How to Drill a Hole in a Floor Tile Without Cracking It
A floor tile cracks from heat, vibration or the wrong bit. Here is the tile bit, the speed and the technique that leaves a glazed tile intact.
Power Tools
All MakerUK Guides
New guides published daily. Check back for fresh content.
Woodworking
What Height Should a Woodworking Bench Be?
Most adults want a workbench at 850mm to 900mm. Task-by-task heights, the knuckle and elbow tests, and how to raise or lower a bench you already own.
Tech
How to Sand 3D Prints Without Sandpaper
How to smooth 3D prints without sandpaper: scraping, diamond files, solvent and heat smoothing, and filler primer that hides layer lines.
Hand Tools
How to Solder Copper Pipe in Tight Spaces
How to solder copper pipe in tight spaces: draining the run, flame control, shielding and the right kit, with UK steps and 12 product picks.
Tools
Where Is the Best Place to Sell Power Tools?
Where should you sell used power tools in the UK? Tool-buying services, eBay and marketplace routes compared, plus how to get a fair price for your kit.
Tools
What Is the Best Sander to Use for a Deck?
Which sander is best for a deck? Belt, random orbit and detail sanders compared for stripping, finishing and grooved UK deck boards, plus grits and picks.
Automotive
Best Milwaukee Power Tools for Mechanics
We compared the Milwaukee power tools worth buying for car and motorcycle work in the UK, from M12 ratchets to M18 drills and cobalt bits.
Woodworking
How to Sand Hardwood Floors Under Cabinets
How to sand hardwood floors under cabinets: the tools that fit a toe kick gap, the scraping step most people skip, and how to blend the seam.
Power Tools
Best Cordless Tool Brand for Contractors UK
Makita, DeWalt, Milwaukee, Bosch and Ryobi compared for UK trade use - battery platforms, real kit prices and what each one locks you into.
Hand Tools
Best Hand Tool Kits UK 2026
Eight UK home tool kits compared, from a £13 compact set to a £75 Wera precision kit, and what you still need to buy separately.
Hand Tools
Best Hand Planes UK 2026 - 8 Picks Compared
Eight hand planes compared for UK woodworkers, from a GBP17 cast iron starter to a 555mm jointer, and who each one suits.
Welding & Metal
Corded vs Cordless Angle Grinder UK
Corded and cordless angle grinders compared for UK workshops: real power, disc sizes, battery cost and which type suits the jobs you actually do.
Woodworking
Free Woodworking Plans UK (PDF Downloads)
Where to find genuinely free woodworking plans in the UK, how to convert American imperial sizes to metric timber, and the tools a first build needs.
Tools & Workshop
Angle Grinder Disc Types Explained
Cutting, grinding, flap, wire and diamond discs explained for UK makers: what each one does, the sizes and speed ratings to check, and which disc to fit first.
Brewing
Best Screwdriver Sets UK 2026: 5 Sets Compared
We compared the best screwdriver sets in the UK for 2026, from Wera and Bahco to Draper and Stanley. Find the right set for your toolbox.
Brewing
How to Choose a Soldering Station for Electronics Projects
Choosing a soldering station for electronics? We cover wattage, temperature control, tip types and the features that matter for PCB work, Arduino and repairs
Brewing
Good Soldering Iron for Electronics? UK Guide
What is a good soldering iron for electronics in the UK? Wattage, tips, temperature control and 3 solid picks compared — plus what to avoid.
Brewing
Essential UK Workshop Safety Guide
A practical guide to workshop safety for UK makers. Covers PPE, fire prevention, first aid and emergency preparedness for home workshops.
Brewing
Best Type of Drill Bit for Stainless Steel UK
Cobalt beats HSS and titanium for stainless steel. 5 UK cobalt bit sets compared from £30 to £90, plus the slow-speed technique that stops bits dulling.
Brewing
Best Sander for Skirting Boards and Door Frames UK 2026 - 5 Compared
We compared 5 sanders for skirting boards and door frames. Detail, multi and mouse sanders that reach corners and profiles without damage.
Brewing
How to Flood-Proof Your UK Home Before Autumn
Do not wait for the river to rise. 7 practical DIY flood-proofing fixes for UK homes you can do this weekend, from door barriers to sump pumps.
Brewing
DIY Box-Fan Air Filter: HEPA + Carbon Build
Build a DIY box-fan air filter with HEPA-type and carbon filters for under £80. UK parts list, step-by-step build, costs and honest limits.
Brewing
What Type of Sander Is Best for Woodworking?
Confused by sander types? We compare random orbital, belt, detail and sheet sanders for woodworking, with 6 top UK picks for every budget.
Brewing
Best Cordless Planers UK 2026
Compared the best cordless planers in the UK for 2026. DeWalt, Makita, Bosch, Ryobi and Einhell head-to-head. Find the right planer for your workshop.
Brewing
Best Masonry Drill Bit Sets UK 2026
Best masonry drill bit sets for UK brick, block and concrete. Four sets compared for combi drills, plus SDS advice, plug sizes and buying tips.
Brewing
How to Carve Wood with a Knife for Beginners: A UK Guide
Learn how to carve wood with a knife as a beginner. UK guide covering knife types, grip technique, first projects and safety tips for whittling at home.
Brewing
Power Tool Maintenance for UK Makers
Follow this power tool maintenance checklist to extend tool life, prevent breakdowns, and save money on replacements. UK maker guide.
Brewing
Best Extension Leads for Workshops UK 2026
Best extension leads for workshops UK 2026 - 6 RCD-protected and heavy-duty power strips compared. Buying guide included.
Brewing
Post-Cyclone Home Repair: UK Flood Recovery Guide
Step-by-step guide to flood damage recovery in UK homes: safety checks, drying, cleaning, repairs and insurance claims.
Brewing
3D Printing at Home: Your First Printer Setup Guide
UK guide to setting up a 3D printer at home. Covers space, ventilation, noise, power, surfaces and filament storage for FDM and resin machines.
Brewing
Best Brushless Combi Drills UK 2026
We compared the top brushless combi drills in the UK for 2026. Makita, Bosch, Milwaukee, Ryobi and Einhell head-to-head on power, runtime and value.
Brewing
Best Cordless Hedge Trimmers UK 2026
We compared 5 cordless hedge trimmers for UK gardens in 2026. Budget Einhell to premium STIHL reviewed for hedges, shrubs and garden maintenance.
Brewing
Best Drill Presses UK 2026
Compare the best bench drill presses in the UK for 2026. Lumberjack, Einhell, Clarke and Scheppach pillar drills reviewed for woodworking, metal and DIY.
Brewing
Best Paint Rollers for Walls & Ceilings UK
We compared 5 paint rollers for walls and ceilings in the UK. Find the best microfibre roller set for emulsion on a budget.
Brewing
Brushless or Brushed Drill? UK Guide 2026
Brushless vs brushed drill compared for UK makers: torque, runtime, price. Which motor type suits your projects and budget in 2026.
Brewing
Can You Drill a Ceramic Pot With a Regular Drill Bit?
Yes, you can drill ceramic pots with a regular drill bit. Here's which bits work, how to avoid cracking, and what to use on glazed and unglazed pots.
Brewing
Can You Use HSS Drill Bits on Masonry? UK Guide
Can you use HSS drill bits on masonry? No - HSS blunts in seconds on brick and concrete. Learn why, what to use instead, and the UK sets worth buying.
Brewing
12V vs 18V vs 20V Cordless Batteries Compared
Confused by 12V, 18V and 20V cordless tool batteries? Our guide explains the differences and which platform suits your projects.
Brewing
Essential Tools for Flood Damage Repair UK
The essential tools for flood damage repair in UK homes: water extraction, drying, moisture detection and cleanup. A practical guide for homeowners.
Brewing
How to Choose the Right Drill Bit for Every Material
Not sure which drill bit to use? Our quick guide covers wood, metal, masonry, ceramic, glass and plastic — with product picks for each material.
Brewing
Sand Hardwood Floors With an Orbital Sander
Learn how to sand hardwood floors with a random orbital sander. UK step-by-step guide covering grit selection, technique, and finishing. no drum sander neede
Brewing
3D Printer Slicer Settings: Quick Guide UK
Master 3D printer slicer settings - layer height, temperature, retraction, infill and speed. Cura, PrusaSlicer and OrcaSlicer explained.
Brewing
Best Cordless Leaf Blowers UK 2026 - 5 Compared
We compared 5 cordless leaf blowers for UK gardens in 2026. Budget Einhell to premium EGO reviewed for patios, driveways and lawns.
Brewing
Best Magnetic Wristbands for Tools UK 2026
Compare the best magnetic wristbands for holding screws, nails and drill bits in the UK 2026. Top 5 picks reviewed for DIY and trade use.
Brewing
Best Multimeters for Electronics UK 2026
Compare the best multimeters for electronics hobbyists in the UK. Fluke, KAIWEETS and AstroAI models compared for accuracy, features and value.
Brewing
Best Router Tables UK 2026
We compared the best router tables in the UK for 2026. Benchtop options from Lumberjack, Kreg and Einhell reviewed for woodworking accuracy.
Brewing
Can You Drill Through Metal With a Hand Drill? UK Guide
Yes, you can drill through metal with a hand drill. Here's the technique, the right drill bits, and the mistakes that ruin your work.
Brewing
Hand Saw Types: Which One for Which Job?
Hand saw types explained: panel, tenon, Japanese pull, bow and coping. What each does, when to use it, and which UK saws are worth buying.
Brewing
How to Drill Ceramic Pots Without Cracking
How to drill drainage holes in ceramic pots without cracking. UK guide with step-by-step technique and drill bit recommendations.
Brewing
How to Start Welding UK: MIG, TIG & Stick Guide
Complete beginner's guide to welding in the UK. Learn which process to start with, what safety gear you need, and how to set up your first welder at home.
Brewing
3D Printer Bed Leveling: How to Get It Right First Time
How to level a 3D printer bed properly - manual and auto leveling methods, first-layer fixes, and the tools that make it easy. UK maker guide.
Brewing
Best Bench Grinders UK 2026
We compared 3 bench grinders for UK workshops. Budget, mid-range and heavy-duty options from Silverline, Einhell and Draper reviewed.
Brewing
Best Cordless Impact Wrenches UK 2026 - 6 Picks
We compared 6 cordless impact wrenches for UK garages and workshops - from budget picks to pro 1,356Nm beasts. Makita, DeWalt, Einhell reviewed.
Brewing
Best Folding Workbenches UK 2026
Compared the best folding workbenches for UK workshops and garages. 9 models reviewed for load capacity, portability and value. Budget to pro picks.
Brewing
Best Garage Shelving UK 2026
We compared the best garage shelving units for UK workshops. Heavy-duty boltless steel racks from £12 to £59, rated by capacity and value.
Brewing
Best Laser Levels UK 2026
Compared 5 self-levelling laser levels for UK DIY and woodworking. Bosch, DeWalt, Huepar, Enventor and Nikotek cross line lasers.
Brewing
Best Socket Sets UK 2026
We compared 5 socket sets for UK mechanics and DIYers. Metric sets from Bahco, Draper, Hilka and Amazon Basics reviewed for value.
Brewing
Best Workshop Storage Solutions UK 2026
Compare the best workshop storage solutions for UK garages. Shelving, tool chests, workbench storage and organisation ideas for every budget.
Brewing
Cordless Impact Driver vs Impact Wrench UK: Which Do You Need?
Impact driver or impact wrench? We compared torque, drive type and real UK workshop tasks to help you pick the right cordless tool.
Brewing
How to Maintain Your Workshop Tools: A UK Guide
Keep your workshop tools in top shape with this UK maintenance guide. Covers cleaning, oiling, sharpening, rust prevention and smart storage.
Brewing
3D Printer Filament Types Explained UK
PLA, PETG, ABS, TPU, ASA and more - when to use each, pros and cons, and which to buy first for UK makers.
Brewing
Best Cordless Rotary Tools UK 2026
Best cordless rotary tools UK 2026 - 6 top picks compared on power, battery life and value. From budget USB chargers to 12V brushless pro tools.
Brewing
Best Cordless Work Lights UK 2026
Compared 5 rechargeable LED work lights for UK workshops. DeWalt, MEIKEE, DAYATOOL and more. Finding the brightest option for your garage.
Welding & Metal
Best Welding Helmets UK 2026
Six auto darkening welding helmets compared for UK makers, from a £27 starter mask to a £93 panoramic Parweld, with a shade number guide.
Brewing
Best MIG Welders UK 2026
Compared the best MIG welders for UK beginners and DIYers. Gasless and gas models from budget to premium. Our top picks for home workshops.
Brewing
Best Paint Sprayers for Furniture UK 2026 - 5 HVLP Sprayers Compared
We compared 5 paint sprayers for furniture projects in the UK. Find the best HVLP sprayer for chairs, cabinets, tables and upcycling on a budget.
Brewing
Best Portable Workbench UK 2026
We compared the best portable workbenches UK - folding work tables for garages, workshops and allotments. Budget to premium picks.
Brewing
Best Scroll Saws UK 2026
We compared the best scroll saws for UK woodworkers in 2026. KATSU, Record Power and Scheppach models reviewed for precision cutting.
Brewing
Best Torque Wrenches UK 2026: 5 Wrenches Compared
We compared the best torque wrenches in the UK for 2026, from Silverline to Wera. Find the right 1/2 drive click wrench for your garage.
Brewing
Best Wood Chisels for Beginners UK 2026
We compared beginner wood chisel sets from Bahco, Narex and VonHaus. Find the right set to start woodworking in the UK.
Brewing
Best Cordless Sanders for Woodworking UK 2026
Best cordless sanders for woodworking UK 2026 - 5 models compared from Makita, Ryobi, Bosch, DeWalt and Einhell. Battery life, power and value broken down.
Brewing
Best Cordless Strimmers UK 2026 - Battery Grass Trimmers Compared
We compared 5 of the best cordless strimmers for UK gardens in 2026. From Bosch to Ryobi, find the right battery grass trimmer for your lawn edges.
Brewing
Best Reciprocating Saws UK 2026
We compared the best reciprocating saws for UK makers. Cordless brushless options from DeWalt, Makita and Bosch reviewed for 2026.
Brewing
Bahco vs Narex Chisels: Which Set is Worth It?
Bahco 434-S6 vs Narex Bevel Edge chisels compared. We break down steel quality, handle design and value to help you pick the right set for your workshop.
Brewing
Belt Sander vs Random Orbital: Which Do You Need?
Belt sander or random orbital? Compare speed, finish quality and best uses for UK woodworking projects. Find the right sander for your workshop.
Brewing
Best Cordless Multi-Tools UK 2026
We compared the best cordless multi-tools in the UK for 2026. DeWalt, Makita, Ryobi and budget options reviewed for cutting, sanding and scraping.
Brewing
Best Palm Routers UK 2026
We compared the best palm routers for UK woodworking in 2026 - from budget corded to premium cordless. Find the right trim router for edge work.
Brewing
Best Wet and Dry Vacuum Cleaners UK 2026
Compare the best wet and dry vacuum cleaners for UK workshops, garages and DIY. Karcher, Einhell and Draper models compared for power, capacity and value.
Brewing
Best Woodworking Router UK for the Money
Five woodworking routers on Amazon UK compared: Bosch, Makita and DeWalt compact and plunge routers from £119. Power, precision and value for UK woodworkers.
Brewing
How to Tin a Soldering Iron for the First Time
How to tin a soldering iron for the first time. Step-by-step guide for UK beginners: why tinning matters, what you need, and how to keep your tip lasting.
Brewing
Best Belt Sanders UK 2026
We compared 5 belt sanders in the UK for 2026. From the Makita 9403 to the budget GALAX PRO, here are our picks for every workshop and budget.
Brewing
Best Cordless Nail Guns UK 2026
We compared 5 cordless nail guns for UK DIYers. Brad nailers and 2-in-1 nailer-staplers from Ryobi, Einhell and Makita reviewed.
Brewing
Best Drill Bits for Metal UK 2026 - Cobalt & HSS Sets Compared
Compare the best drill bits for metal in the UK. Cobalt, HSS-Co, and titanium sets from Milwaukee, Bosch, Sealey and more reviewed.
Brewing
Best Heat Guns UK 2026 - 7 Models Compared for Paint Stripping, Bending & More
7 heat guns tested for paint stripping, pipe bending and shrink wrapping. From budget Draper to premium Bosch LCD, which one earns a spot in your workshop?
Brewing
Best Safety Glasses for Woodworking UK 2026
We compared 5 top safety glasses for UK woodworking workshops. Anti-fog, over-prescription, and budget picks rated by real workshop use.
Brewing
Best Sanders for Skirting Boards UK 2026 - 5 Compared
We compared 5 sanders for skirting boards and architraves. Detail sanders, multi-sanders and mouse sanders from Bosch, Black+Decker and Einhell.
Brewing
Best Soldering Irons for Stained Glass Beginners
We compared the best soldering irons for stained glass beginners in the UK. Hakko FX601, Weller kits and budget options reviewed for 2026.
Brewing
Cordless Drill Torque Explained: What Nm Means UK
Cordless drill torque explained — what Nm means, how much you need for DIY vs trade, and 3 UK picks from 12V to 18V on Amazon UK.
Brewing
18V Hammer Drill: 5 Checks Before You Buy UK
Buying an 18V cordless hammer drill in the UK? Use this 5-point checklist - hammer mode, batteries, brushless, chuck and kit - to avoid the wrong buy.
Brewing
Best Cordless Drill for Home Use UK 2026 — 6 Compared
We compared 6 cordless drills for home use in the UK — from Makita and DeWalt to Bosch and Ryobi. Find the right drill for DIY without overbuying.
Brewing
How to Drill Through Metal Studs Behind Drywall UK
How to drill through metal studs behind drywall without skating or burrs. UK guide to drills, metal bits, centre punches and fixings that hold.
Brewing
How to Make Cider at Home: UK Beginner's Guide
Make your first batch of cider this autumn: kit or juice route, fermenter and airlock basics, fermentation timings, bottling, and the mistakes that turn cider into vinegar.
Hand Tools
Best Claw Hammers UK 2026: 6 Compared
We compared six claw hammers for UK DIY and trade, from forged steel Estwing classics to budget fibreglass. Weight, grip, claw and value assessed.
Crafting
Wood Burning for Beginners - UK Guide
Start wood burning with the right kit, wood and technique: beginner pyrography pens, basswood practice sheets, safety basics and three first projects.
Tools
Best Portable Generators for UK Storm Season 2026
We compared the best portable generators for UK storm season, from budget Excel Power to premium Hyundai. Output, noise, runtime and value assessed.
Hand Tools
Best Hex Key Sets UK 2026
We compared five hex key sets from premium Wera to budget Amazon Basics. Holding function, ball ends and value assessed.
Home Improvement
Free House Jobs to Do Instead of Paying a Tradesman
5 house jobs you can do yourself for free instead of calling a tradesman. Every job costs under £30 in tools and takes under 30 minutes.
Home Improvement
Top 5 Free DIY Jobs Around the House on a Budget
5 DIY jobs you can do around the house for free, using basic tools you already own. Save hundreds on tradesman fees.
Electrical
How to Solder Without a Soldering Iron: 6 Ways
No soldering iron? Six alternative methods compared: butane torch, heat gun, hot plate, lighter, pencil hack and solder pot.
Power Tools
How to Fix a Power Tool Battery Not Charging
Power tool battery not charging? Try these 7 UK checks for 18V lithium packs, chargers and contacts before you buy a replacement.
Tools
£140bn Built, 40m Days Lost: UK Making in Numbers
From £140bn of new work to 40m days lost to ill health, we collated 24 verified UK stats on making, building and DIY.
Woodworking
Sustainable Timber UK: Reclaimed Wood Guide
Volcanic delays are hitting imported timber. Where to find reclaimed boards, local sawmill stock and engineered alternatives for autumn builds.
Power Tools
18V Cordless Hammer Drill Guide: How to Choose and Use
What an 18V cordless hammer drill does, when you need hammer mode for UK brick and how to pick the right kit.
🔧 Tools
Hand Tools
Best Sharpening Stones for Chisels UK 2026 - 6 Compared
We compared 6 stones for chisels and plane irons - diamond plates to Japanese whetstones. Grits, honing guides and value for UK workshops.
Tools
Best Cordless Drills UK 2026: 6 Models Compared
Six cordless drills from DeWalt, Makita, Bosch, Milwaukee, Ryobi and Black+Decker compared on power, batteries and price.
💻 Tech
Tech
How Much Does 3D Printing Cost in the UK?
Real UK costs for 3D printing in 2026: printer prices, filament, electricity at 26p/kWh, maintenance and tools.
🪵 Woodworking
Woodworking
Best Jigsaw UK 2026: 7 Cordless and Corded Jigsaws Compared
Seven cordless and corded jigsaws from DeWalt, Milwaukee, Bosch, Ryobi and more compared on power, cutting depth and price.
🏠 Home Improvement
🚗 Automotive
🍺 Brewing
🌿 Outdoor
Outdoor
Who Makes the Best Battery Powered Lawn Equipment?
The battery platforms behind UK cordless garden tools compared, from Einhell and Ryobi 18V to Makita, STIHL AK and EGO 56V.
