I constructed a ten-by-six-foot L-shaped structure, bracketed by three posts crowned with old wood corbels—decorative supports—that I found in the junk pile.

How to Do Everything Yourself

There's never been a better time to master some new skills

Eat Well

Ryan Wichelns

It's the lightest backpacking meal—and one of the easiest and tastiest

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We could all use a good drink right about now

Kimchi, kombucha, and pickled veggies all have one thing in common: good-for-you bacteria

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If you haven't ever baked a loaf, or haven't baked one since that time you tried it in college, it’s time to try again. Here's some expert advice to help you get started.

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It's called a water smoker. And while you're off having fun, it will slow-cook the best chicken, ribs, and fish you've ever had.

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They know a thing or two about cooking meat in the Lone Star State

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Spring is the ideal time to collect maple sap and boil it down to syrup. When COVID-19 hit, writer and photographer Andy Cochrane paused his travels around the country and headed home just in time to help his parents with their annual maple-syrup operation in northern Minnesota. Here's how they did it.

In and around San Francisco, locavores are scouring their neighborhoods for edible ingredients. And you can, too.

During this strange summer, we need something productive to do. Growing your own vegetables is yummy, fun, and the ideal practical response to a challenging time.

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And four things you should definitely not use it for

Build Your Own

A father-daughter duo tackle the world's cheapest build-out and give you the guide to try it yourself

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A little organization goes a long way

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From setting up a vise to gathering materials, here's everything you need to tie a basic fly

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This is the single finest example of a go-anywhere family wagon ever created

Ever fantasized about building a restful escape, with your bare hands, in some untrammeled back of beyond—and it all coming together just as you'd planned? Moron.

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Making your favorite tree or flower reproduce itself is easier than you think

Our savvy, Norwegian-folk-school-trained writer shows you how to craft your own skijoring belts and mid layers

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Spending just $25 and 15 minutes nets you something stronger and more comfortable than anything you could ever buy

Megan Michelson

You could order a premade kit. Or you could get crafty and build your own hot box.

Fix Anything

We spoke with Patagonia's Worn Wear crew about the tools they use to keep stuff looking good and working well for decades

Be prepared for every obstacle, and save a ton of money by making your own equipment and learning how to fix your stuff when it breaks in the backcountry

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Make your favorite pieces last longer with these quick stitches

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The first rule of cast iron? Relax.

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It beats the pants off duct tape in so many ways

Survive and Thrive

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Pitching a tent, healing a wound, and finding your way are about the most important things you can learn how to do. They're also the easiest.

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Bomber tie-downs and secure hitches to have in your repertoire

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It will serve you well when things go wrong

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What types to bring, where to find them, and how to make your own

Have Fun

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Where should you go, and how do you make it fun? Our resident dog camping expert is here to help.

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These are the tools you need to get started

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Homesteaders were ready for this. Here's how to kick your self-sufficiency skills into high gear.