This article was originally published on WallStoriez
Gas Cap Wouldn't Close so They Installed a New Lock
Some broken items just don't seem worth the money to fix them — for example, the gas doors on our cars. If yours begins to break off or won't close properly, the expense of fixing this problem might seem ludicrous. Fortunately, this creative genius has provided a solution. This person installed a cheap door lock on the side of their vehicle, allowing them to lock their gas door in place.
They probably spent a few bucks on this lock versus taking it to the car dealer or a mechanic and being charged dozens, if not hundreds, of dollars for a new part.
Their Inflatable Pools Kept Breaking so...
Building a pool is serious work and usually requires hiring some professionals to get the job done. The other alternative is using an inflatable pool, but those can be pretty annoying and tend to break. So instead of buying an inflatable pool or spending big bucks on an underground one, this person transformed the trunk of their old truck into a pool on their back porch. Very environmentally friendly and creative!
Not only was an old truck repurposed into something new, but now the fam has a fun place to splash around during hot summer days without spending a fortune! It's a win-win from all angles.
You See a Broken TV, They See a New Table
Just because something doesn't work or has served its purpose doesn't mean that it can't be re-utilized. Also, it is environmentally friendly to reuse old things. Take this person as an example. They used to have one of those massive cubed-shaped TVs, and after it had stopped working or they had upgraded to a newer model, they just repurposed the television as a dining room table. To be honest, it kinda works.
All we can imagine while looking at this photograph is that someone will put something down a bit too hard one day and discover a broken television under that tablecloth.
Build Your Own Shelving Unit by Stealing a Grocery Cart
Ever wanted to steal one of those shopping carts from the supermarkets? No? Neither have we. However, after seeing this, we might just be interested in seeing if we could find one to purchase online legally. This person took a metal shopping cart from their local supermarket, cut it in half, and installed it as a kitchen cabinet. Very original and even has a bit of modern-industrial-chic to it.
This idea is pretty nifty and will be an icebreaker for anyone who enters your kitchen. However, please do not go stealing the carts from your local supermarket.
Nature's Pool Heater
Pools are expensive luxuries that only a few can afford. Not only is there the pool itself, but also the water heaters and other expenses that come along with owning a pool. Fortunately, some workarounds exist that make owning a pool less of a drain on your bank account. Take, for example, this person's version of a pool heater. All that is required is some wood, a fire, and a wheelbarrow.
The process might seem a bitch sketchy and seems like it is begging for a disastrous turnout, but the results will be the same as a fancy pool heater (we think).
When You Need a Permit to Build a Deck but Not to Store Your Boat
Anyone who has ever tried to build a deck or an extension to their house knows the hassle of getting the precious permit that allows you to make alterations on your property. It's no secret that there is enough red tape to make anyone want to give up. So when this person wanted a new deck, they found themselves a funny loophole instead of cutting through that red tape.
Rather than waiting for a deck permit, they just turned their boat into a deck as no permit was needed to store a boat on their private property.
DIY Cat Backpack: All You Need Is a Box and the Colander in Your Kitchen
Sometimes you just want to bring your pet with you wherever you may be going during the day. However, those pet carriers are cumbersome and unnecessarily expensive for a simple bag large enough to hold your cat or small dog. And when things get too costly, sometimes it's just cheaper to make one yourself. That's what this person did when they made a pet carrier backpack out of a cardboard box, a colander, and ratchet straps.
Now, they can take their cat wherever they go, and they didn't go broke in the process. Look at that curious cat staring out through the colander! Who knew the same thing that strains your pasta water could be used for this?
Could You Imagine Calling a Roof Cleaner and They Show up With This?
If you are a homeowner, then you probably know how expensive it is to get your rooftop and gutters cleaned. Despite the price, we must get it done because leaving it dirty can lead to disastrous results. But instead of spending thousands on a professional, you can just hire this man who crafted a rooftop cleaner by taping his leaf blower to a skateboard and attaching it to a rope.
Now, he can just sit back and watch as your rooftop gets cleaned for cheap. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, you can give this device a shot on your own. As far as we know, it hasn't been patented.
Pool Noodle Covering for When It's Hailing and You Don't Have Insurance
Hail damage is the great wrecker of car rooftops and insurance premiums. And since not everyone in the world has a garage to park their cars, some people can't do anything but worry when the weather gets frightful. Or so we thought until we met this person. This man has invented a pool noodle car covering to save his car from any potential damage caused during a hail storm.
Once summer is over, pool noodles fall into that category of "useless things we'll keep around until next year." But now, instead of letting these annoying summer pool toys fill up your basement, you can put them to good use.
One-Of-A-Kind Fan
Skateboards are one of those iconic pieces of equipment that never fail to serve some purpose. They are initially used for skateboarding, but once worn out, they can be repurposed and used as wall decor for your personal space. But why just hang them on the wall when they can be used to serve a purpose beyond decor? That's what this person thought when they decided to retrofit their broken fan with old skateboards.
They saved money, did something good for the environment, and were able to put those old skateboards that were clogging up their storage space to some use.
This Leaf Blower/funnel Combination Will Be Your New BFF Next Summer
The leaf blower is the most deceivingly-named product in your local hardware store. While these devices are marketed only as a blower of fallen leaves, they can serve many useful purposes. That's what this person discovered when they lost the pump for their inflatable pool. They thought all hope was lost, but with their leaf blower and a funnel, they were able to inflate their pool without a problem.
Leaf blowers shouldn't be called "leaf blowers;" instead, they should have a more multi-purpose title such as "universal blower" or something along those lines to encapsulate their utility fully.
Broken Broom? Say No More
Brooms are one of those accessories that seem to have a quirk about them. Most of us keep an extra one lying around just in case the one we use breaks. And whenever you don't have an extra one, it's guaranteed you'll have issues with your broom - that's Murphy's Law. Fortunately, there is a quick fix for when you're in the middle of cleaning, and your broom falls apart; all it requires is a bottle cap.
Just attach the cap to the brush and the top of the bottle to the handle. Now, you can twist your handle back into place, and voila, you just saved yourself a trip to the store.
Did You Know Your Tool Box Is for Building and Also for Cracking Nuts?
People who own extensive amounts of hardware tools are known to keep them close to their hearts. A toolbox owner is always aware of exactly what tools they own and where they are. They also know their tools' secret uses that others might never even imagine. These look like a normal wrench and hammer to the unaware eye, but to the trained eye, these are for more than tightening bolts or hammering nails. They're for nut cracking.
That is correct: your wrench and your hammer are great additions to any nut-cracking set you might have around the house. The proof is in the photo above.
No Windows, No Problem
Taking your dogs in the car with you while you go about town can be a bother. They always want to stick their heads out the windows, and sometimes that just isn't possible since your dog might jump out if they see a squirrel. Things become even more complicated if your car doesn't have windows, to begin with, like this dog owner's truck. But they came up with the perfect solution, photographed below.
They used wiring to craft an open-aired truck fitted to each of his dogs. Every dog even has a perch custom-made to their needs so they can enjoy the ride.
He Got His Tools Stolen Multiple Times, but Not After He Did This
A person's tool kit is a precious thing. But owning one comes with baggage: everyone in the neighborhood wants to "borrow" your tools. The solution is seemingly simple; just hide your tools. The only question is where? This person created the perfect hiding place by installing a toolkit holder underneath the side of their truck. Lifting the metal exterior of the car reveals a tool collection that would make every neighbor envious.
Additional benefits of this hiding spot are that no one can take anything while you are away, and your tools are always with you when you need them.
They Should've Gotten a Patent for This One
Leveling is an essential aspect of any construction project. The last thing someone wants to do is install a bookshelf or a cabinet that is not level and have things falling off or rolling around inside. Newer screwdrivers and other tools have a leveling mechanism installed into the device to simplify this leveling process. But why buy a new one when you can tape your leveler onto your old drill as this DIYer did?
This person did that, and while it might not look pretty, it will certainly get the job done right and leveled. Sometimes it doesn't make sense to pay more.
That's One Way to Avoid a Mortgage
For most, an RV is a recreational vehicle used for short, non-permanent stays. Some people live out of RVs permanently, but these are usually people who subscribe to a more nomadic lifestyle. But not whoever owns the baby pictured below. They turned their RV into a permanent and non-nomadic home by installing a roof and porch to the side of it. We're not sure how we feel about it, but it gets the job done (whatever that job might've been).
This was most likely cheaper than building a home from scratch, and it definitely avoids a traditional mortgage. Good for them!
How to Get 20" Rims for Cheap
Sometimes we see nice, expensive things in the world, and we really want to purchase them even if we don't have the money to make such purchases. When this person saw the nice wide rims on some cars, they had that problem. But rather than going out and spending money they shouldn't be spending on rims, they found a cheap alternative. Using some expertly applied tape, they transformed their regular wheels into high-end ones.
You wouldn't notice unless you got close, and the results are fantastic (and a bit funny). Sometimes there really is no need to spend all that money when you can turn it into a DIY project - just make sure no one ever zooms in on your ride.
This Gas Station Knows How to Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
Turning old objects into something new takes artistic talent, and it is even more impressive if the new item actually functions as intended. Old wheels are oftentimes reused for their rubber, but why not take your old tires and turn them into something fun like the employees at this gas station did? They have crafted a brand-new sink out of a metal bowl and an old tire, and the results make us want one.
Honestly, if every single car repair shop, gas station, and tire shop does not immediately install this sink in their restrooms, then they are really missing out on a unique opportunity.
When You Run Out of Flat Washers in the Middle of the Project
Ever been in the middle of a DIY project when you suddenly realized you were out of an essential hardware piece? That's what happened to this person as they were working on a repair; they ran out of flat washers in the middle of it. But rather than get upset or leave the house to rush to the store, they decided to get creative and used pennies instead of flat washers.
The result? It's as good as it would've been with the official hardware accessory - but much cheaper! Seems like a win-win to us.
Forget Smart Video Doorbells - We Want This One
Doorbells are so fancy nowadays; some have customizable rings and even cameras! But these people wanted none of that. In fact, it seems they probably don't want visitors at all. When their traditional doorbell broke, they installed a bear trap in its place. By pressing the button labeled "Red Neck Door Bell," your hand will be trapped, and your scream will notify everyone inside the house that you've arrived.
This one is a nasty trick, and we certainly hope no one has actually ever pushed - or will push - this button. They should probably warn their loved ones that it's a joke.
When You Really Want a Yacht but Can't Afford One
Many of us have dreamt of owning a yacht at one point or another. And not just any yacht: a yacht complete with a living room, an outdoor area, and a great motor to get us smoothly through the water. Unfortunately, most of us can't afford that. But rather than give up on his dream, this man took matters into his own hands - literally. He created a faux yacht using his dinghy.
We could see ourselves spending hours on this DIY yacht. As long as it doesn't sink before then, that is. We'll keep our fingers crossed for this creative inventor.
You See Empty Beer Cans, This Person Sees Taco Stands
Ever seen those taco stands that they sell at grocery and kitchen stores? We have, and we always thought they were one of those purchases that never end up getting used. If you agree with us, then instead of wasting money on those fancy stands, follow this person's example and use empty beer cans to hold your delicious taco. All you need to do is dent the can in the middle!
Sometimes it amazes us how much stuff we buy that rarely gets put to good use. But everyone knows if you buy beer, you'll use it - so there's no losing here.
You Gotta Do What You Gotta Do
Homemade is just better. Someone wanted a grinder to grind their stuff, but instead of purchasing some overpriced accessory, they decided to make it themselves. The gadget might appear odd (two caps filled with screws), but the results are probably just as good. This person, whoever they are, is going to be doing some great things in life and not be paying extra for them like the rest of us.
All that extra money they saved could go towards filling this little device up with the product. The lesson here is: it's always better to find ways to save some money.
It's Certainly Cheaper Than Getting the Air Conditioning Fixed
Cars can often become massive strains on our bank balances. As soon as one problem is fixed, the next one appears, and the cycle goes around and around. You can buy a new car and avoid these problems, but that is even more expensive. So what do you do when something breaks in your car? You fix the problem yourself, of course. When this guy's car's air conditioner broke, he grabbed a trash bag, a cooler filled with ice, and piping to "fix" it.
The results might not look so pretty, but what is pretty is how much money he saved. Now he can run that AC all day without worrying about gas money.
The Car Jack Saved Christmas After Their Tree Stand Broke
Everyone who owns a car or has fixed a flat tire knows about the car jack that sits all by itself somewhere within the car. You might not even know where it is until the day that you actually need it. But assuming you know where your car jack is, you might think it can only be used to lift cars, but there is another purpose for this device.
You apparently can use your car jack to hold up your Christmas tree. This wasn't the device's intended use, but if your tree stand breaks on Christmas day, it's a perfect solution.
This Is Clever but What Happens if You Get Rear-Ended?
Fixing cars when they break or their parts fall off is expensive. However, what if you could just fix up your car yourself? You would probably do it. What if you aren't a mechanic? No problem, because you can just do what this person did. When their tailgate fell off, they didn't take it to a mechanic. They just threw up a slab of wood and called it a day.
They also added some extra paint. We aren't going to lie. At first look, you might not even notice, but once you do, it is impossible not to see it.
Affordable Glamping
There are few luxuries when it comes to camping and becoming one with nature. Hopefully, you'll have the bare minimum of a tent and a bedroll, but if you have never camped before, then be prepared to be uncomfortable. That is unless you go camping with these people who have set up their own air conditioning system that is getting pumped into each of the tents of their group.
Nowadays, there are three types of campers: traditional campers, glampers who sleep in lodges, and these people. Bringing an air conditioning unit might seem ludicrous, but we want to know them.
As Long as It Gets the Job Done
This construction worker decided they needed to move some gravel around. There are specific construction vehicles that are made for this exact function, and while they seem to own one, it wasn't as big as they wanted it to be. So they filled up their pickup truck with an entire load and then used their heavy-duty machinery to lift the truck and dump the materials.
We just can't help but wonder how effective this really was. After all, didn't they need to spend a lot of time loading the gravel onto the truck bit by bit?
Perfect Idea for Those Who Hate Sharing Things With Coworkers
Office spaces are a territorial war, and sharing with coworkers means risking losing your stuff. Winners are declared yearly by the number of pens they now possess. This person took their office war games to another level when it came to their hole puncher. By placing a lock in the puncher, they've assured themselves that no one but them can use it. Therefore, there's no point in "borrowing" it.
This is a genius move and follows the philosophy that if they can't have it, then no one can. Even if a fellow colleague stole this hole puncher, they'd find it useless.
You Don't Need to Be Rich to Have an Outdoor Jacuzzi
Sometimes you will just want to sit back and relax. However, the best way to achieve the optimal level of relaxation requires a hot tub or jacuzzi, which is something that not everyone owns. Fortunately, there is this guy with his innovative ways, and he won't let his lack of a hot tub stop him from his relaxation. He built his own jacuzzi with a plastic bin, umbrella, and lawn chair.
He just needs to turn on the hose, and he is good. This just goes to show that sometimes our attempts to be lazy are actually when we become our most productive.
Broken Guitar Hero Guitar? Here, Use a Racket
The problem with many console games or games that require specific devices is that once the controller or device breaks, then you can no longer play the game. When this guy's Guitar Hero guitar broke, that should have been the end of the game. Fortunately, this man is a natural engineer and fixed his problem with a simple tennis racket. Now he can get back to rocking and rolling.
Who knew that a tennis racket would be the solution to a Guitar Hero problem? Now he can rock his solo and wreck at the tennis courts at the same time.
When Your Parents Don't Knock and Your Web Surfing Is Risky Business
Privacy is important. This is something that is true from your teenage years all throughout your adult years. Sometimes getting that privacy, especially when you're younger, is next to impossible. This person innovated a workaround to get their privacy, though. They had their computer's plug attached to the door, so when the door opened up, the computer screen immediately changed to a designated tab. They might just be a future NASA scientist.
This little bit of ingenuity is sure to save them from embarrassment when their family members or roommates decide to come in unannounced. Remember always to knock.
We Wonder How Fast This Lawn Mower Motorcycle Can Go
Renovations are a great way to ensure that your old devices and technologies can stay up to date without spending a bucket load on purchasing something new. You might be thinking about remodeling your kitchen or adding a brand-new stereo system to your car. This person is already thinking way beyond that when they took their old lawn mower and used it to build themselves a motorcycle.
We are not sure if this is entirely legal or what the permit process must be like to be allowed to get this baby on the road, but we are impressed.
Homemade Gaming Chair
Anyone who spends many hours a day on the computer or at a desk understands the importance of a quality chair. Whether you are staying up till dawn playing some zombie game or you the CEO of a major corporation, we are all linked by this understanding. When this gamer decided they needed to upgrade their gamer chair, they did it DIY style with this improvised, ultra-comfort desk chair.
They took one of the dining or kitchen chairs and taped some pillows onto the seat and back of it with duct tape. It's not pretty, but it probably works.
A Genius Short-Term Solution for a Broken Valve
Biking is a hobby of many passionate people. The more athletically and adventurously inclined often take their bike miles away from civilization or deep into the mountains. The only problem with doing this is that you won't get help anytime soon if something goes wrong. Such as the case here when this guy's tire's valve broke off, and he lost all the air in his bike's tire.
This guy was innovative, though, and was able to use his handheld pump to fill up the tire and then lock it in place so that he could keep riding.
We Call This One the "suburban Pirate Ship"
Dinghies are great and allow someone without a massive disposable income to sail open waters and enjoy the freedom of being on the water. Unfortunately, dingies do not create the same feeling as a massive pirate ship. The owner of this dinghy felt the same way and decided to renovate their small boat and turn it into a pirate ship. Now they can sail the open seas as a pirate.
You do not need to lie to us. You are a bit jealous because who would not want to be a pirate and set sail on their own pirate ship?
Wires Can Also Fix Cheese Slicers
Sometimes the best type of person you can have in the house is someone who knows how to fix something when it breaks. When this old cheese slicer gave its final breath of life, there was someone with a wire and cutters who could fix it right up for them. This refurbished cheese slicer ended up working better than the original and has lasted long after the person who fixed it passed on.
Sometimes all you need is for something to be made right once, and it will last a lifetime. This cheese slicer might become a family heirloom; who knows?
After One Blade Broke, They Intentionally Took off More to Make the Fan Balanced
Ever thought that when something breaks, you should break it some more? If you haven't, then you might just be missing the solution to your problem. When this person's fan had pieces fall off, he just broke off a few more, and the fan was able to work again without any skipping or other issues. Is there a moral lesson here? If there is, then we guess the lesson is to break things.
Actually, though, this person was able to save themselves time and money by breaking off a few more bits and rebalancing their fan. Hopefully, it works as well as it did before.
Dinghy + RV = Homemade Yacht
Dingies and other small boats are great for making the ability to sail the open waters accessible to a vast majority of the population. However, what happens when you wish to upgrade your small boat to a yacht but are still not a millionaire? The solution is rather simple. You just drive your RV onto the small boat like this guy. All of a sudden, you now have a middle-class yacht.
We aren't exactly sure how this small boat can support the weight of the RV and not sink, but we will not be asking any questions.