A tool is only as good as the man (or woman) who looks after it. In my workshop notes, I share the maintenance routines that keep my gear running for decades, along with practical storage solutions for the typical UK shed or garage. These are the ‘behind the scenes’ tips on tool care, restoration, and organization that keep a workshop productive.
Using a screwdriver seems simple — until the screw slips, the bit chews up the head, or you can’t get enough grip to turn it. Most of these problems come down to technique, not strength. In this guide, I’ll show you the correct way to use a screwdriver, how to avoid cam‑out, and how to … Read more
A well‑maintained angle grinder lasts longer, runs smoother, and stays safer to use. Dust, metal filings, and debris build up quickly inside the vents and around the motor, especially if you’re cutting or grinding metal. I’ve been using angle grinders for over 50 years in my workshop here in Northern Ireland, and in this guide … Read more
Polishing metal with an angle grinder is a fast and effective way to restore shine, remove scratches, and bring dull metal back to life. Whether you’re cleaning up steel, polishing aluminium, or restoring old tools, an angle grinder can give you a smooth, mirror‑like finish with the right attachments. I’ve been doing this for years … Read more
Cutting wood with an angle grinder is one of those topics that divides opinion. Some people say it’s fine, others say it’s dangerous — and the truth is somewhere in the middle. You can cut wood with an angle grinder, but only with the right disc, the right technique, and a clear understanding of the … Read more
⭐ How to Cut Tiles with an Angle Grinder (Clean, Accurate Cuts UK) Cutting tiles with an angle grinder is a handy skill when you need to make quick cuts, curved cuts, or notches that a tile cutter can’t handle. Whether you’re fitting around pipes, sockets, or awkward corners, an angle grinder gives you the … Read more
Sharpening tools with an angle grinder is fast, effective, and ideal for restoring edges on garden tools, workshop tools, and general household kit. Whether you’re sharpening a lawnmower blade, an axe, a chisel, or a shovel, an angle grinder can bring a dull edge back to life in minutes. I’ve been doing this for decades … Read more
⭐ How to Remove Rust with an Angle Grinder (Fast & Effective Guide UK) Removing rust with an angle grinder is one of the quickest ways to restore metal. Whether you’re cleaning up old tools, prepping steel for painting, or restoring a gate or trailer, an angle grinder can strip rust in seconds. I’ve been … Read more
How to Change an Angle Grinder Disc (Quick & Safe Guide UK) Changing an angle grinder disc is a simple job once you know the right steps — but it’s also one of the most common things beginners get wrong. Whether you’re switching from a cutting disc to a flap disc, replacing a worn wheel, … Read more
Cutting metal with an angle grinder is one of the most useful DIY skills you can learn. Whether you’re trimming bolts, cutting steel pipe, shaping sheet metal, or removing rusted fixings, an angle grinder makes the job fast and accurate. I’ve been using these tools for over 50 years in my workshop here in Northern … Read more
In this article I am going to explain step by step how to use a hacksaw properly. Hacksaws are used to cut metal or plastic. Typical items that are cut using a hacksaw are curtain poles, conduit, bolts, metal rods, carpet grippers for around doors, etc. They should never be used to cut wood. Expert … Read more
