Landscaping 101 - Tools & Planting When we bought our first home 13 years ago, we were lured by the idea of having at least half an acre of land. Little did we know that it would involve LOTS and LOTS of yard work. Over the years we've learned several tips and tricks to … [Read more...]
How to Use a Sander
Welcome to another tool tutorial. Today I'm going to save you time and effort by teaching you how to use a sander. How to Use a Sander If you don't have a power sander, you'll likely recognize this contraption below. That's a manual sanding block. It's great, but personally … [Read more...]
Rustic Wooden Caddy with a Branch Handle
Rustic Wooden Caddy with a Branch Handle Spring is right around the corner and I'm itching to cut some fresh flowers to bring inside. I love displaying them in jars placed inside rustic wooden caddies. Making a little caddy or tote out of salvage wood and branches can be an easy … [Read more...]
It’s 2018, and I’m still wondering Where are the Real Makita Girls?
It's 2018, and I'm Still Wondering Where are the Real Makita Girls? Back when I first published this post, I never thought I'd be resurrecting it from the archives. Then Simone Giertz shared this tweet and my anger and frustration at Makita boiled over again. The video Simone … [Read more...]
How to Make a Long Clamp with Shorter Clamps
How to Make a Long Clamp with Shorter Clamps When you are trying to outfit your workshop with equipment it can be tempting to skip purchasing more expensive long clamps. After all, how often do you really need to clamp something longer than 12 - 18"? Luckily, I'm here to justify … [Read more...]
Top 10 Power Tools Every DIYer Needs
Top 10 Power Tools Every DIYer Needs Time and time again I've been asked what my desert island tool would be. But honestly I have a hard time narrowing my answer down to just one tool. Instead I decided to make a list of the Top 10 Power Tools that Every DIYer Needs in their … [Read more...]
Table Saw Stand and Collapsible Out Feed Work Table
DIY Table Saw Stand and Collapsible Out Feed Work Table Today I want to share with you my new workshop configuration that has a DIY Table Saw Stand and a collapsible out feed (or work) table. I've struggled for years to find a workbench that meets my need to spread out while … [Read more...]
Must Have Gadget to Remove Stripped Screws
You know the frustration of trying to drive a screw that won't go any further. Then you find you can't remove it because the head is completely stripped. Or worse, you come across a screw that is stripped and you can't remove it. If the rubber band trick won't work, this is … [Read more...]
Table Saw Safety Guidelines by The Sawdust Maker
I'm really excited to introduce this Rockstar DIYer today. Nick is an extremely talented woodworker who is as passionate about his projects as he is his tools. Nick is the lead over at The Sawdust Maker. You will learn a variety of woodworking tips and tricks on his blog, so be … [Read more...]
What I’d Ask Santa for (if I were you)…
It's the final days before the big guy packs up his sleigh and starts delivering presents to all the good little girls and boys. You've been good this year, right? This year I'm asking Pretty Handsome Guy Santa for a few things, but these are the gifts that I've received in the … [Read more...]
WORX JawSaw Product Review
A few months ago WORX sent me their WORX Lithium Cordless Chainsaw with Extension Pole for a product review. Our property is very wooded and we have so many trees that I've lost count. I do know that they need pruning and maintaining on a regular basis (at least every six … [Read more...]
How to Trim & Install Closet Doors {Dremel Ultra-Saw Review}
I have a friend named Holly. She and I live in the same neighborhood and we help each other out with DIY projects. Last week she asked me to help her come up with a solution to hide her dirty laundry. Holly and I were trying to figure out how to replace her sad laundry … [Read more...]
Ryobi Battery Powered vs. Campbell Hausfeld Pneumatic Finish Nailer Comparison
A finish nailer is a great tool to have in your workshop. It's great for small projects, installing moulding, wall planking and more. After using both types of finish nailers for many projects, I wanted to break down the pros and cons of each. I was able to score this … [Read more...]
Xtend + Climb Telescoping Ladder Review
A few months ago I got an email asking me if I wanted to test an Xtend + Climb telescoping ladder. I said I'd be happy to try it, but I couldn't promise I'd blog about it. I try lots of products, but only the ones I love get mentioned on the blog. The litmus test is if I would … [Read more...]
10 DIY Gift Ideas for the Rock Star DIYer
Christmas is next week? Christmas is next week! Who else is still running around buying those last minute gifts? {Me raising my hand.} If you have someone on your list who is an avid DIYer, I have a new list of the Top 10 Gift Ideas for the Rock Star DIYer in your life! These … [Read more...]
How to Install a Scrap Wood Wall
I'm so thrilled to be healthy again, that I'm doing a happy dance (see the video below if you want to witness it.) The pneumonia is gone and my boys are back in school. Can I get a "Woot Woot!"? The bonus room/art studio renovation is rockin' and rollin' again and I have some … [Read more...]