Hot Tools & Equipment How-Tos
How To: Use a lathe for woodworking project
In this series of woodworking videos, our home shop expert shows you how to create just such lids and in the process gives you professional tips on how to master the lathe. He also discusses how to sand and stain your lid and includes clips on the use of other workshop mainstays such as the caliper and the band saw.
How To: Use and maintain a chainsaw
In this how to video series, learn how to use a chainsaw and how to maintain a chainsaw from chainsaw expert George Finn. George will show you how to safely use a chainsaw, what type of safety gear to use, how to disconnect a chainsaw sparkplug, how to tighten the chain on a chainsaw, how to mix gas and oil for chainsaw fuel, how to add gas and bar & chain oil to a chainsaw, how to sharpen a chainsaw chain, how to replace the chain on a chainsaw, how to start a chainsaw, how to replace the ai...
How To: Use a framing nailer
In this video series learn how to use a nail gun from master carpenter Robert McMahon. Learn about the framing nailer and its features, and the different types of nails for your nail gun. Watch these video to learn through-nailing technique, how to toenail, how to troubleshoot problems with your nail gun, how to adjust the depth gauge, how to avoid splitting the wood when using the nail gun, and how to use the nail gun to pin headers and trim, and how to maintain your nail gun.This series is ...
How To: Use a belt sander
In this do-it-yourself video series, learn how to use a belt sander. This power tool allows you to complete large woodworking projects in minutes instead of hours, saving you the back-breaking effort of smoothing out large areas of rough wood by hand. Our expert will give you easy-to-follow shop safety tips, as well as how to care for and maintain your sander, how to operate the trigger system, and what types of wood to use.
How To: Use a finishing sander
In this online video series, learn how to use a finishing sander and how to maintain it, from woodworking instructor Jon Olson. He will teach you the parts of a finishing sander, and general safety and electrical safety for using a finishing sander. Jon will demonstrate how to replace the sandpaper of your finishing sander, how to hold your finishing sander, how to use proper sanding technique with a finishing sander, how to sand edges of wood using a finishing sander, how to use the power sw...
How To: Build a sawhorse
In this instructional video, Expert Village construction specialist Jon Olson teaches how to build a sawhorse. He teaches how to find the building plans, tools and materials needed; how to cut and attach the I Beam, legs, sides and end; and finally how to use a sawhorse.
How To: Use cut out tools
In this expert video series, John Olson describes how to use cutout tools. He demonstrates safety tips, and he shows us how to mark, cut, and install an outlet box. So, whether you are cutting through drywall or wood, familiarize yourself with cut out tools today!
How To: Build a basic tool box
In this series of instructional video clips you'll learn how to build the perfect tool kit for your home improvement needs. Expert Carolyn Saylors offers tips on choosing the right type of box to store your tools in, and shows you step-by step what tools are absolutely necessary to keep in your home. She explains the various types of screwdrivers, including torque and all-in-one models, the most commonly used types of pliers, wrenches and ratchet kits, drill bits, small saws, levels and hamme...
How To: Use a miter saw
A miter saw used to refer either to a large unpowered backsaw or metal frame saw with replaceable blades suspended on rollers in a metal guide that allowed making accurate crosscuts and miter cuts. These types of miter saws are still sold, the Nobex brand being notable. Today, they are generally used in picture framing but have largely been displaced by the power tool in carpentry and joinery operations.
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, ripping, how to replace a blade, and how to cut wood and metal.
How To: Fix a lawnmower
Are you having trouble balancing the cutting deck of your small engine lawnmower? Our expert will teach you how to do this and many other things including careful removal of the engine’s cutting blade. You will also see how to sharpen the blade and reinstall it safely and efficiently. Watch as our lawnmower maintenance expert removes and reinstalls a carburetor on a small engine lawnmower. Learn how cleaning the carburetor can improve the working mechanism of your lawnmower and see first hand...
How To: MIG weld
In this online video series of welding instructions learn from expert welder Mike Rogers as he teaches and demonstrates how to MIG weld. In these demonstrations learn how to use a mig welder including purchasing a mig welder, welding safety, how to set up a mig welder, loading wire into a mig welder, how to prepare metal for welding, preparing and welding a butt joint, tacking a weld, welding an angled joint, how to do puddle joints, and how to clean a welder.
How To: Use an arc weld
In this instructional video series, learn both safety tips and beginning welding techniques for shielded metal arc welding. Perfect for novice welders, these lessons cover basics like running a bead of weld, closed vessel safety, electrode care and maintenance, helmet safety, and how to strike an arc every time. Learn how to weld the right way!
How To: Be safe when welding
In this welding safety video series, learn from expert welder and welding teacher Malcolm MacDonald as he gives welding safety instructions, tips, and techniques on topics including: safety equipment (gloves, helmets); protecting yourself from fumes, fires, welding smoke, electric shocks; what not to do; welding on closed vessels; welding in wet conditions; handling gas cylinders; proper ventilation; tool safety; and tripping hazards.
How To: Get techniques for tig, mig and arc welds
In this video clip series, our expert will demonstrate the ways in which you prepare a welding machine, manage voltage and energy levels as well as techniques for the different modes of operation and equipment. Learn how to use the weld supplies, tig, wig and arc welds and more. Techniques such as the “Push and Pull” are explained and demonstrated, as well as basic information such as setting up the welding machine and an introduction to the gases used for welding are included.
How To: Use a random orbit sander
In this series of instructional videos, expert Jon Olson demonstrates how to use a random orbit sander, including tips on how to create bevels, replace discs and brushes, empty the dust bag and general cleaning, care and basic maintenance of the tool. He also covers tool safety, including electrical safety, personal safety, such as wearing protective eye gear, tips for sanding paint and the importance of keeping your woodworking work space clean. Watch this free online tutorial and you'll att...
How To: Get tips for beginning arc welding
In this instructional video series, learn both safety tips and beginning welding techniques for shielded metal arc welding. Perfect for novice welders, these lessons cover basics like running a bead of weld, choosing the right electrode for the job, helmet safety, and how to strike an arc every time. Learn how to weld the right way!
How To: Repair a lawnmower
In this series of expert videos, you will learn more about lawnmower maintenance. Watch these videos to see how easy do-it-yourself lawnmower maintenance can be! You will learn how to clean your lawn mowing machine, 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 y...