Category Archives: Making

DIY external reflective blinds for heatwaves

As I write this, the UK is in its third heatwave of 2026. I’ve previously taken several steps to prevent my house from overheating: I installed External Wall Insulation (EWI) – mostly for winter heat retention, but in theory it may also help exclude heat in the summer. I fitted solar heat reduction window film […]

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Foot-operated water pump for camping

I’ve made a foot-operated water pump for use when camping. It uses a foot pump designed for a boat or caravan, and an articulated microphone stand to hold the ‘tap’. A non-return valve at the tap end stops it dribbling after you stop pumping. Here’s a video of it in action: Here’s an exploded view […]

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