Thursday's Gone

So another day down, and this is a much needed day off. Off of work, and a break from projects. Although I am doing some writing and some research.

One of the main reasons for this is that I smashed my hand at work, got a good number of stitches and a little stiffness. Although at the time I said to hell with it, grabbed some superglue, poured a healthy dose into the gaping cut, held it shut with tape, put a glove on and kept on working.

Ten hours later I realized that this was only a temporary fix, even though I do love super glue.

The doctor did a fantastic job of sewing me back together after she scolded me for waiting so long to come in.

In that light, I don't want to over do it, and I will stay away from anything too rigorous for the next few days to keep the cut clean and my hand rested.

So after some household clean up, and some tool maintenance, I am just blogging and taking it easy.

Tool tip of the day: don't worry if you totally chip up your hand plane blade, it can be ground back to a nice straight edge and resharpened. As I had to do today, once I took a peak at the blade on my block plane. Chipped in about 4 places. But back to awesome with the right maintenance.

Alright folks, Thanks again for stopping in to check out the blog. Please take a minute to leave a comment on any post that you like, if you so please. Even though I am using the Blogger platform to host this blog, I do have the commenting feature set up for any user with or without a Google profile. It should be working. If it is not, please use the contact form to the right and let me know! I will fix it ASAP!

Also, feel free to leave your own links in the comments. If you have a blog or a Pinterest or a YouTube channel with projects and ideas that you want to share, POST IT!

Thanks again , and have a great night!

Sunday is A WASH!!

Today was a disappointing day for projects, but I am going to chalk it up as a learning lesson. Not everything is going to be perfect every time. And many times, it won't be.

I finished the trunk chest, minus the hinges and some stain work, stepped away, and I was just not happy. The lid piece which has given me so much grief just did not look right.

Now, it doesn't look bad, and possibly I could finish up the chest as it sits, call it a day, and see if someone on craigslist will want that piece.

But I am going to opt for a more labor intensive option. Rebuild the lid, using a different design and with some more time and care. Just to get something that I can feel good about.

I'm pretty bummed with the way this day turned out. I had a block of time, and rushed to make the most of it.

Well, haste does in fact make waste, as I was reminded today.

Crap.

So not pictures to show. The project deserves to be done right and I will put in some time tomorrow to make it so. I just want to see it look proper.

With this failure, I also have lost the wind in my sails to do anything else tonight. I don't have the creative energy for much more. and I need to just brain dump this day, and begin anew tomorrow.

I'm pouring a Crown and coke, and calling it a night.

Saturday Update

Tonight was a tough one. Trying to get to work on the pallet trunk chest was just a non starter.

Not to say I didn't get some progress done. In fact, I did basically finish the chest, minus the final sanding and trim, and the stain. OH and the hardware for hinges and what not. So I guess the truth is, I finished the wood working portion. I just have to go clean it up.

I felt rushed, because I also put in a long day at work, came home, got the family settled and then headed out to the mancave, aka the garage, only to suffer from numerous interruptions. I hastily threw together the rest of the pieces needed on the chest, and began my final cuts. I broke one board after it was set. I cut too deep on another. All in all, I messed up.

So the challenge now is to do the true DIY thing and fix what I have in front of me.

The professional might scrap the project and rebuild it correctly. I think I can do enough sanding, carving and planing to hide the mistakes. So that's the route I am taking. Ill let you know how it comes out. Truthfully, I am not all mad. I used some really old pallet wood for the rest of it. But once I planed the boards down and scraped off the weathered outer layer of wood, the board underneath was something special. I think that alone will make up for the mistakes I made.

So that was tonight. I have my work cut out for me on my day off tomorrow. So expect some pictures soon. And you know what? The worst thing is not even that bad. Because I am learning all the time. The next project will come out even better. And the next. And you know I don't intend to stop making stuff.


On my way home from work I passed by some of the big box stores and drove my truck around back.  Filled my truck bed with new pallets to add to my stash. There are more projects in my future now. I have the material! I just need to make the time!



Now, on a not so great note: I did film two videos. Unboxing some new tools. But I currently don't have access to those because they are on my Ipad. And I am working off my computer at the moment.

However, I already began the editing in iMovie in order to put those two short videos together, and will be posting them on the blog soon.



So what else? I am just ranting, with no real objective in mind but to update on the project front.

I did use my new hand plane. It was not too bad. I'm still a fan of the bench plane, so keep that in mind if you are shopping for your first hand plane. Its not a bad size and shape for most beginner projects. And like I mentioned, once I ran the plane over some of those old boards, the beautiful wood underneath came through with the grains popping and the color shining. I am more than satisfied. Some good sanding will finish it up nice. All is well on that front.



Besides building my projects, which admittedly take much longer than they should, I have been writing. I have two other blogs that I am working on. Both of them I use the free platform from Blogger. I don't care if they get readers and I don't care if they get views. The real reason I have those pages up is for me to continue to work on ideas and work on my creativity. Like I told my son today. Do ONE idea each day. Doesn't matter if it sucks. Because You don't have to show anyone. But if you do one a day, eventually you will have that one great idea. And that could be your golden ticket.

It's akin to walking a hundred miles. It all starts with a step. Followed by another. Eventually you make it. But not without putting in the work first.

So like Malcom Gladwell said, ten thousand hours here we come!

I'm putting in the work. And at a minimum, I hope that by reading this blog you can be inspired to put that work in too.

Because you may have that great idea somewhere inside. That perfect project, or that masterpiece. But if you never start, we will never get to enjoy it.

So please keep creating!


I'm going to take a breather and finish tonight's drink: Sweetwater IPA. Not a bad beer for a Saturday!

Thanks for stopping by!

The Best Time To Write

Trying to maximize the creative potential of the mind is a challenge that I have not totally mastered.

I am fascinated by the work ethic of successful artists from all genres, because of the process by which they create. Through many podcasts, blogs and other media, I feel I've learned a few things.

For some of the ones I admire most I can see their process unfold through their art.

Doesn't matter if it's stand up comedy, music, or fine arts. What I can see and what I feel comes through their art is hours of work before the final product is on display.

They've spent hours writing or creating before we get to see the result. And I'm sure they have thrown out more work than they have finished.

It's part of what I found in my own efforts too. Not everything is perfect the first time around. But the real work is in the rough drafts of the project before the masterpiece is made.

This blog is not just a hobby or a venue to showcase my projects. I mean, yes, it is those things too. But it's also a medium for me to work on my own creativity by writing and forcing my mind to create.

So when is the best time to write? For me it's always been very very late at night. With some peace and quiet and my mind open.

What do you think is the best time for you to do creative work?

December Update!

This is another slow week for my projects, because life happens. But that doesn't mean I want to neglect the blog.


We've finally entered into December, which is officially holiday season. I know Christmas kind of swallows up the other holidays with its commercialism but it certainly doesn't have to be.


Gift giving and holiday decorating doesn't mean spending lots of money. My take is that the best part of the holiday is the creativity. The special recipes, the crafts, the thoughtfulness that goes into the gifts we give.




So making something to give away should really carry more value than purchasing something expensive to give right?


So I want to take advantage of the next few weeks to put some work together to give away. Of course I'll be sharing it here on the blog. As always, I'd love to hear the feedback, and if you like it, please click one of the share buttons below!


So here is a short list of some of the stuff that I will be posting soon:


An unboxing video of my new wood burner


An unboxing video of a new handplane


The next phase in the pallet trunk chest


A new rustic variation of a pallet trunk


A video description of cleaning a pallet for using in projects,


And most likely many more!


I'm really behind on my beer reviews and I apologize! Today I'm on Gatorade and water thanks to the flu, but that won't last forever!


Thanks for stopping by!

Dealing With Creative Blocks

Sometimes the creative block hits me. What I mean is that no matter how much I want to create something, the juices aren't flowing and the process is slowed. My best strategy is to just workthrough it . Not every day is a great creative day. But waiting for the right moment is unpredictable.

So what do I do in those moments? Make something anyway. That next project may suck but it's the same as training through injuries and fatigue. Eventually things will fall into place.
Have a hot cider and rum in the meantime

Happy Turkey Day!!

Today all the creative juices will be spent in the kitchen. My drink of choice is a tumbler of Crown Royal.

Happy thanksgiving everyone!

Order Updates-I'm using Venmo!

I'm already a few weeks into my 40s and I've done my best to keep up with the worthy technology. Some of it I will never adopt, but there is some good stuff out there.

That said, I am adding a Venmo account to accept payments for projects and orders. I still have my PayPal account as well, and I never turn down green hard cash either. But paying for stuff really should be easier than it is. I've had local buyers flake on me or even try to haggle after a verbal deal is made. I understand the art of a deal. And for projects that I make, they also must realize the time it takes to make something. For a unique handmade piece, I only ask what is fair. 

So that said, here's my Venmo info: @Nathan-Graybill 

It's an easy service and I want to make it easy. Meanwhile, I'll get back to working on a few projects !

Use the contact form on the side, or leave a comment if you would like something made just for you!

Wednesday Update

I've been working long hours at my day job so the projects are a little slow...BUT I did complete a great pallet project piece that I will showcase very soon. Once the stain dries I will snap a few pictures.

I also have been working on tuning up my drawing skills. I have a few sketches that I've been working on and those too will get posted shortly.

My thoughts on the building and brews lifestyle? Always work on something, even if time is limited. Draw a sketch when you have a second. Jot down a note or a blog post even if it's short. Get something made, and always be creating. Motion creates motion.

Sometimes it's work. It's a process. But just keep moving forward.

Goodnight all!

Planning Out My Home Decor

I think a lot of Americans are at a point where their home decor is coming full circle. That 70s look is definitely dated, that 80s look was drab. The 90s and the 2000s didn't have much to offer, aside from something called "ultra-modern", which, if you ask me, is ultra boring.

So that rustic and worn Americana look is back in full force. And I kind of like it. 

It brings some familiarity, along with a homey comfort that was missing with the other afore mentioned styles.

Part of this style is the salvaged and upcycle design that I love. Which is why I am so jazzed on pallet projects.

Wood brings another layer of life into the home. I mean after all, wood is alive. Or was alive? I'm not totally sure. Trees are alive. Wood comes from trees. You do the math.

So what I'm going for is a rustic beachy Americana look. It's going to take some time. But that's part of the fun. 

Today was no exception. I was working on a pallet creation for the kitchen. Photos to follow once I get it done.

Of course I still have some half finished projects that need finishing. Buckets full of shells from the Florida beach that need to be used in something....I haven't figured it out yet. Some blank canvases that need painting. The list is long.

So the work in progress will be "in progress" for a long time to come. And truthfully, once it's done, it may be time to change it again. So the work continues. And so will this blog. 

So I'll finish up this Pabst Blue Ribbon, and get back to work. Tomorrow. Today I'm punching that proverbial clock and turning in. Goodnight all!

Late Night Rant

It's late but I need to get a quick post up on the blog.

Partly because I have been swamped with work, and family time, which cuts into my creative hobby time. That means I don't have any new project pictures to share. And I feel guilty about that.

But what I have been doing is prepping for that moment when I do have time to create more. For example, the family and I spent all day yesterday on the boat and on a nice little island beach not far from home. I put my oldest son to work collecting shells and driftwood. Why? Well I'm sure down the road I'll need those things for some craft projects.

He did good, and now I have a nice collection of shells from beautiful Florida to use in my home decore. Project photos to follow. Let me brainstorm an idea and I'll get that up on the blog.

I also spent some time chatting with my sister across the country. We discussed our creative processes and I mentioned to her that I have this blog to showcase my hobbies. And more than just physical art and projects, I also began writing again. In fact, I wrote a first draft to a short story which I threw up on my other blog( it's still in the works, but I'll give you the link here ) So check that out and leave me some criticism if you so please. http://fyrstories.blogspot.com/

I love to draw and paint but it pains me to say I don't have any new pieces to share. I did spend some time collecting photos that inspired me. I do that regularly. If I see something I like, I snap a pic so I can reference it later.

The creative process is ongoing. Never stop learning and never stop creating.

Thank you all for checking out the blog. Leave a comment below!!

Sunday Update

It's late on a Sunday and it's time for an obligatory blog post, since I've been neglectful for a few days. Work life is great which means time for side projects is limited. I do have a few pieces in the works though. Hopefully this week is a little more forgiving and I'll have some pictures of final projects to share.

On the list of pallet projects, I have a few great pieces that I'll probably end up keeping for my own home. A pair of candle sconces to hang on the landing of the stairs is almost done. For those I found a perfect pallet that had really took some abuse from the Florida sun. Once I sanded it down, the grey wood had a nice boathouse look. I'm excited to get those on the wall and burn a few candles on them, it will bring back that Americana beachy feel to my home

I've also got a great pallet fresh off the mill that I found behind Staples, that I will promptly turn into a liquor bottle rack and coffee mug holder. I know, I know, it sounds like two things that don't go together but the finished product will change your mind.

Beyond that I've got some art that needs creating.. I'm trying to master the art of ink drawing , which is a favorite style of mine. Comic book art holds my fascination.

So that said, I'll be posting some updates soon. Thanks for checking out the blog. Comments are welcome!

Tuesday Update

Today wasn't too forgiving so getting projects done was next to impossible. But I still made some time to get out to the man cave, also known as the garage, and plane a few boards for an upcoming project.

I'm motivated because I've got some buyers for some of the pieces I've made and requests for more. The best part is, I can make more stuff without worrying that my own home will fill up with my creations. Oh, and of course selling the stuff means money in my pocket. Always a plus.

I looked into making an Etsy store, so that is in the works. So look forward to some shameless stuff plugs once I get that set up.

For now I'm listing my stuff for sale locally on facebook groups and Craigslist. Of course that doesn't mean I can't ship something if you want it. Just send me a message and I'll take care of you.

Hope everyone had a great Halloween, and now we are in no shave November. Let it grow gents, let it grow!

Have a great night!

Support the Cause!

 

It's not everyday that I will dedicate a post to one of my affiliate partners, because the main purpose of this blog is content. But when I come across something good, I share it. A lot of these products are among the best out there. I tried them, and I can say with confidence that I'm happy to give them a plug. Check it out. See if it will work for you. Message me or drop a comment if you have any questions. 

-Nate

Review of Kobalt Bench Plane

When I first started working with pallets I got it in my head that working with a bench plane would solve all my problems with the rough uneven wood.

In some ways I was right. But it took some work.

I ran down to Lowes. Actually I took a leisurely drive to Lowes. I found a Kobalt bench plane for about 30 bucks. I bought it, took it home, opened the plastic and started planing.

Of course I chipped the blade on the first go, catching a nail on the edge.

For a short time I was pretty depressed, thinking I just ruined my plane. So I jumped online and after several fascinating hours of research, I realized there is a lot more to planing wood than what I had imagined.

For starters, there are some pretty entrenched schools of thought when it comes to how to set up a plane, how to sharpen, and what brands are best.

The Kobalt is generally not regarded very highly by plane "purists", because of the cheap machining on the plane.

Here's where I'm going to help you out.

Yes, you can drop a couple hundred dollars on well put together planes, do the maintenance, and keep them going for years.

Or

Spend 30 bucks like I did, and put in a little work to prep the tool and get your money's worth on the first go around. For now, in my situation, economical is better.

I took the plane completely apart.

I started with re-sharpening the blade that I ruined. Check.

I then went through each piece of the plane and checked the machining, sanding down irregularities, smoothing the parts that needed it, and generally fine tuning a cheap plane to bring it to life.

Once I put everything back together, things were great. 30 bucks well spent.



So for the DIYer I would absolutely recommend the Kobalt. Just be prepared to spend a good hour setting up the plane once you unbox it. Down the road, if hand planing becomes a big part of your craftsmanship, go ahead and spend more to get a more professional grade plane. For now, save the money, and use it to get the rest of your workshop set up.

Good luck, and feel free to message me with any questions. Thanks for stopping by!

Shameless Plug!

Holidays are coming, and here's a link to get a few self care products for the ladies in your life. 

There's a few things for the guys too. I personally am a fan of the soaps, for when I really get dirty! 

Take a look, it supports this site, and you can get some great deals. Thanks for stopping by!!!

Got stocking stuffers?

Just a useless update

Love the title? Sweet. So here's the plan.

I have a laundry list of projects, and I want to do more step by step posts on each thing. It will take time. And that's the tough part. So for now bare with me and my short postings.

I'll try to continue to at minimum post a pic of the final product as I go. If you have some questions or need me to elaborate on how any of them were done, just shoot me a message or leave a comment.

This blog will get better with time.

Along with more detailed posts of each project, I do plan to do some video. That should be a plus.

So there you have it. My useless update !

Goodnight!