Beer: I Built a Hop Spider

So this weekend I randomly decided to build a hop spider. I was watching a video by Chop & Brew about a beer they brewed and aged it in a Woodinville Whiskey Rye Barrel. I noticed they were using one in the video. It seems like a neat idea for an easier cleanup. So I looked up how to do it here and made a trip to Lowe's to pickup some supplies. After posting on reddit, it seems like most people prefer the stainless steel option. The PVC I bought seems to be extremely tough and durable so we'll see. The heat distortion temperature of PVC is 197.6°F and most boils are 210°F+. Since it'll be above the boil, I'm hoping the wort vapor won't be too bad.  

The wife and I wanted to start up an online store selling random stuff we make and I've decided this is going to be my first item. I know a lot of people brewing are the DIY type, but some people may not have the tools or means to do so. I'm not looking to profit, but to help a fellow brewer out! More to come on the new store we're opening!!

Beer: Discussion with Q&A from John Kimmich of The Alchemist

From time to time during my endless research into homebrewing I come across a gem like this:

This discussion with Q&A from John Kimmich is extremely informative. You also can get a good background into The Alchemist's Heady Topper. Also go check out Chop & Brew by Chip Walton. A great find and I can't wait to watch the rest of his videos!