![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=534&h=462&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
Its time to revisit the DIY wind tee project-but with improvements fueled by experience.
Cover Story: Designing Men
In this first installment of the upholstery series, the author looks at the basics: sewing machines, scissors, needles and thread, and more.
Aero ‘lectrics
What do you do if you need to monitor a number of audio signals, but you don't have room for an audio switching panel? Jim Weir finds the answer in a summing amplifier.
Aero ‘lectrics
Vibration is not good for engines, airframes or instruments. Jim Weir explains how to fashion vibration analysis equipment for less than retail cost.
Aero ‘lectrics
Jim Weirs lifetimes worth of tinkering has produced a definitive list of electronics parts suppliers, and hes willing to share.
Hose Protection
Ishmael Fuentes shows you how to protect and cool the hoses in your engine compartment by making a firesleeve.
Aero ‘lectrics
Heat and avionics don't get along all that well. Rather than installing a fan that runs all the time, Jim Weir suggests building and using a fan that runs only when you need it.
Radio Too Hot? Cool It!
Jim Weir borrows a trick from the world of computers to provide a cool breeze to your radio stack.
Aero ‘lectrics
A little music for the airways can make your flight a pleasure. Jim Weir shows you how to power any music device from your panel.
Shop Talk: V-Block Drill Jig from Scrap
Having problems drilling a precise hole in a tube? Ishmael Fuentes has the perfect-and inexpensive-solution with this nifty, easy-to-make V-block drill jig.
In Case You Missed It
Firewall Forward: The Oil Change
Let's get started with the KITPLANES Firewall Forward video series, sponsored by the Tempest...
The Garage Mahal
If the RV-7 turns out half as well as the workshop in which it is being built, itll be a winner. By Matt Johnson.
Cover Story: Carpet and Panels
Now that you've fabricated your seat upholstery, its time to tackle the rest of the interior with a look at carpeting and door panels.