of course the point of fantasy that is epic. And one of the key components of this kind of novel is the big battle where forces of good and evil typically meet, often at the climax of the story. This article will give you tips on how to write these scenes well and will give you some pointers on the pitfalls to avoid.
- A Guide to Medieval Weapons For Fantasy Writers
[Writing-and-Speaking:Writing] If you write fantasy or are thinking about writing fantasy you probably are going to have medieval weapons in your created world. Today's reader of fantasy is very savvy when it comes to weapons and armor and you want your writing to be accurate and to make sense when it comes to weapons. They are often a big part of the story. In this article I explain some important things about medieval weapons, how to get them right, and I look at some of the more popular types of weapons.
- Creative Shoebox Diorama Ideas For the School Season
[Reference-and-Education] Shoebox Dioramas are a part of every school year and in just about every grade they serve as a wonderful learning tool. They are used to learn the arts and crafts of making things and they are used to also learn about subjects. This article shows you some creative ideas from both the arts and crafts aspect and the learning aspect.
- How to Use a Small Terrarium As a Learning Tool For Kids
[Reference-and-Education:Nature] A terrarium is a great way to teach some lessons about the importance of nature, its interconnectedness, and our role as stewards in helping with the care. With something as simple as a small terrarium you can raise a child's awareness of the Earth and of the interconnectedness of everything.
- Profiles in Classical Guitar - Fernando Sor
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Music] Fernando Sor was a classical guitarist and composer who was born in Spain and he lived from 1778 to 1839. He was a contemporary of Beethoven and is often referred to as the "Beethoven of the Guitar". He wrote many different works for the guitar including his famous Sor Method for the Guitar and his 20 Studies for the Classical Guitar. Both of these works are still in use today.
- How to Improve Your Fantasy Artwork
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Visual-Graphic-Arts] Fantasy art is different than any other kind of art because it is often composed of things that don't exist. These things come from your imagination and while you can't grab a unicorn and ask it to sit still so you can draw it there are some techniques you can use that will improve your fantasy art.
- You Have a Great Idea For a Video Game - What Should You Do?
[Gaming:Console-Games] Maybe you have thought up a really neat and unique idea for a video game and you are thinking "If I can just get in touch with the right people I can sell it and make a lot of money. And I get to see my idea turned into a game that people will play". Well, that may be true, and it is possible to do but, to be honest, it is very unlikely.
- Medieval Castles and Their Mazes and Labyrinths
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Humanities] Medieval castles were mysterious places and often times they had a maze or a labyrinth. This article looks at the uses of these structures and takes a look at some of the more famous ones.
- Map Making For Fantasy Writers
[Writing-and-Speaking:Writing] Maps are a wonderful addition to any fantasy novel. They give the reader an added level of information that helps them visualize and experience the world you have created. A good map can also help you in the writing of your novel. Here are some resources and tips to help you make good maps as a supplement for your writing.
- Stop Motion Animation - Nine Creative and Easy Techniques
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Animation] If you want to draw some stop motion animation but don't know what to do this article will help. Often times people think you have to spend endless hours drawing the same figures over and over with just a slight change between each drawing. And while this is true there are lots of creative techniques you can use to draw fun and interesting animations without the endless repetition. This article shows you nine techniques.
- A Look at the Biggest Telescopes in the World
[Reference-and-Education:Astronomy] The Telescope turns 400 years old this year and in four century period astronomers and telescope makers have been continually making larger and larger telescopes in order to peer deeper and deeper into the mysteries of the universe. There are currently quite a few enormous instruments in use and there are several next generation telescopes being developed that will dwarf anything currently in use. This article takes a look at some of these magnificent monsters of astronomy.
- Terrariums For Kids - Creative Ideas For Fun and Learning
[Kids-and-Teens] Terrariums are a great project for kids because they encompass a lot of different things yet are not too hard of a project to make. This article gives you great ideas for terrarium making for kids of all ages and includes learning materials, container selection, plant selection, care, and more.
- The Secret Art of Mead Making Revealed
[Food-and-Drink:Wine-Spirits] Mead is wine fermented from honey rather than the traditional way of fermenting with grapes. Nobody really knows for sure how old the art of making mead is. This information has been lost to history. But it may very well be the oldest form of brewing known to man. And it is an art that is not part of the main stream of brewing. Here are some tips and secrets revealed.
- Bring an Elf Or a Dragon to the Beach With You - Epic Fantasy Summer Reading Recommendations
[Book-Reviews:SciFi-Fantasy-Horror] This summer brings us a lot of great epic fantasy novels both from established authors continuing their series and from new authors with fresh new stories and worlds for you to discover. This article gives you recommendations from among the best and most promising.
- The Compleat Gamester - A Medieval Book Review
[Book-Reviews] Have you ever wondered what kinds of games people played during the Renaissance? The Compleat Gamester is a guide to just that. It was written in 1674 as a handbook for people of the time to learn how to play games that were currently popular. And it is still widely available today. It is a great way to learn about what kinds of games people played during the Middle Ages. And it is also lends insight into understanding how that period of time still has a tremendous influence on today's world. Many of the games in the book are still played today.
- William Herschel and the Biggest Telescope of the 18th Century
[Reference-and-Education:Science] William Herschel was possibly the greatest astronomer of the 18th Century. He made many discoveries including the finding of Uranus. But his biggest claim to fame was his ability to build telescopes. Over his lifetime he hand-built over 400 telescopes including a giant that was over 40 feet long with a mirror that was almost 50 inches wide. He paved the way for many astronomers and telescope makers for centuries to come.
- Profiles in Classical Guitar - Julian Bream
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Music] Julian Bream is one of the most famous classical guitarists of the twentieth century and he has achieved worldwide fame not only for the guitar but also for his work with the Renaissance Lute. He is considered to be one of the most important ambassadors of the classical guitar and has formed a solid bridge between the music of the past with the technology of today. He helped usher the classical guitar into the modern age.
- It's All in the Container - Secrets to a Unique and Beautiful Terrarium
[Home-and-Family:Gardening] The Container of a terrarium doesn't have to be a glass jug. It can be any one of a thousand creative ideas. Using a unique container will transform your average terrarium into something unique and a conversation piece for friends to look at and enjoy. Here are some ideas for creative containers you can use.
- Creative Summer Fun Projects For Dad and the Kids
[Home-and-Family:Crafts-Hobbies] Summer time is a time to get outside. But being outside doesn't have to just be swimming and barbecues. Here are some great outdoor project ideas that dads and kids will really enjoy. They involve things that move, learning about the world, or building things. There is something suitable for every kind of dad.
- An Explanation of the Resolving Power of Telescopes
[Reference-and-Education:Astronomy] Resolving power is not as well understood as the magnification of telescopes. Yet it is more important. This article explains resolution, what it is, and how to calculate it.
- Summer Fantasy Book Reading For Teens and Young Adults
[Book-Reviews:Young-Adults] This is a summer reading list for young adults who want to explore fantasy and imaginative fiction without resorting to the current small handful of blockbusters. This list has some classics that might otherwise be overlooked, and some contemporary books that are just terrific. If you are looking for some really good fiction for the kids to read this summer this list can help.
- How to Make a Video Game For the Nintendo Wii
[Gaming:Console-Games] Nintendo has made some interesting moves in the world of video games and they have a rather interesting new development coming in the world of making games. It will soon be possible for a small developer or team of developers, on a tight budget, to make real games for the Nintendo Wii.
- Tips For Making a Really Big Diorama
[Home-and-Family:Crafts-Hobbies] A large diorama can be a spectacular achievement that you can be proud of. I have built a few different large dioramas that are at least three feet wide and here is a collection of valuable tips, hints, and tricks that I have learned in the process.
- How to Make a Telescope - Tips and Guidelines For Beginners
[Reference-and-Education:Astronomy] Making a telescope is an extraordinarily rewarding experience because it crosses several different realms of experience. The first reward for you is the fun of making something. And the second reward is the sheer pleasure of using what you made to explore the universe.
- Three Make A Volcano Projects - Easy, Intermediate, And Spectacular!
[Home-and-Family:Crafts-Hobbies] Making a Volcano is a great project because you get to do crafts, learn about the science of volcanoes, and get to see one in action. Choosing the volcano project that is right for you can be a bit of a challenge though. I have laid out three different projects that you can choose from depending on your skill level, the age of the child, and what kind of performance you want.
- A Guide to Painting Fantasy Miniatures
[Home-and-Family:Crafts-Hobbies] Painting miniatures is a great hobby that overlaps both the gaming realm and the collecting realm. It is also a fundamental part of diorama making. This is a guide that shows you how to paint your fantasy miniatures.
- Eleven Steps to Success with a Website or Blog - The Crash Course for Webmasters
[Internet-and-Businesses-Online] By a successful website I mean you get search engine traffic to your site and earn money in the process. To make a website or blog successful you need to be attractive to both the search engines and to people. This article shows you exactly how to do it in 11 easy steps.
- Who Was the First Person to Make a Video Game?
[Gaming:Computer-Games] Just as in every new technology or field of endeavor it is always a bit muddled as to who actually was first. Technology, in particular, is a field where small incremental changes come about and the field evolves. As to who make the first video game we will take a look at different stages of video games from the first game played on a cathode ray tube to the first mass produced arcade game and finally the first console game system that was sold to consumers. All three of these steps were important developments that brought video games to where they are now.
- Profiles in Classical Guitar - Matteo Carcassi
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Music] Matteo Carcassi was a 19th Century performer and composer for the classical guitar. His haunting and romantic music still remains with us today and is part of any guitarist's repertoire.
- The Top Five Epic Fantasy Series of All Time
[Book-Reviews:SciFi-Fantasy-Horror] This is a list and description of the top five epic fantasy series of all time. I have left Lord of the Rings off the list because it stands alone above even these. The main criteria I used are popularity, longevity and length of series. I give you some insight and information about the series.
- Secret Google Commands Every Webmaster Should Know
[Internet-and-Businesses-Online] These commands aren't really a secret but they are little known. Yet they are commands that every webmaster should use on a regular basis to help identify good search terms to use when creating and building a website. These commands will help you build traffic faster and easier.
- Three Powerful Tips For New Webmasters
[Internet-and-Businesses-Online:Web-Design] Being a new webmaster can be a challenge. There are a thousand different ways you can go and a thousand different things you can do. Here are three powerful tips to help you gain a good understanding of what you really need to do to make your website a success.
- How To Make A Video Game That Is Exciting To Play
[Gaming] Making a good video game requires more than just creating a dungeon with lots of creatures. They used to be simple enough that a single goal of making it through the game alive was enough to keep a player engaged and happy. Today's video game players require much more challenge and complexity. This article explains some of the basic concepts that will help you make games that are much more fun to play.
- The History of the Terrarium
[Home-and-Family:Gardening] It is little known today but terrariums are also called Wardian Cases and this is in tribute to the man named Nathaniel Ward who began the whole art and science of terrarium making. It started with his unexpected discovery of some plants growing in a sealed bottle.
- Learn Video Game Design and Programming by Attending a Summer Camp
[Gaming:Computer-Games] The industry of video game design is an extraordinarily creative industry and very similar to the Hollywood movie making industry. A diverse group of people with a lot of different skills work together as a team to create a movie, and the same thing happens in the creation of a video game. The Industry needs, and actively looks for people that are highly creative, great team players, and highly skilled in a variety of disciplines.
- Mysteries and Secrets From Medieval Castles in America
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Humanities] When we think of a haunted castle we immediately go to visions of a castle somewhere in Eastern Europe. But North America has its share of castles and consequently it's share of spooky, unexplainable stories. Here is a look at some of these castles and their stories.
- How To Make Some Mead Today - The Cheap And Easy Way
[Food-and-Drink:Wine-Spirits] Mead is a wonderful and delicious wine brewed from honey rather than grapes and it is real easy to make. But typically you have to buy some specialized items like an airlock and a glass carboy. I will show you how with one trip to the supermarket you can have a batch of Mead brewing today.
- Classical Guitar - How to Improve Your Right Hand Playing
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Performing-Arts] Right hand technique is often the most overlooked part of a classical guitarist's skill yet it is the most important. Improving your right hand will transform your playing from mechanical to brilliant and expressive. Here are some tips and techniques that will help you improve.
- A Guide to Buying a Dobsonian Telescope
[Shopping-and-Product-Reviews] Dobsonian telescopes have revolutionized amateur astronomy by making large and powerful telescopes available at very reasonable costs. If you are considering buying one this guide will help you make the choice that is right for you.
- Honey Wine Mead is the Perfect Drink For Valentine's Day
[Food-and-Drink:Wine-Spirits] If you would like to try something special and different for Valentine's Day try some wine called Mead. It is brewed from honey rather than grapes; it has a beautiful golden color and a very long tradition of love.
- How to Make a Video Game Players Guide
[Gaming:Computer-Games] So you play video games and maybe you are pretty good at them. Maybe you have thought about making video games but the task seems a bit daunting. If you have some ability to write and keep a lot of information organized you might want to try writing your own game guide. Here are some tips to help you write terrific video game guides.
- Lost, Metamorphosis, Riverworld, and the Theme of Enigma in Writing
[Writing-and-Speaking:Writing] You might be wondering what these three very different pieces of writing have in common. They share a common and very important theme and behind that theme is a secret.
- Easy and Creative Stop Motion Animation Techniques
[Home-and-Family:Crafts-Hobbies] Stop Motion Animation is a very creative hobby. It is also very inexpensive to start out in; and you can probably do it for no cost at all. All you need is a typical digital camera, some basic software, and a few ideas. Here are some thoughts and tips to get your creativity flowing in this hobby.
- Book Review - Medieval Siege Warfare by Christoper Gravett
[Book-Reviews:History] This book takes a good look at the evolving and changing world of siege warfare during the Middle Ages. But it is not a dry and scholarly look at the subject. It is clearly written in a normal tone and aimed at the average reader. And it comes complete with around 50 drawings and photographs of sieges, castles, siege engines and more.
- Should You Buy a Reflector or a Refractor Telescope?
[Shopping-and-Product-Reviews] This article takes a look at the two main types of telescopes and explains the benefits of each. It will help you purchase a telescope that is right for your needs, budget, and wants.
- A Beginner's Guide to Model Rockets as a Hobby
[Home-and-Family:Crafts-Hobbies] Making model rockets is an inexpensive and fun hobby that has two very different components. You get to make rockets, which is a great hands on craft, and you also get to launch them which makes for a great outdoor event for family and friends. Here is an overview of what it is all about and how to do it.
- A Great Project for Kids of Any Age - Make a Catapult
[Home-and-Family:Crafts-Hobbies] There are three reasons why making a catapult is a great project to do with your child. In this article I explain these reasons and give you some great ideas for catapults that you can make with kids of any age.
- A Look at the Weapons of Medieval Knights
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Humanities] A great portion of a knight's life was devoted to the mastery of a variety of weapons. Here is a look at some of the more common weapons that they wielded throughout the Middle Ages.
- A Look at Medieval Castles in America
[Travel-and-Leisure] Castle Building reached a feverish peak all throughout Europe around the fifteenth Century. This was of course quite a while before the Pilgrims made their way across the Atlantic Ocean and you would think this means the United States missed the whole castle building frenzy. But it didn't. There are quite a few amazing and beautiful medieval castles peppered all across North America.
- How to Make Realistic Diorama Terrain
[Home-and-Family:Crafts-Hobbies] Whether you are making a diorama for wargaming, fantasy scenes, or model railroads having woods, forests, cliffs, and other terrain that really looks good is the most important part of the project. This article shows you the eight steps to take for making great looking terrain.
- Tips for Choosing a Terrarium Animal
[Pets] An animal terrarium, also called a vivarium, is a wonderful way to blend the satisfaction of having a small pet with the aesthetic beauty of a terrarium. This article will help you choose which type of animal is right for a terrarium.
- How To Make A Video Game With FPS Creator
[Gaming:Computer-Games] FPS Creator is a powerful software program that makes video game making extremely easy. It is all drag and drop and you don't need to know any programming at all. It also has a 30-day free trial period, which allows you to try it before you decide to buy it.
- How to Make Mead From a Seventeenth Century Recipe
[Food-and-Drink:Wine-Spirits] One of the great things about Mead making is the whole tradition of it. Mead has been made for centuries and quite possibly millennium. You can easily find and follow these recipes with just a little variation for modern times and tools. Here is a recipe with an easy to follow explanation.
- How Galileo's Telescope Created the Modern Science of Astronomy
[Reference-and-Education:Astronomy] Before Galileo turned his telescope toward the night sky the act of astronomy was pretty much an astrological pursuit where objects and motions of object in the sky were explained using ancient and archaic understandings of the universe and how it works. But he didn't just observe and note new objects in the sky. He applied scientific methods, mathematical laws, and logical thinking to what he observed and it is this cross discipline approach that created the modern science of observational astronomy.
- How to Care for A Classical Guitar
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Music] Classical guitars are reasonably durable and easy to care for but they are musical instruments that are carefully assembled from exotic woods; and there are some basic rules of care you should follow to insure your guitar gives you many decades of outstanding sound and performance. Here are some simple guidelines.
- A Look at Heroines in Epic Fantasy
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Humanities] In the early days of epic fantasy women were often characterized as damsels in distress and nothing more than window dressing for heroes to rescue. This didn't last long as a host of writers created memorable female characters that were skilled swords women, capable world conquerers, and adventurers in their own right - yet still alluring. This article introduces you to some of the best heroines that have appeared in epic fantasy over the past several decades.
- How to Make a Sparkling Mead the Easy Way
[Food-and-Drink:Wine-Spirits] A Sparkling wine is a wonderful variation of your typical wines and, in particular, is a great treat for the holidays. Mead, being a wine, can also be made in the sparkling variety with very little extra effort. Here is a tutorial on how to make sparkling mead the easy way.
- Don't Buy a 1,000-Power Telescope - Guidelines for Magnification
[Shopping-and-Product-Reviews] Often times you will see telescopes for sale that claim big magnifications such as up to 1000X power or 500X power. And while this isn't a false claim because the instrument in reference will actually go to that magnification it is a worthless number because telescopes have definite limits to their useful magnification. This article explains the rule of thumb for how high a power you can get from typical telescopes.
- How To Buy A Telescope
[Shopping-and-Product-Reviews] Buying a first telescope for you or for someone else as a gift can be a bit tricky if you don't know a lot about them. This article will guide you through making the right choice based on price, performance, and what your astronomical goals are.
- Add Mulling Spices To Your Mead For A Special Holiday Treat
[Food-and-Drink] Hot apple cider is a drink that gives us a certain feel linked to cold winter nights and the festivities of the holiday seasons. You can enjoy this exact feeling in a grown-up version by using mead, which is wine made with honey, and some mulling spices. It is a fantastic and delicious hot drink that will add a little warmth to your holiday festivities and it is a little known treat that your friends and guests will rave about.
- How To Make Your First Batch Of Mead Honey Wine
[Food-and-Drink:Wine-Spirits] Mead, or honey wine, is a delicious and easy to make home brewed wine. You can make a one-gallon batch in an hour or two and this is a tutorial on what you need and how to do it.
- What is Mead? Dispelling the Myth About an Ancient Drink
[Food-and-Drink:Wine-Spirits] When the word Mead is mentioned the first thing that comes to mind is a group of Vikings sitting around a fire quaffing down large mugs of a rough and tough alcoholic beverage. This is the stigma that mead has endured for centuries and it is unwarranted. Mead is an extraordinarily delicate and delicious wine.
- Stephen King - The Secret Lesson He Has For You As A Writer
[Writing-and-Speaking:Writing] There is no mistaking that Stephen King is a masterful writer. His prose is clean and extraordinarily well written. But there is another, very valuable lesson, he has to offer you as an aspiring author. To understand this lesson you have to take a look at his body of work.
- Chivalry - The Roots of the Code of the Medieval Knight
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Humanities] Chivalry has come to be very watered down in modern day times. For the most part we think of chivalry as the way a man behaves toward, and around, women. And while this does characterize chivalry it is only a very small component of what chivalry was and remains today.
- What Happened to the Creatures That Didn't Make it Onto Noah's Ark? A Fantasy Book Review
[Book-Reviews:SciFi-Fantasy-Horror] This is a book review of a new novel called The Bestiary. It is a fantasy tale about the pursuit of a secret book called The Caravan Bestiary, which catalogued the mythical creatures that were denied access to Noah's Ark.
- The 5 Most Influential Women Writers of Epic Fantasy
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Humanities] Epic Fantasy is a very wide genre and it encompasses a lot of work that has been defined in a lot of different ways from fantasy to childrens fantasy to high fantasy. Women writers have been breaking new ground and exploring new ideas and concepts in this genre since its inception. Here are some of the pioneering women writers of the genre of epic fantasy.
- Should You Add A Forum To Your Website? The Pros And Cons Explained
[Internet-and-Businesses-Online:Forums] Have you been considering adding a forum to your website? There are some distinct advantages and some real disadvantages. Here is an overview of some of the pros and cons of having a forum associated with your site.
- Classical Guitar on Fire
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Music] The Classical Guitar has the reputation of being a soft, sweet, and gentle instrument. While it deserves this reputation because it is all these things, it is also an instrument capable of tremendous fire and passion. Here is a selection of some fiery and passionate classical guitar pieces that will add power and raw emotion to your repertoire.
- How To Write An Epic Fantasy Novel – A No Nonsense Guide To Getting The Job Done
[Writing-and-Speaking:Writing] Here are some simple yet amazingly effective steps that will insure you start and finish your epic fantasy novel. You just need to understand what epic fantasy really is and why you want to write it.
- 25 Years of Fantasy Swords in the Movies - A Retrospective
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Movies-TV] Twenty-five years ago the movie Conan spotlighted the Atlantean sword. They designed and created a unique sword just for the movie and this started a new trend in fantasy movie making, and today, just about every fantasy movie is released with a collectible sword. Here is a look at some of these great movies and the swords in them.
- How to Make and Care For a Carnivorous Terrarium
[Home-and-Family:Crafts-Hobbies] There was a rumor circulating many years ago that the Venus Fly Trap could only be found around meteor craters. While this has turned out to be an urban legend the fact that Venus fly traps are quite unusual plants still remains. You can make a beautiful terrarium out of these plants and other carnivorous plants.
- How To Make A Robots Text File For Your Website
[Internet-and-Businesses-Online:SEO] If you have a website you really need to have a robots.txt file. It gives search engine spiders specific commands and it is easy to use and easy to maintain. Here is an easy guide to a robots.txt file in five minutes.
- A Guide to Finding a Classical Guitar Instructional Book
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Music] There are lots of instructional books that show you how to play classical guitar. So which one should you use? That depends on your goals with the guitar and your style of learning. Here is a guide to some of the more popular instructional books.
- About the Famous Siege of a Medieval Castle - Chateau Gaillard
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Humanities] Chateau Gaillard was built by Richard the Lionhearted and it was sieged and taken by the French in 1204 AD. The story of this castle, and its siege, is one of the most interesting stories in medieval history.
- How to Get Free Artwork for your Website
[Internet-and-Businesses-Online:Web-Design] You can get free artwork from talented artists, for your website, without spending any money. You do however, have to put in a little bit of time and effort. Here is how to do it.
- Chasing the Wild Unicorn: How to Find your Unique Writer's Voice
[Writing-and-Speaking:Writing] Finding your unique writing style and voice is much like chasing a wild unicorn. You can't do it! The harder you look, the further away it gets. You have to let it come to you. Here is some advice on how to let it come to you.
- How to Make a Classical Guitar
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Music] Fulfill the dream of owning a hand-made classical guitar by making one yourself. You don't have to be a master woodworker to make your own classical guitar. There are some really good books and kits that will help you make a guitar that you can proudly use for many years.
- Fighting Techniques of the Medieval World - Equipment, Combat Skills and Tactics – Book Review
[Book-Reviews] This book is a great read for fans of medieval combat and a great resource for people interested in the middle ages and in the art of war during the Middle and Dark Ages. It takes a really good overall look at the whole scope of what combat was about during the thousand year period from 500 AD to 1500 AD.
- How to Make 3D Video Game Models
[Gaming:Computer-Games] A 3d Model is a three-dimensional object you put into a video game. The most common model is that of the player in the game. But it can also be almost anything else you can imagine. Here is an overview of how you make 3D models for video games.
- The Beginners Guide To A Beautiful Terrarium In One Hour
[Home-and-Family:Crafts-Hobbies] A terrarium is an easy and beautiful project that you can successfully create in one hour. That includes the travel time to the local Nursery or Home Improvement store. Here are the steps to follow.
- About Amazon's New tool for Webmasters - Context Links
[Internet-and-Businesses-Online:Affiliate-Revenue] Amazon.com is currently running a new program in Beta called Context Links. This looks like it is going to be an excellent tool to help webmasters increase revenue from their websites.
- Is Amazon Taking on Google?
[Internet-and-Businesses-Online:Affiliate-Revenue] Amazon just released a new program (in Beta) called Context Links and it is very much like The Google Adsense/Adwords program. Is Amazon going after some of Google's Billion-dollar context ad market? Is a billion-dollar war heating up in cyberspace?
- How To Make Your Website A Success In Three Simple Steps
[Internet-and-Businesses-Online:Web-Design] There are thousands of things to think about when making a website, but making your website successful just comes down to these three basic things. It is really quite simple but I wouldn't go as far as calling it easy because there is work involved. But it is work you are going to love.
- How to Play Classical Guitar like Andres Segovia
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Music] Andres Segovia has had a profound impact on every aspect of the modern classical guitar from technique, to repertoire, venue, and even the construction of the guitar. And while you can't take lessons from him you can learn much from the wonderful legacy he has left behind.
- Were Medieval Knights Bad or Good?
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Humanities] There has been a long-standing debate about Medieval Knights. Were they chivalrous and gallant caretakers of their peasants? Or were they vicious and cruel thugs who ruled their people with an iron hand?
- How to Motivate Yourself to Write
[Writing-and-Speaking:Writing] Writing is a wonderful, yet sometimes, very hard thing to do. Often it is very easy to not "make the time" to write and nobody will motivate you. You have to motivate yourself. Here are three techniques that will get you writing.
- How to Live a Medieval Life!
[Arts-and-Entertainment] Did you ever wonder what it would be like to be a knight, a wizard, or maybe a king or a queen? The days of knights are long gone but there are organizations, groups and events that still celebrate the beauty and wonder of the Middle Ages. You might not be able to live a medieval life full time but there are some great ways you can try it out on the weekends!
- Goblins in Thongs: The 5 Rules of Creativity Explained
[Self-Improvement:Creativity] Creativity has a "Mysterious Force" connotation. It is often thought of as something that only genius artists possess. And while it is true there is a bit of mysterious force about creativity, it is something that everyone possesses. Understanding the 5 rules of creativity will help you to develop and grow your creative potential.
- What You, the Webmaster, Need to Put in Every eMail – Other than Your Sig Block
[Internet-and-Businesses-Online:Internet-Marketing] As a webmaster you probably get a lot of email. And as your site grows you are going to get a lot more. This is just part of the business of having a website. The thing about this growth in popularity, and in email, is that most of the time you don’t know where it is coming from. Doing one simple thing in every email will help with this dilemma.
- The Strangest Medieval Weapon Ever Created: The Lantern Shield
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Humanities] After the Dark Ages the world was thrust into a two hundred year period of incredible creativity and growth called "The Renaissance". This creative force of time brought about some wonderful masterpieces. It also brought us some really quirky and odd ideas. One of these ideas was the lantern shield.
- How to Play Lightning Fast Classical Guitar
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Music] Blasting out lightning fast scales on the classical guitar is a very impressive feat. It sounds so good and really raises the emotional level of your playing. You really can increase your playing speed if you understand a few basic principles.
- A Brief History of the Catapult
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Humanities] We typically think of a catapult as something that was used in the Middle Ages to destroy the walls of a castle. But catapults have a very long history dating long before the time of castles and they were developed and designed in many different ways by many different cultures over the centuries.
- A look at the Dark Ages-When Things Were Really Medieval
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Humanities] The Dark Ages were a period of great upheaval, constant war, horrendous plague, and stagnant cultural growth. But through these difficult centuries new ideas and a new culture was born. And in today's world we still feel the effects of these changes that were brought about during these Dark Ages.
- A Typical Day In The Life Of A Medieval Castle
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Humanities] Life in the Middle Ages could be very challenging and difficult. But there were many stretches of time where warfare was at a minimum, crops were plentiful, and castles were the homes of Lords, Ladies and large staffs of administrators and servants. Here is a look at a typical day in the life of a Medieval Castle during these times of prosperity.
- Real Medieval Castles in Movies
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Movies-TV] Movies are a creative world of imagination and wonder. And does anything evoke this feeling of wonder more than castles? They represent power, wealth, mystery and many other things so they make a perfect setting for movies not just about knights but movies about many other things.
- How to Make a Secret Diorama
[Home-and-Family:Crafts-Hobbies] A secret diorama is a diorama built in an unexpected place. This gives the diorama a level of not only visual delight but of discovery. And the theme of the diorama can be closely linked to the location which makes it really special.
- Real Military Tactics You Can Use in the World of Warcraft to Improve Your PvP skills
[Gaming:Computer-Games] Warcraft is a game of Player versus Player (PvP) action. It is all about war and real military tactics translate well into the game. Here are some real tactics that you can use to improve your pvp in the game.
- How to Make a Video Game in One Hour – Really!
[Gaming:Computer-Games] Video game design software has taken a lot of the hard work out of making games and it has left the creative part up to you. There are software applications that will help you make a game quickly, easily, and in only one hour.
- Long or Short Nails Playing the Classical Guitar? Which is Right for You?
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Music] The debate over long or short nails has raged since the dawn of the classical guitar and the right answer to this question is "It doesn't matter". But there are differences between the two styles and some things you should know before you decide which is right for you.
- A Guide to the Best Free Fantasy Books in the Public Domain
[Arts-and-Entertainment] The genre of fantasy has a long history and one of the benefits of this is that there are now lots of great fantasy books available in the public domain. Here is a guide to some of these books both famous and not so famous.
- The Fascinating Ceremony of Medieval Knighthood
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Humanities] Becoming a knight was much more than a tap on the shoulder with the flat edge of a sword. It was often an involved process that spanned several days. Here is an overview of a typical knighting ceremony in the middle ages.
- The Internal Conflict is More Important than the Dragon – Advice for Epic Fantasy Writers
[Writing-and-Speaking:Writing] When writing fantasy it is very easy to let your imagination soar and to create amazing worlds and incredible creatures; and while you may give your reader something to enjoy you won’t really make a connection with him or her. The thing that will make the connection with your reader is the internal conflict your protagonist has to go through. This is what makes him or her human and this is where you have a memorable impact on your reader.
- How to Improve your PvP Skills in World of Warcraft
[Gaming:Computer-Games] Player versus player action in World of Warcraft is very exciting and one of the best ways to obtain some of the best equipment and armor in the game. There are some simple things you can do to dramatically increase your skill in this aspect of the game.
- What Plants Should You Use when Making a Terrarium?
[Home-and-Family:Crafts-Hobbies] Here is a list and some tips on choosing plants to make a successful and beautiful terrarium.
- How to Make a Really Creative Shoebox Diorama
[Home-and-Family:Crafts-Hobbies] A shoebox diorama can be much more than just a miniature scene. It can be a creative display that people are really amazed by. Here are some creative tips and hints on how to make your shoebox diorama really special.
- A Popular Music Repertoire for the Classical Guitar
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Music] Just because you play classical guitar doesn’t mean you have to limit yourself to hundred year old music! There are many modern pop songs that translate very well to the classical guitar.
- A Look at Some Unique and Unusual Medieval Weapons
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Humanities] The Middle Ages was a time of much conflict and warfare. During this time many unusual weapons were created to solve battlefield problems. Many of these weapons are familiar to us such as the sword, axe, or lance. But there were many lesser known and unusual weapons that were created during this time in history.
- Keyword Laddering – A Concept to Success with the Search Engines
[Internet-and-Businesses-Online:Traffic-Building] Getting traffic from the search engines for a popular search term is very difficult. There is a lot of competitition. Keyword laddering is a way to make it happen.
- The Symbolism and the Power of the Ring in Epic Fantasy
[Shopping-and-Product-Reviews:Jewelry-Diamonds] A ring is just a tiny piece of metal yet it is one of the most powerful, and successful, symbols used in fantasy writing. Why is a ring so often used as a symbol and what does it really stand for?
- Zen and the Art of Classical Guitar - Why You Should Play
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Music] In a world that isn’t going to slow down, do something special for yourself and learn how to play classical guitar. Here is a perspective on this beautiful instrument.
- Experience the Drama and the Science of Prehistoric Fantasy
[Arts-and-Entertainment] Prehistoric fantasy is the genre of stories written in prehistoric times. But they aren’t just "caveman" stories. They are wonderfully written dramas that also take a good look at real anthropological and archaeological subjects.
- How the Medieval Castle Evolved Over a Five Hundred Year Period
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Humanities] Medieval Castles were structures that changed dramatically over the centuries of the Middle Ages. These changes were brought about by many factors like changes in warfare and the influences of different cultures. Here is a brief history of how the Medieval Castle developed over the five hundred years of the Middle Ages.
- How a Boy Became a Knight in Medieval Times
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Humanities] For almost seven hundred years between the ninth and sixteenth centuries knights were the lords of the battlefield, admired and respected for their abilities and their chivalry and courage. So how did a boy in these centuries become a knight?
- How to Make the Ultimate Terrarium
[Home-and-Family:Crafts-Hobbies] A terrarium is a beautiful project to make and to take care of but if you are ambitious you might want to make the ultimate terrarium. And this doesn’t come down to gardening skills. It comes down to a little bit of thought and a lot of creativity. Here are some great ideas for making your terrarium into the ultimate terrarium.
- Epic Fantasy is Applicable in Today’s World - The Beast has Changed But the Teeth are the Same
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Philosophy] Epic Fantasy is often slighted and categorized as escapist literature to be read strictly for fun. But this is not a true characterization of what the genre is really about. Epic Fantasy is a metaphor for the human condition and very applicable to the every day world we live in today.
- How to Make a Video Game in Seven Days –for Free
[Gaming:Computer-Games] There is plenty of free software and resources out there that will enable you to quickly make your own video game. All you need is a plan and some persistence. Here is the plan.
- How To Buy Your First Medieval Sword - A Beginners Guide
[Recreation-and-Sports:Martial-Arts] If you always wanted to own a medieval sword to hang on the wall, show to your friends, or bring with you to a Renaissance Fair this guide will help you to make a good first purchase.
- The Design Secrets of Medieval Castles
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Humanities] Medieval Castles were more than just a large fortress with massive stone walls. They were ingeniously designed fortifications that used many brilliant and creative ways to protect their inhabitants from attacking enemies.
- Classical Guitar is the Perfect Instrument for a Child to Learn
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Music] There is no arguing with the fact that teaching a child to learn an instrument is something that can potentially bring him or her a lifetime of joy and enrichment. But keeping a child interested in practicing can be a challenge. Among all the instruments that a child can learn how to play the classical guitar is among the best. Here are the reasons.
- Siege – How to Take a Medieval Castle When You Don't Have a Catapult
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Humanities] In the later centuries of the Middle Ages siege engines were often employed to take down the walls of a medieval castle. But in the early centuries an attacking army often did not have the skill, resources, or time to build and use siege engines so they employed other very ingenious methods including biological warfare.
- How to Make a Terrarium – The Basics for Making a Wonderful Terrarium
[Home-and-Family:Crafts-Hobbies] Terrarium making is a rewarding hobby that combines art and nature. You can make a nice terrarium in an hour and then enjoy caring for it and looking at it for years to come. With a few tips and guidelines you can make some wonderful terrariums that are extraordinary.
- What Software Should You Use to Make a Video Game?
[Gaming:Computer-Games] The answer depends on a couple of questions you have to ask yourself? What skill level do you have with the computer and programming and what are your goals for making video games? I answer these questions and help you find the right software for achieving what you want.
- How Andres Segovia Changed the World of the Classical Guitar
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Music] There is no disputing that Segovia was one of the greatest classical guitarists that ever lived but his impact on the world of the classical guitar extended far beyond just his ability to play. He had a profound impact on every aspect of the modern classical guitar.
- How to Draw Castle Floor Plans
[Arts-and-Entertainment] The Floor Plan for every Medieval Castle was different but there were some rules of thumb that they pretty much all followed. Here are some guidelines to help you draw a castle floor plan that is realistic and attractive.
- Self-Publishing a Novel? What you Absolutely Need to Put on the Last Page
[Writing-and-Speaking:Publishing] You have been working hard on your self-published novel and soon your dream will come true -It will be printed. Or maybe you have already published a novel and are working on your next one. Don't skip this very important step.
- How to Write a Great Combat Scene - Advice for Fantasy Writers
[Writing-and-Speaking:Writing] A great combat scene is a memorable event in your reader's life. It is a microcosm of the struggle that is contained in the book itself. And good combat scenes are often dog-eared by readers and returned to over and over again. You can give your reader a great combat experience if you follow a few simple guidelines.
- A Great Repertoire for the Beginning Classical Guitarist
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Music] One of the difficulties about learning to play a new instrument is figuring out a repertoire of easy yet great sounding pieces. Here is a suggested list of nine pieces that fulfill this perfectly.
- How to Draw Fantasy Creatures
[Self-Improvement:Creativity] Drawing fantasy creatures like unicorns, mermaids, and dragons can at first be a difficult thing to do and it takes some practice but there are some basic rules you can follow to create terrific creatures and make them look great.
- 5 Keys to the Kingdom – How to Conquer Any Online Video Game
[Gaming:Online-Gaming] Today’s online video games (MMORPG's) are extraordinarily complex worlds that take a lot of time to master. Whether you play a couple of hours a week or a couple of hours every day there are some fundamental rules you should follow to maximize what you achieve within these online worlds.
- How to Write a Video Game Script
[Writing-and-Speaking:Writing] Writing a video game script offers a challenge that goes well beyond the normal realm of writing. But it is also something that can be tremendously rewarding in the scope of its creativity. Here are some guidelines and tips for writing a video game script.
- Learn How to Draw The Easy Way Using the “Five-S” Method
[Home-and-Family:Crafts-Hobbies] One of the difficult things about learning to draw is understanding the process an artist uses to go from a blank piece of paper to a completed drawing. The “Five-S” method is an easy way to understand how an artist does it and how you can do it too.
- Play Better Classical Guitar - How to Quickly Advance from a Beginner to an Intermediate
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Music] The classical guitar is a difficult instrument to learn how to play. It takes perseverance and a lot of practice but with some practical tips you can make the transition from beginner to intermediate very quickly.
- How to buy a Classical Guitar - Tips and Hints to Help You Make a Good Purchase
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Music] Purchasing a classical guitar can be a difficult task; particularly if you are not yet an accomplished player. Here are some tips and hints on finding a good quality classical guitar whether it is in the hundred dollar range or the thousand dollar range.
- Epic Fantasy Is On The Verge Of A Big Change
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Philosophy] Tired of enormous epic fantasy series with thousand page novels that cover an incredibly complex world full of factions, kingdoms and social structures? These works are at the end of the fourth cycle of epic fantasy and the fifth cycle is coming soon.
- There is no Wizard – How Epic Fantasy Fails Us
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Humanities] Epic fantasy is not escapist literature just to be read for fun. It is a serious form of literature that tackles the big questions in a characters life (hence the epic). And in this way it helps us understand ourselves and helps us look at the big questions in our own lives. But epic fantasy uses one particular tool to help the hero find his way through the darkness of his challenges; and this tool doesn’t exist for us and this is where epic fantasy fails.
- How to Find Interesting Words and Names for Your Fantasy Writing
[Writing-and-Speaking:Writing] Tolkien was a Philologist which made him an expert at linguists and the history of languages so it easy to see why his writing is filled with wonderful names of characters, creatures, and places. You don’t have to be a philologist to also find words that fit into your fantasy writing and accentuate the feel of your created world. Here are some tips and hints on how to do it.
- A Guide To Starting A Career In Video Games - Prepare Yourself For A Break-In!
[Gaming:Computer-Games] Starting a career in the video game industry used to a difficult thing; there were very few options and very few schools that could teach the required cutting edge skills. If you wanted to choose this path you had to be self taught. Today this dilemma has been turned upside down. You now have a plethora of schools to choose from and lots of programs and specialties to decide amongst. Here is some advice on what the industry has to offer and what you can do to prepare yourself.
- Learn to Read Sheet Music and Forget the TAB - Advice for Guitarists
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Music] Reading sheet music can be very intimidating for a beginning guitarist. It is, after all, a brand new language composed of a lot of symbols that are new and alien. But Reading sheet music is a must for anyone who wants to be a serious guitarist and it will take your guitar playing well beyond anything that TAB will show you. Tablature is a crutch. It will only teach you how to play songs and compositions by rote. It is true that with Tab you will learn how to play a piece of music but in the process you are missing some of the real things that music, and being a musician are all about.
- Use Your Journal to Dramatically Improve Your Writing -- The Easy Way
[Writing-and-Speaking:Writing] If you are keeping a journal on a regular or even semi-regular basis, you have made a great step toward developing your skills as a writer. But, you are probably only using a small part of what a journal can be. You need to take the next step in journal writing and make your journal work for you. Here are some practical tips on how to do that.
- Making Magic Real in your Fantasy Writing
[Writing-and-Speaking:Writing] Magic is a wonderful aspect of Fantasy. It can add whole new dimensions to the world you are creating by bringing new dilemmas and new problems and challenges. It can also bring a fair amount of spicy and interesting conflicts. But magic is not a panacea. It should not be used to easily solve plot problems and difficulties that your protagonists face. It has to follow rules and you have to establish these rules.
- Forget About the Grammar and Your Writing Will Improve - Advice for Writers
[Writing-and-Speaking:Writing] The number one reason why writers don't write is the fear of poor grammar. The red pencil marks of an editor pointing out dangling participles and passive sentences strikes enough fear into a person that it can prevent him from writing. Writing grammatically well is desirable, and necessary, but it is something you don't have to worry about.
- Mianthroperspection-Stepping Out of the Human in Your Writing or "How Does a Dragon Really Feel?"
[Writing-and-Speaking:Writing] Mianthroperspection is art of writing from the viewpoint of an animal or an inanimate object and it is something that fantasy writers have been doing for a very long time. But until now it has gone unnamed or mislabeled as anthropomorphism. Remember this distinction in your writing.
- It's all About the Cover - Advice for Self-Published Authors
[Writing-and-Speaking:Book-Marketing] With only a few seconds to catch the attention of a potential buyer the cover is the most important tool you have when trying to sell your book. You have spent hundreds of hours working on your manuscript. You should also put a fair amount of energy into the cover. Here is some solid advice on what to do.
- How To Make a Video Game - It's Free, and Not as Hard as You Think
[Gaming:Computer-Games] Video Game making has evolved dramatically over the past decade. It used to be a world filled with tedious hours of programming in a language like C. But today there are readily available tools that do all this programming work for you and allow you to focus on the creative task of building a fantasy world game.
- The Three-Step Method That Will Get You Writing - Guaranteed!
[Writing-and-Speaking:Writing] You dream about writing a novel or maybe you have already started one yet for some reason the manuscript is collecting dust in a desk drawer. There is no complex psychological barrier that prevents you from writing. You can write out a complete novel from start to finish in no time and with no anxiety. I guarantee it. Here are the three easy steps.
- How to Make a Sword -The Six Step Process
[Home-and-Family:Crafts-Hobbies] The process of making a sword is more than what you see in the movies. For many people being a blacksmith is a fantasy where you pound steel against an anvil, dip it in water and voila! You have a completed sword ready to mow down the evil hordes of creatures that lurk in the forest. But swordmaking is much more than this. Swordmaking is both an art and a craft and it takes hard work, a lot of practice and a significant amount of specialized tools to create a sword. It also takes many years of practice to become proficient at this skill.
- Making Video Games - Sharpen Your Eyes and Think Like an Artist
[Gaming:Computer-Games] Good Video Game design is not just about fast action and challenging beasts and creatures. One of the most important, yet most overlooked aspect of video game design is the believability of the world the game takes place in. When designing a video game you don't have to be a great artist but you do have to think and see like one.
- How to Find an Epic Fantasy Novel That You Will Love
[Arts-and-Entertainment] There are a million books out there and there are thousands of fantasy novels to choose from. How do you find one that you will like?
- Writing Fantasy - A Creative Approach to World Building
[Writing-and-Speaking:Writing] One of the most appealing things about fantasy is that it usually takes place in a fantastic and imaginative world. The mention of the Names Middle Earth, Midkemia, or Narnia brings up vivid images in a reader’s mind. But building a rich and vivid world takes a level of visual creativity that can be daunting to a writer. How do you get your reader to feel the stones of your New World? How do you get him or her to feel the landscape and the world as if it were a real thing? How do you show your reader the world when all you have is words to explain it with?
- Writing Epic Fantasy - Taking a Courageous Approach to the Genre
[Writing-and-Speaking:Writing] Epic fantasy is a genre about heroes taking on challenges of epic proportions and overcoming obstacles that are seemingly impossible to overcome yet the genre puts out (safe) multi-volume cookie cutter novels that follow a specific formula laid out by Tolkien and Campbell. Break this trend in your own writing.
- Epic Fantasy – It's Really About The Meaning Of Life
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Philosophy] Epic fantasy has long been considered escapist literature and something that adolescent’s read to pass the time. It brings to mind muscle-bound heroes who fight dragons and rescue princesses. But Epic fantasy is really much more than that. It is about the search to find meaning in our lives.
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