The latest DIY ideas, techniques and tools for bikes, rockets, R/C vehicles, toys and other diversions.
Scott Lowther’s models aren’t (generally) painted, because Scott Lowther’s models aren’t (generally) for display—they’re for casting molds to make kit-parts from. If you’ve ever been curious about this process, Scott’s site has a great selection of finished, in-process, and still-to-come master models he’s working—on contract or on “spec”—to turn into kits.
Steve is probably an acquired taste and the pacing of his videos (which would make a turtle shout: “Hurry up!”) and the no-production production can be maddening (faster-forwarding is a huge help here), but his chops as a modeler are undeniable and the knowledge, tips, and tricks you acquire in sticking with him are invaluable.
This XBox 360 controller was built by a certain Minister Morbid, who even included a brass lock and key for the highest in Steampunk gamer exclusivity. The piece is finished with antique burl wood, and even has leather grips for that authentic Victorian feel while you mash those buttons. [via Geeky Gadgets]
I’ve been trying to figure out the name of the modeler at TANKS & Trolls, and it’s been tough enough going to persuade me that he would rather remain anonymous. “Bulldog UK” seems to be a favored forum handle, and whatever his real name is, there’s no denying his talent. Shown here is a scratch-built “Warlord Titan” for WH40K gaming. The detail page has tons of great in-process shots.
David Shuff reports on the 2011 New York Comic Con: While superheroes, video games, toys, and all things anime abounded on the show floor, a few stalwart crafters were sprinkled in the mix, proudly displaying their handmade creations.
First Chess, then Jeopardy, now the Rubic’s Cube. Mike Dobson and David Gilday’s CubeStormer II Rubic’s Cube solving robot successfully beat Australian Feliks Zemdegs’ 5.66 second record by solving a cube in a mere 5.352 seconds. The feat was accomplished using four LEGO Mindstorm NXT kits controlled by a Samsung Galaxy S II smartphone. The Singularity is near, I tell ya.
Florida maker Daniel Fleischman designs and builds pedal-powered vehicles using PVC tubing for his company American Speedster. On his site you’ll find plans and component kits available for a small fee. Pedal-powered vehicles are becoming increasingly popular. Some folks are even hot-rodding them with electric conversions.
