Featured in The New Yorker
How to Be Your Own Super
Doorknob troubles? No sweat — an Upper West Side handyman is helping the helpless, with a beginner’s class on how to fix your (many) apartment problems.
March 16, 2026
Read the article
Trade Screens
for Screws
Home repair workshops in Manhattan — zero experience needed.
Come with questions. Leave with confidence. And maybe a new favorite screwdriver.
Reserve My SeatLearn the Home Skills Every New Yorker Should Know
Learn the quiet skills that used to be common — practical, physical, and deeply useful. In a small, in-person workshop, you’ll pick up the kind of home skills that make life feel just a little less chaotic.
It’s designed for people who’ve never touched a toolbox — first-timers, nervous renters, curious teens, and anyone who’s ever stared at a crooked shelf or flickering switch thinking, “Should I be worried about that?”
We’ll walk through simple, hands-on ways to understand and take care of the space you live in. You won’t need any experience — just curiosity and maybe a little bit of that “I’ve always wanted to know how to do that” feeling.
Featured on Vox · Now Streaming
DIY or don’t?
Featured guest — Vladimir Srdoc,founder & instructor of Back to Basics
Vladimir — who founds, runs, and personally teaches every Back to Basics workshop — took the mic on Vox’s Today, Explained as the episode’s featured guest, breaking down the question every New Yorker Googles at 2 a.m.: which home fixes you can actually pull off yourself, and when it’s time to call a pro.
If your grandparents can do it, you can do it too!
Vladimir Srdoc —
Founder & Instructor
With over 20 years in the construction trade and more than 5,000 NYC apartments under his belt, Vladimir has seen just about everything — from full renovations to high-end appliance installs in the city’s tightest, quirkiest spaces.
At Back to Basics, he shares the kind of know-how that helps you feel less lost at home, how to spot small issues before they become big ones, when to grab a wrench — and when to call in a pro.
This workshop won’t turn you into a plumber or an electrician overnight, but it will help you understand your space, speak the language of your home, and know what you can (and shouldn’t) handle on your own.
Where does the workshop take place?
- Location
- Manhattan, Upper West Side
- Phone
- (646) 543 87 54
Come with questions. Leave with practical skills, fewer 2 am Google searches, and a bit more confidence every time something goes clunk.
Reserve My SeatNo spots left? Add your name to our waiting list and you’ll be the first to know when a seat opens — often before we announce it anywhere else.
Join WaitlistFAQs
Is the workshop beginner-friendly if I’ve zero experience with tools?
Yes! This class is designed exactly for beginners. No experience needed — we’ll guide you through every step and help you feel confident using basic tools.
What should I wear to the workshop?
Wear comfy clothes and shoes you don’t mind getting dusty. This is a hands-on class, so come ready to move around and work with your hands.
Do I need to bring any tools or materials?
Nope. We provide all the tools and materials. Just bring yourself and a willingness to learn.
How long is the class, and what’s the schedule like?
The workshop runs about 2.5 hours. We start with a short intro, then jump right into hands-on practice. It moves fast but stays fun.
Is this workshop suitable for older adults or people with limited physical mobility?
Absolutely. The pace is relaxed and every task can be adapted. If you have specific needs, just let us know ahead of time and we’ll make sure you’re comfortable.
How do I pay for a class?
There are two options: secure your seat with a $50 PayPal deposit and settle the rest on spot (cash or bank transfer). Or pay in full upfront.
How do I cancel?
If you need to cancel, just give us at least 24 hours’ notice. We’ll open the spot to someone else and refund your deposit in full. Cancellations made within 24 hours — or no-shows — mean we keep the deposit. Thanks for understanding!