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iOS 18 Tips, Tricks, How-Tos, News

How To: Fold a bandsaw blade

The best way to store a bandsaw blade is to fold it. Here is a simple technique that gets the job done quickly and safely. Wearing gloves if the blade is wider than 1 in. is strongly recommended. Fold a bandsaw blade.

How To: Pick the right lathes for turning big bowls

Barnum, a woodturning instructor at State University of New York in Purchase, shows off the powerful motors on these lathes, which offer high torque at low speeds -- ideal for turning big-diameter or off-balance work. He also demonstrates how the heft, speed control, and outboard turning capabilities make these lathes ideal for just about any turning project. Pick the right lathes for turning big bowls.

How To: Use a shovel properly

Even if you are using a shovel improperly, you'll still wind up with a hole. You'll probably also wind up with a sore back. Learn how to use a shovel the proper way. You'll need to select the Real Player or Quicktime link to actually start the video. Use a shovel properly.

How To: Tune up a circular-saw

You don’t have to take your circular saw to the shop for a tune-up; we’ve brought the shop to you. Learn how to extend the life of your saw with simple cleaning and general maintenance. There's no 3,000 mile rule here, but if your saw starts running slower than normal, or you see sparks coming from the back of the housing, it’s time for a tune-up. Tune up a circular-saw.

How To: Make a story stick

Kitchen cabinets have multiple pieces that must fit together like a jigsaw puzzle. A story stick will help keep the measurements accurate when transferring them from the installation site to the layout and fabrication shop. Watch and learn how to build this helpful tool. Make a story stick.

How To: Make a cut bucket

A new or used gallon paint can with the rim cut off makes a perfect container to load your brush from. There's no rim to get in the way when you slap the brush against the side, and no lip to get messy from dripping paint. Learn how to make a cut bucket for your next paint project here. Make a cut bucket.

How To: Accurately use a tape measure

Not all tapes are created equal, so here are a few tips for making accurate measurements. “Measure twice and cut once,” is the mantra of all carpenters, but it won't make a difference if the measurement is inaccurate or your math is wrong. Accurately use a tape measure.

How To: Use and maintain a weed eater

In this series of videos, you will learn more about weed eater maintenance. You will learn about various types of weed eaters, and how to clean them and keep them free of dirt, rust, and grass clippings. You'll get tips on changing the spool, as well as tips on handling both gas-powered and electric weed eaters.

How To: Use a high limb chainsaw

In this how-to video series, learn how to use a high limb chainsaw from building and landscaping expert Matthew Christian. Matthew will teach about using high limb chainsaws with tips such as high limb chainsaw safety tips, how to oil the chain on a chainsaw, and how to store a high limb chainsaw.

How To: Use a cordless nailer

In this how-to video series, learn how to use a cordless nailer from certified building contractor Matthew Christian. Matthew will demonstrate how to load nails in a cordless nailer, how to unjam a cordless nailer, how to change air cartridges and air filters in a cordless nailer, how to properly handle a cordless nailer, how to change the battery in a cordless nailer, how to charge cordless nailer batteries, how to oil cordless nailers, how to flush a cordless nailer.

How To: Use weed eaters and push & riding lawn mowers

In this series of expert videos, you will learn more about lawnmower maintenance. You will learn how to start your lawn mower as well as clean it and keep it free of dirt, rust, and grass clippings. Get tips on changing the oil and air filter on your lawnmower. Learn how to mix two-stroke fuel for your mower. Watch as our expert removes gas, foam filters, and dirty spark plugs from a lawnmower. When changing the blades of your lawnmower, use precautionary measures demonstrated in these videos...

How To: Use a finish nailer or brad nailer

In this video series you'll learn how to use a brad nailer from expert Jon Olson. He demonstrates how to lubricate, prepare and load the nail gun, how to deal with a jam, how to set the nail depth and pressure, and basic tool safety. He also shows you how to identify the different parts of the finishing nailer, and how to perform daily maintenance and more.

How To: Use a power screwdriver

In this online video series learn from power tool expert and Industrial Technology teacher Jon Olson as he teaches and demonstrates how to use and maintain the power screwdriver. Learn important power tool tips and techniques such as construction work area safety, electrical safety, how to use the chuck on a power screwdriver; how to use a power screwdriver; tool maintenance; battery tool use and care; how to use the torque adjustment collar; how to drive a screw at an angle; how to use the v...

How To: Cut and bend sheet metal

In this series of video clips, you’ll learn tips and techniques for using various types of metal shears, including how to use hand-held and foot-operated types of metal shears, and how to use a metal press and metal hole punch. Expert Jon Olson offers advice on cutting procedures, the proper clothing and precautions, and advice on maintaining and cleaning metal shears. Jon also covers the electrical requirements for operating an electric shear, the various points of danger when operating the ...

How To: Use a fixed base power router

In this power tool video series, learn how a fixed base power router works. Our expert will demonstrate how to properly use this woodworking tool, including general shop and tool safety tips, what you need to know before making a cut, installing and removing the bit, setting cut depth, and determining the direction of feed for the router.

How To: Use a reciprocating saw

In this instructional video series, learn the proper, safe way to use a reciprocating saw. Our expert will give you tips and techniques for doing metal and wood cutting work in a variety of settings. Demonstrations include important safety guidelines for saw use, choosing the reciprocating saw blade that is right for the job, how to replace a blade, and how to cut wood and metal.

How To: Use a chop saw

A chop (or miter) saw is a power tool used to make accurate cross cuts in wood, plastic, and light metals. It has a fixed blade, attached to a moving arm, that spins over a small worktable. The operator lines up the piece to be cut and drops the saw blade, allowing for quick, easy work. Watch this instructional video series, and decide if the chop saw is a tool you'd like to introduce into your workshop. Lessons include general safety tips, uses for the chop saw, replacing the cutting saw bla...

How To: Be your own locksmith

Jim Koch has worked as a repo man and a locksmith. He gives you an insider's perspective on how to theft-proof your home by setting up surveillance systems and engraving your possessions. He also explains the basic workings of several kinds of locks and how to pick them. So next time you like lose your keys, you'll know exactly how to get in. And how to keep Big and his friends out.

How To: Buy a rake

Dr. Rick looks at a new type rake. When buying a rake look for something lightweight, something made of aluminum. That way there are no splinters and it is easy to handle. This rake has a nice soft place at the top and at the base where the hand fits, thus fewer blisters. Where it picks up stuff it's curved so when pressure is placed the rake folds back and is effective at moving grass clippings, wood chips or anything else.