Grayy72's gravel trick might work short-term (I get the appeal, really), but clay shifts a lot over seasons. Deep posts anchor below the frost line, which stops heaving better than wide holes. That extra digging sucks, but it prevents leaning fences years later. I've seen too many gravel-set posts wobble after a few hard winters. Sticking to the depth rule is a pain, but it's the right call for clay.

Mortar's just keeping up with our need for instant gratification.

Yeah, the "patched together" worry totally made sense to me at first. I used to think you had to pick one perfect finish and stick with it for everything. But then I saw how a friend's workshop uses a glossy lacquer on oak for a modern look and a rubbed oil finish on cherry for a warmer feel in the same piece. That contrast became the whole point, and it looked amazing. It showed me that controlling two methods well can be the skill itself, not a problem.

Ugh, all that hanging clutter just makes the whole kitchen look messier to me.