THAT DIDN’T QUITE GO AS PLANNED - Off Grid Barn Conversion in Portugal

In today's video I work on a couple of carpentry projects, including one that might be a weird idea... I'm not so sure yet! I also push on with work on the closet wall and do some accidental demolition which is never a good thing! 😬
I hope you enjoy it! Please like the video if you do and subscribe if you haven't already. Thanks!
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I'm Kirsty and I'm novice builder attempting an off grid stone barn renovation here in Central Portugal. I love going slowly, learning along the way, and trying new things as I attempt to build a beautiful tiny house using natural materials.
If you like my stuff and want to help support the channel, please like my videos and share them around! 😀 Or if you'd like to help financially, my Paypal is below. Any amount goes a long way and is much appreciated!
Paypal: paypal.me/travoholic
Instagram: / portugalfromscratch
Facebook: / portugal-from-scratch-...
Horribly Neglected Website: www.portugalfromscratch.com

[@jeanrichardson2044]

You are sick of dealing with the wall, but you don't make things easy for yourself. Anyone else would have bought a sheet of wallboard and clad it. I admire your persistence to deliver your vision.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Haha, yep! I'm never really in a rush and want to do things in a certain way... I suppose I could have given up for awhile and returned to it later but luckily I got things done. 🙂

[@balletworkout1]

The wall is going to look awesome.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thanks!

[@Equestrian79]

I have fallen in love with cob by simply watching you being in love with cob throughout all the episodes you have worked with it. Thank you for introducing me - in real practical life - to one of Nature's prime building material.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

I’m so happy to be able to share about this amazing material! Happy building! 😀

[@liberatedlifetime3584]

Love the battery station gizmo. Well done. I esp like the idea of charging & hiding wires! You’re a trail blazer. As always - loving the cob wall

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Glad to hear that, thanks!

[@Rosalinda-tg7yi]

pure genius Kirsty, your Mum and Dad must be so proud of you.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

😀

[@anneavery5799]

hi kirsty im from australia i watch you all the time and love seeing you work everything out and put it together off grid really suits you you look happy i cant wait to see your shower finished and you using it and yes your right theres no rush we all do things in our own time its great to be excited about the vision you have for your home enjoy the trip 😊👍

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thanks so much! I'm also excited for the shower, I hope to get going on that final last push soon!

[@ruthnoronha8206]

The wall is beautiful, I really hope you could see it from our perspective. Imagine running fairy lights through the holes. Just to give it a stars in the dark look. Great job and artistic style!!!!

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Could do! Thanks!

[@sherylmiller1640]

Love the wall you are right just some little candles or succulents will finish it off.Great job

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thank you!

[@irislozinsky3960]

From great music to Great Wall to great cart! You nailed it all girl! Loved watching and tapping my toes! Happy Easter

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Haha, thanks! Happy easter!

[@kassy6373]

Bigger wheels do seem to be a good idea. Maybe you can make a wooden rail to guide the wheels?

[@PortugalfromScratch]

I forgot to look in the shop when I was there last time but I'll check for something bigger. But it works ok for the moment! Thanks!

[@user-ih5gm2uc1i]

Since watching your videos, I’m amazed how you tackle new projects. You have a can do attitude. Great job👍🏻

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thanks!

[@jennywhite1964]

The wall looks great. So close to 10k subscribers. Keep going. 😊

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thanks!

[@avivat3010]

I've got it! A very safe skate board because it doesn't go anywhere!! Anyway, I was wrong... but, a great idea for making it easier to get the heavy battery out of the closet. Could you remove the board across the bottom of the cupboard doorway and get four larger wheels? two that move in one direction on the back and two that swivel on the front? Then you could use it as a skate board in a pinch. You just have to find some flat cement or asphalt.... Have a great few days, Kirsty! You're making amazing progress. Best, Angela

[@PortugalfromScratch]

I think I'm a lot safer on an immobile skateboard! 😆

[@margaretstanton7567]

Love the shape & size of the holes--I was afraid you were closing them off! So clever--for light & wires. Pretty shelves above the wall...and one you can lift up to deal w/lights!! You think of everything! Unique!

[@PortugalfromScratch]

I do put a lot of thought into most things! Maybe too much! 😆

[@barbaranielsen2888]

You are so clever! That little cart for you battery was a great idea

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thanks! It'll be super useful!

[@busybeaver793]

Thanks for the chuckle Kirsty! You certainly did a number on that blade. Lol 😄

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Haha, yep! More purchased!

[@dper1112]

The jigsaw vibrates so much. If you own an oscillating saw, those would probably perform better in a situation like this one. But we have to work with the tools we own. Oh well! :-)

[@PortugalfromScratch]

I would have thought the oscillating saw would be even more vibratey... so that's good to know! I don't have one in my toolkit... yet! 😁

[@maryricketts8526]

I thnk it looks great. Little plants will look good. Like an artist it's hard to just stop and let it be.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Yep! Thanks!

[@trishandrews2773]

Im no builder but wondered if you had used fine wire netting to attach the cob to the walls would have helped. I admire your persistence😊

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Yes I think that could have worked but more to reinforce things, not as the main base because it might be a bit too wobbly. I've never tried it, though!

[@eleanorluckhurst9192]

You amaze me that you can keep a list of small projects in mind. They are no doubt created on a sleepless night. Even in my younger days I needed a list with it all written down. Kudos

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Ya I somehow seem to have a list on the go without actually making a list... but lots of thinking at night, for sure!

[@kathleenmurray9096]

Hi Kirsty love how the wall is turning out with the holes. A good idea to put the charge cables through them into the big batter. The wheeling trolley your sitting the battery on is as you said a bit wobbly maybe put a screw either side of the wheels but leave them sticking out to prevent the wheels from swivelling, and spinning. I think that might help. Lol anyway it's all coming together. We'll done. XxKathleen from Greenock.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thanks! Ya it's the swivel that's causing the problems but it doesn't have far to travel so it's ok for now, I think.

[@evelyngorfram9306]

The shelves look great, the cob looks great, and the whole wall is shaping up to be something wonderful. IM humble aesthetic O, the holes on your holey wall may be a little too symmetrical as they are. If you fill in or make an extra high/middle on one side, and low/middle on the other; you might create more random-seeming & aesthetically pleasing group. (I might also consider eliminating one or two of the holes behind the shelves, just to keep there from being a "shelves always have holes behind them" predictability. But you, of course, should do you.)

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Ya it sort of ended up a bit more circular than I planned for. Eliminating holes... an interesting idea, thanks!

[@user-jq6lb3bx2l]

The holes are wonderful

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thanks!

[@woomobile]

Hi Kirsty, I guessed a trolley for something but couldnt think what u would need a wooden trolley with 2 wheels for 🤣 The wall looks great, coloured bottles matching the other wall would look good but if ur keeping all ur electrics in that cupboard maybe leaving it with just round holes for ventilation, but i also seen miniature round stained glass discs ages ago n that would look cool in the holes but if u went down that route u could make a round wooden frame, add pins so the inner coloured disc would spin so u would have the colour n the ventilation 🤣🤣 i know u like fiddly projects lol

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Ooh I like your idea! I love stained glass!

[@sues7589]

Good idea to make the wheeled thingy to move the battery.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thanks! I can't wait to have all of my wires and batteries out of my way!

[@user-jq6lb3bx2l]

Love the work you are doing

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thanks!

[@daisysmum7336]

I’m loving how that whole section of the tiny house is coming together. The curviness of the cob contrasts nicely with the hardness of the stone and the wood warms everything up.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thanks! I love how the materials interact with each other, too!

[@goodtogo3]

Gotta say...not your best work, but I was smiling and cheering you on all the way. Looked great in the end.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thanks!

[@debbrown5648]

I love that wall!

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thank you!

[@deborahlee8135]

Oh, i love the holes. When the middle one is covered they seem to be in an almost circle, but not quite. Maybe it is that that seems not quite finished? A few twining plants/things on shelves, will fix that.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Ya I think stuff on the shelves will make it all look a bit better. 🙂

[@cindyc247]

Love your creations❤️ Great idea for the battery access/storage and use of the holes/shelves to charge things👍 It’s looking good, can’t wait for the finished results😀 Well done, great job😀

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thanks so much!

[@michelleellis8201]

Your woodworking skills are great. I can imagine you making custom wood cabinets and decor if you had a full woodworking set up you could do amazing things! I like the holes in the closet wall. Great idea for the pull out storage for the large charging station!! Take care 😊❤️

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thanks! Cabinetry scares me but I've done some things in my kitchen so far. A proper woodworking setup is the future goal!

[@micaltoy824]

Good job!! Good morning from Mississipp🖐🍷

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thanks!

[@sarahnd]

The wind drives me nuts too... makes me wonder why we decided to live in a notoriously windy area!! I like your idea for keeping all the batteries and wires in one place out of sight. We're not there yet!

[@PortugalfromScratch]

I'm lucky the wind here comes and goes... I'm so happy to have a new camera though! The wind is terrible for filming but now it's not so bad.

[@andie1769]

Closet walls look great! Good for extra ventilation. I’m sure the cabin gets hot with the fire on in winter. Great solution for the Bluetti, Maybe some guide rails on the floor?? It’s spring time so I guess Mikey & Larry are out gallivanting! All animals go a little nutso in spring. Cheers, enjoying your creativity! 😊

[@PortugalfromScratch]

They're certainly nutso at the moment! 😀

[@johenderson3742]

Idea: use a large drill to make some smaller holes in the cob wall?🌌

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Yes if I decide to put smaller holes I'll do this... but when the wall is fully dried, I think. 🙂

[@juanitakauffman6336]

Enjoyed the video. Battery cart works.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thank you!

[@sherrithompson5418]

I love the holes in the wall. Maybe place battery powered candles in the holes? Otherwise, great job 🥰

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thanks! Ooh, cool idea!

[@daffs0]

I had to rewind just to make sure you said what you said at 28.21 secs 😂🤣😂🤣😂 Great idea for the trolly maybe defo bigger wheels Great video thank you for sharing 😄

[@PortugalfromScratch]

😆 Ya different wheels will make it all a bit smoother but I used what I had and I think I'l swap them out eventually.

[@daffs0]

Was thinking about your wall you could buy the big marble stones they come in different colours and shapes or little square bottles maybe colour them with ink just some ideas 😁

[@janinevalido]

The Cobb wall looks great. I love how creative you are and you’re very handy. You could add some colorful stones if you want but I don’t think it’s necessary. I love wall the way it is. Take care.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thanks! I could embed stones or something in the next layer of plaster or even sculpt shapes... maybe!

[@vrx5618]

Ca fait tres beau avec des plus petits trous tres bon travail

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Merci!

[@user-lj4dk5ps3z]

The wall looks good

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thanks!

[@marcocarneiro2431]

I’m late, and commenting halfway through so maybe you end up adding holes, but I love it like this! And maybe that bottom portion of non-holed wall could have a row of azulejos or other tiles as a cheery accent to the stone ledge and cob

[@marcocarneiro2431]

Also, maybe small stained glass panes could go behind the holes inside the closet? or, maybe little mini hanging lights or planters that come down from anchor hooks drilled into the top portion of the holes. Sky’s the limit I suppose! Mini bowls and vessels might sit in the holes’ “ledges” - could host air plants or small succulents? Little cuttings of String of Pearls succulent would be so cute as they trail down over time

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Ooh maybe! Those finishing little touches will come later when I plaster, though. 🙂

[@PortugalfromScratch]

I love these ideas, thanks! Especially the idea of hanging plants... very cool!

[@jimwalker76]

The wall and solar closet look amazing. It was so smart of you to have the holes in the wall to charge things. Your mom and dad are going to be so pleased. Beautiful job, Kirsty.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thanks so much! The charging thing was a happy accident! 😀

[@JudySnyder-dv5ld]

I like your wall. Your home is looking nice. I love the kitties.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thank you!

[@attract1234]

good god no more holes feck... no point in building the wall. It looks great as it is.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Haha, ok!

[@wandamartin6503]

Love the battery cart. Good job

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thanks!

[@virginiajorgensen8614]

I think that the wall looks great and I love the clay. Looks like the cart will work, makes things easier.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thanks!

[@theoriginhomestead]

it's looking fantastic 🌻

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thank you!

[@here2peer]

Love the wall 😃, it's looking great, and the trolley for the battery! Great idea 👍. Can't think of what could be missing from the wall, though I could possibly see glass bottle bottoms in the holes, maybe different colours. Just a thought. But overall its looking really good 😊 x

[@user-sc6ze1bz7b]

😭

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thanks! I think I'll leave the holes as they are for the moment but that idea works, too!

[@here2peer]

@@PortugalfromScratch Yeah, you're right. I was just trying to think of something as you'd said you felt something was missing. In retrospect, it probably wasn't a good idea 😅

[@debraenea2227]

The wall is looking great. Maybe some different color glass figurines or pots in front of circles where light comes thru.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Ah great idea for glass! Even mini stained glass leaning against the wall could be cool?

[@deehalpern8988]

I love the holes.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thanks!

[@eileenstec7862]

Something to place heavy items on and shift them on a flat floor- plants?

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Close!

[@kioompie]

creepycornerclosetlamp looks like a circle to me, is that is what you were going for, job well done, but I undrstood you wanted it more random. you can move the lower one more down ( not really an easy option I think) or remove one so you break the circle and make it more random. If you dont fill them with glass ( wires for charging is good idea) you can use a less strong / warm white -extra- lamp in there. I think it can work as a nice feature.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

I think it’s growing on me… thanks for the ideas!

[@kioompie]

@@PortugalfromScratch that is also a good option!

[@lfuentes4098]

7:52 it looks like a trolly of some sort. To move something heavy in and out of a space without picking it up. Like you would find in the bottom of a pantry or closet. Let’s see if I’m right. Since your working in the solar closet I’m thinking it could be for inside that area. 😉 I was right. 😂

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Yep! Well done! 😀

[@juliad1768]

You could put coloured acetate sheets behind the holes then that would reflect pretty light effects?

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Could do, thanks for he idea!

[@johenderson3742]

It's a wooden scooter?!😂

[@PortugalfromScratch]

😆

[@debravanwinkle3946]

I love how that wall turned out perhaps yea lights in the winter they’ll add warmth an the y go out an of course plants love it 👍

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Ooh nice idea, thanks!

[@julietlehrle-fry6696]

I love the wall

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thanks!

[@user-xp6ij4sp2t]

I like the hole wall - can I suggest maybe some tissue paper to filter the light through the wall. I haven't thought how to fix it! I'll leave that with you lol. 5 mins later I hear you would maybe like to put some wires through the holes, so....... how about putting some tissue paper in between some hoops (probable wooden which is definitely your preference) fixed to the wall with 1 screw that you could swivel out of the way when the hole is needed to be used. 😀 What do you think? lol

[@jerrielindsey5939]

Rice paper! Line a Japanese screen

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Like little colourful doors! I like it! But it's definitely a project for a lot farther down the line... thanks!

[@PortugalfromScratch]

😀

[@Tmp130]

You said what we were all thinking about that dubious shape in your cob wall😂

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Haha!

[@evelyngorfram9306]

Mid-video carpentry guess: a highly experimental skateboard?

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Haha! Nope! Maybe next project... 😆

[@batyamasheh3543]

You are creative and persistent. Finding solutions and ideas as you go. Cob looks great and gives a warm natural organic feel. Just a thought, have you considered making your window bigger, as it would give more light since your cottage is quite small. Just an idea. 🙂

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thanks! Maybe one day but it’s fine for the now… I’ll have a large window int he kitchen by the summer I hope!

[@kyranmacwood1278]

Kirsty, in stead of a chain for your uppershelve, you could use hinges perhaps?!! Awesome work again on your wall...

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Hinges are my plan for the shelf... coming soon! 🙂

[@anniemac3075]

I like the holes in the wall.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thanks!

[@susanaughey9343]

You are persistent and patient. I would have been wanting to kick it all down. Of course regret would soon follow. Looks good!

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Haha I sort of did want to! 😁

[@raquelfernandez463]

Kirtsty.You are doing a great job,give your Self alot of Credit.And young Lady it Looks great have a Beautiful Easter.And iPray you have a Wonderful time with your Mom Dad and your Friend's.Love Grandma Raquel.And Hugg's to your Cat's.🐈🐈.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thanks so much, happy easter to you, too!

[@carolchisholm433]

Love the cob wall with its organic shapes!

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thanks!

[@polgarauk5606]

Hi Kirsty 👋😁 The wall looks great sorry you had some mending to do but as you said that is the beauty of Cob you can reuse the messed up bits and repair the rest easily nice and versatile 😊 Excellent idea to put charging wires through the holes as needed too 😊 I kinda guessed what the little cart thing was for but not quite never thought of the bluetti on it 😂 Cats do like to be annoying sometimes 😂

[@PortugalfromScratch]

That Bluetti thing is super heavy and always on my way... this should give me a lot of extra space and less hassle. 🙂

[@mbd6054]

Your wall is looking good, and being able to charge devices on your shelves is a great idea. You really do lovely work with cob, and get a great finish on it. I'm with you and Mikey where the wind is concerned. It's wearisome. Great video. Thanks for sharing. :)

[@PortugalfromScratch]

I love cob! Haha And the wind is not my favourite... wearisome is a great word for it!

[@doreenwilliams9622]

Maybe next time try the router to remove the battens.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

I'd thought of that but the bit would be too short... the clay would have been in the way, if that makes sense.

[@deborahwhite2339]

I think the closet wall looks great as is. I feel that you have made the right amount of holes. Any more holes may cause it to look unbalanced. It would be nice of you could get your hands on some small glass shapes. Or maybe just the light shining through is enough. 🙂👍👍🇨🇦🌻

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thanks! Yes it's hard to know when to stop sometimes!

[@leea.farruga1834]

I wouldn't add more holes. Looks really nice the way it is.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thank you!

[@Ragt0p]

I still advocate for smaller openings inbetween the holes you have made 😂 I think the contrast between wall and opening is too big, having smaller holes too will make it more balanced

[@localsouptalks]

I agree. A scattering of a handful of smaller holes in the spaces between the holes you have already made would add interest and balance. Also, could your final layer of mud be sculpted to produce a shallow relief? I love what you’re doing - it’s looking fabulous!

[@PortugalfromScratch]

That's what I was also thinking... but I think I'll wait for the cob to dry completely before messing around too much. It will be tricky with the wood inside and I'll have to do it with a bunch of small drill holes. I'll think about it more and do this a lot later, if I decide to. Thanks!

[@PortugalfromScratch]

I think so too but it'll be a change I make a lot later, if I do it. Yep! I could definitely sculpt some shapes with the final render.

[@MelissaMichaelson]

I wonder if the wall could use a horizontal border of light on the bottom. In other words, leave a space between the rock ledge/shelf and the wall itself. Or wooden trim along the bottom of the wall? It will make the wall look a tad shorter and the spacing of holes will look better.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Ah yes, I do think the bigger part at the bottom is what's making things feel 'off'. I don't think I'll do another hole but perhaps eventually trimming the bottom part with wood or something could look better. Let's see! Thanks!

[@Tmp130]

Great solution for the big charger!

[@PortugalfromScratch]

😁

[@annadaurie2435]

Do you think the heat from the fire might have dried the wall out. What about something like stain glass or the paper you can get that looks like stain glass. To cover over the holes? Just a thought.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

I0m actually thinking of little stained glass squares that lean on the shelves... could be cool!

[@user-lj4dk5ps3z]

Maybe a trolley?

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Yep! 😀

[@sari4079]

That wall looks great now and I am very interested in using the cob myself. just have to learn how to do it!

[@PortugalfromScratch]

It’s so easy!! Have a look online and if you can find a con building course, even to make an oven, near you… give it a go!

[@user-wb1dv9yu7d]

❤ the wall a very nice feature

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thanks!

[@lorimontcalm9086]

I think the wall looks great! Hugs from 🇨🇦

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thanks!

[@deborahlee8135]

Only 2 wheels? 🤔 maybe a partial pullout shelf? Almost like a dolly but restricted movement. 😂 well i guess i")) see

[@deborahlee8135]

I got it! 😂 that's what i would do, i've done similar with a 4 wheeled one where i need to move heavy items 😁

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Yep! Ding ding ding!

[@ritamailheau771]

Aw! Chin up. You're doing a great job and clay seems to be reusable.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thanks! Yes it’s amazing stuff!

[@punjabseth260]

👌

[@PortugalfromScratch]

🙂

[@bcoppola1001]

looks great, love it

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thanks!

[@annadaurie2435]

The wall looks awesome.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thanks!

[@jeanmeyer8194]

Yea sooo glad to have y video

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Hi!

[@charlenequinilty7252]

There is a saw called a key hole saw. Pointed and gets wider. Check it out. Might work for you.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

That would have been perfect… I must add one to the toolkit!

[@debravanwinkle3946]

Great idea smart an wise 👍👀🫶🏻

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thanks!

[@gabrielebehr563]

Looks very pretty👍

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thanks!

[@user-sc6ze1bz7b]

Wow wow woow

[@PortugalfromScratch]

😁

[@fayewhelan7209]

❤

[@PortugalfromScratch]

🙂

[@ruthnoronha8206]

I think if your wheels are bigger they will roll better.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

I think so too... I'll keep an eye out!

[@sandramckenzie653]

Some kind of shelf for your cob wall would be my guess!?

[@PortugalfromScratch]

😀

[@mafish7962]

❤❤❤

[@PortugalfromScratch]

😀

[@joketendam5806]

♥

[@PortugalfromScratch]

🙂

[@ManuelPineiro-dr1oc]

Uruguay

[@PortugalfromScratch]

🙂

[@Infinitepossibilitiesat56plus]

Put fairy lights in the holes so they shine through the holes ?

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Good idea!

[@lorimontcalm9086]

A swinging/rolling door/shelf???

[@PortugalfromScratch]

😀

[@GoogleAccount-fx4cz]

Why did you work your wall like that you could have done it just a drywall plywood stucco it with🤔 some tile less expensive for a small wall like that we have enjoyed watching your videos you're making your small cottage foyourself. Great job 👍

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Drywall is lame! 😆 I'm all about natural materials so you'll see a lot of clay and wood walls like this. It's a joy to build them (even when there are problems) and I love the final results. 😀