Category Archives: Cheap

Simple Stirling Engine build

Posted on January 9, 2024 by robertwilkie

Could be a nice build to do with kids to show how a Stirling Engine works. https://www.instructables.com/Stirling-Engine-DEF-Eindproject-Groep-43/

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Nice mod to hand electric planer

Posted on January 8, 2024 by robertwilkie

Basically uses it to plain down large areas. Neat build overall https://www.homemadetools.net/forum/electric-hand-planer-jigs-video-92727#post209791

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Nice track saw build with straight edge guide

Posted on October 13, 2023 by robertwilkie

Nice build with an addition added on to allow for perfect 90 degree cuts when needed, and setup quickly. https://www.homemadetools.net/forum/perfect-straight-cut-using-circular-saw-track-parallel-guide-90118#post199379

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Build a minecraft torch

Posted on October 12, 2023 by robertwilkie

Looks pretty good too. And yes I am on a halloween theme this month. https://www.instructables.com/MINECRAFT-Inspired-Light-Up-LED-Torch/

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CNC plywood based Halloween bags

Posted on October 11, 2023 by robertwilkie

Basically you CNC out the sides of the paper bag, glue it together, paint it and put a light inside. Clever build if you have a CNC you can use. https://www.instructables.com/Plywood-Jack-O-Lantern-Tea-Light-Bags-8-Faces-Incl/

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Make a cheap Halloween light up jar

Posted on October 10, 2023 by robertwilkie

Have a mason jar, some sparkly paint and again a dollar store candle. And you too can make a simple light up jar for Halloween. https://www.instructables.com/DIY-BOO-Jars/

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Cheap milk jug ghosts

Posted on October 9, 2023 by robertwilkie

Have a milk jug? Sharpy? A dollar store solar light? You too can make a simple milk jug ghost that lights up. Could be a good project with kids. https://www.instructables.com/Milk-Jug-Solar-Ghosts/

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Use a RPi Pico to interface a JTAG connection

Posted on August 30, 2023 by robertwilkie

Well beats buying a custom cable for the job. This allows the RPi Pico to basically convert to/from JTAG to USB. Nice idea. https://www.adiuvoengineering.com/post/microzed-chronicles-jtag-using-a-raspberry-pi-pico

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Angle Grinder belt sander build

Posted on August 29, 2023 by robertwilkie

I have seen a bunch of these builds over time, but what I like about this one is it involves no welding. Still a bit complicated for a build. https://www.homemadetools.net/forum/angle-grinder-belt-sander-video-92986#post210556

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Adding a 5th axis to a CNC

Posted on August 28, 2023 by robertwilkie

Nice build add on to the authors Homebuilt CNC. I like how he keeps improving it too https://www.instructables.com/Carve-Custom-Wooden-Game-Pieces-12-CNC-Upgrade/

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