Quantcast
Channel: Man Made DIY Recent Posts
Viewing all 2425 articles
Browse latest View live

How to: Make a Custom Wall-Mounted Tool Rack for Your Workshop

0
0

created at: 08/11/2016

There are lots of ways to store your hand tools. Tossed into a portable tool box, or organized in bins, totes, or the drawers and racks of a chest. I've always been a fan of getting things up on the wall where you can see them, find them, use them, and then put them back when you're done. (Plus, let's face it... they do look cool.)

If you're over the limitations of pegboard, but not quite ready to invest the time and resources into a tool cabinet, we suggest one of these: a tool rack. You can make some in an afternoon, and each space and slot is customized to fit exactly what you need to organize.   

created at: 08/11/2016

This tutorial comes from Instructables user , and it's a great example of how to customize a simple piece of 1x2 stock to hold any style of tool. What I really like is how densely this design stores each tool. There's a lot on the wall there, but still so much blank space to add additional racks.

There's a great video that shows you how the whole thing is put together. Check it out: Wall Tool Holders [Instructables.com]

 

 

 


Meet One of the Few Jukebox Repairmen

0
0

Meet Perry Rosen, a jukebox repairman keeping mechanical music alive in a mostly dead industry. But as we all know, there's a big difference between mostly dead, and all dead. And that makes it all the more fascinating...   Jukebox's have been around and maintained since 1889 when Louis Glass first installed a coin-operated phonograph in his San Francisco saloon. In a world of constantly evolving technology (VCR manufacturing was offically discontinued last month) I've always been a fascinated by antiquated mechanics and the people who specialize in their repair and maintenance. Check out this tiny portrait of Rosen in the video below: 

There was a great write up and slideshow of Perry in The New York Times earlier this year that first alerted me to his work. Check it out: Jukebox Doctor. Pinball, Too.

How to Make a Concrete Fire Pit That's Really Built to Last

0
0

Firepit Looking for a way to keep the fun going when the sun goes down? A firepit is the perfect post-BBQ gathering point for a bit of warmth, some roasted marshmallows, and conversations well into the night. I wanted to build a place where we could keep the summer nights going, but the store-bought kits just didn’t catch my eye. That’s why I decided to build my own from durable, solid outdoor materials that will hold up to years of use, and look great doing it. This project is pretty straightforward, and combines with my backyard corner benches project to create a place where a long evening turns into a lasting friendship.

created at: 08/02/2016

Of course, no night spent around a fire is complete without a little refreshment, so we teamed up with  mike's hard lemonade for this project. mike's is made with all natural ingredients for a refreshing, flavorful alternative you can enjoy on any evening with friends, whether outside or in. 

Building this firepit is totally straightforward, with a bit of time spent on the details. I think the end results are really worth the extra time to get the details just right, but you could simplify this project as you like.  Here’s how I did it:

created at: 08/02/2016

The Frame

Cut To Size and Make Joint Cuts – I used fir lumber for the frame: 4x6 posts for the corners and 2x4 boards for the cross-members. To ensure solid joints, I cut laps out of each post so that the boards could have plenty of glue surface.

Cuts

Assemble – The frame came together with outdoor waterproof glue and countersunk screws. Be sure to square up the frames before cinching down the joints.

Firepit Chainsaw

Texture – Using a chainsaw, I roughened the frame. This method leaves deep grooves and adds some dimension to the surface. To roughen the wood, be sure the secure the piece well. Chainsaws are dangerous, so be sure to use appropriate safety equipment and operate with caution. Keep the blade parallel to the surface and the speed of the saw up to make sure it won’t dig too deep, try to make it “skip” over the surface. If you're not experienced with a chainsaw, you probably want to skip this part.

Burning Wood

Burn and Brush – Burning the surface of the wood makes the texture really stand out. That’s because the outer section burns dark while the recesses stay lighter in color. A wire brush softens the black areas for a nice overall coloring.

Brush Wood

Finish With Outdoor Stain – An outdoor stain and finish creates the hard shell that will protect against the elements. It’s important to seal the bottom and inside of the frame as well to make sure moisture stays out.

Concrete Backing

Add Concrete Liner – because there will be plenty of heat in the box, it’s important to protect the interior of the frame. Adding a concrete board liner adds a layer of fire-proof material that helps to protect the wood from the heat, and also provides a backing for the stone.

Stone

Final Touch – The Stone. Using the same stone trim I used on the BBQ surround, I added a few rows for a great final look.

The Top

Form The Frame – The form is made from Melamine, which is particle board with a plastic coating. Nothing sticks to the slick surface so it’s an ideal material for working with concrete. The top is poured upside down so the final surface is against the smooth plastic for a nice finish. I added a small quarter-round trim to the bottom edge for an interesting edge.

Round

Roundcreated at: 08/02/2016Form the Hole – A round hole is a pain to form up, so I cut a large round piece the right thickness (about 2” for my form) on the table saw. A simple jig and a bit of time is all it takes to make an accurate round form. I measured the fire bowl to get the right diameter.

ReinforcementCut the Reinforcement – The concrete top needs to be reinforced to make sure the heat and time don’t cause it to crack. I added an inner form of wire mesh and rebar to make sure it was going to last for years. Cured

Pour and Cure – Using simple concrete from the home center with some charcoal colorant, I poured and vibrated the top to help settle the mix. After 48 hours of curing, it was ready to break open the form, sand to smooth the edges, then install the top with construction adhesive.

Finished Firepit

Bringing it Together – The final product really came together. The fire pit is exactly what I hoped it would be, and it really brings the corner space together. After about a month of final curing, add a waterproof cure and sealant to keep the top protected from the remainders of sticky s’mores, which is also my indication of a good night.

created at: 08/02/2016

created at: 08/02/2016

created at: 08/08/2016

created at: 08/08/2016

created at: 08/02/2016

 

This post was sponsored by mike's hard lemonade, but all opinions are mine alone. Thanks for supporting the brands that make ManMade possible.

Make This: Bench That Converts Into A Picnic Table

0
0

What started as a backyard space-saving idea became a beautiful and versatile piece of furniture that's sure to inspire other convertible furniture ideas. Instructables.com user jordi D started with a couple of similar design ideas he'd seen online and then adapted them to fit his own specific aesthetic.   

This was the designer's first project and it took him about two weeks overall to complete it. Check out all the photos on Instructables.com.

Take A Break: 5 Animated Shorts Worth Watching

0
0

DuelI'm a fan of animated shorts. They're moving and inspiring, and usually just long enough to give your brain a rest without checking out entirely. So click here and check 'em out. 1. Gopher Broke -This poor guy just wants a meal, and nothing seems to go well for him. hilarious just the same. 

2. Gentlemen's Duel - Well, sometimes it's just easier to stay away from a fight. A bit too late for these two to figure that out.

3. Buckbunny - The fluffy heart of a bunny still has a bit of stone if pushed too far.

4. Sweet Cocoon - Sometimes feet on the ground are the best way to be.

5. A Bout - Being the biggest is always the best, right?

OK, break's over, time to get back to work. Do you have any animated short films you think we'd like?

How to: Make Simple and Easy DIY Stacking Wooden Storage Cubes

0
0

DIY Modern Modular vinyl crates

With all music heading to online streaming, I tend to buy my favorite albums on vinyl so I can cherish them for years to come. As my collection grows my need for space grows with it. So I had to quickly find a solution. Here's a simple project to create some stacking cubes that will hold records, books and more!

Here's what you'll need:

  • 2 - 12"x 8' x .5" glued, paint grade pine boards
  • Box of .5" wood screws
  • 2 4'x 1.5" angled aluminum 
  • Metal countersink
  • Drill bit to match your .5" screws
  • Hack Saw
  • Clamps
  • Sandpaper or Sanding Station
  • Measuring tape

Before you get started, I recommend you crank up the best "workin' hard" playlist you have. It's certainly appropriate for this project.

DIY Modern Modular vinyl crates

Start by grabbing your largest vinyl, book, bottle or magazine you want to place in your cubes. You'll use this to base your cuts. I chose one of my favorites and it measures 12.5"all around, which is standard for most vinyls.

DIY Modern Modular vinyl cratesUsing a table saw or circular saw, cut your boards to an equal length. I cut each of my boards 15" long. I'm making two cubes, so I cut 8 boards in all.

DIY Modern Modular vinyl cratesOnce you've cut your boards, set them aside and grab your angle aluminum. 

Please Note: Cutting and shaping metal can increase your chances of hurting yourself ten-fold. Wear gloves and safety goggles at all times! Also, learn from my near 9-1-1 experience and DO NOT use a miter or table saw to cut angle metal unless you have experience doing so. 

DIY Modern Modular vinyl crates

Measure and mark a width just shy of the width of the box or be like me and don't measure! I used the first cut piece as a template for the others.

 

DIY Modern Modular vinyl crates

Use a hack saw to cut your pieces to proper length. Don't forget to wear glasses and gloves. The metal gets hot and flings tiny aluminum pieces everywhere! 

 

DIY Modern Modular vinyl crates

I used my sanding station (80 grit) to sand the cuts and straighten them out. Let's be honest, it's hard to saw a straight line with a hack saw.

 

DIY Modern Modular vinyl crates

These are ready to go!

DIY Modern Modular vinyl crates

Using a ruler or a sliding guide, set your hole marks. I spaced 5 holes evenly over ~12". Because I'm joining the boards by overlapping, not mitering, it's important to set your holes closer to the base (opposite of the peak) of each piece. On this 1.5" wide side, I set the holes 0.5" from the bottom.

Note: Make one with proper measurements, drill your holes and use this piece to trace the holes on all the other pieces you have left.

DIY Modern Modular vinyl crates

Using a waste chunk of wood, I set my aluminum up at the drill press, drilled holes then went back with a countersink. I set my countersink depth to allow my screws to sit slightly above the surface. This way, I could accentuate the industrial feel I'm looking for.

DIY Modern Modular vinyl crates

It's time to assemble! It's as easy as attaching the aluminum to the wood into a box shape. I didn't have to pre-drill holes into the wood due to the stubby 0.5" screws. I didn't have any problems with wood cracking. If you're worried about that happening, feel free to do so.

I will do my best to explain this. With the angle piece set facing up (like in the picture above) I had better, tighter fitting joints when I set the tip of each screw to bottom of the hole in the aluminum. When you drive in the screw it will center itself and pull the aluminum down, creating a closer fit.

DIY Modern Modular vinyl cratesFinished! Now, do it all over again until you have enough to handle your entire record collection. 

DIY Modern Modular vinyl crates

For a final touch, I cut 2 pieces leftover board to place between the two crates to create nice floating effect.

DIY Modern Modular vinyl crates

Other ideas to upgrade your boxes:

  • Stain or paint the boards
  • Brush the aluminum with steel wool for a stainless look
  • Make the boxes into crates by adding a back panel
  • Add another panel and hinges to make a cabinet
  • If you want to make boxes larger than the ones presented I recommend that you strengthen the butt joints with glue and screws, then cover over the corners with the aluminum plates. If you're really handy you can also use a dowel system and add dowel rods to the end grain, or use a biscuit jointer for support. 

Go make stuff!

 

 

Updated from an article originally published March 11, 2015.

How to: Make a DIY Streaming Music Speaker from a Vintage Radio

0
0

There's no better way to say: I freaking love projects like this. Reddit user mxmln23 used the case from a stylish vintage radio, and did some clever hacking that allows it to become a wireless speaker that can stream from Spotify, Google Music, SoundCloud music player, Apple Airtunes, web radio stations, and Last.FM.  Music comes to the unit via a Raspberry Pi, which is connected to a USB-chargeable amplifier and the radio's existing speaker. If circuit boards totally intimidate you, this project may be a stretch at first, but the tutorial is so thorough and you can easily download the software to play the music, so the project is accessible for anyone who's willing to get their hands dirty. 

And don't get too overwhelmed with all the doodads in there...most of it is just leftover hardware from the original radio's tuner. 

See the full process at Imgur: DIY Vintage Raspberry Pi Internet-Radio / Spotify Device

 

 

Good Reads: 5 Money Books That Will Change Your Life

0
0

Money ShotIn a world full of exceptions, we still have some unifying traits. This is one thing I can say for certain, you handle money almost every day. It's a constant flow, either in or out like a steady tide. I have a small but powerful set of money books on my shelf, and you should too. This list is probably not new, but I know there's something on this list you need to grab today to up your money game in the very best way.   


Money or Your Life

1. Your Money or Your Life by Vikki Robbins - This book is a good look at something we already know - money can't buy happiness. How is your relationship to money? Can living with less actually make you happier? Do you use it as a tool to make life better, or does it rule you and your ability to live the life you want? Nothing really new here, but if you want to kick your financial game into gear, this is something you need to be sure to get first.

 

Richest Man In Babylon

2. The Richest Man In Babylon by George S. Clason - This simple book is written in old-time parable form to illustrate a few simple rules about money, basically pay yourself first and you'll be surprised how fast that coin purse fills up. Get it to read on a long weekend and you'll grasp the ideas fast, then spend a lifetime putting them to good use.

created at: 08/14/2016

4. The Millionaire Next Door -Thomas J. Stanley - This book changed my mindset of what a millionaire looks like. As it delved into the background, mindset, and actual numbers I got a much better sense of who I thought was rich compared to those who actually were. Over time, I've found this to be very true as I talk with multi-millionaires who drive simple sedans, and broke people who lease Porsches. A read through this book helped me to calibrate my idea of financial success, and start crushing real goals without getting discouraged every time I saw a neighbor upgrade his ride. Get this one in audiobook format, there are way too many statistics to follow on your own.Think and Grow Rich

4. Think and Grow Rich -Napoleon Hill - The mind is an incredible thing. We all know that but do we really get it? How you think massively impacts your life in so many ways. So, how you think about money will have a lasting impact on how it behaves in your life. Take the time to really orient your thoughts on money and it will make a difference.

Total Money Makeover

5. The Total Money Makeover by Dave Ramsey - Dave is a southern man with simple ideas that make sense. Sure, it's a bit hard to wrap your mind around paying off your house, no credit cards, and avoiding all other debt like the plague. Your "sophisticated" money friends will likely turn up their nose at it, but for the common man (who might be struggling) I haven't seen a better way to get out from under crushing debt as soon as possible. I've also lived almost completely credit-card free for about 11 years now, and I'm crushing my mortgage faster than I ever thought I could so I know it works.

It's never too late to take control of that wallet, and now you have a starting point to pulling it all back in check. Do you have any books that you would add to the list?

 


How to: Wear a White T-Shirt (with Five Different Looks)

0
0

The plain white T-shirt (with accompanying pocket) dates back to the Spanish-American War. But was truly popularized in the post-WWII period, when GIs brought the habit of wearing the "undergarment" back to the states. Shortly thereafter it became an icon of working-class masculinity as the Everyman sought to embody the virility of such matinee idols as Marlon Brando (a la Streetcar), Steve McQueen, and James Dean.   Men's fashion inevitably evolved, yet somehow the iconic white T has managed to stick around and even branch out as an accessory to a variety of different looks. Which is why Primer Magazine has put together this 5 Ways to Wear a White T-Shirt that you ought to checkout and try pilfering their style thoughts. Especially for those of us looking to minimize our wardrobes, I can personally attest to the versatility of this classic article of clothing. 

Let us know what you think and if you have a favorite plain white T look that hasn't been mentioned. 

The Million Dot Inspiration: The Making Of "Hero"

0
0

PensTaking up a pen for many of us means a few sentences in a notebook. But for Miguel Endara, it means a few million dots to create an incredibly detailed self-portrait. Take a look.   The making of "hero" starts with a few outline detail lines, but then it transforms into something so much better. 

I don't even know how something like this begins, but I can definitely appreciate the skill behind it. Do you have the patience to turn over 3 million dots into a masterpiece?

How to: Make a Modern Wooden Planter Stand

0
0

created at: 08/04/2014

This is a good one. Justin and Kayla from Home Coming Minnesota came up with simple way to turn basic cedar planks from the home improvement store into a modern outdoor planter stand to bring in some weather-resistant style to their backyard.   The couple has a fair assortment of woodworking tools, but likely stuff most ManMade readers will have access to: a table saw, a router, and a brad nailer. But the results look like way more than cedar decking: 

created at: 08/04/2014

Boom! Cool, right? This is a great project to try this time of year, as home and garden centers are blowing out their outdoor supplies and getting ready for fall, so you can snag some large planters on the cheap. And with even more cylindrical planters, you can create a definite mid-century modern vibe. They wrote up the whole project as a guest post on Remodelaholic. Check it out: 

DIY Wooden Planter Stand

 

 

 

Meat 101: Why You Should Cut Your Steak Against the Grain

0
0

Steak Slices

It turns out, we may have been slicing up that steak wrong all these years. Here's a case for switching it up and getting a better experience out of your meal.   

I've been reading up a bit on steaks lately. After spending a few night with a friend who grills a seriously good steak, it was inevitable I had to bone up on my grill game. One thing that came out as I read through some very dedicated articles on the subject of beef was that there is a right way to cut that steak. The grain of the meat is something that I've seen and thought about a bit, but never stopped to think it made a difference. But now, after a few hours of delicious experimentation I am firmly in the camp of against the grain eating. Steak Slices

Cutting against the grain breaks up those long strands into smaller, less springy pieces making the meat smooth and more enjoyable to chew. While it won't improve the taste, that texture is really an important part of the experience, so take the time to cut it right.

Want to know more? Check out the whole scientific write-up here and here.

Seriously, This is the Best $5.00 I've Spent on DIY Projects in Years

0
0

created at: 08/17/2016

You know those things that prove to be so useful, and become so quickly integrated into your projects and processes that you can't believe you didn't know about it before?

I just found another one. And it might be the best $5.00 I've ever spent. (Sorry three taco special at Los Michoacanos).    

And it is........(drumroll)........(epic music)........(bells going off)........(tension building).......: A tool tote. Yep, a basic plastic box with a handle in the middle that has quickly become my most go-to DIY essential. Allow me to tell you why. 

created at: 08/17/2016

See, I keep my tools on a pegboard in our detached garage. (See here) So, every time I need to execute a simple around-the-house task like hanging a piece of art, I gotta put on shoes, go outside, open the garage with the finicky little numeric key pad (not my decision), grab the cordless drill, the mallet, the screw driver, the drill bit, the anchor, the screw, the level, and the measuring tape. By the time I've assembled them all, my hands are full, and I teeter-totter back inside and up the stairs and rarely make it without dropping at least three items.

This simple tool tote solves that immediately. I grab what I need, place it the spacious storage area, and can carry the whole thing in one hand. I own tool boxes, but they're heavy, and filled with stuff used for particular projects. So this thing allows me to load up the commonly used items, take them to a project, stay organized while I'm there, and then finish up and place things back where they belong.

created at: 08/17/2016

This particular model is the 20" tool tote from Husky, and it costs like $4.50 at your local Home Depot. (Unfortunately, I can't find it on their website, but just look where the tool boxes and bags are). Here's why I like it:

  • It's the perfect size. Large enough to fit a 18volt hammer drill, full range of twist bits, and all the other little things you inevitably need for a project. Balance things right, and it's simple to carry with one hand. 
  • It's got holes along the edges to store your most reached-for items. For me, that usually means #2 Phillips screwdriver, marking awl, adjustable wrenches, pliers, and the like.
  • They're stackable. I bought one, found I loved it, then went back and got two more: one for schlepping garden tools from the garage around the yard and to vegetables beds, and another to keep in our office/craft room for current projects. (There's always a current project).  Storing all three only takes three more inches than storing one.
  • Did I mention they cost, like, $4.50?

 

created at: 08/17/2016

ManMakers, I didn't know I could get so excited about a plastic box with a handle in it either. But it's great, it works, and I can't recommend it enough. Go get one. 

 

Skill Builder: Make A Pair of Shop Horses to Practice Your Woodworking Joinery

0
0

Marking Gauge

Every shop needs a bit of extra temporary workspace. Build these solid shop horses to bone up on you joinery and come out with something you'll use often in the shop.   Most of us have carved our shops out of a small corner of our homes, where daily life pushes in and space is precious. A pair of sturdy shop horses are perfect when you need to pop up a temporary surface but everything needs to stash back away at the end of the day.

Cutting JointThis shop project is a great way to hone the skills on Mortise and Tenon joinery with large forgiving cuts, and simple design lines. Designed like traditional Japanese trestle table legs, these should hold up to serious shop abuse. The cuts are made by hand, which allows for much greater control and a quieter shop as well.Finishing Up

Take a look at the detailed tutorial for all the steps and plenty of pictures to make your own set that will help out for years to come in your home shop.

You're Going to Want One of These: How to Make the Ultimate Backyard Lawn Game

0
0

created at: 08/10/2016

I thought I knew all the best backyard games, until I found out about kubb (pronounced 'koob'). It was like nothing I'd ever seen, but once I understood the rules and played a game,  I was completely sold?

Also known as Viking chess, it's one part strategy, one part skill, and the rest is just plenty of luck. With a standard 4x4 and a few lengths of dowel you can make your own set in an afternoon, and enjoy it for the rest of your life.Kubb Game

Kubb is a simple lawn game played by teams of 1-6 people, with the objective of being the first to knock over the 'king' kubb. Sounds simple, but there turns out to be a lot of strategy involved. 

Fortunately, building your own set isn't complicated:  I made my set with a single piece of 4x4 fir, and four lengths of dowel.

created at: 08/10/2016

This project was sponsored by mike's hard lemonade. mike's is made with all natural ingredients for a refreshing, flavorful alternative you can enjoy on a warm summer evening. With a wide variety of flavors, there’s something for every player to enjoy.

Materials:

  •  4x4 Post, 8' long
  • (2x) 3/4 inch dowels, 4' long
  • (2x) 1/2 inch dowels, 4' long
  • Paint (optional)

The Cuts:

  •  1x King (3.5"x3.5", 12" long)
  •  10x kubbs (3"x3", 6" long)
  • 6x batons (3/4" dowels, 12" long) 
  • 6x field boundary posts (1/2" dowel, 8" long)

The Process:

Cut the the King and kubbs to size (I used a miter saw, but a hand saw would work fine too).

Cut

Rip

Kubbs

Shape

I got a little creative with the king kubb, creating a crowned and kerfed design (safely) with the table saw. You can make yours as simple or complex as you want, or just opt to keep the king square and use paint to distinguish it.

cutscuts

Paint

Spray paint is definitely the way to go here. I chose a solid summer blue and copper motif, using blue tape to make nice crisp lines. Remember to go slowly, and use light passes to create the saturation and opacity you're after. Three light coats will dry faster than one heavy one, and there's much less of a risk for drips. 

Paint

Time to Play!

created at: 08/10/2016

Play

created at: 08/10/2016

created at: 08/10/2016

Objective: the game is won by the first team to knock over all the other team's kubbs, and then the king, in one turn.

Setup: The pitch is 8m long by 5m wide. Set five kubbs evenly spaced along each baseline, and place the king kubb in the center of the field.

Gameplay: 

Team A attacks, tossing their throwing batons (the dowels) from behind their own baseline, trying to knock over Team B's baseline kubbs. Batons must be thrown underhand, end-over-end. 

Team B defends, tossing any knocked-over kubbs back across the field, trying to land them inside Team A's half in just two tries (without landing them out of bounds). If they can't do it in two tries, Team A gets to place them anywhere in their own half. 

Team B attacks, trying first to knock over Team A's field kubbs, and then their baseline kubbs. 

Team A defends, throwing back any knocked-over kubbs back into Team B's half.

Team A attacks: they get to throw at Team B's kubbs again, but they can throw from the nearest remaining field kubb on their half (or their own baseline if there aren't any). 

Play continues until one team has knocked down all the other's field and baseline kubbs. At that point, they can try to knock over the king (throwing from behind the baseline). If they do, they win!

Want more details on how to play? Here are the official rules, and here's a nice illustrated version.

Overall, the game took about three hours to make and paint, so start early and you'll be tossing them around by dinner time. And if you do, let me know or leave a comment with a picture so we can check out your DIY kubb set!

 

This post was sponsored by mike's hard lemonade, but all opinions are mine alone. Thanks for supporting the brands that make ManMade possible.

 

 


How to: Hack a Google Glass Camera into a Much Better Looking Pair of Glasses

0
0

When Google Glass was first demo'd and prototyped among the public a few years ago, most of the cultural conversation was the same: it's super interesting and functional, and looks absolutely ridiculous.

But...what if they didn't? What if the same tech could be embedded into something way less....Google Glass-y?   

That's the question Casey Neistat sought to answer last year when he set out to set a Google Glass camera into a pair of time-proven frames: the Wayfarer by Ray-Ban. 

Of course, 99.% of us will never do this, me included, but it's never not fun to watch someone perform some creative problem solving.

If you do take a blowtorch to your plastic frames, do make sure to open a window. GO HACK STUFF!

 

 

How to: Build a Vintage Towel/Coat Rack from Scrap Pipe

0
0

Shop27vtof Instructables.com is a professional remodeler who's constantly on the lookout for ways to upcycle his old scrap metal and turn them into beautiful and functional household utilities. I'm personally a huge fan of his rustic/steampunk aesthetic that I'm sure you won't want to miss.    

This project is great for people who don't have much experience with plumbing and would like to get a handle on piping before plunging in headfirst (N.B. you should never plunge into plumbing headfirst). It's also a great chance to practice your soldering skills too. Click here to view the full set of instructions and check out the finished project below.

How to: Build Mid-Century Modern Inspired Kitchen Stools

0
0

Kitchen stools have that lovely versatile quality of providing extra surface space, seating, and (if they're suitably hip) stylish ambiance to any man's kitchen. And these gorgeous, black walnut and cherry stools do just the trick with their modern yet rustic sensibility. Inspired by the work of French woodworker, Boris Beaulant, Instructables user woodumakeit adapted the design to be more easily created in a typical American's woodshop.   

The plans obviously work with a variety of woods although I personally love the mid-century modern vibe of the dark walnut and cherry combination.

Click here to view the full guide from Instructables.com.

How to: Stay Clean and Organized During DIY and Craft Projects

0
0

This weekend, I made a mess. A cover-the-entire-room-in-tiny-little-scraps-of-paper and a get-out-every-marker-and-cutting-tool kinda mess. It's still on the floor, on my office chair, on the main work table, on the computer desk, on my cutting mat, and its trail has seeped into the hallway. See, I've always been the kinda of maker that gets all the requisite tools and materials out so they'll be at hand, makes a huge batch of clutter until I've figured out what the project actually requires, then keeps making a big old mess until finished, after which I'll do a big sweep and scrub everything clean until the next project comes along.

I am not, as you can tell, following these guidelines by Erin Roberts for staying organized in the midst of a project. She says, "There's nothing quite like the feeling of looking up at the completion of a project and realizing that a once perfectly tidy room has been destroyed by some sort of crafting whirlwind. I am usually that whirlwind. I think a lot of us are usually that whirlwind. I've put together a few tips to help us all stay clean and organized during future projects. It certainly makes crafting more fun when it doesn't involve massive cleanup at the end!" 

I'm certainly that whirlwind, but I totally planning on taking this completely reasonable, actionable ideas to heart. Next time. I've got to clean up first.

How to Stay Clean and Organized During Craft Projects [Apartment Therapy, photo by Nicole Crowder]

 

 

 

How to Eat, Exercise, and Live Like Walt Whitman

0
0

Guys guys guys-- did you know Walt Whitman published a fifty-thousand word serialized guide to "Manly Health & Training" that has recently been compiled by a PhD candidate? It started in 1858 in the New York Atlas but was pushed deeper and deeper into the newspaper with each issue due to lack of interest. However, it's great for both its practicality and its utter impracticality, and here's an entertaining article by a guy who decided to stick to it for a week.   
Michael Light writes for Lucky Peach: 

"Whitman tells readers what to eat (meat), when to sleep (between 10 p.m. and sunrise), how to bathe (in cold water), how to exercise (with long walks, leaping, dumbbells, games of rowing, and bare-knuckle boxing), and what footwear is ideal (heavy-soled tennis shoes)."

Click here to read Light's article detailing his week following the exact dietary restrictions and exercise routine, and click here to check out Whitman's full guide.

Viewing all 2425 articles
Browse latest View live




Latest Images