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Scrap Wood Project: Book Stand

Kevyn wanted a book stand to display his favorite bonsai book and it was time to upgrade from the plate stand we had been using. It’s important when you’re displaying a book upright like this to fully support the spine and pages of the book evenly so it doesn’t bend over time (which is exactly what was happening with the plate stand).

Building My First Computer!

I know a lot more about using a computer than I know about building one so it was fun to see more of the hardware and learn about the components. Also if I was going to build a computer you know it's going to be modern, fun, and happens to be rainbow too!

Firewood Rack

We’ve had a pile of wood in the backyard for years and decided it was finally time to make a firewood rack. This was our first steel project (not Jeep-related) and it was a great chance for Kevyn to practice his new welding skills.

Propagation Station: One Day Scrap Wood Project

I seem to be incapable of throwing away potential plants. I need to start giving plants away because every time I trim a plant I start the cutting in water. Usually this looks like mason jars and random vases sitting on the counter while things take root. I recently decided to make a propagation station to clean things up a little and because let’s be real - I love watching little cuttings send out their new roots.

Backyard Patio With Concrete Pavers

We laid a patio in our backyard using concrete pavers. We wanted a space to enjoy on this end of our backyard and this eliminates the need to mow in a tight corner. Eventually we'll add a small patio set with a table and a couple chairs.

What’s A Catio? What It Is And Why It Will Make Your Cats Happier And Safer

Sure, they’re cute on Pinterest, but there are bigger reasons why you should consider building one for your cats. Indoor/outdoor cats face a huge list of dangers that indoor-only cats don’t have to deal with, including diseases, parasites, and injury. Most cats also have a strong prey drive and may hunt song birds if left outside. In many cities it’s also illegal to let your cat roam and you’ll be asked to pay a fine to retrieve your cat.

Level Up Your Sewing with a Serger

If you’re sewing your own clothes, curtains, or even doing regular mending (am I the only one constantly repairing the center seam on shorts?), it’s time to add a serger machine to your craft room. If you’re not familiar with sergers, they essentially replicate a commercial style stitch that uses 3 or 4 threads simultaneously instead of 2. The downside is that you need 4 of each color thread you plan to use to really be effective with it but the advantages far outweigh that inconvenience since everything you sew is going to be faster, stronger, and cleaner with a serger.

Earth Day - Thoughts From A Homeowner

With Earth Day and Arbor Day in one month, a lot of us are thinking about how to reduce our impact on the earth - especially since we’ve seen so many examples of nature bouncing back during quarantine. We’ve all heard of people moving to tiny living to go green which got me to thinking about how those of us who live in traditional houses can reduce our footprint too.