Hey! Welcome to Thursday and a whole new way to create, at least for me. Who here has used a power tool before today? Not me. Well, unless you count a flashlight which I am pretty sure would be classified as a survival tool. Well, that is not exactly true. I have used a drill in my life time. However, for me, using a drill usually ends with the patching of drywall. In short, I'm not very good in the power tool department. However, there is something invigorating, alluring and scary about using fast moving tools powered by volts of electricity. What could go wrong?

Today, let's dive in and create something with a power tool. After looking through Pinterest, this DIY simple magazine rack looks like an easy, fresh and modern way to try our hand at creating with power tools. All the directions are right in the link. Here are a few photos from my first attempt at using a jigsaw power tool.

I'm not really measuring here. This photo is a total lie. I'm pretending that I am good at accuracy.

Notice the two lines? Both are wrong. I had to measure 5 times.

This is right before I started sweating from fear. Look at that blade!

This is right after I realized I was unable to take a photo and use a power tool at the same time. Don't ever try this at home!

I can firmly say I was terrified to use a jigsaw. After sweating it out for 2 hours, I Googled "Power Tool Safety" and found the following power tool safety tips from OSHA.

Operate electric tools within their design limitations.
Use gloves and appropriate safety footwear when using electric tools.
Store electric tools in a dry place when not in use.
Do not use electric tools in damp or wet locations unless they are approved for that purpose.
Keep work areas well lighted when operating electric tools.
Ensure that cords from electric tools do not present a tripping hazard.

Now a few safety tips from me:

Keep a SLR camera on a wobbly tripod away from a moving jig saw.
Don't use a 100 ft extension cord when you only need 10 feet. Hello concussion!
Measure at least 5 times and cut only on the line. Right on the line. No, not the first line drawn. The fifth.
Don't try to turn a jigsaw at a 90 degree angle while at full power.
Using a shipping box as a cutting support is not ideal.
When a part falls off a power tool, don't just put it back in the box. Google it.

If you were a fly on the wall at this moment, you would have heard me giggling with glee as I had cut my first piece with a power tool. Cut might be too generous of a description as the piece broke off. I'll take it!

A peek at the final product. It fit together, almost.

Our first go around at power tools was fun but there is still more work to do. Stay tuned. Tomorrow, with a little sanding and paint, we will take this magazine rack from "It fits together!" to "Living room ready!" or maybe more like "Back of the garage ready!" Until tomorrow budding Bob Villas!

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