DIY Projects from Mother Earth News

By The Mother Earth News Editors
Published on August 18, 2005
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by Adobestock/DragonImages

Home workshop projects and ingenious inventions are the hallmark of the self-sufficient American lifestyle. Generation after generation of inventive folks have made their homes and farms better places to live by designing and crafting their own vehicles; solar and wind energy systems; unique houses and outbuildings; boats; and home and garden projects. From hybrid-electric cars to earth-sheltered houses and hydraulic log splitters, they have met the challenges of everyday life with creativity and perseverance.

Check out this list of the best DIY projects to come out of Mother Earth News over the years. In some cases a construction plan accompanies the article. Click on the link at the end of the description to go to the plans shopping page.

Do It Yourself Vehicle Plans

An Amazing 75-mpg Hybrid-electric Car You can build your own hybrid gas-electric car from a 1970s model auto. David Arthurs developed this hybrid-electric vehicle with an Opel GT, using an onboard efficient electric generator and a jet engine starter. This vehicle can also run on battery power for short distances. David Arthurs spent 40 hours and $1,500 to come up with this incredible vehicle. Plan # 1764

1993 Update: Dave Arthurs’ Amazing Hybrid-electric Car
An updated report and interview about David Arthurs’ alternative energy, hybrid-electric vehicle.

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