Master Generalist thinking applied to any problem.
A multi-lens view often reveals better solutions. I work with multiple toolsets – engineering, fabrication, art, technical writing, 3D modeling, design, architecture – all applied as needed within my systems-thinking approach.
I work to fully understand any problem, get to the root, and map out the range of viable solutions. I’m a pragmatic perfectionist – I’ll gladly point you to the ten dollar DIY fix if that’s the right answer, or I’ll build you a one-of-a-kind piece to the highest standard. The solution will be driven by your goals.
Let’s talk if your project calls for this level of thinking or craftsmanship. You can meet me at the workshop – I’ll make the coffee.
Hi, I’m Nick! I work in my shop in Saint Paul, which I designed and built myself.
I enjoy both the engineer and artist parts of my brain – fixing broken things, making old things new again, or inventing a new thing in the world for the first time. I like helping people, teaching, and solving hard puzzles. Function usually drives form for me, but I know what forms I like, too.
I enjoy finding big and small adventures with family and friends. I recharge with fresh air and exploring the great outdoors by foot, or boat, or four-wheel-drive. In work and life I try to leave it better than I found it!
Workshop Journal
Articles, insights, oddities, and resources from the workshop. Musings for fellow homeowners, auto enthusiasts, DIYers, professionals, makers, reuse wizards, or anyone who’s perpetually curious. Also a good place to see how I think about problem-solving and documentation of my systems thinking.
4th Gen 4Runner Owner Pro Tips
Overview Toyota’s 4th-generation 4Runner was made through 2003-2009 model years. They came in three trim levels – SR5, Limited, and Sport Edition – and with V6/V8 and 2WD/4WD configurations. Some notable changes through the model years: 05 got an engine update for the V8 2UZ-FE with VVTI and a bit of horsepower gain, 06 got…
Vehicle Undercoating Rust Protection Service
Hey folks, here’s some info on the undercoating service I provide! Price Product Process Notes I’ve been spraying wet film lanolin undercoating for 10+ years, including 5 years experience spraying for clients here at my sole-proprietor shop at my home. Bonus eyes on your vehicle: by my inspector nature, I’ll be taking a close look…
SeatRack — Designed to Haul Long Materials Inside Your Vehicle
I made the SeatRack to haul long material or items inside my vehicle securely. It’s a steel rack that slots in place of your vehicle’s seat headrests – including ring washers to protect your headrest mount and protective ball post caps. Contact me for pricing if you want some! It allows me to load more…
Install a Higher Flow-Rate Kitchen Sink Sprayer Head
I finally replaced the kitchen sink sprayer head that’s been degrading for months (years?). I’ve replaced it before with a standard common replacement (I think they’re designed to fail so you need to keep replacing them), but this time I researched a little and found what I really wanted, a higher-flow version. This Hibbent spray…
Products
If you like how I think, here are some tools you can use to enhance your own processes right now. Purchase digital downloads like spreadsheets, guides, and templates – proven systems doing work in the real world.
Breaker Panel Map Templates, Spreadsheet
You’ll receive a download link by email immediately after purchase. Product: Four breaker panel map templates (XLSX file, 379KB, 4 sheets) Use notes and footnotes to keep track of technical details. Print selected cells and turn off cell borders for a clear sheet to post by your breaker panel. Icons The icon set is designed…
Garage Build Plan Reference, 34’x24’x10′
Garage-Construction-Master-Plans-v4.3.pdf 8 MB This is a 14-page PDF file formatted for printing on 8.5″x11″ paper, with plans I developed and used to build my 24’x34’x10′ garage/workshop. These plans are intended for use only as a reference starting point for your layout and planning – not a complete, permit-ready plan set. Of course, you’ll need to…
Client Reviews
“I’m a retired Architect, living in a 1929 house. Nick finished a project encasing the new electrical panel with a frame and cabinet door. Nick was a perfectionist and installed the door and frame with some adaptation work needed to make it straight and true. Great cleanup. The cost was more than fair.”
Bruce
“Nick did an amazing job with a couple of welding projects I needed done, and one of them was particularly tricky, involving cast iron. He knows what he’s doing and is a great communicator. I recommend Nick without hesitation.”
Ken
“Nick was fantastic. He did a number of jobs for me. He even fixed a door that I was told by 2 other people that they would have to take the wall apart, he did it no problem. Very trustworthy, pleasant and kind. Would definitely recommend and use again.”
Melanie
More reviews
“Nick is fantastic to work with. He is timely, thorough, and fair. He has a lot of practical knowledge and the know-how to make things right. He’s also trustworthy and communicates really well.”
Seth
“I hired Nick to help get our house ready to put on the market. A handful of more ambiguous jobs that required some figuring out (which is why I had been postponing them). He knocked them all out with superior workmanship.”
Jared
“We hired Nick to help us plan an exterior handrail and provide a schematic drawing for HOA approval. The plan was accepted with enthusiasm and the handrail was expertly designed and installed. We could not be happier with Nick’s quality of work and professionalism.”
Susan
“Nick was able to problem solve when our straightforward project took a turn for the complicated. Very professional and clean. Wide range of skills.”
Jenna
“Communication and workmanship were excellent. Reliable work with attention to safety and detail.”
Rosanne
“Nick did a great job patching the ceilings in our kitchen and bathroom. He was tidy even with a messy job like ours. He was on-time and pleasant to work with. Would hire him again!”
Gina
“Nick installed an exterior door for us and we couldn’t be more pleased. He was precise, neat, and helpful with understanding all options throughout the process. The door looks great and works perfectly. Very professional and courteous. Thanks Nick!”
Dan
“I hired Nick to build a coat closet in my living room. He did an excellent job and I am super happy with it! He listened, asked questions, and reviewed the project with me as he went along. The closet turned out to be just what I wanted. I would recommend Nick to anyone!”
Ellen
“Nick is a talented, professional, reliable, and efficient. He is, by far, the most skilled craftsman I’ve ever hired. I highly recommend this pleasant, talented young man. I will have him back again when I have created a new list of things to be taken care of.”
Michele
“Nick’s attention to detail, and equally as important, his clear, timely, and concise communication made working with him easy and predictable. The work results are quite good. We highly recommend Nick.”
Joe