I spend way too much time and probably a little too much money at Goodwill. It was actually difficult to narrow down which of my many Goodwill purchses was the “Good Will Find of the Week.” In the running were things like a lovely white and gold federal ashtray set, a beautiful old desk lamp, and some vintage Disney 78s, but in the end the 1957 edition of the Better Homes & Gardens Handyman’s Book won the day.
This spiral-bound book seriously has it all. The inside cover features some handy measurement conversion charts. The first chapter deals with planning out a workshop and hand tools. Chapter Two looks at various power tools (complete with photos of some excellent vintage tools!). Chapter Three covers building materials, while Four and Five cover fastening and finishing. Plumbing, walls and floors, windows, and exterior work are all covered as well. This book is inifinitely useful, and at just $1.99 at Goodwill, who could resist?
