Category Archives: Cheap

Making pry tools from silverware

Posted on March 15, 2023 by robertwilkie

Not a bad idea to use old silverware that isn’t real silver. Mostly the prybars are used to pop open laptop cases that have those annoying plastic snap latches. Me, I bought a cheap plastic set from Harbor Freight, but … Continue reading →

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Cool CNC engraver using Solar

Posted on March 1, 2023 by robertwilkie

Nice build, the author has 2 issues, 1 it takes a long time to engrave, 2 once done you need to close off the lense so you don’t keep burning. Since lasers are some of the most expensive bit for … Continue reading →

Posted in Arduino, Cheap, CNC/3D-printing, Misc-Life, solar | Leave a comment

Making your own wax seal

Posted on February 21, 2023 by robertwilkie

Nice build, the author uses a CNC to make the seal part to put on a wooden handle. https://www.instructables.com/Make-Your-Own-Seal-Stamp-and-Wax/

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Nice Wood Fired Water Heater

Posted on February 14, 2023 by robertwilkie

The author basically wrapped copper pipe around a barrel wood stove and that heats up water for “hot water”. Pretty simple idea. https://hackaday.com/2023/02/08/simple-wood-fired-water-heater-is-surprisingly-effective/

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Simple straight edge for router/saw/etc

Posted on January 31, 2023 by robertwilkie

Nice build overall, I like the addition of the metal ruler on it. And the author uses blanks to size out a fit for a saw etc… https://www.homemadetools.net/forum/simple-but-genius-3-1-edge-guide-woodworking-circular-saw-router-jigsaw-92964#post210505

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Gutter vac for 2 story houses

Posted on January 30, 2023 by robertwilkie

Nice build for cleaning gutters without needing to get a ladder out. Most “commercial” ones I have seen do not go to 2 story houses well. This one does seem to do the job. Just wonder how much that thing … Continue reading →

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Leaf blower dust collector

Posted on January 27, 2023 by robertwilkie

Ok this is a clever build, using many cheap and easy to get parts to make a dust collector and seems to work out. https://www.instructables.com/Dust-Collector-Made-From-a-Leaf-Vacuum/

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Converting old 3D printers to CNC

Posted on January 26, 2023 by robertwilkie

Nice idea for light CNC work, not so sure about more intense jobs. The author did the conversion for $30. If you have an old 3D printer you could do this, but keep in mind the motors, drive (belt) may … Continue reading →

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Cool knitting machine

Posted on January 25, 2023 by robertwilkie

It only makes a french braid. But still pretty clever build. https://www.homemadetools.net/forum/french-knitting-machine-video-94850?homelistings#post217012

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Nice Free standing Lamp build

Posted on January 24, 2023 by robertwilkie

Nice build over all using metal conduit for the “frame”. I like the black paint finish too. Figure this build would run you under $10 each. https://www.instructables.com/A-Terrace-Wooden-base-Pole-mounted-Glass-Jar-Light/

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