| Author |
Message |
    
El Duderino
Citizen
Username: El_duderino
Post Number: 12
Registered: 2-2004
| | Posted on Tuesday, March 16, 2004 - 11:40 am: |     |
What's the best way to get started to learn how to approach basic DIY projects? Is there a particular book/video series that stands out above others? Has anyone attended a class at Home Depot? Are there any other "classes" in the area that teach, say, basic woodworking skills, tiling methods, drywall installation, etc.?
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MHD
Citizen
Username: Mayhewdrive
Post Number: 962
Registered: 5-2001
| | Posted on Tuesday, March 16, 2004 - 11:46 am: | |
I thought the Orange Home improvement book sold at Home Depot was a good general book for all "standard" projects. It covers the basics and has pretty easy to follow diagrams. |
Ruck1977
Citizen
Username: Ruck1977
Post Number: 73
Registered: 8-2003
| | Posted on Tuesday, March 16, 2004 - 12:22 pm: | |
I don't know the best approach, but we usually watch a ton of home improvement shows. There is the DIY network with a ton of shows, then there is "Ask This Old House", which i find is a great show. Check your tv listings, sat and sunday they channels are packed with do it yourself projects.
There are tons of books and websites too. Good luck! |
bobk
Supporter
Username: Bobk
Post Number: 4993
Registered: 5-2001
| | Posted on Tuesday, March 16, 2004 - 12:59 pm: | |
Time Life published a series of home repair books about twenty years ago that are truly excellent with clear text and illustrations. Possibly the library might still have them. Also, if you are the type to hang around used and remainder book stores keep your eyes open for old books. I have a book from the 1950s that is often very helpful when working around an old house since those were the good old days of plaster walls, washers in faucets and all that old time stuff.  |
Projects Dude
Citizen
Username: Quakes
Post Number: 18
Registered: 3-2004
| | Posted on Tuesday, March 16, 2004 - 1:05 pm: | |
I've been trying to get a good DIY book as well. But the best resource I've found for specific projects is actually just going onto the web.
There are too many DIY projects for homes that it's hard for one publication to have specific info for the projects that you want to do and you'll end up doing more research anyway.
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Handygirl
Citizen
Username: Handygirl
Post Number: 33
Registered: 2-2004
| | Posted on Tuesday, March 16, 2004 - 1:28 pm: | |
I love This Old House magazine. It's fantastic and should both inspire you and give you the "how to". Also, find an all purpose home improvement book either at Home Depot or on amazon.com and then start with a small project and go from there. Good websites with detailed diy projects include hgtv.com, lowes.com and thisoldhouse.com. There are also great books for specific types of projects - ie. books on painting, or installing molding or plumbing, but it's good to have at least one all-purpose book around for those surprises that we all know show up frequently.
Handygirl |
Mergele
Citizen
Username: Mergele
Post Number: 54
Registered: 7-2003
| | Posted on Tuesday, March 16, 2004 - 7:42 pm: | |
I've made a habit of learning from the folks who've done work for me, and friends who tackled the projects I've had my eye on, but hadn't yet gotten to (and of course, I watch far too much HGTV). That, combined with a lot of reading - particularly on the net - have given me the guts to tackle things on this house I wouldn't have thought I'd try 10 years ago.
"Cats climb because being ruler of all you survey sucks when all you survey is ankles." -- Unknown |
Cynicalgirl
Citizen
Username: Cynicalgirl
Post Number: 485
Registered: 9-2003
| | Posted on Tuesday, March 16, 2004 - 7:48 pm: | |
Better Homes & Gardens has some good stuff on their site, and their magazine. |
mwsilva
Citizen
Username: Mwsilva
Post Number: 397
Registered: 5-2002
| | Posted on Tuesday, March 16, 2004 - 11:36 pm: | |
I heard that jgberkeley was teaching classes. I called him and he had not started. But, we talked about the area I was ready to work in and we had a one-on-one class that more than met my need.
You can find him at his wife's store the beaded path, 973 313-1331, or drop in on SA Avenue next to NetNomads. |
court07040
Citizen
Username: Court07040
Post Number: 64
Registered: 8-2003
| | Posted on Wednesday, March 17, 2004 - 8:48 am: | |
start buying tools - lots of them! |
thegoodsgt
Citizen
Username: Thegoodsgt
Post Number: 409
Registered: 2-2002
| | Posted on Wednesday, March 17, 2004 - 9:51 am: | |
Books, magazines, and TV shows are great, but nothing is better than hands-on experiencel. I've had this idea of forming a "share club" of sorts for MOL members through which we can volunteer our time to help each other with small home improvement projects, and thus learn on-the-job. Even if you're a highly competent DIY person, there are probably projects that require the assistance of someone who need not have the same level of skills that you do. It's a win-win situation. |
El Duderino
Citizen
Username: El_duderino
Post Number: 13
Registered: 2-2004
| | Posted on Wednesday, March 17, 2004 - 10:54 am: | |
That's a great idea. I wouldn't mind lending a hand on someone else's DIY project in order to get some practical experience.
Let me know if your "share club" gets beyond the idea stage... |
sportsnut
Citizen
Username: Sportsnut
Post Number: 1011
Registered: 10-2001
| | Posted on Wednesday, March 17, 2004 - 11:54 am: | |
You can count me in on something like that "share club" too. I had already adopted court's suggestion and have purchased a lot of tools. |
Tom Reingold
Citizen
Username: Noglider
Post Number: 2457
Registered: 1-2003
| | Posted on Wednesday, March 17, 2004 - 12:24 pm: | |
Count me in, too! I was a bicycle mechanic in a previous life, so clearly, I'm not as stupid as I look. I just don't have this type of experience, yet.
Tom Reingold the prissy-pants
There is nothing
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Handygirl
Citizen
Username: Handygirl
Post Number: 35
Registered: 2-2004
| | Posted on Wednesday, March 17, 2004 - 2:14 pm: | |
I'm also interested in the share club. And I have two other comments to novice diy-ers:
1. As was stated earlier, buy lots of tools from here on out. There is nothing more frustrating than being in the middle of a project and finding out that you don't have the right size chisel or drill bit.
2. Also, the all-purpose repair guide that I referenced earlier is the Black and Decker "complete photo guide to home repair". It doesn't cover everything mind you, but it gives good explanation on a wide variety of projects.
Handygirl |
Richard O'Connor
Citizen
Username: Roconn
Post Number: 216
Registered: 6-2001
| | Posted on Thursday, March 18, 2004 - 10:23 am: | |
I too would be interested in a share club ... there are still things I'd need to get done and extra hands tends to be my limiting factor.
And I too am all about having all the tools ... and I have passed the entry level (got em all) and proceeded into the contractor arena (air tools).
Richard (ROC)
--Never be afraid to try something new. Remember, amateurs built the ark; professionals built the Titanic.--
--AIM: ROConn |
Handygirl
Citizen
Username: Handygirl
Post Number: 44
Registered: 2-2004
| | Posted on Thursday, March 18, 2004 - 5:05 pm: | |
mmmmmmmmmmm air tools mmmmmmmmm. I'm not ready yet, but I salivate at the thought.
Handygirl |
compsy
Citizen
Username: Compsy
Post Number: 124
Registered: 1-2002
| | Posted on Friday, March 19, 2004 - 12:03 am: | |
there's a community forum at do it yourself.com--try:
http://forum.doityourself.com/showthread.php?s=b360bc73d235f50b70dd4e4d0634ecb5& threadid=126505
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Richard O'Connor
Citizen
Username: Roconn
Post Number: 220
Registered: 6-2001
| | Posted on Saturday, March 20, 2004 - 9:37 am: | |
Handy ... Air tools ... way too much fun ... little pffffts as you drive a staple or nail
Richard (ROC)
--Never be afraid to try something new. Remember, amateurs built the ark; professionals built the Titanic.--
--AIM: ROConn |
sportsnut
Citizen
Username: Sportsnut
Post Number: 1021
Registered: 10-2001
| | Posted on Saturday, March 20, 2004 - 10:36 am: | |
I invested in a Porter-Cable finish nailer two years ago. Talk about making fast work of moulding etc. Can't wait to buy a new compressor.
Richard what do you guys charge for the Bosch Jig Saw? |
Handygirl
Citizen
Username: Handygirl
Post Number: 51
Registered: 2-2004
| | Posted on Tuesday, March 23, 2004 - 2:42 pm: | |
I really need a nail gun (I frighten my husband when I say things like that - but it's true!). How much should I expect to spend on a finish nailer? I expect to use it on general carpentry, possibly some furniture-building and, definitely, a lot of molding.
Handygirl |
sportsnut
Citizen
Username: Sportsnut
Post Number: 1025
Registered: 10-2001
| | Posted on Tuesday, March 23, 2004 - 3:15 pm: | |
handygirl - this is the one I have. I think I paid a little more at HD but not much more.
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B00004SBBQ/qid=1080072844/sr=1-6/r ef=sr_1_6/102-5662344-0121739?v=glance&s=hi |
bobk
Supporter
Username: Bobk
Post Number: 5034
Registered: 5-2001
| | Posted on Tuesday, March 23, 2004 - 3:22 pm: | |
You also need a compressor which is going to run you between $100 to $200 for a "pancake" electric powered model. |
Handygirl
Citizen
Username: Handygirl
Post Number: 52
Registered: 2-2004
| | Posted on Tuesday, March 23, 2004 - 3:57 pm: | |
Do I need a compressor or something?
Handygirl |
Handygirl
Citizen
Username: Handygirl
Post Number: 53
Registered: 2-2004
| | Posted on Tuesday, March 23, 2004 - 3:58 pm: | |
Thanks bobk. Sorry, it took me a while to post the message
Handygirl |
sportsnut
Citizen
Username: Sportsnut
Post Number: 1026
Registered: 10-2001
| | Posted on Tuesday, March 23, 2004 - 4:42 pm: | |
You can sometimes find a combination on sale where you get the compressor and nailer together for a reasonable price. A compressor is handy to have around for tires etc. |
Richard O'Connor
Citizen
Username: Roconn
Post Number: 221
Registered: 6-2001
| | Posted on Wednesday, March 24, 2004 - 7:03 am: | |
OK all ... Tool guy from Essex green sears here (I am having lots of fun but need a technology job if I'm gonna keep the house)
Anyway...we have a couple of GREAT compressor deals...one that comes without tools for 119 (Its a 2 gal hot dog) ... I have one of these as its really portable ...
From there we go up ... most of the 4 - 33 gallon tank compressors, some pancakes, some hot dogs, come with 'some' air tool ... the smaller ones, finish nailers or narrow crown staplers, the larger ones, air ratchets and impact wrenches.
Come visit me ... always there at some point on Friday (day) Sat (usually day) ... also Thurs eve (usually)
email me direct for more schedule....
As to the Bosch...we don't have it any more, it was closed out (I figure its being replaced) but we have a craftsman that is made by them at 149.
If you want to go somewhere where the folx can actually answer your questions regarding tools...visit the Sears in Essex Green ... I manage the dept ... and the two guys who work the nights (when I'm not there) are both contractors/builders
Richard (ROC)
--Never be afraid to try something new. Remember, amateurs built the ark; professionals built the Titanic.--
--AIM: ROConn |
bobk
Supporter
Username: Bobk
Post Number: 5127
Registered: 5-2001
| | Posted on Monday, April 5, 2004 - 10:41 am: | |
The latest HD brochure has a Porter Cable package on sale for $299. Included is a pancake compressor, a 16 gauge finish nailer and an 18 gauge brad nailer.
Tempted? |
sportsnut
Citizen
Username: Sportsnut
Post Number: 1067
Registered: 10-2001
| | Posted on Monday, April 5, 2004 - 10:49 am: | |
You know ever since this thread started I've been scouring the Sears/HomeDepot/ToolCrib flyers driving my wife crazy looking to buy a larger compressor. I saw that package but I already have the brad nailer - but it is tempting. |
Richard O'Connor
Citizen
Username: Roconn
Post Number: 249
Registered: 6-2001
| | Posted on Tuesday, April 6, 2004 - 9:03 am: | |
Compressors ... we've got compressors ....
In the recently re-done Tools Section of the Essex Green Sears ... (well I'm still working on it)....
Lots of great deals and some fantastic closeout prices.....
(Ok, that was a commercial, but I got a report that says I'm 'down' on last years numbers for air tools)
BETTER SERVICE THAN THE HOME DEPOT ... and better commitment to customer satisfaction!
(not that I still don't goto HD often) |
sportsnut
Citizen
Username: Sportsnut
Post Number: 1070
Registered: 10-2001
| | Posted on Tuesday, April 6, 2004 - 10:11 am: | |
ROC - what is the minimum size compressor that I would need to operate an HVLP spayer? |
Richard O'Connor
Citizen
Username: Roconn
Post Number: 257
Registered: 6-2001
| | Posted on Saturday, April 17, 2004 - 8:18 am: | |
for an HVLP sprayer you can actually use the micro sized compressors (which is where I started on this) ....
Basically with HVLP its about constant loads of air, not small amounts of high pressure air so even the constant run compressors can do a good job for you.
For flexibility, I'd go with something that is a little bigger (has a tank) and then you get the added bonus of boundless air tool compatibility, not just the sprayer.
Right now, we have a 'fairly large' 30 gallon vertical compressor that comes with a group of air tools (more mechanics type tools, ratchet, impact wrench and something else (plus hoses and fittings) for just under (or is it just over) 300 bucks ... 16555 is the model, I think, well I know it ends in 555.
Anyway, I'll be at the store today from 1 to 9 and we have a bunch of different ones in stock...plus all the add on bits.
Come in for a look-see |
sportsnut
Citizen
Username: Sportsnut
Post Number: 1092
Registered: 10-2001
| | Posted on Monday, April 19, 2004 - 10:16 am: | |
Thanks Richard. I was in Sears - Livingston on Thursday evening and saw the 30 gallon verticle compressor for $279. It produces a hefty 8 SCFM at 40 PSI which is more than enough to run an HVLP sprayer. I then went to HD to check out their compressors and they were not as strong although they were $30 cheaper. I think I'll head back to Sears to buy one. Do you get a comission for selling? If so let me know when you're in and I'll buy it then. |
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