![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")
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.
Aero ‘lectrics
If you've got sticker shock after shopping for a main electrical system junction box, Jim Weir will ease your pain with a junction box you can build (and a cool color-coding system, to boot).
You and the Tube
For some builders, the prospect of flaring hard-line tubing is daunting. Ishmael Fuentes demystifies the process, and shows you how to get good results every time.
Aero ‘lectrics
Jim Weir delves into the world of barrier strips, wire markers, resettable fuses, nylon connector usage, dyeing and inrush current limiters.
DIY Firewall Boots
Need to seal your firewall, reduce carbon monoxide and allow components to move freely? Chuck Dieterich shows you how to make firewall boots.
Aero ‘lectrics
Jim Weir shows you how to create and install LED lights and run them from ships power inexpensively and easily.
Aero ‘lectrics
Jim Weir continues his series on digital logic (CMOS), and makes the little logic circuits do things that their inventors never considered.
Aero ‘lectrics
So far in Jim Weirs investigation of digital logic, hes explored small scale integration. This time, its time to ramp it up a bit and use some medium scale integration devices that will remember your settings.
Aero ‘lectrics
The subject this month is Schmitt triggers and digital gates, which can be employed for a variety of purposes in homebuilt aircraft including use with switches and sensors or panel lighting.
In Case You Missed It
Design Process: Flap Types
Last month we took a look at the trade-offs the designer should consider when...
Know Your (Operating) Limitations
Experimental aircraft are issued "special" airworthiness certificates, and those come with specific operating limitations.
Cracked Landing Gear Weldment
Landing gear sockets should be checked regularly for those who fly off of grass...