A fresh coat of paint or a new faucet can transform a room, and smaller home improvement tasks are often straightforward for most DIYers. But when it comes to larger projects—like installing hardwood floors, replacing or updating kitchen cabinets, or retiling a bathroom—the stakes and complexity rise. How do you know where to begin and … Read more

Last week I had the chance to interview HGTV designer Libby Langdon and home technology expert David Gregg. I joined the session remotely and watched their answers on a live feed. There was a slight delay in the stream, but overall the experience was engaging and informative. The two guests were not given my exact … Read more

Last week I traveled to Milwaukee to attend the annual Milwaukee Tool new tool symposium. I always enjoy that city, and Milwaukee Tool was an excellent host. We stayed at the Brewhouse Suites, located in the historic Pabst Brewery building that once produced beer from 1904 through the mid-1960s. I usually travel light, but for … Read more

Have you ever been confused by the terminology surrounding off-road vehicles? This guide breaks down common drivetrain systems so you can choose the right setup for your adventures with confidence and clarity. All-Wheel Drive (AWD): The Versatile Everyday Trail Partner All-wheel drive (AWD) delivers power to all four wheels continuously or as needed, improving traction … Read more

Milwaukee Tool introduces the fastest cutting 18-volt circular saw on the market with the M18 FUEL™ 6-1/2” Circular Saw Kit (2730-22). Designed to match tasks once reserved for corded saws, this cordless model delivers up to 30% faster cutting, twice the run-time, and three times the motor life compared to competitors. Engineered for demanding professionals, … Read more

Chicago is home to an unusually large community of home renovation bloggers, and among the most respected are Aaron and Jeanne Marie Olson. For the past six years they have documented the restoration of their 1914 bungalow on HouseinProgress.net and helped build Houseblogs.net, a community-driven resource for DIY homeowners and renovators. When compiling this Chicago … Read more

With the help of several contributors, we’ve explored aspects of nursery design and preparing for a baby, including tips on recycling a crib and safe do-it-yourself projects during pregnancy. We’ve applied many of those suggestions in our own home, and this week we’re launching a Nesting Series to document our process: designing the nursery, converting … Read more

Autumn is the ideal season for camping in Southern California — the temperatures are comfortable and the crowds thin out. This year, many campgrounds remain closed or partially restricted because of nearby wildfires, so instead of letting our gear gather dust, we decided to set up camp at home. Backyard camping delivers the same sense … Read more

The Dremel VersaTip butane soldering torch, together with the Dremel VersaFlame, introduces a versatile new product line from Dremel aimed at expanding the capabilities of your hobby toolbox. Dremel’s compact tools are already staples for many makers and DIYers; the VersaTip builds on that reputation by adding a portable, cordless heat tool that unlocks many … Read more

I first encountered the Land Rover Defender 90 in college and was immediately captivated by its iconic boxy silhouette and unmistakable British heritage. It wasn’t a Jeep — not that there’s anything wrong with Jeeps — but the Defender 90 has always felt like a step above in both capability and presence. Although I’ve since … Read more