What We Make When We're Not Making Wine

Have you ever been struck by an inexplicable urge to make a chair out of an old hose? Ever sit and ponder the best method for fashioning a flute from bamboo, or personalizing your favorite coat hanger? Perhaps not. But if you're suddenly a bit curious, you might do well to check out one of the seemingly endless sets of simple instructions at Instructables. Say you're looking to impress your breakfast guests with some remarkably easy homemade cream cheese. You'll find that in the food section, alongside plum-infused vodka, Malaysian coconut balls, and a thorough guide to fermentation. Many of the projects are simple and straightforward, including throwbacks to fourth grade science experiments and clever alternate uses for old stuff you've got lying around. Others are a bit more elaborate, along the lines of building portable homes, melting soft metals, and laser-guitars. You'll find out how to outfit yourself in duct-tape and craft a solar powered iPod charger. Homemade sunscreen is now at your fingertips. Even if you don't find yourself embarking on any of these adventures in creation, the parade of ingenious design and elegant craftsmanship on display here is well worth a look. It really is amazing what you can create with a few simple ingredients and some old-fashioned know-how. Just look at what we can do with grapes.