Hi, I'm Rachel.
I build things. I fix things. I write about both.
I'm Rachel, and I'm pretty sure I was born with a hammer in one hand and a Bloomingdale's shopping bag in the other.
I firmly believe you can spend Saturday morning building a deck, Saturday afternoon debating paint colors for three hours (reminder: I'm color blind), and still make it to dinner looking like you had a plan all along.
People get excited about free T-shirts at charity walks and fundraising events because... well... they're free. I get excited because I just added another premium-quality painting shirt to the collection. At this point, I own enough "paint shirts" to never actually have to wear one twice.
Some people collect shoes. Others collect power tools. I somehow managed to collect both (thanks, mom).
My most treasured possession isn't expensive or flashy—it's my grandmother's old Home Depot apron. It's worn, faded, covered in memories, and reminds me where my love of building began. Every time I pick up a drill or start another "this should only take an hour" project (spoiler: it never does), I think of family.
Designed with a Hammer is where I'll share the wins, the mistakes, the projects that somehow require four extra trips to Home Depot, and the occasional reminder that "measure twice, cut once" is more of a suggestion than a guarantee.
Whether you're here for DIY inspiration, home projects, or just to watch someone convince themselves they can build something instead of buying it, welcome. Grab a paint shirt—you probably have one too—and let's build something.
I get asked about tools constantly. Here's the honest answer: I use a lot of the same tools I started with, because the basics are the basics.
Dewalt Random Orbital Sander
My most-used power tool. Four years old and still going strong. If you only buy one power tool, make it this.
Kreg Pocket Hole Jig K4
The tool that made me feel like I knew what I was doing. Strong joints, no advanced joinery skills required.
Dewalt 20V Drill/Driver Combo
On every single project. The impact driver is especially useful for long screws.
Swanson Speed Square
Twelve dollars. I use it constantly. A good square is non-negotiable.
Waterlox Original Finish
My go-to wood finish. Penetrates into the wood, feels like wood, incredibly durable.
Clamps (all of them)
You will never have enough clamps. Buy more clamps. This is the one universal truth of woodworking.
Honest over aspirational
I show the mistakes. The re-dos. The moments where I almost gave up. Real projects look like real projects.
Budget-conscious
Most of my projects come in under $500. I believe you can build beautiful things without spending a fortune.
Beginner-friendly
I explain things the way I wish someone had explained them to me. No assumed knowledge, no jargon without explanation.
Want to follow along?
New projects go up every couple of weeks. If you want to know when something new is posted, the best way is to check back here — or send me a message and I'll add you to the list.
Get in touch