How to Build a Railing

Building a railing around the edge of a deck or above ground pool is a great project for the hobby DIY person, it combines carpentry and building within a relatively easy project that is both useful and extremely satisfying to build. In some localities a deck or above ground platform that is 40 inches high requires a railing to prevent accidental falls over the edge, high enough to cause broken bones in most people, or at the very least a serious strain. Building a railing on a platform that was not designed to take one can be challenging, and may require a fair bit of modification to fit the posts. Most of the strength of a railing is in the posts, so the timber needs to be strong, a minimum of 3×4, straight, and securely attached. The base of the post needs to be attached to the joist...

How to Build a Fort

No child should go without building a fort once in their lives. A safe haven from the entire outside world, the fort is a great addition to any yard in which children play. Forts can be placed anywhere practically, from trees and on tops of houses, to just in the corner of the fence.   Required Materials/Tools Plywood/sheeting (for the walls and floor) Screws and nails Drill Instructions Figure out where the fort is located. Do you want it to be in a tree or attached to a pre-existing structure. Be sure to locate it near an electrical power supply so we can add amenities as needed. When you choose the location, the best idea is to design the fort on paper and make a list of supplies that you will need. Place the floor braces. We are going to use 2X4′s and drive them into the ground...

How to Carve Bone

Many cultures around the world have used bone in their quest to becoming a higher and more sophisticated society. You can trace back the art of carving bones to the early Stone Age as bones were used as tools, jewelry, weapons, needles, and other various devices like boxes and figurines. Bone carvings can be valued treasures, their pristine beauty and flawless quality is unparalleled by even granite statues. They are light weight, but sturdy and can be shaped to fit your needs quite easily as described below. Required Materials Animal bone Required Tools Some engraving chisels An etching knife A scraper A leather mat A course triangular and a course round file A coping saw Sandpaper Small hand drill or dremel tool Eye protection and a mask Background Information When you think of bone carving,...