I vividly remember being a child and hearing my mother brag about how old our vacuum cleaner was. “We’ve had it for decades!” she would boast, noting that, “They just don’t make them like that anymore!” Now that I’m an adult who's purchased a vacuum of her own, I have to admit that I understand why she was so proud. Today, we’re celebrating all of those purchases that ended up becoming life-long commitments thanks to quality and durability, pandas. We’ve taken a trip to the Buy It For Life subreddit and gathered some of our favorite pics from the community down below. From indestructible household appliances to pens that have written countless notes, enjoy viewing these purchases that were certainly...
On top of regular ToolGuyd activities, I’m working on a couple of projects. The following are in different stages of planning and execution. These are not typical DIY activities, but I hope you find this to be interesting. Benchtop Mill I have started working with my new benchtop mill. As you can see from this photo, I have a bunch of cleaning up to do. I cleared a hole so I could assemble the stand where it needs to be, and now need to find a place to put the lumber. Wire Rope Swaging I have been working on a garden project – a trellis for certain veggies – and have been coming up short in trying to rework its...
A new tool cabinet came in yesterday, along with a tool chest that can sit on top of it. It arrived without the necessary mounting hardware, so I dug into my fastener boxes to grab suitable hardware. Shown here are 1/4″ socket head cap screws, one in alloy steel in 3/4″ length, and the others in 1/2″ length made from 316 stainless steel. I went with the alloy steel screw first, but wanted a shorter profile and went looking for my stainless hardware. I bought the stainless screws nearly 14 years ago, in late 2009, via Small Parts on Amazon. I also have a couple of small boxes of grade 5 zinc-plated hex bolts that I bought around the same...
Choosing the right woodworking business name is important in the startup process. The name serves as your brand’s identity, and a memorable one can differentiate your business from competitors. Moreover, it can leave a lasting impression on potential customers, contributing to their decision to select your services. Tips for Coming up with a Memorable and Effective Woodworking Business Name To create a memorable and effective woodworking business name, you should aim for a name that is unique, easy to spell and pronounce, conveys the nature of your business, and reflects your brand personality. Additionally, consider checking the domain’s availability for a consistent online presence. General Woodworking Business Name Ideas When starting a woodworking business, choosing the right name is crucial...
Ben V’s Modular Workbenches and Tool Cabinets This is what I wish my workshop looked like – clean workbenches, clean floors, and nothing in the way. Lean manufacturing principles are about reducing waste and improving efficiency. Ben V has the right idea – shown above is what his workshop looked like after building a couple of modular workbenches and tool cabinets. (You can see what he’s been working on at @dusty.tools on Instagram.) Every now and then I’ll hear some “lean manufacturing” tips and techniques, with some applying just as effectively to DIY workshops. Lean manufacturing suggests that you should buy what you need as you need it. I have a couple of sheets of baltic birch plywood in my...
