Multipurpose Vacuum Collector DIY - Pick Up Stuff or Bugs Quick

Amazing vacuum project; 3 projects in 1 build plus 7 incredible and simple modifications. Clean up, collect & reuse small items like hardware, craft materials, food items & so much more. Safely & cleanly catch and dispose of nasty bugs.

Material separator, bug vacuum and small part recovery; made from mostly FREE, repurposed materials. Great for any stuff you don't want ending up in your dirty vacuum cleaner bag or dirt bin. Works amazingly well for small project parts and hardware, craft supplies (like beads, buttons, glitter, etc.), kitchen & cooking items (beans, rice, herbs and more); all of which can be quickly cleaned up and safely collected for reuse. The basic set up is also perfect for catching and eliminating bugs anywhere especially in hard to reach spots (ex. Ceiling, walls, under furniture, behind stuff, etc.). I take mine on impromptu bug hunting sessions, especially during times of year when the spiders come out in volume, to clear the house of bugs. You can clear out the bugs without having to get close to them; no pinching or picking up with tissue or smacking with a fly swatter. Even better is the fact that you don't have to touch, pick up, squish, flick or smash bugs to get them out of your house or garage.

With just one basic project build and some extra, simple modifications you get one tool that serves many functions. Best part is that most materials can be found free by using recycled our repurposed items from home. Great for the workshop, craft room, kitchen, kids play areas and more.

Materials for Base Project:
- Canister (Justin gave me a Muscle Milk container that was perfect for this)
- Vacuum Attachment:
* 3/4" PVC male adapter (2 pieces)
* 3/4" PVC threaded sleeve
* 3/4" PVC (2 pieces roughly 1.5" each)
* 3/4" PVC elbow
* 2" X 3/4" PVC reducer (experiment for best fit with your device)
* 2" PVC sleeve (non-threaded)
* Window Screen (or substitute clean sock)
- Wand Attachment:
* 3/4" X 1/2" PVC male reducer
* 1/2" PVC threaded Tee connector
* 1/2" PVC threaded plug
* 1/2" PVC male adapter
* 1/2" PVC (used for wand/hose)
* 1/2" PVC sleeve (optional: wand extension)
Additional Materials:
- Electric tape
- Zip ties
- Vinyl tube (1/2" ID X 5/8" OD) (optional)
- Nylon mesh bag - Rania gave me one she had from a department store purchase of jewelry but you can get similar bags in the candy section of craft stores (optional)
- Rubber Bands
- Sock
- Flexible Vacuum hose connector (optional)

[limodrivermike]

can you add a small manual vacuum cleaner (to be used in a car) to your list?

[brianbrewster]

So wait a second - this is a collection pot for an already existing shopvac? CHEATER! I wanted to see someone scratch-make their own vacuum with an electric motor, batteries, and wiring.