Yeah, that broken vending machine detail is everything.

Last year I refinished an old oak table that had been slathered in that hardware store gel stripper. The wood underneath felt rough and thirsty, like it had been burned. Switched to a carbide scraper and mineral spirits for the final layers, and the difference was night and day. That table took a stain so evenly, and it just has a deeper, smoother look to it now.

Did you ever worry about it being too personal before? I used to think keeping it totally private was the whole point, but hearing this makes me see how sharing bits of it can actually add to its meaning. It sounds like it became more useful, not less.

Forgot to check the forecast once, whole project froze.

Can't believe I almost overlooked it" is the mechanic's anthem.