Did you ever want to become a DIY guru?  Bob Clagett from “I Like to Make Stuff” joins us to discuss how to make and fix things and be more self sufficient.

Bob isn’t like those people on HGTV with every tool imaginable to hand.  He’s just a regular guy who makes stuff with what he already has.  He wants to inspire others to make the things they love for themselves.

Bob learned a lot from his father and grandfather who both had wood working shops.  He even fashioned GI Joe accessories from Legos as a kid.  He attended art school and then started a web design company.

If you need something for your house, you don’t always have to buy it and you don’t always have to hire someone else to make it.  No matter how little experience you may have, you are capable of doing some things yourself.  This saves you money and makes you less dependent on other people.  Things you make yourself are also likely to be of higher quality than the press board junk from Ikea, therefore will last much longer.  There is also the pride that goes with looking at something in your home and knowing you built that.

If you’re a complete novice, check out Maker 101, it will teach beginners what they need to know to get started.  A drill and a circular saw are two of the best tools to get you started.  Harbor Freight Tools is a good, low cost source for beginners to purchase supplies.  Check out Craigslist for used tools as well.

Bob does a lot of re-purposing, changing an old thing into a new thing.  It saves money, it’s good for the environment, and it has it’s own unique look.  You can create something no one else has and can’t be bought at Target.

Shelves are good places to begin for new comers.  Just by taking pallets apart, not even cutting, them you can make some shelves.  If you saw the pallet in half, you have a wine rack.

If you’ve always wanted to be a DIY person, watch a few of Bob’s videos and get started.  If you do it or have done any DIY projects in the past, post your photos in the comments.  Happy building!

Show Notes

Aura Beer:  A light, refreshing lager.

I Like to Make Stuff:  Bob’s website where you can learn to make stuff!

LMM Tool Box:  Resources to help you manage your money.