* Introduction * The hardware store is, in a way, like the supermarket. You can find some finished dishes in the deli at the supermarket, but you'll find many more individual components that you can use to create unique and even original dishes. * This book uses only items commonly found at large hardware stores and home centers. * The projects presented cover a range of applications. In the home, out in the yard and garden, and in the workshop. You can use them as described, or let them serve as departure points. * Styles: Where these projects will fit the best-although they are all handsome and anything but slapdash, the materials generally don't create traditional or understated looks * Although these projects all tend to be substantial, you should keep your eye out for more modest, easier repurposing of hardware store buys, i.e.

spice rack tool drawer. * Chapter 1: Hardware Store Basics * The most useful components (materials and pieces) * General design strategies to make these projects look as good as possible/personalize projects * Fastening pieces together (methods, adhesives and fasteners) * The importance of secure joining for longevity and durability. * The challenge of joining dissimilar materials * Techniques for using the fasteners as design elements themselves (vs. hiding or blending fasteners) * Best methods and materials for: * Plastics * Metals (w/breakdown of types of metals) * Wood * Other (i.e., stone and melamine) * Fastening pieces to a surface * A better solution for tricky/problematic materials * H2 find a stud * H2 secure to wall board/paneling (selecting and using anchors) * Basic Techniques * Drilling * The rules (when to drill a pilot hole, how to measure bits, etc.) * Specialized bits that can help in customized crafting * Cutting Guidelines * H2 cut pipe and tubing * H2 cut flat metal * H2 cut plastics and wood without splintering * Measuring * Understanding nominal sizes * Measuring tools, full listing * Sanding and Finishing * Sanding options * Tools * Materials * Finishing your creations * Paint basics * Clear/protective finishes * Special Section: Safety First! * Projects, Section 1: Indoor Ingenuity * Mud Room Organizer * Shoe Rack (forming tubes + contact paper + come-along strap) * QUICK HITS: Rope-and-stake Doormat * Copper Pipe Rack * Wine Rack * Rolling Bar Cart * Shelf-Support Chair * Urban Chandelier * QUICK HITS: Nut-and-Bolt Candle Holder * Door Desk with Ax Handle Legs * Stenciled Dropcloth Screen (room divider) * Modern Media Center (angle iron + Melamine) * Aluminum Sheet Table Lamp * QUICK HITS: Door Handle Coat Rack * Ductwork Coffee Table * Copper Pipe Magazine Rack * Bedroom Bench (joist hangers + posts) * Projects, Section 1: Backyard Beauties * Concrete Planters (or Hypertufa) * Faux Rock and Pump Waterfall * QUICK HITS: Funky planters * Bird Feeder (tubing and sheet metal) * Compost Bin * QUICK HITS: Edgy Edging Options * Garden Bench * Resources * Index.