That seems like a lost art. I remember as a kid everybody, especiallyl the farmers, would make whatever it took to get the job done. We never just went and bought a new anything. Usually we would drag home something somebody else had already wore out and commenced making it work.
Those are pieces of America's finest art form in my opinion. I'm glad you have them and the memories that go with them.
I am not that talented but I would rather fix it if I can than buy a new cheaply made anything that will be ready to throw out in 6 months!