Over the past several years, partly because of the work I do now, I have gotten into working with my hands and building things. I have shared some of my projects before, but wanted to share some of the things I got to do throughout 2020. I got to learn some new things/techniques, and I was able to make some mistakes and improve my skills along the way. So, here they are in no particular order.

I was able to finish the retaining wall in the front (our Covid lockdown project) and put a new porch light on the house.

Built some birthday projects this year: a toy gun for Charlie and a desk for Chloe. With the desk, I got a chance to try some new things: tapered legs and dowel joinery.

I built a pair of stools for in the garage out of lumber and electrical conduit that was rescued from the dumpster. I built Kara a school supplies holder thing (tote?). I took my EDC tray and integrated it into the top of my night stand. I also took an online course in 3D modeling for the purpose of designing my projects before I build.

Dustin tried his hand at designing and building too, putting together a table for the kids’ castle.

Kara and I tried to come up with ideas and make Christmas gifts this year so we built candle holders and homemade beeswax candles for my sister-in-law and future sister-in-law, toy muskets for my niece and nephews, and a wood and leather portfolio for my brother to display his artwork in.

After wanting to for a long time, I was able to add some real electrical to my garage shop, 2 dedicated 20A circuits plus a 15A for lighting/general use. Plus I cleaned up and completely rewired my electrical panel. Now to finish cleaning and organizing my tools and supplies.

A router table and a miter saw stand are a couple of the things I have planned for this coming year but we’ll see what budget/time allow for.