Kevin

Kevin has been involved in the custom automotive scene since he bought his first mini-truck in high school and began modifying it. He also has interest in sustainability, DIY projects, and various forms of fabrication. Seeing improved technology of batteries, he has made a concentrated effort over the last few years to transition away from fossil fuels. From lawn care to automotive.

DIY Overhead Storage Door with Block and Tackle Pulley

The Cabin, Wood Projects /
diy overhead storage door with block and tackle pulley for opening

There’s something about a cabin in the woods that brings a sense of tranquility and nostalgia. But when it comes to practicality, sometimes a little DIY magic is needed to make your cabin space more functional and visually appealing. In this blog post, we’ll take you through an inspiring woodworking project to enclose an overhead storage area with a custom built diy overhead storage door using repurposed wood and a block and tackle pulley system. The Challenge The previous owner who built our cabin had a fairly small shed with an overhead storage area. Unfortunately, this storage area was completely open and I wanted to come up with a solution to close it. We used this space to store some blow mold Christmas decorations, but it certainly looked a bit tacky. From the street, the decorations could be seen as well. It was time to transform this neglected space into something more practical and aesthetically pleasing. The Materials I had some damaged tongue and groove slats from a closet I removed to make room in the game loft for our racing arcade cabinets. Previously, I had already cut these slats down to remove the damaged area. With these slats laying around for a few months now, it seemed like the perfect usage to make the overhead door with these. Repurposed Wood Here’s the closet I removed… The tongue and groove is quite thin, as far as I know it’s nearly, if not completely impossible to remove without damaging it. Lots of cutting down, running the slats through the table saw. Staining the Overhead Door I need to pick up some more stain, but I’ll use the same stain I used for the main door of the shed. It does have a decent amount of weight to it, so I’m not sure if I’ll take the door back down to stain or leave it in place. Stay tuned for that… Conclusion What started as an open and unsightly overhead storage area in the cabin’s shed was transformed into a functional and visually appealing space. This woodworking project showcased the power of repurposing materials and creative problem-solving. The use of a block and tackle pulley system added a touch of nostalgia, harking back to simpler times. If you’re looking to enhance your cabin space and have some repurposed wood lying around, consider taking on a project like this one. Not only will it breathe new life into a neglected area, but it will also infuse your cabin with rustic charm and character. Happy woodworking, and may your cabin always be a haven of peace and creativity!

Ski-tastic Deck Balusters: A Unique Twist for Your Mountain Cabin Deck on a Budget

Projects, The Cabin /
snow ski upcycling for deck balusters.

When you’re decking out your mountain cabin, it’s natural to want something that captures the essence of the outdoors and your adventurous spirit. If you’re looking for an unconventional and cost-effective way to make your deck stand out, consider using snow skis as deck balusters. This creative approach combines rustic aesthetics with a touch of adventure without breaking the bank. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the process of repurposing snow skis as deck balusters and explain how this option can save you money compared to traditional balusters. Enclosing Our Deck My wife wanted to fully enclose the deck at our cabin so that we could have our dogs there too without worry of them running off. The previous owner built a large, 900sf deck, but it wasn’t fully enclosed. With how expensive wood has gotten, I chose to go with a more creative approach by upcycling old snow skis that might wife picked up. We were able to get some of the skis for free at our neighborhood “free” day where neighbors put items they no longer want at the end of the driveway. She also found several pairs at Goodwill for only $1-2 when they had the clearance sales. Why Snow Skis? Using snow skis as deck balusters is a brilliant idea that brings a touch of winter magic to your mountain cabin year-round. Here’s why this approach is not only unique but also budget-friendly: Materials and Tools Needed Before you get started, gather the following materials and tools: Installation Steps Follow these installation steps for your budget-friendly ski balusters: Conclusion Repurposing snow skis as deck balusters is not only a unique design choice but also a budget-friendly one. At the current price of cedar 2x2s, choosing used skis that were free or only $1-2 per pair is a much cheaper option that allows you to achieve a stunning deck makeover without breaking the bank. So, embrace the charm of ski-tastic deck balusters, save some money, and enjoy the outdoors in style!

Fence for Life – Concrete Fencing Review

Reviews /
fence for life concrete fence review

Concrete Fencing – Product Review At our previous house we had a wood fence that despite being stained every couple years was noticeably weathered. I had to replace two posts, repair the gate a couple times (mostly from sagging issues), and also straighten multiple posts that began to lean.  I remember when we had the house built and a fence was including the build.  The building inspector mentioned that the fence would probably last 5 years or so, we managed to double that. However, if I had to guess, it probably didn’t have too much longer to go. Our Needs for a Fence Keeping Our Dog Contained Needing to keep our dog from running off, we were looking to have a fence installed when we moved.  I was looking for something would be long lasting and very limited on maintenance.  Atop the wish list was something that would not rot, rust, and would not need tons of maintenance.  Cost was also a major factor. I was also concerned about the durability of plastic fences that were available, both structurally and against UV discoloration. Low Maintenance, Long Lasting While I was searching for options, I came across Fence for Life who serves Western Washington.  They mentioned the downside to metal or wood fences on their website and the advantages their fences offered with the motto “do it once for life”.  Their fences are pre-casted from a reinforced concrete with several different styles and height options available, even the posts are made from concrete that is reinforced with rebar. Posts are often times the first failure of traditional wood post fencing.  Therefor, seeing they offered concrete posts certainly was intriguing.  These fences are advertised as maintenance free and are supposed to withstand 85mph winds, but you may need to give them a pressure wash every couple years.  My only real concern at this point is if the ground gets too wet and if that causes the posts to lean.  The posts are 2-3 feet in the ground, so hopefully everything holds up. Installing a Concrete Fence While Fence for Life does sell the panels and posts for owner-installation, this wasn’t a project I had any desire to take on. We had zero hesitation having them do the installation. Just two crew members, they were able to install the entire fence in just 3 days. They showed up with their flat bed truck and just enough posts and panels to keep them busy for the entire day. On day 2, they arrived with another batch of panels and posts. For day 3, it was a small remaining batch and they finished up in the early afternoon. Some photos of our concrete fencing installation: The inward facing side of the fence panels do not have a decorative pattern like the outward facing, rather they are just flat.  Having the pattern on both sides would certainly have improved the overall aesthetics, but it is what it is. I imagine other companies may have their fences patterned on both sides. This view shows how the 3.5 panels were stacked and slid inside the post slots. Installing a Concrete Fence On a Slope (or Any Fence) Our backyard gradually slopes down and major excavation was never a consideration, so the majority of our concrete fencing gradually descends in a bit of a staggered manner. Bringing in an insane amount of fill really wasn’t an option. How Much Does Concrete Fencing Cost? When we first purchased our fencing, the price was surprisingly comparable to traditional cedar wood picket fencing. If we went with a cedar fencing and decided to stain it ourselves, the cost likely would have been greater than the precast concrete fence. Inflation has definitely caused prices to go up for several materials including lumber and concrete. It’s best to check current pricing in your area. Concrete fence pricing will certainly vary by location as well, but I would recommend getting a couple of quotes for more traditional fencing to do a direct comparison for your area and exact needs. Concrete Fence Review Updates Quick April 2020 Update – Living in Western Washington we get a lot of green algae build up outside.  I thought for sure we’d experience this on our fence, especially on the north side, but no signs yet! August 2023 Update: We do have some discoloration and some of the green algae finally starting to appear on some northern facing sections. The dark discolorations seem to be mostly at the top. I’ll have to get the pressure washer out and see how it handles the darker areas and the algae, but other than that, no issues whatsoever. Summary We’ve had ours installed since just May 2015 now, so far so good.  Certainly pleased with how everything has held up and so far as been completely maintenance free. I’ll probably have to do some pressure washing at least on some of the north facing panels. Check out the custom pedestrian gate I built: https://fabville.com/custom-diy-steel-gates-the-52%e2%80%b3-four-foot-gate

DIY Foosball Revival: Upcycling an Old Foosball Table with Solid Wood Craftsmanship!

Projects /
custom diy foosball table from upcycling an old and neglected foosball table with inspirational concept renderings

Here’s an upcoming project we’ll be working on, a DIY foosball table with some recycled parts. I was dropping off my daughter to a birthday party at a friend’s house and along the way we saw an old, broken down foosball table someone had put at the end of their driveway with a “free” sign. When I asked my daughter if she wanted to take a closer look at it, there was no hesitation. With the cheap particle board construction that was already damaged, we immediately had visions of building a new structure out of solid wood. While it will be several more weeks before we start looking at building this, here’s some inspiration I generated using MidJourney: AI Generated Foosball Table Renderings MidJourney didn’t always place handles or get the playfield in the right orientation, but I think it’s still a great tool to generate some ideas. I won’t have anywhere near the time, money, tools, or skills to build anything near these, but it can prompt some ideas. Solid Wood Foosball Table Renderings Futuristic Foosball Table Designs Here’s a couple more designs I made with a futuristic concept. Acrylic sign panels could be an interesting way to go… The Build It will be a several more weeks before we start the build, but we’ll add more to this post once we do!

SylvanSport MR STOW-IT-ALL Hanging Organizer: Streamlined Storage Solution for Adventurers

Trailers /
sylvansport mr stow-it-all

The SylvanSport MR STOW-IT-ALL Hanging Organizer is a versatile and innovative storage solution designed specifically for the SylvanSport GO. With its durable construction, ample storage space, and thoughtful design features, this hanging organizer aims to streamline the packing process and keep your gear organized during your travels. In this review, we’ll delve into the features and benefits of the SylvanSport MR STOW-IT-ALL Hanging Organizer to help you determine if it’s the right choice for your outdoor adventures. Mr. Stow-it-All Design and Construction The SylvanSport MR STOW-IT-ALL Hanging Organizer is built with durability in mind. Made from rugged nylon fabric, it can withstand the rigors of outdoor use. The reinforced stitching and sturdy zippers add to its overall durability, ensuring that it will last for years of rugged adventures. The organizer features multiple compartments that allow you to easily store and access your belongings. While it’s designed to hang on the back wall of the GO, you could also use the included carabiner clips to hang it in a variety of locations, such as inside a tent, RV, or even on a tree branch. Storage Capacity One of the standout features of the SylvanSport MR STOW-IT-ALL Hanging Organizer is its generous storage capacity. The multiple pockets and compartments provide ample space to store a wide range of gear, from clothes and toiletries to camping essentials and electronics. The various-sized compartments allow for efficient organization, enabling you to easily separate and locate your belongings. Whether you’re embarking on a weekend camping trip or a long-term adventure, this hanging organizer ensures that you have enough space to pack everything you need without compromising on organization. Versatility and Accessibility The SylvanSport MR STOW-IT-ALL Hanging Organizer excels in its versatility and accessibility. It can be used to store books or maps to read, water bottles, flashlights, books, cooking gear, hiking equipment, or several other items. The thoughtful design features pockets and velcro closures, making it easy to see and access your items quickly. Portability When it comes to portability, the SylvanSport MR STOW-IT-ALL Hanging Organizer can be rolled up and stored in the storage pod of your trailer. You could also easily store it in your vehicle. Durability The SylvanSport MR STOW-IT-ALL Hanging Organizer is well-build to last several years. The high-quality nylon fabric and reinforced stitching contribute to its overall durability. We got ours used with our GO trailer, and it has still held up over the years with no issues. SylvanSport MR STOW-IT-ALL Price The MR STOW-IT-ALL organizer currently has an MRSP of $159.95.You can purchase the SylvanSport MR STOW-IT-ALL directly on SylvanSport’s product page. Conclusion The SylvanSport MR STOW-IT-ALL Hanging Organizer has a durable construction, ample storage capacity, and thoughtful design features make it a valuable asset on any adventure. While we’ve typically used ours only for multi-night stays, this organizer ensures that your gear stays organized and easily accessible. If you’re looking for a storage solution while camping with your GO, the MR STOW-IT-ALL is certainly worth considering.

Finding Used SylvanSport Go Trailers For Sale Near Me: Adventure on a Budget!

Trailers /
used sylvansport go

Embarking on outdoor adventures is a thrilling way to explore the world around us. For those seeking versatility, durability, and innovation in their camping experience, the SylvanSport Go trailer is a remarkable choice. Designed to blend the convenience of a camper and the utility of a gear-hauling trailer, the SylvanSport Go offers a unique camping experience. However, buying a brand-new trailer isn’t always feasible for everyone. Used options can be far more budget friendly. Fortunately, there are platforms like Listhopper and other online classifieds to find used SylvanSport Go trailers, ensuring you can still fulfill your wanderlust without breaking the bank. In this article, we’ll explore how you can utilize these platforms to find the perfect used SylvanSport Go trailer for your adventures. We’ll also cover what you can expect to pay when buying a used SylvanSpoprt Go trailer. Where to Find Used SylvanSport GO Trailers Listhopper The used SylvanSport GO we purchased was on Craigslist for a city in Oregon, but I wasn’t searching on Craigslist when we found it. I used Listhopper which is similar to Indeed.com which pulls job listings from several different websites, but for classifieds. How to Use Listhopper Listhopper is free and you simply need to enter what you’re searching for. By default however, the search is set to “Craiglist”, so be sure to select the “Search All” option all the way to the right, or which ever classifieds you want to search. You can also use the “Filter Cities” to refine the search to your area. RV Trader The next site I’ve found the most SylvanSport GO’s listed is RV Trader. IRV Trader: RV Trader specializes in connecting buyers and sellers of new and used RVs, making it a valuable resource for finding pre-owned SylvanSport Go trailers. Its advanced search options allow you to narrow down listings based on various criteria. More SylvanSport for Sale Online Attend RV shows and dealer auctions: In addition to online platforms, attending RV shows and dealer auctions can provide an opportunity to find used SylvanSport Go trailers. These events often showcase a variety of recreational vehicles, including pre-owned models. Participating in such events allows you to physically inspect the trailers, ask questions, and potentially negotiate the price directly with sellers. SylvanSport In-Person RV Events Occassionally SylvanSport GO trailers might be featured at RV events. Attending RV shows can be an excellent opportunity to find great deals on a wide range of recreational vehicles, including the SylvanSport Go trailers. These shows bring together multiple dealers and sellers in one location, creating a competitive environment that can lead to attractive pricing and special offers. How Much Are Used SylvanSport GO Camping Trailers? We bought our SylvanSport GO used for $3800, I’ve seen one slightly lower at $3500 once. However, on average, I’ve seen many for sale between $5000-7500. New ones with several accessories are often listed for $10K or higher. A few factors will go into the value of SylvanSport GO: Here’s a couple posts I came across at the time of publishing: Conclusion Embarking on adventures with a SylvanSport Go trailer opens up a world of possibilities for outdoor enthusiasts. While purchasing a brand-new trailer may not always fit within your budget, platforms like Listhopper and other online marketplaces offer a practical and convenient way to find used SylvanSport Go trailers. By utilizing these platforms and exploring local events, you can discover the perfect trailer that meets your needs, allowing you to embark on thrilling adventures while making the most of your resources. So, go ahead and unleash your wanderlust – the open road awaits! Looking for more information on the SylvanSport GO trailer? Be sure check out our SylvanSport GO Review.