Raymond Chelf

Tools you may need around the house or to complement your workshop.

Automotive and other garage-worthy tools and equipment.

Preferred tools and equipment for the outdoors including lawn care.

This is what’s in my woodshop or I want to be in my woodshop eventually as an amateur woodworker. Also, I’ll go ahead and spoil the surprise—if Ridgid makes it then I buy their version. You can’t beat a power tool and battery system with a lifetime service agreement.

This is a list of equipment/tools I either have or want to have in my workshop, AKA, my home office. My wife is also into crafts, so this is her space too. My electronics lab and technology repair list is a good companion list to this one.

I’m an IT professional. This is my inventory—past, present, and future.

A lot of my workspace recommendations can be used across all my workshops, so instead of repeating them in multiple lists I’ve created a designated list here for everything workspace related.

A lot of my measurement tool recommendations can be used across all my workshops, so instead of repeating them in multiple lists I’ve created a designated list here for everything measurement related.

House, garage, shed, wherever you are working and doing DIY, these consumables will come in handy.

Credit Unions are not for profit, banks are. Make the switch to establishments that care about their members. All Credit Unions listed provide a way for anyone to become a member.

Quality products that last and if they don’t the company makes it right. List includes brands with warranties and guarantees that range from manufacturing defects to unconditional. Bonus section of stores with great return policies.

A public benefit corporation (PBC), also known as a benefit corporation, is a for-profit business entity legally structured to balance profit generation with a commitment to creating a positive impact on society or the environment. Unlike traditional corporations focused solely on maximizing shareholder value, PBCs are required to consider the effects of their decisions on employees, customers, communities, and the environment. B Lab is the global nonprofit behind Certified B Corporations, a community of businesses that meet verified social, environmental, and governance standards. Together, the movement is working towards a more inclusive, equitable, and fair economic system.

A list of DIY kits for entertainment or edutainment. Learn something new, start a new hobby, or find another fun kit for an already established hobby.

This list is devoted to Harry Potter and the Wizarding World activity and entertainment merchandise—no collectibles or decorations. Although, all the stuff you complete can be a great keepsake.

Home gym equipment that won’t take up too much space, but is still helpful in getting you buff for Val.

This list is devoted to the stuff I use in the great outdoors after extensive research and experimentation. For a well-rounded picture: I’m a big guy. I like to experiment with gear. I try to get the lightest equipment without sacrificing too much comfort and breaking the bank. Warranties mean a lot to me. And I like multifunctional gadgets.

I’m an IT professional, so I’m very picky about the tech I buy. Especially when it comes to data security and privacy. As great of an idea that some smart home tech is, it may not be worth putting in your home. No subscription required for my recommendations. Your local library probably has a subscription to consumer reports, so go get a library card and look up ratings and reviews on products before you buy.

As an IT professional, this list is devoted to the user-friendly software I recommend for the average person—even if your name isn’t Joe or Jane. Criteria I look for are as follows: • Open source code: publicly audited • Privacy-focus: minimal data collection, encryption by default • Security-focus: 2FA authentication available, encryption by default • End-to-end encryption (E2EE) when appropriate • Cross-platform or progressive web apps (PWAs) + cloud backup/sync • Freemium subscription model, so basic features are always available for free • Performance, functionality, and user experience • Oligarchy alternative

Support your local library and become a patron. Use their resources to your advantage—your taxes are already paying for them.