Canvas Printers Online Review

Looking for a gift for a special someone?

Maybe just something to spruce up your house?

Well, I've got a pretty idea on what you could get. Canvas Prints!

I've bought a few of these over the past few years and this time I thought I'd give Canvas Printers Online a look at.

I am a collector of paintings.  I love artwork.  I've been a little obsessed with British artist, Banksy.

He's the dude that does amazing street graffiti art (or he could be a she because no one has ever seen him, err... or her).

Now, because I can't put a Banksy on the wall in my house, as much as I'd like too, I found a digital photo of one of his works.  Here it is below:

Love it

It's wicked. So I made it into a Canvas Print.

Well, I didn't make it myself.  Like I said, Canvas Printers Online is where I headed to get the job done.

The process is pretty simple at their website.  You can pick and choose from their own designs, or you can upload your own photo like I did.  There is also the option to upload from Facebook or Instagram, which is something I haven't seen yet on other canvas sites.

Once the photo is uploaded, you can choose canvas size and layout the image with ease.  It can get a bit tricky to make your image fit exactly to the boundary of the print though.  I just made certain that I couldn't see any white lines on the canvas creation page.

You can add image effects, zoom in close or zoom out, rotate and flip images, all the stuff that you would expect to be able to do.

What is really cool though is the online help service.  I tested it out with a few questions and an actual real person typed back to me.  This is a really cool function of Canvas Printers Online, really cool.  This is what you want with any persons having any sort of questions, where face to face contact is not available online. Really impressed by their online help.

So, I created my canvas, created my account and waited by the mailbox.

To my surprise, the canvas did not take very long to reach my doorstep!  I think it was only a couple of weeks!

I was worried about the time frame because I knew that the canvas is created in China.  Whenever something is created overseas, I do get a bit nervous (like most people would) but China is a trusted country, right?

Yep, there's no reason to worry! The canvas arrived on my doorstep without an issue.  Really well packaged with bubble wrap and cardboard covered edging to prevent any dings and dents.

And here is the end result of my 50 x 40cm Banksy print!  Looks just like the digital image, doesn't it?

Not too bad!

The Positives

The Canvas Printers Online website is easy to use, from account creation, to canvas creation and payment.

The online help is fantastic.  Really good to having a real person to chat with. Couldn't stress how good this is enough!

The price. The Banksy print I received costs $100 less than where I have purchased canvases previously.  Madness!

The Negatives

Canvases are made in China.  Even though the item came to my doorstep in perfect condition, the canvas does feel a bit cheap.  But, they ARE CHEAP! So this isn't a negative for me.  If you are after a better quality, pay another $100 bucks for slightly better canvas print. But I don't see a big jump in quality with other canvases that I have, just a big jump in price!


To summarize, I'm happy to give these guys the tick of approval.  It's bang for buck and delivery is better than normal, even for overseas.

If you are thinking about grabbing your next Canvas print online, give these guys a go like I did.  I'm definitely considering these guys for my next purchase!

Leave your comments below. Are you into Canvas Prints? Do you enjoy showing off your "super cool epic fantastic photo skills" just like I do?

Love you hear from you!

Top Five Australian Motorsport Events Of 2014

This is a guest post from Pure Performance Motorsport, one of the leading manufacturers of connecting rods for high performance engines.


Aussies love their motorsports and as a country, we’ve produced some of the world’s finest racers as well as technologies. For example, companies such as Pure Performance Motorsport in Victoria, have become world famous for their forged pistons, along with H & I beam connecting rods. If you want to see these drivers and home-grown technologies at their best, get along to any one of the top five Australian Motorsport Events in 2014, including:

1. Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix

March - Melbourne, Victoria Each March, Melbourne draws visitors from all over the world to host the Australian Formula 1 Grand Prix at the Albert Park circuit. The four day event kicks off the Formula 1 season and will get your blood pumping as you watch the world's fastest drivers and cars fly by almost 300km/hour. Renowned for providing breathtaking trackside action as well as fantastic off-track exhibitions and demonstrations, this is one of Australia’s top three motorsport races.

2. V8 Supercars

March, April, May, June, November, December – various locations Drawing crowds of up to 250,000, the V8 Supercars is a touring car race with events in all states. Based on the two most popular passenger cars in Australia; the Holden Commodore and the Ford Falcon, the V8 Supercars do battle in Darwin, Perth, Adelaide, Sydney, Launceston, the Gold Coast, Bathurst and Phillip Island, Victoria. Each race offers a family-friendly, festival atmosphere. The series finale is held over three days at Sydney’s Olympic Park, a challenging, champion-designed course that puts the world’s best to the test.

3. Australasian Safari

September - Regional Western Australia Covering more than 4,000km of some of the country’s toughest terrain, the Australasian Safari runs for seven days and stretches from Perth to Kalgoorlie. Set in Western Australia’s outback, this endurance race pushes even the most gutsy 4WDs, motorbikes and quad bikes to their limits. A great feature of this event is that spectators get the opportunity to follow parts of the course on your very own motorbike or 4WD!

4. Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix

October: Phillip Island, Victoria As one of Australia’s top three motorsport events, the MotoGP is an unforgettable experience. Bike enthusiasts from all walks of life converge on Phillip Island to enjoy this world-class racing event and the nation’s key bike race event of the year. The Island’s circuit is one of the most unique and exciting racing tracks in the world, offering stunning panoramic ocean views and superb spectator viewing across the whole course.

5. V8 Supercars Bathurst 1000

October: Bathurst, NSW This punishing 1,000 km endurance track race held at Bathurst’s Mount Panorama is the jewel of the Australian motorsports industry. For over 50 years, the world’s best have battled to take out the prestigious ‘King of the Mountain’ title. As one of Australia’s most renowned sporting events, you’ll be joining motorsport sport fans from around the world for a huge programme of awesome entertainment, both on and off the track.

Love motorsports? Planning your next holidays? Make sure you get yourself to one of Australia’s premier motorsport events this year and live, breath, eat motor racing!

Schick Hydro 5 Groomer Review and Giveaway

Hey folks!  I have the great privilege to talk about Schick's new razor on the market, the Schick Hydro 5 4-in-1 Groomer. Plus, the folks at Schick are allowing me to give some away as well!

Here's just a quick product placement if you'd like to watch..


Holy Schick that's some good product placement!

So, before I get to the giveaway, let me tell you what I think about it.

I am very hesitant to use disposable razors.  I have issues with rashes or possibly allergic reactions.  I have just rarely used them.  I normally stick to the electric bad boy razors.

Well, this razor is definitely a bad boy razor.  There are some really cool positives about the Hyrdo 5 Groomer, but unfortunately some drawbacks.

The device battery powered and can be used as either a close shave or a beard groomer, but let's start with what I love about it.

The Positives

It looks like a bit of a monster! Yeah looks really cool.  Thought I might try lop a few branches off a tree out the back after I finish testing it.

The blade part is a close shave.  Closer than you'd get with the electric razors, that's for sure.  I was sitting there poking at my face because I'm not used to a close, close shave.  I've always been more of a stubble man (especially with my skin easily irritable) and with the razor, along with the Schick Hydro Sensitive Shave Gel, I'm not sure if I will be a stubble faced person for a while.  Pretty cool.  Whenever I need a close shave, this razor is the one for me.  Really top notch quality.

The groomer part of the razor might actually be a first in the disposable razor scene.  Don't quote me on that, but I haven't seen a beard groomer and blade razor combined into one razor on the supermarket shelves.  Schick basically has made a disposable razor something that you can just replace the batteries on instead of chucking out. Sure, you'd need to replace the razor blades, but Schick sell the replacement blades for the razor when you run out.

The price is great.  If you want the cheapest groomer on the market, it would set you back about $50.  The Hydro 5 Groomer is RRP $21.99, which is half the price, and less!

The Negatives

I personally would not use the razor as a groomer, which kind of negates the coolness of a combined blade/grooming razor.  The device is wicked for the businessman that travels from hotel bed to hotel bed, without the need ever for a plugged in cord.  Those people I would recommend the razor for, just because of the ease of use. That's not me though, luckily. Would hate hotel bed hopping! The battery powered groomer just doesn't have as much OOMPH as an electric one.  I compared it to my crappy, cheap as chips, plug into the wall groomer and it just doesn't work as powerfully.

The other negative is being battery powered requires either the constant purchasing of new batteries or charging of rechargeable ones.  The razor doesn't come with a recharge option unfortunately.

I take pictures on the floor.. yep.

Don't let my review sway you though, why not try the razor out for yourself because I have 3 x Schick Hydro packs to give away!!!

Three lucky winners will receive in the pack one of the Schick Hydro 5 razors, the Hydro Sensitive Shave Gel and four Easyglide Blade replacement cartridges. Just like the ones you see in the uber photograph skills picture to the right.

If you would like more information, please visit Schick's product page. Otherwise, enter the giveaway below.

Good luck!!

(sorry, give away is for Australian residents only)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Men’s guide to beating a receding hairline

This is a guest post from BioTHIK, Hollywood's best-kept secret and their answer to thicker, fuller looking hair.

Thin hair and a receding hairline is one of the most common complaints about men’s aging. It can be a real hit to your confidence and increase stress in an already stressful world. Even young men often feel as though they are losing the battle against genetics in keeping their locks thick and lush. Don’t despair, there are things you can do to manage the problem! Here are some tips to help you keep your remaining hair and improve your hair’s appearance.

Choose a Flattering Hairstyle

A well-chosen hairstyle can do wonders for reducing the emphasis on a receding hairline. Shorter hairstyles tend to be the most flattering, and allow you to keep a more natural look than toupees or the shudder-inducing comb over. There are a number of styles that work well, such as the Jason Statham buzz cut, Short Caesar cut à la George Clooney, the Mad Men/Roger Sterling cut with a side part, and even clean shaven (think the ever-suave Patrick Stewart). Keep in mind that whatever you choose, confidence is the best ally in making you look good. Sean Connery rocks a huge bald spot with a ring of hair around the sides and he is still universally acknowledged as one of the sexiest men alive.

Switch The Focus

Stylish facial hair can detract attention from thinning hair or a receding hairline in men and balance the face. Don’t go crazy – remember: less is more. Subtle and neat facial hair creates a polished and confident look that will make you stand out from your clean-shaven fellows, and bring the focus back onto your face.

Resist Temptation

One of the most common problems men have when they notice their hairline receding is resisting the temptation to over wash. While its important to keep your remaining hair healthy, too frequent shampooing can actually damage your healthy hair and lead to further loss. Washing should occur once per day at maximum! Make sure you are conditioning as normal, but again, only once a day!

Another temptation to avoid is too much product. Overdoing styling products such as gels and waxes can cling too much hair together and make the thinning even more visible by exposing the scalp. While you may want to keep some flair, take it easier on styling products.

Add Volume

Volumising sprays or dry shampoos can be a good option if you’re looking to bulk up thinning hair, but for the hairline in particular, you may need something more heavy duty. Developments in men’s hair care have brought some new exciting products to light. For example, you can now find a powder product that mimics your natural hair’s look, colour, and texture. The powder is made from keratin (just like your natural hair), cut into incredibly thin fibers that attach to your existing hair through static cling. Your hair’s volume can increase dramatically and those see- through patches in your hairline can be cleverly disguised and plumped. Because the strands are so thin, you get good natural looking coverage and avoid the artificial look of toupees. Check out BioTHIK for more information.

What are your tips for beating a receding hairline? Let us know what’s worked for you in the comments!

Renovating Tips for New Home Owners

This is a guest post from Turner Freeman, a law firm providing care, support and outstanding results to clients for over 60 years.

Turning the key in the lock, you try to quell your frothing excitement. The realisation that you have your very own home is finally sinking in and as you wander through the deliciously empty rooms, visions of future experiences overwhelm you. Dinner and drinks with friends, birthday parties, lazy Sunday mornings and cooking sessions that would make Jamie Oliver jealous; your new life and new home await you. Yet as you look around, noting the wall colours, fading façade of the kitchen and the er, unique carpet, you acknowledge that there are a few tweaks that need to be made. Before you rush headlong into your renovation project, read the tips below for ideas on how to make the process that much easier.

Planning

The first stage of any project is the planning process. Clearly define what you want to achieve, the timeframes for these goals and how much you want to spend. A budget will act as a guide, letting you know whether your spending is on track or out of control, while a timeline can assist in seeing the bigger picture. Taking the time to really think about the actual renovations will also help you avoid headaches or regrets down the line.

Work with All your Spaces

A common mistake that many aspiring renovators make is to focus solely on the house, instead of the entire property. During your planning phase, take into account your garden and backyard and determine whether any landscaping works are required. Outdoor space can be a very precious commodity, so ensure that you are making the most of what you have.

Don’t Overcapitalise

What is overcapitalisation? In the renovation world, this refers to a situation where the cost of renovations exceeds the actual added value to the property or item. Avoid this trap by spending your money wisely. Kitchens, bathrooms and outdoor areas are major features of any house, so invest in them by using high-quality materials and functional designs. On the other hand, overly expensive and garish décor can turn off prospective future owners and decrease the property’s value.

Use Professionals when Necessary

Inundated with grandiose ideas and innovations, it is incredibly easy to be overly optimistic when it comes to DIY projects. After all, how hard could it be? The reality is that DIY projects can go very wrong, becoming expensive and stressful. Unless you are qualified, it is best to call in the experts for any electrical work, plumbing, major structural changes and demolition.

Consider Asbestos

When was your house built? If it was constructed before 1990, the likelihood that it contains asbestos is quite high. Asbestos is a toxic substance that was commonly used in building materials until its harmful effects were established; since then there have been numerous medical cases that have resulted in legal action. Asbestos can be found in areas of your house such as wall sheeting, metal pipes, roofs, concrete and under floors. If you suspect that you have asbestos and are determined to continue with your renovation work, hire the services of a licensed asbestos removalist. For legal matters, contact a law practice such as Turner Freeman to confirm all the options available to you.

Do you have any tips to add to this list? Have you recently completed some renovations? Leave a comment below to share your advice and/or personal experiences.

Stress-Free Bathroom Renovations: 5 Types of Contractors to Have on Speed Dial

This is a guest post from Clearly Glass, designers that thrive on the challenge of maximum use of naked glass for minimum visual impact.

Looking to upgrade your home for your own personal satisfaction or to increase its market value before selling? Either way, a bathroom renovation is an ideal way to achieve that goal. However, they aren’t minor undertakings – they require planning, as well as help from the right people. A successful bathroom renovation relies on having reliable people at every step of the journey. Below we look at five contractors that you should find and save into your phone before getting started with your bathroom makeover.

Plumber

If any of the main fixtures (e.g. toilet, bathtub, shower, or vanity) are being repositioned, there’s an extremely high chance that the plumbing will need to be rearranged to match the new layout of your bathroom. This really isn’t something you should attempt to take care of yourself (DIY plumbing efforts can lead to disaster!) so make sure to put a quality plumber on speed dial to help with this.

Glass Repairer

A large shower is a centrepiece of contemporary bathroom design. And why not – they look great and provide more comfortable showers! So if you’re upgrading to a more modern feel for your bathroom, you’ll probably be giving your shower some extra breathing space… and this is the perfect time to modernise the shower’s look as well, with a stylish glass shower screen. Make sure to have a contractor who specialises in glasswork (e.g. Clearly Glass) on speed dial for this part of the project.

Electrician

Particularly if your vanity is making a move to a different part of the bathroom, your power points will most likely need to be shifted. Having a dependable electrician saved in your contacts makes it easy and stress-free to get help with having power coming from the perfect places to let you comfortably use appliances like electric shavers, hairdryers, hair straighteners, and phone chargers.

Carpenter

Most bathroom facelifts include some foundation… by which we mean the ground has some work done. If you’re replacing outdated tiles with fresh modern ones, you should have an efficient and affordable carpenter on standby to take care of this task. A carpenter is also extremely useful to have on call if you’re moving, refitting, or replacing cabinets in your bathroom or the vanity.

Yourself!

We’re only half kidding. For your bathroom renovation to be a success and to reflect your dreams of what it should look like, it’s important to be as involved as possible throughout the process, even if tradies are doing all of the actual work. Staying across everything that happens (though without getting in anyone’s way, or course) is the only way to catch any mistakes that your contractors might make. Remember: only you can see exactly your vision of your perfect bathroom. The workers can only perform their tasks based on what you’ve told them, and there’s never a guarantee that what they hear is the same as what you’re imagining. With your ideas and the expertise of each of the above contractors, a stress-free and successful bathroom renovation is entirely achievable.

Home security tips for the holidays

This is a guest post from Stylewise Security and Glass, specialising in providing Security and Glass services in all areas of south east Queensland since 1990.

Burglars are always on the prowl looking for an easy target to steal from, especially during the holidays when most people are away. There's no point in making things easy for them, so if you don't already have a security system installed by a reliable company like Stylewise Security, here are a few tips for ensuring your home is secure while you're away on that much-deserved holiday.

1. Don't divulge your plans to the people you’re not close to

You may think it's safe to call your Facebook friends, 'friends', but do you really know them that well? You never know whose prying eyes will see this information and take advantage, or a friend might innocently mention it in conversation to a third party. Yes, it's tempting to share stories of your fun- filled adventures, but leave that till after you've come back. Anyway, it gives you something to do to beat those post-holiday blues.

2. Make it look like there's someone at home

Set your lights on a timer to turn on and off at the times you normally would do this. It’s simple, but it does the trick! If you have a flair for the dramatic (and have a lot of time on your hands), think Home Alone, that movie where the kid rigs up a system of cardboard cut outs, string, music and flashing lights to keep those two goons from breaking in. Plenty of additional lighting outside is also a great deterrent. There are a lot of lighting options available, both electric and solar, so you’re spoilt for choice. No thief wants a spotlight on them while they commit a B and E.

3. Check, check, check

It seems so obvious, but do make sure doors and windows are locked. It's easy to miss when you're in a mad rush to get to catch a flight, so you need to check and double-check. Have all members of the household go through the house. One person may miss a window that’s not quite shut, another will not. If you have a way to secure your pet door, even better, so a pint-sized thief can't get in. Block your chimney too, if you have one. Who knows the lengths a thief will go to, to get inside a house!

4. Get a friend to house-sit or check in on your home regularly

You may have a friend or relative who would love the opportunity to have some quiet time to themselves. Alternatively, a neighbour could collect your mail and pick up those pesky publications that are left on your driveway or doorstep. A pile of those are a sure indication that no one's home.

5. Put your subscriptions on hold

If number 4 isn't an option because you've suddenly realised that there's no one you truly trust, you can always get your deliverer to put your subscriptions on hold.

6. Keep your garden maintained

If you're going away for a longer period of time, it may be wise to hire someone to keep your lawn up to scratch. A lawn that looks like a jungle is a giveaway that the home is empty.

With these simple tips, you know you can relax and breathe easy while you're on that vacation you so deserve. Keeping your home safe is just a matter of common sense, and never allowing yourself to become complacent!