10 Circular Saw Secrets: DIY GUY

Most novice do-it-yourselfers feel perfectly comfortable using an electric drill or jigsaw, but nearly all of them are hesitant to pick up a portable circular saw. And that's not surprising when you consider that drills and jigsaws are relatively safe, quiet and easy to control. A portable circular saw, on the other hand, is a powerful, noisy, sawdust-spewing brute that can inflict serious injury if it's used improperly—it's on our list of the 5 Most Dangerous Tools. However, to improve your DIY skills and advance the size and scope of your weekend projects, it's important to learn to cut with a circular saw. Here are 10 tips to help you cut safely and more confidently. Reminder: Wear eye protection when using any power tool.

1. Inspect the Saw

Before each use, run a quick safety check on the saw. Be sure the lower blade guard retracts smoothly and snaps back when released. Check the blade for chipped or broken teeth; replace the blade if you find any damage. On corded saws, inspect the power cord for cracks. If using a cordless saw, make sure the battery is fully charged. Remember to unplug the cord or remove the battery before loosening, tightening, or changing the blade.

2. Check the Blade

The speed and quality of the cut depends on the condition of the saw blade. Never cut with a dull, rusty, or damaged blade. I recommend using a thin-kerf carbide-tipped combination blade, which can be used for crosscuts and rip cuts in solid wood and plywood. With the saw unplugged or the battery removed, adjust the saw's depth of cut so the blade extends no more than 1/4 in. past the board's edge.

Circular saws aren't just woodcutting tools. When fitted with the proper blade, the saw can also saw through various types of metal, and through masonry such as brick, stone and concrete.

3. Find the Proper Saw Position

There's no hard-and-fast rule regarding which direction to make the cut, but whenever possible position the saw with its motor facing toward the larger section of board that isn't falling away when cut. That way, the saw's base plate, or shoe, will be fully supported throughout the cut and you won't have to hold up the weight of the saw as the severed piece drops away.

4. Make Easy, Accurate Crosscuts

Making perfectly square crosscuts with a circular saw is easy, if you guide the saw with a layout square (a framing square or Speed Square will work). Hold the saw in place with its blade right on the cut line. Then slide the square against the saw's base plate, and press it tightly against the edge of the board. Check to be sure the blade isn't contacting the board, then squeeze the trigger and allow the saw to reach full speed. Now simply guide the saw along the square to produce a clean, square cut.

5. Prevent Binding

When cutting sheets of plywood or paneling, it's important to provide the proper support to eliminate dangerous kickback, which can occur if the blade gets pinched in the cut. Place four long 2 x 4s underneath the sheet you're cutting, spacing one 2 x 4 close to each side of the cut line. Then, when you make the cut, both halves of the plywood will be fully supported by two 2 x 4s throughout the cut. When cutting lumber on sawhorses, plan the cut outside the sawhorse pair (not between them). Allow the shorter piece to fall away, while the longer piece stays supported on the horses. Cutting between the horses causes lumber to pinch the blade as it falls through.

6. Make Precise Rips

A rip cut is simply a cut that runs parallel with the grain of the wood, as opposed to a crosscut, which goes across the wood grain. Most circular saws come with a metal rip guide that attaches to the saw's base plate. This type of guide works, but it's limited to rips of only about 6 in. wide. A better option is to clamp an 8-ft-long board in place for use as a straightedge guide. You could make the guide from a perfectly straight 1 x 8 or 1 x 10, but I prefer a 10- to 12-in.-wide wide rip of 1/2-in. birch plywood. The factory edge of the plywood is always smooth and perfectly straight, making it an ideal saw guide. Mark the cut line on the piece you're ripping, then measure the distance from the saw blade to the edge of the saw's base plate, which, let's say, is 3-1/2 in. Now measure over from the cut line 3-1/2 in. and clamp or screw the straightedge guide in place. As you make the cut, keep the saw's base plate pressed against the straightedge guide. Here are our illustrated instructions on making a similar circular saw guide.

7. Avoid Wood Splintering

A spinning circular saw blade enters the bottom of the board and exits through the top, and as a result, splintering often occurs on the top surface. Now that's not a concern when cutting wall studs or floor joists, but it is when sawing expensive hardwoods or hardwood-veneer plywood. Here's the solution: Place the board or panel with its best surface facing down. That way, any splintering will occur on the top or back side. When trimming doors down to size, you want to eliminate splintering from both sides. Here's how: Again place the best side face down, meaning the side of the door that will be most visible once it's hung. Then score along the edge of the cut line with a sharp utility knife. Now when you make the cut, the wood fibers will break off cleanly at the scored line, leaving a smooth, splinter-free cut. I recently put this advice into practice when explaining how to build a classic wooden storage bench.

8. Stack, Clamp and Cut

When you need to cut more than one piece of plywood to the same size, try a technique know as gang cutting. Stack four or five sheets on top of each other, making sure the edges are perfectly aligned. Clamp the pieces, then adjust the saw blade to its maximum depth of cut, and saw through all the sheets at the same time.

9. Safe Bevel Cutting

All circular saws can be adjusted to make angled bevel cuts up to at least 45 degrees. However, when the base plate is tilted all the way over, the lower blade guard has a tendency to catch on the edge of the board. If this happens, don't force the saw. Instead, release the trigger, raise the blade guard by hand, and then make the cut. Once the blade has cut an inch or so into the wood, you can release the guard.

10. Gravity-Fed Sawing

At some point, you may need to make a long, straight, vertical cut into a wall, and the circular saw is right the tool to use. Just remember to start the saw at the top of the wall and cut down. That way, gravity will be working in your favor; simply allow the weight of the saw to advance the blade through the cut.

Best Tools for your Tool belt

First things first – safety. Every employee should wear a safety harness, complete with an anchor point, while roofing. This is a must.

   
 Your ladder – okay so it doesn’t fit in your tool belt. Regardless, it’s important. We know there are lots of ladders out there, but using your ladder is the best way to prevent injury. Take one that goes to high heights but retains stability.

    A shingle remover (a.k.a. a roofing shovel) – This roofing shovel will help you remove old shingles and nails quickly. It does the same job that hammers & pry bars can do but with less effort. Save your energy for elsewhere.

    Roofing nailer  – or more specifically, a coil nailer. This nailer is the most effective nail gun out there. It will make your job exponentially more efficient.

    Roofing hammer  – This tool gets used side by side with the roofing nailer and it’s not just your average hammer! Tap down nails, remove incorrectly placed tiles, and clean up the area with ease by investing in this specialized tool.

    A hammer tacker – as a roofer, you know that a roofing job can come to an immediate stop if the underlayment isn’t placed down quickly. These staple guns are set by impact, so they are easy to use and easy to refill.

    A specialized, sharp roofer’s utility knife  – this tool is to cut roofing material. A sharp one will speed up both your time and your project.

    Chalk line – the chalk line will serve as a guide to keep your shingles straight. Do the work without having to re-do the work!

Click on the store www.eastmachinery.com to see more cheap power tools.

Build Your Own Camp Kitchen Chuck Box

An organized kitchen is the secret to a happy camping trip. That said, it’s not always easy to keep all of your cooking gear and ingredients readily accessible when you’re at the campsite.

Let’s face it; tossing everything randomly in cardboard boxes will only get you so far. This tutorial provides instructions for a do-it-yourself wooden camp kitchen box that’ll solve your culinary organizational quandaries once and for all. Plus, it looks good and is pretty much guaranteed to impress the heck out of your camping buddies.

Supplies needed:

   * 4′ x 8′ sheet of ½” plywood
   * 4 sets of hinges
   * 2 latches
   * 2 magnetic closures
   * Wood glue
   * Screws
   * Lid prop (recycled tent pole section)

Tools needed:

    * Screwdriver
    * Tape measures
    * Drill with small bit
    * Pencils
    * Construction square
    * Skill saw (many hardware stores offer cutting services)
    * Small handsaw
    * Safety glasses

Step 1

Measure your gear. First, measure your stove with the fuel bottle attached. This will give you the overall length and width of your box. Make sure to add some space in order to allow the stove lid to open and to hold any items you might want to store next to your stove. Measure the height of any gear you want to store upright (maximum height) in order to help determine shelf spacing.

Step 2

Lay out all your measurements onto the sheet of plywood. Try to make the most out of the sheet. Line up all similar cuts and start cutting. If you don’t own a saw, most hardware stores offer cutting services when you purchase wood. If you plan to have the hardware store do the cutting, you’ll want to provide a cut list and a diagram to help the hardware store determine the best way to cut.

Step 3

Line up the back and side pieces and mark your shelf height location with a pencil; this will make it easier to screw in your shelves after the outer box is built.

 Step 4

Start by assembling the sides and back of the box. If you are not using self-drilling screws, you should pre-drill holes for best results. Screw and glue all seams.

Step 5

Attach the bottom of box, screw and glue all seams.

Step 6

Pre-assemble the shelves outside of the box. Make sure to square the top and bottom, as this will make them easier to install. If you’re adding a top shelf face board, install it now. Screw and glue all seams.

Step 7

Install the shelves using the pre-marked lines. Screw and glue all seams.

 Step 8

Attach the top/lid to the short face board. Screw and glue all seams.

Step 9

Attaches hinges to top/lid and front face board.

Step 10

Install remaining hardware (latches, magnets, etc.). Locations will vary based on the design and dimensions of your camp kitchen chuck box.

Step 11

Sand all edges round and stain/seal plywood.

Step 12

Post pictures of your completed camp kitchen to your favorite social media sites and then go camping! Get cheap Power tools sale at www.eastmachinery.com

5 Small Tools That Will Make Your DIY Projects Much Easier

Do you like to tackle DIY projects around your home? You might have built a nice collection in your tool box, but there are certain small tools that many homeowners might not know about and will make your DIY projects much easier to complete.

1. Paint Can Pour Lid

Painting a room or a piece of furniture are two of the most common DIY projects and they are usually done with a can of paint. These cans can get messy, especially when you’re trying to pour the paint into a paint tray. The paint spreads all around the top, making it hard for you to hammer the lid back on. Over time, the paint can lid will start to rust and become distorted, dirtying up your paint and drying it up in the process. Ugh.

Try using these paint can pour lids, which cost only a little more than $2 each. They will seal the paint can completely with much less mess. And you can wash them and reuse them for more painting projects in the future!

2. 5-in-1 Tool

Multi-tasking tools are always better than several separate tools that only have one purpose each and take up more space in your toolbox. This 5-in-1 tool is so useful for many different DIY projects, from painting to repairing drywall.

It can scrape paint and wallpaper, spread drywall compound and wall putty, and open paint cans. Use this small tool to remove things from small spaces, such as old caulk from windows, old wood filler from furniture, and more. There’s also a half round cut-out on the tool that will remove paint off your paint roller.

Put it in your tool belt and you’ll be amazed at how often you’ll use it for all kinds of things!

3. Cabinet and Drawer Template

If you’ve ever installed hardware on brand new (or freshly painted) cabinet doors or drawers, you know how nerve-wracking it can be. You have to measure everything, make sure all of your holes line up so your hardware won’t look crooked, and actually drill into your precious cabinets.

These cabinet and drawer templates will give you a peace of mind and more confidence that you’re doing the job right. These handy small tools will do most of the measuring for you so that all of your pulls and knobs look perfect. See how Russet Street Reno added her beautiful new hardware to her cabinets and drawers using this small tool here!

4. Spray Paint Grip

Everybody loves how a can of spray paint can instantly make over anything, but it can make your trigger finger tired after long bouts of spraying. And when you get tired, your paint can start to come out in spurts, causing splatter and dripping. Not good. Give your finger a break and get a smoother finish with a spray paint grip.

5. Damaged Screw Extractor

Is there anything more annoying than a damaged and stripped screw that you can’t remove with your drill? The answer is no. A stripped screw can completely derail a project… unless you have a damaged screw extractor. This small tool makes it easy to remove damaged screws from your latest DIY project or from an older piece of furniture.

The best part about all these small tools is that they’re not expensive at all. Most of them cost under $20 (some way under that amount), but they will feel like they’re worth hundreds when they instantly solve a DIY problem you’re struggling with.

What other small tools do you think that every DIYer should have in their toolbox?

How To DIY Wooden Flower Pot

Every homeowner has some flowers in pots in front of the house, on the patio, balcony or in the backyard and every homeowner wants that their pots match the beauty of their flowers or trees. There are thousand types of flowers pots and they are made from various materials. Flower pots, especially big ones, can cost a lot of money and the quality of craftsmanship and materials are questionable. We always prefer natural materials and therefore we are presenting you this tutorial on how to make DIY wooden flower pot.

For this project you will need 8 lumber boards (1 x 1½ inch) 18 inches long (hardwood if possible), 38 lumber boards (1 x 1½ inch) 13½ inches long (hardwood if possible), 3 lumber boards (1 x 3½ inch) 13½ inch long (hardwood if possible), wood screws (2 inch), wood glue, cordless drill, hammer, nails (2½ inch) and a hand saw or a jigsaw.

First cut all the lumber in proper dimensions using a hand saw or a jigsaw  (if you haven’t already bought wood of wanted size). Take note that the aformentioned dimensions can be changed in scale if you want a bigger or smaller pot.

Take a closer look at the diagram below before you start with your project. It is always better to fully understand the plan and the concept before you start with the project. In that way you will certainly avoids mistakes during assembly.

You must start your assembly with the four corners of your future flower pot. Take two 18 inches long boards and connect them together in “L” shape like in the picture below. First drill four holes with a small bit on each board, put a stripe of wood glue and then connect two boards with wood screws. Always first drill small holes because otherwise the board may crack when you try to screw without holes. Repeat the process for another three corners.

Now take two corner parts which you made in previous step and connect them with 13½ inches boards like in the picture below. Put a stripe of wood glue and nail the boards down. Always leave ½ of inch space on the bottom side. Repeat this procedure in order to get another side panel.

When your two side panels are finished you will connect them on both sides with 13½ inch boards like in the picture below. Also put a stripe of wood glue and nail the boards down.

Now you have complete pot without the bottom. Use two 13½ inches boards and nail them sideways on the bottom part of your pot. Then use three wider boards and nail them from the inside of the pot on the boards which you previously nailed sideways like in the picture below.

Your new flower pot is now finished. As you can see this is the project that anyone with no woodworking experience can finish in a couple of hours.

We advise you to put at least two coats of primer sealer in the inside of the pot if you are putting the soil directly into the pot. If you want your pot to look beautiful for a long time we advise you to paint it with exterior paint on the outside also.

Understanding Power Tools

Almost every home in America has at least one power tool, but many homeowners are not always sure how and when to use them. Start by checking out our guide to power tools below, and be sure to read the instructions and follow the safety guidelines that came with your power tool before using it. You'll be finishing up your own home project in no time.

Safety First!
When working with any type of power tool, always remember to put safety first. By following these simple guidelines, you will be able to use your power tools in the safest manner possible.

Follow the manufacturer's guidelines and directions
Wear eye protection
Wear clothing that does not hang or dangle loosely
If wearing gloves, make sure they are leather
Make sure that the safety guards are in place and working
Replace damaged parts or damaged tools before using them
Always keep a firm grip on your tools
When sanding, wear a dust mask
Wear ear plugs or ear muffs when operating a noisy power tool
If you have long hair, tie it back
When using tools outdoors, plug them into a GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) outlet

Jigsaw (or Sabre Saw)
A jigsaw is a small, handheld saw that moves a narrow blade up and down. Because the blades are narrow and the cutting action is vertical, these saws are ideal for curved or intricate cuts. Jigsaws are very easy to use for more delicate woodcutting. Hobbyists and DIY home improvers frequently use this saw. A large variety of blades can be purchased for these devices.
Common Uses:
*Cutting a radius in woodwork

Circular Saw
Circular saws are one of the most versatile power saws. These saws enable you to cut boards, plywood, larger pieces of trim, etc. Most circular saws are packaged with a standard blade; however you may wish to purchase additional blades. Circular saws are available in both corded and battery operated models.
Common Uses:
*Cutting 2 x 4s for framing
*Cutting deck boards for decking
*Cutting a full sheet of plywood into smaller sections

Miter Saw (or Chop Saw)
Miter saws are most commonly used for smooth, accurate cuts of wood trim. However these saws can also be used to cut 2 x 4s and 4 x 4s. This saw has a number of pre-set angles that you can use, which is a great feature when you are making repetitive cuts.
Common Uses:
*Making miter cuts on moldings
*Multiple cuts on similar length stock

Electric Sander
Sanders mechanically speed up the movement of sandpaper to more quickly smooth out a rough surface. The most basic sander is a 1/4-sheet pad sander that allows you to create a more finished look on your surface.
Common Uses:
*Refinishing furniture
*Preparation of new wood for finishing

Power Drill
A power drill is not only good for drilling various sized holes, but it also allows you to use other accessories such as driver bits, wire brush wheels, sanding drums and many other attachments. Drills can either be corded or battery operated. Cordless models are available in various voltages including 9.6, 12, 14.4 and 18 volts.
Common Uses:
*Drilling holes in wood, metal and masonry
*Driving Screws

How to DIY Even If You're Terrified Of Power Tools

Maybe you're not terrified of power tools, but they scare you a little, they intimidate you, or you just plain don’t like using them.

So, what do you do when you want to DIY a big project that requires power tools?

How to DIY When You’re Terrified of Power Tools

1. A tool is just that, a tool.

A means to an end. When it comes to tools there is the hard way or the easy way. The hard way is hand tools. They don’t make any noise, other than your grunting. They don’t require a plug or batteries. And they are far less scary. But the sweat equity you have to put in is what makes it the hard way. Then there's the easy way. It costs more upfront, still scares you a teeny bit even after a dozen uses, and the battery dies at the most inconvenient times. But power tools help you get tough jobs done quickly, more precisely, and with a lot less sweat (if we disregard nervous sweating).

2. Safety First

If power tools scare you, the best thing you can do is get comfortable before using them. Knowing how to operate a tool and understanding all of it's safety features will make you feel more at ease.

    *Read the manual cover to cover. I know you want to skip it, because all the warning signs and hazard symbols make you nervous. But those are the parts you should pay special attention to. The manufacturer has to warn you, but it doesn’t do any good if you don't read and understand the manual.
    *Take a free class or demo. Most home improvement stores offer free in-store workshops and demos, so you can learn about and try a new tool with an expert by your side. Seeing a demonstration, which will always include a safety segment, and getting to try a tool out in a low risk environment helps a lot.
    *Have a skilled friend or family member show you how to use a tool. Almost everything in the world is less intimidating if you've seen someone else do it first. Unlike seeing a tool on TV or YouTube, you can see, hear, and feel how the tool operates first hand…without volume control.

3. Don’t Do It Alone

Aren’t most things you are scared of our don't like better when you have someone else there with you? I personally feel a gazillion times safer when I am not alone with power tools.

When you need a break pass the sander to your friend. Give yourself a rest long enough for the sander-holding hand to stop shaking and get sensation back in the finger tips.

A second set of hands can also help you hold larger stock pieces, take over for a while and give you a break, and just be all around emotional and motivational support for the project you’re tackling.

With two or more people, take the Henry Ford approach…assembly line, baby! It won’t work for every project, but when it does work, it makes everything go by a lot faster.

    Set up stations for each of the tools needed for the project. Bonus points if you have a different person to man each station.
    Make all measurements (and double check them first).
    Make all cuts or pre-drill all holes at once.
    Install or assemble all the ready pieces.

4. Practice, Practice, Practice.

I know I made some mistakes early on which made me hate my tools more, because of the costly materials they I ruined. I should have started smaller and cheaper. Don't make your first cut with a saw on a piece of your new hardwood floor. Don't buy the best wood possible to make your first piece of furniture. Don't use a power nailer for the first time in a visible area that can’t be patched.

I love, and should have followed, Ana White's advice on getting starting. She recommends buying the cheapest wood available. She also has a set of “starter projects”.

Practice small to build up your confidence and skills before investing in good materials and tackling more complicated projects.

5. Get someone else to do it.

This is not wimping out. This is being realistic and true to yourself. If you hate power tools or still don't feel comfortable with them, get someone else to do the dirty work for you.

Here's 3 popular options:

    Have the hardware store make all your cuts at the store. Make sure you bring detailed and accurate measurements. Understand the store's cut policy. Some may charge per cut or limit the number of cuts they will make.

    Have a friend or family member do it for you. When I installed the cork floors in my basement, I did everything myself. The entire time I reminisced about installing the bamboo floors in my last house. we set my dad up in the garage with the Electric Saws. We measured and installed, he made every cut. We had another family member running planks up and down the stairs to the garage.

    Hire a handyman to do the work you don’t want to do. By DIYing part of the project and getting expert help on other parts, you can still save money over a completely done-for-you solution. We did this on a large scale in our basement. We opted for a semi-DIY approach to basement finishing. We contracted all plumbing, electrical, framing, and drywall. Leaving the stuff we didn’t mind doing, like installing light fixtures, painting, and installing flooring and trim.

Bottomline, if it's not for you, it's not for you. Just don't do it. Large builds are out for me. After a few failed attempts at building my own furniture from scratch, I am saying no to larger furniture projects, and that's okay. There are plenty of alternatives, starting with the tips above.

How to Use Power Tool Safely

Most of us have operated a power tool at one time or another. They come in handy for a wide range of projects. It is very important that you always operate any power tool correctly. You should know exactly what it is to be used for, how it operates, and where the power switch is located in case you have to turn it off in a hurry.

Most injuries that involve power tools are the result of someone being inexperienced with that particular power tool or the tool being used for something it was not intended for. Take your time when you are operating power tools. Don’t let yourself become distracted. Always be aware of your surroundings and the potential for accidents and injuries. They can happen no matter how many times you have picked up that power tool and used it without incident.

Power Tool Cord Hazards:

Cords are a common hazard when operating power tools. They can get in the way and accidentally get severed. There is also the potential of tripping over them and getting injured. Make sure all power cords are secured and out of the area where you will be operating the power tool. Keep all cords out of water and away from solvents or you could get shocked or electrocuted.

If you have never operated a particular power tool before, take your time getting familiar with it before you even plug it in. Read the owners manual that comes with the power tool. Find out about the types of blades and other accessories that can safely be used with it. If the power tool comes with any type of safety guard, take the time to put it in place. You will find information in the owner’s manual regarding possible safety hazards.

Miss Use Of Power Tools:

No matter how tempting it may be, never use a power tool for a project that it wasn’t intended for. This includes trying to cut materials with a saw or saw blade that was not designed for it. Don’t alter a power tool to make it faster or to do something that it wasn’t designed for. You really don’t know the effect that is going to have on the operating capacity of the power tool.

It is never a good idea to operate any type of power tool if you have been consuming alcohol. Your perception will be off and you could end up with a very serious injury. Some prescription medications and over the counter medications can made you groggy or sleepy as a side effect. You should stay away from power tools while taking them as well.

Learn About The Power Tool:

Some people just don’t feel comfortable operating power tools. That is fine, and you shouldn’t feel forced into doing so. This is just opening the door for potential accidents to happen. If you are willing to learn to operate specific power tools that is one thing, but if you feeling pressured to do so you are going to have too much anxiety to operate it.

Using cheap power tools sale safely and under the right conditions will help reduce the possibility of any injuries occurring. They are a great way to get your projects and hobbies underway, but never forget the actual power behind them. The moving parts combined with that power can result in injury or death if you don’t follow the manufacturer’s instructions for operating them.

Power Tools Are Not Just for Men Any More

Power tools now a days aren't just for men, that is a thing of the past. Women use power tools all the time now. The use of power tools by women has evolved as the family structure changed over time. Women have become more independent and the chores of the household have become less divided by gender. Single young women are now buying and fixing up their own homes.

While women can operate most any power tools, there are some out there designed specifically for women to use. Don’t worry, they aren’t all pink and cute! The Barbara K line features a cordless drill that is very light, yet very powerful. The cordless power screwdriver is the best selling power tool of the line. It is light weight and very easy to use.

The Unbelievable Saw is a hand saw for women that is great for cutting limbs.

This saw cuts Black and Decker Mouse Sanderwell and is simple to use. It is also light weight. Women enjoy doing home projects, and finding the right tool can be hard.Black and Decker offers the Mouse Detail Sander. This sander doesn’t weight much, fits in the palm of a lady’s hand, and fits in small spaces.

Wrenches can be difficult to maneuver in some areas. Craftsman has the Flex Wrench set in both standard and metric, with seven sizes of wrenches. They are great for getting into tight spaces. They also help give you some added strength to loosen or tighten anything.

A screwdriver is an essential tool for any woman to have. You never know when it will come in handy. Viper Tools have a 30 piece tool set with bag that is amazing. It has a button on the top so you can lock the head into position. The handle is designed for smaller hands and has a soft grip.

Pliers to extract nails makes them a piece of cake to remove. It also prevents you from cutting your hands up on any sharp ones. They work great of headless nails too. These pliers are easy to use and easy to grip. The jaws are designed to increase the amount of force on the nail if you encounter some stubborn ones.

Power tools for women that are designed to help them complete projects are anticipated to sell Pink Power 18 Volt Pink Drill and Cordless Screwdriverwell. Those manufacturers who take this market demand seriously are going to be able to profit from such products. The key is going to be conducting research and finding out what types of power tools women use and asking what they like and don’t like about them. Women don’t want just a smaller version of the power tools out there or the color changed to something pretty. They want power tools that are easy to use and get the job done.

Power Drill Buying Guide

The right drill can accomplish a lot around the home or workshop. Learn the available options and tips for finding the best drill for your work.

Power, mobility and weight are all considerations in choosing a drill.

 A cordless drill offers high mobility and a wide range of available features. Voltage ratings of 4 to 8 volts are sufficient for light-duty cordless screwdrivers, but drills with 12 to 18 volts will meet most homeowners' work needs. A high-power model handles heavier work, but more voltage means the tool has a bigger, heavier battery. A cordless drill battery needs recharging periodically. You may want to have a spare battery available so you can keep working while you recharge. To compare the run times of batteries — how long they will be effective during use — look at amp-hour ratings. More amp-hours and more volts provide longer run time, but the battery charge level, material you're working with, level of continuous use and even temperature affect how long a battery lasts.

A corded drill offers high power and is lighter than a cordless model with similar capabilities. An amp rating represents the power of a corded drill. A steady power supply means greater run time and no need to stop to recharge a battery, but the cord does restrict mobility. Depending on how far your work area is from a power outlet, a corded drill may need an extension cord. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for selecting a proper cord and see Power Cord Safety Tips.

Caution
Follow the tool manufacturer's instructions for use, maintenance and safety.

Good to Know
Common cordless drill battery types include nickel cadmium (NiCd or NiCad) and lithium ion (Li-ion). A Li-ion battery is lighter and smaller than a NiCd battery of the same voltage. Li-ion batteries can hold a charge for several months between uses.

How to Buy Power Tools At a Pawn Shop

When you need a cheap power tools sale for the handyman or the craftsman in your family but your budget is limited, it is possible to find bargains if you know where to look. Ordinarily you would shop your local home improvement or hardware store for new tools. However, if you have a limited budget you can find good tools at the right price.

Instructions
Go directly to the tool department. It is easy to be distracted by the other items you find. Look at available tools carefully. Many times the tool is still in the original case. If you find something you want take it to the sales person and have them plug it in for a test. When testing power tools listen to it run. The motor should run smooth and should not miss, skip, or drag. If the sales person refuses to plug in the item you should find another PAWN SHOP. The item is suspect.

Power Tools 

Battery tools should definitely be tested before you purchase. If the BATTERY is not charged, have them charge it for you and make sure the charger goes with the tool. This assures you that the battery is good.

To purchase your item always try to get a reduction from the asking price. Most pawn shops will deal with you if an appropriate offer is made. You should ask for 10% less than the asking price. Although pawn brokers do not pay retail prices they must make a profit on the items they sell. You will be surprised at how much they will reduce the price if you ask.

Start shopping around for your POWER TOOL before you need to purchase so that you will be able to take your time and get the best deal. Pawn shops have many bargains if you shop carefully.

Must-Have Tools for Beginning DIYers

If you've realized how incredibly expensive home improvement projects and furniture can cost, you have probably also realized just how much you can save by becoming a "do-it-yourselfer."  If you want to start DIYing your home and furniture projects, Remodelaholic is a great place to start!  The good news is that to become a DIYer, you don't have to have a fully functioning shop like you see on popular TV shows. You need a few basic tools to get you started.  

Bear in mind that every home should have good tools, but you do not need to buy a ton of expensive tools all at once. It is best to acquire quality tools as you need and can afford them. As a general rule, it is best to invest in well-made items that will last a lifetime.

With that in mind, here are the 10 tools we recommend to get you started on your DIY path:


 

1. A toolbox
A toolbox.  You will need a toolbox or tool bucket to keep your tools organized.  The more organized you are when tackling a DIY project, the more successful you will be.  Nothing will slow you down more than poorly organized tools!  Toolboxes range from large to small and portable. 

2. Basic hand tools
You need basic hand tools, such as a hammer, pliers, screwdrivers and a utility knife!  There are some fabulous basic toolkits that you can buy to get you started quickly and easily.

 




 3. A cordless drill
The first power tool any DIYer should invest in is a cordless drill.   Cordless drills are convenient for working anywhere.  They not only drill holes and drive screws, but, with different bits, can stir paint and materials like thinset and concrete. 


 

4. An electric random orbital sander.
All DIYers find themselves sanding...a lot.  To avoid doing it all by hand, you will need an orbital sander.  They are not very expensive, and are worth every penny.


 

5. A circular saw
As a DIYer, you will find that there is no saw that is more versatile than a circular saw.  It can take the place of a table saw, if you use it in a conjunction with a straight edge. 




 

6. A level
From hanging pictures to building furniture, you have to make sure your work is level.  So, to start with, we would recommend a 9 inch level.  As you continue down your DIY path, you will eventually want a 24 inch level as well.


 

7. A 6-inch combination square
A 6-inch combination square is so versatile.  In addition to using it to check for square, you can use it as a straight edge when you are cutting 2 x 4s or 2 x 6s.  It is also an excellent marking tool--you can use it to mark things like angles and the position of hinges.


 

8. A stud finder
A stud finder.  Hanging something heavy?  You will need to secure it to a stud in the wall in order to avoid disaster.  A stud finder will help you find your studs so that you can safely secure shelves, cabinets, expensive TVs, etc. to your wall. 


 

9. A staple gun
Staple guns are inexpensive but are incredibly versatile.  You can use a staple gun for everything from upholstery to making a simple greenhouse with a wood frame with plastic sheeting stapled to it. 


 

10. A putty knife
A putty knife.  Last on the list, but certainly not least, is a putty knife.  The putty knife, of course, is routinely used for spreading putty when patching holes in walls.  But it can also be used to scrape off old paint or glue residue, pry up nails and remove wallpaper.  You may want to start with a set of three putty knives for the most versatility.

With these tools in your arsenal, you will be an unstoppable DIYer in no time!  Looking for more power tools, hand tools, measuring tools at www.eastmachinery.com.

Tips for Choosing the Right Size Grinder

A decent angle grinder is a basic component of any handyman’s toolbox. There are few tools more versatile than a grinder, which combines a spinning wheel and a sturdy handle in a handheld package for cutting, polishing, and everything else in-between. Woodworkers use grinders for sanding while metalworkers use them to make repairs. Not all grinders are made equally, however, and for many homeowners who wandered into the tool aisle of their local home improvement store, trying to pick the right one off the shelf presents a challenge.

Try to avoid buying a grinder without doing the proper research. Instead, check out the different grinder features both in the store and at online websites like eBay that have grinders for sale. Choosing the right grinder size depends on several factors, but it is arguably the most noteworthy feature of the grinder. This guide provides five tips for choosing the correct size grinder for any job.

Tip 1: The Bigger the Grinder, the Better it is for Large Jobs

It is surprising how many handymen do not understand that a grinder’s size is determined by its discs, not the length of the overall machine. While it is true that grinders with bigger wheel discs are longer than their smaller counterparts, this is because a bigger handle is needed to control the wheel. For example, a 4.5- inch angle grinder is the most common size, and brands like Kawasaki and Ryobi are popular with homeowners. It uses wheel discs that are 4.5-inches in diameter. A 7- inch grinder uses a 7- inch disc, and so on. Understand that the bigger sizes use larger wheels. Wheel size is particularly relevant for large jobs. If a homeowner only occasionally uses a grinder for odd cutting jobs around the house, then purchasing a smaller size works well. A 5- inch grinder can cut through several feet of wood in no time at all. However, using that same grinder on a large project like cutting beams for a deck would quickly become a chore. Professionals often choose larger grinders because they can work quickly on monster jobs.

Tip 2: Bigger Wheels Make Deeper Cuts

Grinder sizes are especially pertinent once materials are taken into consideration. For example, grinders of any size can cut through wood, though smaller grinders will get into trouble with especially thick pieces. However, not all grinders can handle durable materials like stone and concrete. Not only are they incredibly strong, they also tend to be thick. For example, a concrete slab can easily be three inches wide. A 4.5 angle grinder has a blade that is 4.5-inches in diameter, which means the blade extends 2.25-inches from the center in each direction. Therefore, it is not physically able to cut through 4 inch concrete. Choose a larger grinder when deep cuts are needed, such as a 9- inch grinder, the blade of which extends 4.5 inches from the center.

Tip 3: Smaller Grinders Spin at Faster Speeds

A smaller circle with a tiny circumference will spin at faster speeds than a large circle with a greater circumference: the basic principles of physics. In fact, it’s not unusual to see 4.5-inch grinders top out at speeds over 11,000 RPM. This is what gives these tiny grinders the power to cut and polish metal. However, it is also the reason why smaller grinders are more susceptible to overheating than their larger counterparts. If a 7-inch grinder is spinning at speeds of 5,000 RPM while it is sanding a floor, its greater design and slower speed is generating less heat than a 4.5-inch grinder spinning away at 10,000 RPM. Yes, the greater speed gives the grinder more power, but it also makes it easier to fail. In fact, most experts recommend buying a smaller grinder that comes with adjustable speed settings so the user is not constantly operating on the highest setting. After all, if the job is forcing the worker to use the highest speed possible, it’s better to set the smaller grinder aside and pick up a larger one.

There is one caveat to this general tip. Grinder speed is also determined by the amp rating of the motors. While it is often the case that a 4.5-inch grinder is going to be faster than a 6- inch grinder, the buyer needs to also pay attention to the motor. A 6-inch grinder using a motor that produces 13 amps is going to be just as fast, if not faster, than the 4.5-inch grinder with a 7 amp motor. Always look at the RPM rating and never assume that just because a grinder is smaller it is automatically faster.

Tip 4: Not All Grinders are for Novices

Grinders are discount Power Tools online that use heavy-duty metallic discs spinning at impressive speeds. Also, most of these discs use sharp edges or grinding grains, and it is easy to see why they can be potentially dangerous. Smaller grinders are easier to control due to their smaller wheel size and users often operate them with just one hand. Even so, these small grinders hold a lot of power, so it best to always wear safety equipment like a face plate in case the grinder shoots out debris. Gloves are also recommended because the rapidly spinning disc creates a lot of vibration along the handle of the angle grinder. It’s best to start out with the smaller grinders and get a feel for how to use them before advancing to the larger ones.

Professional grinders come in serious sizes like the 7-inch grinder. Users need to operate this grinder with both hands. In fact, it is so strong that it is almost impossible to control in just one hand. Safety equipment at this stage is essential, though it may do the user no good if the grinder kicks back. Since grinders operate at such high speeds, they often lead to serious accidents. For example, the 9-inch grinder that is still made by brands like Makita was once popular in industrial workplaces, but its gigantic size caused many accidents. Today, many industrial complexes outlaw using 9-inch grinders. The big grinders are no place for a novice to begin learning grinder operations.

Tip 5: Smaller Grinders are Cordless

Cords, while they may be irritating, may be a necessary part of power tools. Nothing is more annoying than crawling into a tight workspace to grind pipes only to realize the cord simply doesn’t reach. Not only are large grinders big and bulky, they often come with heavy duty motors that use 240 volts or 110 volts. This means they need a cord that gives them a constant supply of power. Smaller grinders commonly use a more reasonable 18 volts of power, which allows them to work on a rechargeable battery. Many are cordless . Keep this in mind when selecting a grinder.

Get more information about cheap electric angle grinders for sale at www.eastmachinery.com.

Electric Angle Grinders

Electric Angle Grinders

Build A Rope Wall

I've been helping out Shelly Leer – aka ModHomeEc – with the design of her brand new upholstery workshop in Indianapolis. Shelly is a fantastic upholster and hosts classes to teach folks the ins and outs of fixing up and reupholstering their old forlorn stuff (a skill I can really appreciate).

With this open warehouse space, one big design issue Shelly needed help with was figuring out how to layout and define areas for various work and private “zones”. She needed areas for tools, areas for storage, an area for a personal office, a waiting area, an area to teach and work with students and so on and so forth. Functionally, this one big room had to be used for many many purposes and still be open, accessible and of course look awesome.

Since cost is always an issue (and this space is a rental), it wasn’t prudent to dump a bunch of cash into building traditional solid walls that would split up the space and make it feel smaller and darker. My solution was to build these vertical jute rope division walls that allowed for defined “zones” but still retained light and visibility throughout the entire space. A plus when using this type of jute rope is the added benefit of bringing in a chunky / graphic / warm texture to an otherwise cold and hard industrial room.

The construction process is pretty simple. Wood boxes were custom built with evenly spaced rope sized holes drilled through the top and bottom. Precut sections of rope were strung through the top and tied off at the bottom, allowing for the interior knot to hold the rope in place and taut. Just screw close the open side of the box and all those ugly knots are hidden away.

With this design the overall costs are kept pretty low for such a big impact. Rope is cheap, especially when bought in bulk, and wood boxes are very low cost to build. The true cost is going to be labor and time – it’s just a tedious and super repetitive process.

Come on. Hotness.

I think the outcome is pretty spectacular. Not that I’m bias or anything.

This roped off area is actually Shelly’s office!

I’m completely thrilled with how these rope walls came together and so happy I didn’t have to lift a finger and do any of the actual labor. There is another wall in the works that I’m pretty excited to see completed as well as other awesome ideas that came from designing Shelly’s new workspace to be affordable, functional and downright ‘effing stylish.

Looking For Cheap Power Tools Sale on www.eastmachinery.com

Guy Accidentally Heard Teens Making Fun Of 75-Year-Old Man’s House, So This Is What He Did

When railroad track inspector Josh Cyganik of Union Pacific heard local kids making rude comments about 75-year-old Leonard Bullock’s home, he decided that he had to do something about it. On July 15th, he posted this message to Facebook:

“…I was at work a couple weeks ago and I heard 2 teenage boys walked by this old man’s house…[and] they said loud enough for me to hear ‘look at this crappy house they just need to burn it down’!… So I’m asking if anyone that wants to help this Saturday to volunteer their time to help paint this gentleman’s house!”

The response was stunning. “I stopped counting at 95 volunteers, but everyone showed up excited and willing to help.” People came from as far as Texas, Washington, and California to help out. When asked for a comment by the Daily Mail, Cyganik said, “According to the media, I’m a hero. I’m not a hero, I just heard something that bothered me.”

Cyganik overheard teens say, “look at this crappy house, they just need to burn it down!”

He posted to Facebook asking for volunteers to help fix it up, and the response was astounding

People started to show up from as far away as Texas, Washington, and California

“I stopped counting at 95 volunteers, but everyone showed up excited and willing to help”

“I was raised to respect the people who came before you, to help others out who don’t have much”

 

Here’s the final result!