Читать книгу Knitbook: The Basics & Beyond - Chris Schapdick - Страница 14

Normally, I don’t encourage people to stay in their personal and social comfort zones. After all, this whole book is, in a way, about getting out of your comfort zone, and doing something you’ve never done before. But when it comes to safety, I definitely want you to stick to your comfort zone. If it doesn’t feel right, or if you are hesitant or reluctant in any way about doing any of the things outlined in this book, then don’t do them. Bring in help. Ask for assistance (see here). Not doing these things could put you in danger. This could be anything from not feeling comfortable about lifting something heavy to using a particular kind of power tool. If you can’t or don’t want to do it, then don’t.

Of course, your house won’t get built if you’re too afraid to touch any of your tools. You need to teach yourself to be comfortable and confident in handling your tools in whatever way works for you. If you have the option, I encourage you to attend a tiny house building workshop. These happen from time to time in various locations around the United States. Try to attend one to learn the basics about the proper use of tools and to arm yourself with the skills that will be relevant for this kind of build. If you can’t find something specific to tiny houses, then look for something that has a more general construction theme. I have even seen the big-box hardware stores offering some limited classes on various construction topics. Another option might be to hire a contractor for a private lesson on whatever tools you may have purchased, borrowed, or rented to build with.

There is no one right path here; the right path is simply the one that makes you feel able to proceed and comfortable doing so. I have been building tiny houses for years now, and (knock on wood) I have never injured myself in any significant way. Some of that is luck, but the much bigger component is taking the necessary care and being confident in my abilities to tackle a given task. Explore the boundaries of your comfort zone with skydiving, public speaking, etc., but not with power tools and things that can irreparably harm you.

Stay grounded and stay in your comfort zone. Don’t worry about a bit of mud, as long as you are confident about what you’re doing.