Evolution TV Episode 9 | Learning Tricks Of The Trade | Art Of Customizing Bikes | Interview With Rediscovered By Dani

Real People. Real Places. Real Stories. 

Tradesmen have years of experience and knowledge in their respective fields. Shadowing them can be an enriching adventure! This is exactly what we are doing in this episode, and have brought you the best pointers and advice for finishing the job. Whether you are a woodworker or just an enthusiast, this episode is for everyone who is passionate about something in their lives.  

That’s not all! As always, we will be announcing the lucky winners who will be receiving precious prizes. We also sit down with a DIYer and discuss what the creative process is like for her and how everything comes about. Other segments include useful tricks and tips, and our very own host, Joe, teaches the easiest and quickest way to make a rocking horse.  

Here's everything that you will discover in this episode's recap: 

This is our last episode for this season, till we return again. Let’s begin! 

Learning About A Contractor’s Typical Work Day & Projects 

Based in the quaint Middlesbrough, Matthew Fishburn is the proud owner of Cleveland Flooring and Tiling. We met with him to catch exclusive glimpses of what goes on behind the scenes, what projects have been completed till now, and how it’s all done. He has been in the industry for more than a decade now and recently took the brave decision to be self-employed. It’s only been six months, but the range of projects he has already finished is impressive. From fitting in normal room carpets to herringbone, he’s come a long way, but that’s not all that he does. He also takes on doing runners for staircases, tiling and such jobs. He says that it’s been a long journey on which he met his now wife, built a house, and has a dog.  

In the future, he envisions having a showroom enabling him to expand his business more.  

Being on the run and handling many projects simultaneously means trying out new tools, but his favourite of all time is the Evolution’s R255 double bevel sliding mitre saw. Since you can get 50-degree left and right cuts, it is best for fitting in the materials at awkward angles. Another one he really likes is Evolution FURY6. He is able to run long planks of laminate through and considers it ideal for finishing ends of rooms. According to him, the best thing about it is that it can turn into a mitre saw and is portable, lightweight, and great for taking on big jobs. He definitely prefers this over a regular jigsaw.  

After checking out his tools, Matthew introduced us to a previous client. He had finished the project flooring in their attic. The client was kind enough to chat with us and let us in on the work done. They built a double garage with some accommodation with small office space for working remotely. However, now that everyone is returning to the office, they are looking to list the space for rent or Airbnb. The downstairs area has been converted to a garage, but a dedicated space at the back where you can chill and play pool.  

At Matthew’s recommendation, they chose carpeting the bedroom to enhance the look, comfort, and overall feel. For the office they went with luxury vinyl click tiles to help the chair glide easily, and for the bathroom, they have the vinyl because it is easier to dry off and clean.  

Showing us another finished project, Fisher explained that the flooring is of herringbone and the SPC Lvt Plastic, which is interestingly superior to the laminate as it is waterproof, scratch-resistant, comes in-built with a one mil underlay in the back to give that acoustic dulling sound. It is also easy to click together and DIY-friendly.  

If you are interested in seeing how the floor comes together and want to pick up pointers for your next DIY flooring project, click here to watch an in-depth tutorial.` 

Meeting Jonathan Hull - Maker Of Customized Bikes 

We were excited to meet with Jonathan Hull from Bespoke Motorcycles Limited and look around his workshop. He builds custom motorcycles and has mastered the art of transforming a particular type - the New Wave Cafe Racers. He explains how the term originated in the 1960s in England where young men and women would buy stock motorcycles, only to strip them and try to make the two-wheeler quicker, agiler, and nimbler. Any spare parts that don't meet this requirement are disposed of.  

The process starts by stripping the motorbikes back to the most basic components, but with a modern twist. For example, the halogen balls were replaced by LED systems, Lithium-ion batteries were introduced, and other state-of-the-art components. He divulged that anyone can do this with basic tools, and that’s how he started out. As you get more into it, you will need to streamline everything to make things easier, quicker, and better. At this moment, he was extremely content with the tools that he has, ranging from small hand tools, grinders, polishers, and 10-ton hydraulic press to big steel cooking chop saws. Perhaps the most impressive tool he owns is the English-made lathe made in the 1920s in the UK. He had to do some modifications to use and modernize it, but the results were fantastic.  

Curious to know how he started out, Hull obliges us with an interesting story. He went to the local barber, Nick, and they were chatting along, and Nick mentioned that he would like to buy a Cafe Racer motorcycle. At that time, Jonathan had no idea what that was, but he was intrigued and started digging around. The research led to him realizing that he was really fascinated by this side of the vehicle world, and that’s how the business started.  

Pretty soon, he was rescuing a cg125 from the scrap heap which was destined to be crushed. Initially, he thought it would be nothing more than changing a part here and there, but he soon realized it was a bit more complicated. However, when his creations started garnering attention, it dawned on him that maybe this is what he was meant to do. Five years later, he is now doing great, and things are running smoothly.  

Jonathan sources donor bikes from various places. eBay is one place where he spends most time shopping around. He has very specific criteria - cg125s from 2004 to 2008. They are getting a bit harder to get, but since he does not need the machine in a great, rideable condition, they are easier to come along and buy.  

Luckily, customized bikes are trending, and they are sought-after collectables. He regularly attends shows and exhibitions as this helps in promotions and building his Instagram.  

In the near future, he would like to move to bigger premises to be able to expand his business. In the long term, he would like to have a space that is big enough to hold events and have a coffee shop and even dabble in a clothing line.  

To catch the extended interview and more moments with Jonathan, click here. We had an amazing time and were fascinated by his creativity!  

Readers' Most Trusted 5 DIY Tips 

Before we sit down with our guest for this episode, let’s have a look at some DIY tips that our audience has sent: 

#1 - Make sure you are always wearing goggles, no matter what you are doing. Evey Clay is an Ophthalmology doctor, and she is constantly surprised by how many people come with an eye injury with a foreign object in their eye and it hurts so much. 

#2 - If you paint or work with a lot of wood, the painter's triangles come in handy to sit underneath a piece. You can paint one side and then flip.  

#3 - Use decorators caulk to fill in gaps around the edges.   

#4 - Ensure that you have a breaker in your tool bag. You never know when it comes in handy! 

#5 - Keeping a paint can rim is now easy! Just use foil and wrap it around the edge. Pour and remove foil.   

Hey there, DIY enthusiasts! If you've got some fantastic tips up your sleeve, we'd be over the moon to hear from you. Just grab your camera, record a video of yourself explaining your tip, and send it our way. Who knows? Your genius idea might win you a brand new Evolution mitre saw as a reward for being featured! 

Sitting Down With Fellow Furniture Affictianado - Danielle Baylis 

Danielle Baylis is a popular DIYer and upcycler who creates unique furniture for her home and customers. She also provides valuable tricks and tips to her many Instagram followers. We were elated to have her at our studios and glean an insight into her projects!  

We thought it would be better if Danielle went ahead and introduced us and our viewers to exactly what she does. She explained, “I work from home. I upcycle vintage and old furniture, always looking to create something new that someone will want in their home.” 

After seeing her catalogue, we had to admit how impressive it all was. We had to quiz her about her secret to getting these furniture pieces. She said, “I am always on Facebook’s marketplace and I tend to stick with the linen cabinets, dressing tables, cocktail cabinets, and sideboards. Also, I occasionally also dabble in eBay, gumtree, and I also find that the recycling centres attached to the local charity shops are great because you get genuine pieces that are being thrown away and aren't loved anymore. The furniture still has life left, it is properly built whereas modern furniture is not built that way anymore.” We agreed with her on this. Furniture pieces nowadays are not built to last.  

However, even the best of plans fail. We asked her what’s her coping mechanism towards failure because it may happen that Baylis may have a set idea, but it may not pan out. She revealed, “Knowing that there’s nothing you do even if it goes wrong and is awful and the paint coming off is key. Take a step back, have a glass of wine, have a little cry about it, but it cannot be undone.” 

Talking about her commissioned pieces, we asked her if it feels scary to be entrusted with the responsibility of creating something special. She said, “There’s one benefit to commission pieces. It is that you can regulate your salary a bit and you know what’s coming in each month so you know what’s coming in each month and it’s crucial considering the cost of living nowadays. I do find it stressful especially when someone reveals that the furniture is a family heirloom and we would like you to paint it. The pressure definitely mounts! Actually, there’s a piece that I am doing for a client who I have worked with before. It is a stunning console table with beautifully carved detail. You need to remember that these are your customers, trusting you with a task. I always find that I am best at breaking a project down, taking it in little steps and then you know if it is going wrong, rather than getting to the end and finding the mistake.” 

We wanted to know from Danielle if she had noticed a difference in selling numbers as she continues to grow across all channels, including her Instagram and Etsy shop. She divulged, “It has had more effect on the commissioned pieces. People will come in and contact me, and my online presence has definitely boosted the confidence of customers.” 

We asked her how long it usually takes for a project to be finished. She answered, “Generally, most pieces I try to do are done within a week or two. If I have got multiple pieces on the go it would probably take me more time. I recently did a chair that only took 3-4 days to do. It can vary depending on the piece and problems I face.”  

Getting to the pricing of the commissioned pieces, we were curious to know how Danielle determines the price. She said, “This is something that has built up over 9-10 years of my experience in woodworking. The first piece I ever sold was a bookcase that I painted white, and it sold for £20. Now, I stick to similar pieces and the prices that I now charge have built up over this time. The number reflects everything that I have learned in the decade, trials and errors to ensure that I know what I am doing now and deliver a quality piece that will not chip because I have done the right prep.” 

To know more about what Danielle does and how she does it, you can check out the more detailed interview here.  

Quick DIY Project - How To Make A Rocking Horse

Made out of plywood, this modern rocking horse makes for a great weekend project. It is quick and easy, let’s jump in!  

For a complete and detailed guide, click here.  

Step 1 - The majority of the pieces will be cut from an 18mm plywood sheet. We recommend cutting it into smaller pieces as it makes the whole process easier. Start by cutting up the seating block for the horse - 3 pieces measuring 300mmx200mm each. Take the pieces, glued them together and put in the screws to make it really sturdy.  

Step 2 - Now comes the main body. You can have fun with it or go with the basic design, just ensure that the bottom of the body curves out and is able to rock back and forth. You can draw on the sheet of plywood and then cut it up using a jigsaw. If the cut edges are a bit chipped up, don’t worry, we can fix it with glue or filler. Take all the pieces cut till now and give them a good sanding to make them nice and smooth.   

Step 3 - It is time to assemble. Applying wood glue to the centre seat block and drilling some pilot holes through the sides with screws will get it secured. After this is done, you have a rocking horse, but the screw holes need to be filled in.  

Step 4 - The next thing that needs to be done is cutting a 35mm delve for the handles and footrests. Drill measured holes on the horse’s head and bottom to add in these handles. Now that everything is done, you can truly make it your own by painting it however you want. With the finishing touches of last-minute filling and waxing, you will be all done! 

Competitions & Winners 

Every time we drop a fresh episode, the Evolution TV crew goes all out with their generosity, showering you with many mind-blowing giveaways. We're talking spa vouchers, luxurious hotel stays, slick Apple and Amazon goodies, and a whole lot more! Here's the deal: you can enter the contest and stack the odds in your favour for scoring an epic prize. The surefire way to boost your chances? Well, first things first, make sure you're subscribed to our YouTube Channel and hit that notification bell icon for all the latest updates from us. Then, all you have to do is kick back, relax, and stay tuned for the newest episodes of Evolution TV.  

Oh, and don't forget to check the video descriptions for contest entry links. It's your time to shine, so let's get in on the action! 

Evolution Power Tools  

And that's a wrap on another incredible episode! We hope you had a blast tuning in. 

Here at Evolution Power Tools, we go above and beyond to provide top-notch service and brilliantly engineered products. Once you get your hands on our Evolution power tools, we're certain that we'll become your ultimate go-to choice. Trust us, our products and dedication is that darn impressive. Visit our store to check out our amazing lineup firsthand! 

Now, if you've got something awesome to show off and want to be part of our episodes, simply give us a shout-out on Instagram at @evolutionpowertools_uk. It's as easy as that! You could have a chance to shine in the spotlight. 

Safety always comes first when you're working with Evolution tools. It's crucial to stick to all health and safety guidelines. If you need more information, don't hesitate to reach out to our expert support team based in Sheffield. They've got your back! 

Thanks for joining us, and stay tuned for more mind-blowing episodes from Evolution Power Tools.  

At Evolution, we pride ourselves in designing and manufacturing power tools that are safe for the user and the working environment around them. When using Evolution tools, make sure you follow all health & safety guidelines. For more info, you can contact our expert support team based in Sheffield.