Sponsored by Ryobi Tools.
Picture this – Kyle and I are walking into the mall the other day. I was busy instagramming and not paying attention to where I was going. Next thing you know, I’ve tripped over a crack in the sidewalk. Kyle is grabbing for my arm and says, “And you’re still sure about using power tools?” To which I reply, “Well, I’m going to do a power tool safety post first!” {Pulled that outta my butt!} Then he says, “At least promise me you will read the ENTIRE instruction book before using the circular saw.” So here I am, writing a power tool safety post after having read through oodles of articles on the subject AND the circular saw instruction book. hee hee
Power Tools for Mommies is a series I will be starting here on Create.Craft.Love! {I can hear the snickering, so stop.} I will present simple crafts and projects that can be accomplished with power tools and we will learn together! Meeting Ryobi Tools at SNAP! Conference was one of the best things that happened! I was able to try out some of the power tools I had been longing to use WITHOUT spousal intervention. And guess what? I still have all of my appendages!
I have been begging Kyle to let me use power tools for some of my crafty projects. He has REPEATEDLY denied my requests, stating that I am too accident prone to be allowed near power tools. Every time I get a wild hair up my butt to try something other than my glue gun on a project, he reminds me of my foot going through my Antique Window Raven Decoration. {If you don’t know about that, you can read about it here.} It was a bloody mess {literally} which resulted in a trip to the ER and four stitches.
Based on my previous track record, I feel like I should impart mistakes wisdom before beginning this series.
- MAKE SURE EQUIPMENT IS TURNED TO OFF BEFORE PLUGGING IN OR INSERTING BATTERY PACK! We don’t want any nasty surprises, now do we?
- DRESS APPROPRIATELY! You do not need to look cute when you are using a circular saw. You are cute enough just as you are! Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry. Pull back long hair.
- WEAR SHOES! This is important. I have a tendency to walk around bare foot even when I am working on projects. This lack of common sense is what lead to the four stitches. Some of my friends have suggested steel toed shoes as far as my safety is concerned. I will settle for sneakers. Deal?
- PROTECTIVE EYE WEAR! Yes, I wear glasses. Well, I’m supposed to wear glasses. Wearing glasses will result in straighter lines and protect me eyes. It’s a win win situation, right? However, I’ve been told I should get eye goggles to go over my glasses.
- BE AWARE OF YOUR SURROUNDINGS! Again, common sense but important too. Make sure there are no water spills around when using electric equipment. Watch your appendages. No little ones in the area.
- KNOW YOUR TOOL! Read the instruction book before starting! It will put your husband’s mind at ease. Be knowledgeable of which parts or attachments are compatible with your equipment. {Mind out of the gutters, ladies.}
If you would like to read more on general safety when working with power tools, the Power Tool Institute has a great brochure! You can find it here!
We will get into more specifics as I introduce you to the tools! First up, the Ryobi 18V One+ Cordless Drill! {I am in LOVE with this thing!!} Ryobi has launched a new line of power tools that use the same battery! No more running around to find the right charger for the right battery! I’m so excited that I get to try them out! Head over and sign up to be part of Ryobi Nation! You can share all of your projects that we create together!!
I was given free product from Ryobi Tools for the purpose of this post. To read my full disclosure, click here.
Photos courtesy of the amazing Cheryl of That’s What Che Said! hee hee
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