I don’t have formal training in the fine art of handymanning (does anybody?). I learned a little bit of carpentry from my dad–growing up in Ecuador we had a vice and a woodpile in our house. In high school I took Drafting, but mostly stayed away from the shop courses, and focused on art. During college and summers I worked on a framing/concrete crew, where I learned to use a skil saw and swing a hammer. After I got married I worked at Abbey Medical Supplies as a service technician, installing and repairing medical equipment, becoming familiar with ratchets and drills, and customer service! Then for about 7 years I worked at Columbia Countertops (now Floform), using saws and routers and sanders; also measuring and installing. I also volunteered at a trade school carpentry shop in Zambia, Africa, for a few years with MCC. I learned about hardwood and planers, and quoted many jobs for the office there.
So my strengths are in carpentry and cabinetry; I have dabbled in most types of home improvement trades. I do not do much in the way of plumbing or electrical work, however. I am not licensed, and prefer to leave leaks and zaps to the professionals!
Here are some examples of work I have done in the past, for paying customers:
- install grab bars in drywall, tile, and fiberglass
- build wheelchair ramps
- design and build custom bookshelves
- build one drawer to match others in a kitchen
- repair holes in drywall
- repair sliding glass door
- repair window hinge/latch system
- Build and install sliding shelves in a cabinet
- refinish wooden veneer cabinet doors
- design, build, and install kitchen cabinets and countertops
- remove old countertops/measure and install new laminate counterops
- fabricate and install solid surface countertops
- install flat-lay countertops and custom edging
- replace door frame and re-hang door
- removed and capped outdoor sprinklers from lawn system
- install closet mirror doors
- remove/install mortice locks
- paint kitchen cabinets
Some other jobs I have done, for friends or for myself:
- Build a treehouse
- Build a play structure for a 3 year old
- Build a sandbox with hinged lid seats
- Build a swingset
- Assist in set building for a large theatre production
- build a bench seat for a breakfast nook with hinged lids and a drawer
- build a single bunk bed with drawers and shelving below
- build a simple guitar
- build a cajon drum
- install a new dishwasher (with an electrician and plumber’s help)
