MAKE Asks: Tools that won’t Quit
MAKE Asks: is a weekly column where we ask you, our readers, for responses to maker-related questions. We hope the column sparks interesting conversation and is a way for us to get to know more about each other.
Tools
How-To: A Working Paper Wrench
At Maker Faire Bay Area this year, Jay from MakerBlock found himself needing to tighten some wingnuts, but he didn’t have a wrench. Rather than asking around, he hacked together a solution on his own. It’s super simple: just one piece of paper. Roll it up into a tight tube and fold it in half. To use, place the paper tube around the wingnut, squeeze, and turn.
DiResta: Skeleton Key
In each bi-monthly episode of DiResta (every other Wednesday at 2pm PST), artist and master builder Jimmy DiResta (Dirty Money, Hammered, Against the Grain, Trash for Cash) lets us into his workshop, to look over his shoulder while he builds whatever strikes his fancy. On this episode of DiResta, Jimmy reverse engineers a key to open a vintage lock.
What to do with an 800 Lb Eucalyptus Slab
Imagine someone from Craigslist drops an 800 lb, 13 foot long slab of raw Eucalyptus into your garage. What do you do with it? What can you make with it?
Pristine 1838 “Rose Engine” Lathe
A rose engine is a type of geometric lathe used to produce complex radial engravings called Guilloché, which are used both for decorative and security (i.e. anticounterfeiting) purposes. Those of you with more than $238,000 of disposable cash lying around may be irked to discover that the auction for this stunningly beautiful antique specimen is long closed. At least we can all still enjoy the gorgeous photographs…
Ten Tips for Hand Saws and Blades
There are a plethora of reasons to choose a hand saw over an electric in certain situations. But if you want to try them out, there are some things you need to know. Here are ten tips to help you on your way.
Knitic, an Open Hardware Knitting Machine
Knitic is a project involving a custom shield for an Arduino Due; these plug into a knitting machine’s solenoids and sensors, allowing Arduino control of your machine.