About Me

Hi there! I’m Peter Ragsdale, and welcome to Chubby Tips.

I live in Jackson, Tennessee, where I’ve spent most of my adult life working as an outdoor power equipment mechanic. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to spend your days elbow-deep in lawn mower engines, chainsaw carburetors, and the occasional stubborn wood chipper, well—let’s just say I’ve got stories.

I was born in January 1981, which makes me a Capricorn, if you’re into that sort of thing. Growing up, I never imagined I’d end up working with my hands for a living, but there’s something deeply satisfying about taking apart a machine that’s given up the ghost and coaxing it back to life. Every repair is a puzzle, and I’ve always loved puzzles.

This blog started as a way to share some of the tricks and tips I’ve picked up over the years—not just about fixing equipment, but about all the little things that make life a bit easier. Whether it’s a shortcut for getting a stubborn bolt loose, advice on maintaining your tools, or just observations about the world from someone who spends a lot of time in a workshop, I wanted a place to put it all down.

Why “Chubby Tips”? Honestly, the name came from a joke with friends about how I’m always sharing unsolicited advice (the tips), delivered with a certain… let’s call it “generous” personality (the chubby). I’ve learned to embrace both. Life’s too short to take yourself too seriously.

When I’m not in the shop at Crafts & More, you might find me tinkering with my 2011 Daewoo Lacetti (yes, I know it’s an unusual car—that’s exactly why I love it), or just enjoying the simple things: a good cup of coffee, figuring out how something works, or helping someone solve a problem they’ve been wrestling with.

I started this blog because I believe everyone has knowledge worth sharing. Mine just happens to come with grease under the fingernails.

Thanks for stopping by. I hope you find something useful here—or at least something that makes you think, “Huh, I never knew that.”

— Peter

P.S. If you want to get in touch, you can reach me through the contact page. I’m always happy to hear from readers, answer questions, or just chat about whatever’s on your mind.