![Trimming composites gets the full PPE job. [Credit: Eric Stewart]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/7-2.jpg?w=534&h=462&crop=1 "A Few of My Favorite Tools")
![Lowell Farrand spent years serving as an FAA DAR and is in the EAA Hall of Fame. He offers sound advise to builders. [Credit: Bill Wilson]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/unnamed-4.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "Think Like a Builder")
![Author Bill Wilson takes a break from measuring and cutting the Lexan windshield during his Onex build. [All Images Credit to Bill Wilson]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/image-2.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "Think Like A Builder")
Aero ‘lectrics
If you want to keep your paint and other supplies from freezing next winter, try this relay and heater (made to work in conjunction with last month’s temperature sensor project).
Aero ‘lectrics
Next winter, keep your aviation supplies from freezing with this DIY temperature sensor.
Aero ‘lectrics
Repairing a malfunctioning headset may be not only inexpensive, but completely doable.
Aero ‘lectrics
Make the scene at your next airshow with a homemade aircraft band antenna, state and national flags, and an aircraft data sheet that gives spectators the vital statistics on your aircraft.
Aero ‘lectrics
When you land your airplane at a fly-in, you want it to look its best while staying safely and securely parked. Making your own coordinated tiedowns, chocks and more is one way to do that.
Aero ‘lectrics
Don’t waste $250: Here’s all you need to know to install an inexpensive kitchen clock as a timer on your plane’s instrument panel.
Aero ‘lectrics
You need never again be greeted by a dead battery because you left the master switch on. With a few dollars’ worth of parts, you can build a simple alarm system.
Aero ‘lectrics
Jim Weir concludes his explanation of how to make any cell phone power up a remote electrical device.
Aero ‘lectrics
Jim Weir continues his explanation of how to make any cell phone power up a remote electrical device.
Aero ‘lectrics
Jim Weir responds to a reader request to find a way to make any cell phone turn on an electrical device.
In Case You Missed It
Bearhawk LSA
Simple and light—very light: The Bearhawk LSA is the latest addition to the Bearhawk family, the culmination of decades of design experience.
Down to Earth
Two German globetrotters are flying their Vans RV-7 around the world to promote aviation. By Amy Laboda.
Let’s Get Dirty
Some—perhaps even many—pilots of Experimental aircraft never operate their artfully homebuilt aircraft on any...
Down to Earth
Amy Laboda discovers that a newly installed EFIS, six-weeks away from her RV-10 and an acute caffeine deficiency challenge her inner student.