The shocking invention that a 65-year-old carpenter taught me! You can do it yourself

In the world of DIY and woodworking, you don’t always need large machines or expensive tools to create something truly useful. This is demonstrated by the invention shared by a 65-year-old carpenter in a video that quickly became popular on the Carpintero José channel, where each project is a perfect mix between simplicity, functionality and creativity.

This invention is rustic, easy to make and so practical, that even those who are just starting out in the world of DIY can build it at home or in a small workshop, using a few basic tools.

What’s amazing isn’t just its design, but the way it solves an everyday problem in woodworking without needing to overspend.

You can see the whole procedure in the following video from Carpintero José’s channel:

What is this invention and why does it work so well?

It is a wooden auxiliary support, designed to facilitate cuts, fastening, assemblies and other tasks that normally require precision or a third hand. Its design is minimalist: wooden slats, some screws, a couple of hinges and a structure that adapts to different tasks.

What this 65-year-old carpenter taught is that true utility is born from simple ideas, those that can be made with accessible materials and that withstand daily use.

This homemade tool is used to:

• Hold long boards while cutting.
• Keeping pieces elevated without moving.
• Act as an auxiliary bench or small easel.
• Serve as a support for sanding, milling or assembling.

And the best part: when finished, it folds and stores in any space.

Materials Needed

This project is designed so that anyone can do it:

• Wooden slats (pine, eucalyptus or recycled).
• Wood screws.
• 2 metal hinges.
• Optional glue to reinforce joints.
• Manual or electric saw.
• Drill or screwdriver.
• Sandpaper.

With these few tools you can build a piece that will serve you for years.

Step by step to make this invention

1. Cut the legs and main pieces

Cut four slats of equal length to form the legs.
Then prepare two additional slats for the top, which will be the support surface.

The size may vary depending on your needs, but the key is to maintain balanced proportions to ensure stability.

2. Assemble the Side Frames

Join each pair of legs with a horizontal slat placed halfway up the height.
This will prevent the structure from opening or closing too much.

Screw the pieces together well and check that all the joints are firm.

3. Attach the hinges

Position the two frames facing each other.
Over the top, attach the hinges so that the frames can be opened like a folding easel.

This step is the secret that makes the invention compact, sturdy, and easy to store.

4. Add the support surface

On top of the frames, screw the two slats that will function as a side table.
Leave a small gap between them to allow for saw cuts without damaging the structure.

5. Add stability crossbars

Place one or two lower crossbars to reinforce the whole.
This greatly increases stability, especially if you are going to work heavy pieces.

6. Sanding and finishing

Sand the entire structure to prevent chips.
Optionally, you can apply oil or varnish to protect the wood from daily use.

What makes this invention special?

What the 65-year-old carpenter taught is not just a DIY trick, but a way of thinking:
creating your own tools from simple materials.

This invention combines:

• Usefulness
• Low cost
• Easy manufacturing
• Smart Design

It is an ideal project for both beginners and woodworking enthusiasts.

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