Uncharted DIY is for DIY enthusiasts tackling uncommon projects, utilizing common tools and often on a limited budget
Featured DIY How-To Projects
Broken Cord Loop Repair for Shades and Blinds
Can’t raise or lower shades due to a broken cord loop? Easy DIY replacement for under $10!
Leslie’s Shaker Table Build Made A Massive Project Easier
With a huge job ahead of her, Leslie built her Shaker Table, transforming her landscape…
Revive Your Rusty Evaporative Swamp Cooler
Rusting evaporative swamp coolers are expensive to replace…Revive yours instead!
Laser Distance Meter Tips & Tricks
Laser Distance Meters are amazing tools, and here are some ways to get the most out of ANY LDM…
How To Use a Laser Distance Meter: Basic and Advanced Functions
Learn what all the functions of Laser Distance Meters actually do, and how to use them.
Build a “Suite” Mason Bee Hotel
Mason and Leafcutter bees are just two amazing solitary orchard bee species. They boast an impressive 95% pollination rate…
More DIY Projects and Product Reviews
DIY Shaker Table Project
Called many things: screen sieve, vibrating screen, compost screener, trommel tray, powered dirt mesh sifter, and many more…
Easy DIY Lazy Susan – No Power Tools Required
Perfect for beginner and advanced DIYers! Make one for yourself or to give as a gift…
Protect Cavity Nests, Nest Boxes and Feeders – Effective Predator Defense
Cats, raccoons, snakes and other predators raid nests, killing the birds and eating the eggs or young. Squirrels want the nest for themselves…
Hoover SteamVac and Vax Hot Water Tanks that Crack and Leak
Hoover machines of similar design have the issue of the tanks cracking. Replacement tanks cost $90 and up…
Rain Barrel – Simple, High Quality, Made with Easy to Find Parts
Capture and use water that would otherwise run off into the storm drains. Conserve and save money with this easy DIY project…
Removable Countertop Extensions – Add Seating or Work Space
We never had enough seating at our countertop dining area “table”, so removable extensions solved the problem…
Protected: PRO Hardware
There is no excerpt because this is a protected post.
Inkerma Bilateral Laser Distance Meter
Are two lasers in one laser measuring tool useful? Let’s check out this laser distance meter to see…
APEXFORGE Laser Distance Meters
Magic D80 Pro vs. Magic D50 Nano. Which one is right for you?
How To Use a Laser Distance Meter: Basic and Advanced Functions
Learn what all the functions of Laser Distance Meters actually do, and how to use them.
Compost Tumbler with A-Frame Base – Tumbler with a Twist
This design is wheelbarrow friendly. Now, emptying the compost doesn’t have to be a messy job…
Full Extension Drawer Slides for Cheap Center Slide Cabinets
Cheap center slide drawers only opened part way, they were rough, and hard to open or close. Upgraded full extension slides made them feel like new…
DIY Vocal Recording Booth on Your Desktop
Dramatically improve your VoiceOvers AND improve the acoustics in your working space at the same time!…
HOTO Tools Smart Laser Measure
Could something this small contain a bevy of big features?
Protected: Proven Brands
There is no excerpt because this is a protected post.
Raccoons & Critter Deterrent: Project S.C.R.A.M. Remote Water Sprayer
Critters with boundary issues invading your yard? DIY camera & app controlled water blaster deterrent makes them afraid to return!…
Broken Cord Loop Repair for Shades and Blinds
Can’t raise or lower shades due to a broken cord loop? Easy DIY replacement for under $10!
Finally… a Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder that works!
A squirrel proof solution that really works! Keep them out of the bird feeder! Super easy DIY, 2 hours and under $20…
The Ultimate Shop Vac Dust Collection Cart – Hot Rodded!
Top performance from your shop vac for less money, plus unique features not found on other designs…
5 Essential DIY Tools You Need, But Didn’t Know You Need!
These make great gift ideas for any DIYer too! These 5 tools turned out to be so helpful, and solve problems so effectively that I wonder how I got this far in life without them!
Leslie’s Shaker Table Build Made A Massive Project Easier
With a huge job ahead of her, Leslie built her Shaker Table, transforming her landscape…
Protected: Medtronic DBS (Deep Brain Stimulation)
There is no excerpt because this is a protected post.
Portable Air Conditioner – Vent Through Wall
Air conditioner vent hose too short? No window? No Problem! Vent your portable AC through the wall, with a stealthy…
Hoover SteamVac and Vax: Brushes Stop Spinning – $10 Fix
My Hoover SteamVac tank had serious leaks and the carpet brushes stopped spinning…
Revive Your Rusty Evaporative Swamp Cooler
Rusting evaporative swamp coolers are expensive to replace…Revive yours instead!
Gas Grill Grief? Convert To Ceramic Briquettes.
Burnt food, flare ups, flames, hot spots, grease fires and dry, overcooked barbecued meals can be a distant memory!…
DIY Easy Rolling Shelf Rack for Uneven Surfaces
A quick and easy mobile rack for almost any type of outdoor terrain. Adaptable to tool carts, storage shelves, seedling stand…
Bird Window Strikes are easily preventable – DIY BirdSavers
Birds hitting windows kills more birds than any other cause. Prevent injury or death with a simple, inexpensive DIY solution…
Replace Bath Fan Motor, Not Whole Fixture or Pricey Motor Assembly
The motor in my bath fan with infrared heater combo unit died, and I found the very idea of having to go into the attic to replace the fixture exhausting!
Laser Distance Meter Tips & Tricks
Laser Distance Meters are amazing tools, and here are some ways to get the most out of ANY LDM…
How to Make a Loud Oxygen Concentrator Quieter
5 simple DIY ways to reduce the noise without making permanent changes
Cold Frame with Double Walls, Protective Screen and Automatic Opener
You no longer have to choose between protective screens OR automatic openers for ventilation. Now you can have both!
Hoover SteamVac and Vax Valves that Leak
Even before the tank started cracking and causing serious leaks, the valves began to drip water AND concentrated cleaning solution everywhere…
Protected: Uncharted DIY
There is no excerpt because this is a protected post.
Build a “Suite” Mason Bee Hotel
Mason and Leafcutter bees are just two amazing solitary orchard bee species. They boast an impressive 95% pollination rate…
Protected: Medtronic Stent Graft Systems
There is no excerpt because this is a protected post.
Protected: Land O’ Lakes
There is no excerpt because this is a protected post.
A Portable Air Conditioner with a Split Personality
Too hot or too cold? This Keystone can solve both those issues in the same portable AC!
Shorten Bar Stools with Metal Legs – Cut Precisely and Evenly
The stools could only be adjusted to 24″ or 29″, with nothing in between. You know, the “Goldilocks” problem of too high or too short…
Flicker Woodpecker Nest Box from Cedar Pickets – Lightweight, Inexpensive
How to build a large nest box for Northern Flicker woodpeckers, using lightweight, inexpensive cedar pickets. Costs less than $30…
HOTO Tools 12V Brushless Drill – Unboxing and Review
This drill looks amazing, but is it useful? Let’s find out!
More DIY Projects and Product Reviews
Hoover SteamVac and Vax Hot Water Tanks that Crack and Leak
Hoover machines of similar design have the issue of the tanks cracking. Replacement tanks cost $90 and up…
Flicker Woodpecker Nest Box from Cedar Pickets – Lightweight, Inexpensive
How to build a large nest box for Northern Flicker woodpeckers, using lightweight, inexpensive cedar pickets. Costs less than $30…
Hoover SteamVac and Vax: Brushes Stop Spinning – $10 Fix
My Hoover SteamVac tank had serious leaks and the carpet brushes stopped spinning…
Removable Countertop Extensions – Add Seating or Work Space
We never had enough seating at our countertop dining area “table”, so removable extensions solved the problem…
Protected: Medtronic Stent Graft Systems
There is no excerpt because this is a protected post.
Raccoons & Critter Deterrent: Project S.C.R.A.M. Remote Water Sprayer
Critters with boundary issues invading your yard? DIY camera & app controlled water blaster deterrent makes them afraid to return!…
Laser Distance Meter Tips & Tricks
Laser Distance Meters are amazing tools, and here are some ways to get the most out of ANY LDM…
Protected: Uncharted DIY
There is no excerpt because this is a protected post.
DIY Shaker Table Project
Called many things: screen sieve, vibrating screen, compost screener, trommel tray, powered dirt mesh sifter, and many more…
Cold Frame with Double Walls, Protective Screen and Automatic Opener
You no longer have to choose between protective screens OR automatic openers for ventilation. Now you can have both!
HOTO Tools Smart Laser Measure
Could something this small contain a bevy of big features?
Replace Bath Fan Motor, Not Whole Fixture or Pricey Motor Assembly
The motor in my bath fan with infrared heater combo unit died, and I found the very idea of having to go into the attic to replace the fixture exhausting!
Protected: Proven Brands
There is no excerpt because this is a protected post.
Protect Cavity Nests, Nest Boxes and Feeders – Effective Predator Defense
Cats, raccoons, snakes and other predators raid nests, killing the birds and eating the eggs or young. Squirrels want the nest for themselves…
5 Essential DIY Tools You Need, But Didn’t Know You Need!
These make great gift ideas for any DIYer too! These 5 tools turned out to be so helpful, and solve problems so effectively that I wonder how I got this far in life without them!
Portable Air Conditioner – Vent Through Wall
Air conditioner vent hose too short? No window? No Problem! Vent your portable AC through the wall, with a stealthy…
Finally… a Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder that works!
A squirrel proof solution that really works! Keep them out of the bird feeder! Super easy DIY, 2 hours and under $20…
Shorten Bar Stools with Metal Legs – Cut Precisely and Evenly
The stools could only be adjusted to 24″ or 29″, with nothing in between. You know, the “Goldilocks” problem of too high or too short…
How To Use a Laser Distance Meter: Basic and Advanced Functions
Learn what all the functions of Laser Distance Meters actually do, and how to use them.
Build a “Suite” Mason Bee Hotel
Mason and Leafcutter bees are just two amazing solitary orchard bee species. They boast an impressive 95% pollination rate…
APEXFORGE Laser Distance Meters
Magic D80 Pro vs. Magic D50 Nano. Which one is right for you?
Broken Cord Loop Repair for Shades and Blinds
Can’t raise or lower shades due to a broken cord loop? Easy DIY replacement for under $10!
Leslie’s Shaker Table Build Made A Massive Project Easier
With a huge job ahead of her, Leslie built her Shaker Table, transforming her landscape…
How to Make a Loud Oxygen Concentrator Quieter
5 simple DIY ways to reduce the noise without making permanent changes
The Ultimate Shop Vac Dust Collection Cart – Hot Rodded!
Top performance from your shop vac for less money, plus unique features not found on other designs…
A Portable Air Conditioner with a Split Personality
Too hot or too cold? This Keystone can solve both those issues in the same portable AC!
Hoover SteamVac and Vax Valves that Leak
Even before the tank started cracking and causing serious leaks, the valves began to drip water AND concentrated cleaning solution everywhere…
Protected: PRO Hardware
There is no excerpt because this is a protected post.
DIY Vocal Recording Booth on Your Desktop
Dramatically improve your VoiceOvers AND improve the acoustics in your working space at the same time!…
Full Extension Drawer Slides for Cheap Center Slide Cabinets
Cheap center slide drawers only opened part way, they were rough, and hard to open or close. Upgraded full extension slides made them feel like new…
Protected: Land O’ Lakes
There is no excerpt because this is a protected post.
Gas Grill Grief? Convert To Ceramic Briquettes.
Burnt food, flare ups, flames, hot spots, grease fires and dry, overcooked barbecued meals can be a distant memory!…
Easy DIY Lazy Susan – No Power Tools Required
Perfect for beginner and advanced DIYers! Make one for yourself or to give as a gift…
DIY Easy Rolling Shelf Rack for Uneven Surfaces
A quick and easy mobile rack for almost any type of outdoor terrain. Adaptable to tool carts, storage shelves, seedling stand…
Compost Tumbler with A-Frame Base – Tumbler with a Twist
This design is wheelbarrow friendly. Now, emptying the compost doesn’t have to be a messy job…
Bird Window Strikes are easily preventable – DIY BirdSavers
Birds hitting windows kills more birds than any other cause. Prevent injury or death with a simple, inexpensive DIY solution…
HOTO Tools 12V Brushless Drill – Unboxing and Review
This drill looks amazing, but is it useful? Let’s find out!
Rain Barrel – Simple, High Quality, Made with Easy to Find Parts
Capture and use water that would otherwise run off into the storm drains. Conserve and save money with this easy DIY project…
Protected: Medtronic DBS (Deep Brain Stimulation)
There is no excerpt because this is a protected post.
Inkerma Bilateral Laser Distance Meter
Are two lasers in one laser measuring tool useful? Let’s check out this laser distance meter to see…
Revive Your Rusty Evaporative Swamp Cooler
Rusting evaporative swamp coolers are expensive to replace…Revive yours instead!
Welcome to Uncharted DIY, dedicated to helping you to achieve DIY success!
Do you have an unusual DIY project but can’t seem to find useful how-to information? Do you want to Do It Yourself, Differently? There are so many benefits and reasons to DIY, so you’ve come to the right place!
Here you’ll find DIY How-To Projects, Product Reviews, Plans, and Links to useful tools and materials. If there is something you’d like to see, let me know in the comments or contact form.
Do It Yourself, but not alone — let’s build something great together!
Welcome to Uncharted DIY, dedicated to helping you to achieve DIY success!
Do you have an unusual DIY project but can’t seem to find useful how-to information? Do you want to Do It Yourself, Differently? There are so many benefits and reasons to DIY, so you’ve come to the right place!
Here you’ll find DIY How-To Projects, Product Reviews, Plans, and Links to useful tools and materials. If there is something you’d like to see, let me know in the comments or contact form.
Do It Yourself, but not alone — let’s build something great together!
rick
04/04/2022 @ 2:45 pm
i watched your video about the compost barrel but i am not sure where you could pick up the barrel from or the aerator that fits inside it could you give me some ideas on where to find these items at
Uncharted Steve
04/04/2022 @ 3:08 pm
Hi Rick,
The barrel I used was from a company called “Container Reclaimer” that sells used barrels and totes. I don’t know if they have any other locations or if they are just local.
For used, I would recommend Craigslist, Nextdoor or other local ad listings for used barrels, but regardless of where you get one, I highly recommend making sure that it was only used for food-safe uses. Sometimes these types of barrels are used for chemicals, and I don’t think they’d ever be safe for compost.
Otherwise, Home Depot has new ones, but they are more expensive. Use search terms such as shipping barrels, poly barrels, shipping containers, etc.
As for the aerator, I’m not sure what you are referring to, but you can download the free plans that list everything along with photos and commonly used descriptions. That way you can bring the list to the hardware store and use it as a shopping list.
I hope that helps,
Steve
Lee Pennington
10/30/2022 @ 11:08 pm
Hi Steve,
Watched your Youtube video about your “DYI Shaker Table.
I must have watched 25 (or more) Youtube videos before finding yours, and I have to say, Yours is the BEST!
As soon as your Youtube video was over, I purchased your “Shaker Table Plans & Tutorial Membership”
And again, you did NOT disappoint! I watched every video and went through the PDF in one setting.
I have to say, you make everything look simple!
I’ll be building my own (just like yours) instead of buying one for $2500.00+
I’m sure the pre-built metal ones are good, but this one should work just as well for a lot less.
Thanks for creating all of the videos and PDF! Worth every penny!!!
Lee
Lauren Bennetts
03/16/2025 @ 8:54 pm
I watched the video on the broken cord loop. My problem is my son used both sides to go up and down and now the cords won’t move at all. Do you have any tips to fix this? I would greatly appreciate it. Thank you, Lauren
Uncharted Steve
03/18/2025 @ 4:44 pm
Hi Lauren, I’m not sure what could have happened. I only know how to repair the cord loop since I experimented when our dogs broke ours. That said, the mechanism in the top of the blinds is more basic than I had thought before I got into fixing the cord loop.
My suggestion would be to take your shades down and take a look inside the top area where the mechanism is. Check to see if the cords might have tangled or come off their pulleys. Wiggle the rod around to see if anything appears broken or jammed. My guess is that the problem will be pretty obvious once you can see the inner workings. Hopefully it is a simple fix.
Again, I’m not an expert, but if you don’t see what the issue might be you could post some clear images on this page and I’ll be happy to see if anything stands out to me. The photos should be taken from multiple points of view, some wide angle showing the whole top and some close up.
Either way, please let me know what you find so it might help out other people in a situation similar to yours. May it be super easy!