Tools

Best of MAKE: Toolsday 2011

Best of MAKE: Toolsday 2011

“Toolbox” has been a staple of MAKE magazine since Volume 01, back in February, ’05. We’ve done plenty of online tool reviews, too, since then, but somewhat informally, and it’s only this year that we decided to launch a regularly-scheduled, official online weekly tool review column. When we were gearing up, back in April…

“Prusa Air”

“Prusa Air”

I love the look of this Prusa Mendel RepRap 3D-printer fork designed by Thingiverse user Mecano. Shown above is a concept rendering of his second prototype, Prusa Air 2, which hasn’t been built yet, and below, the physical prototype of Prusa Air 1. Among Manuel’s stated design goals for the project were “a little beauty,” which I daresay he has already achieved, admirably.

Secret Santa: Goli Mohammadi – Snow Toolbelt

Secret Santa: Goli Mohammadi – Snow Toolbelt

Depending on the time of year, if Goli isn’t making stuff, she’s usually out on some mountain somewhere carving it up. This Woman’s Diamond Snow Toolbelt from 686 seems like it would come in handy, like when you’re stuck in the backcountry and making an adjustment means a smooth run vs limping down the hill. Besides stylishly holding things up, this belt includes #2 Phillips and flat-head screwdrivers, a 8/10/11mm wrench loop, and the ever-useful bottle opener. Who doesn’t want to open bottles with their belt buckle?

Holiday Gift Guide 2011: Santa Claus Machines

Holiday Gift Guide 2011: Santa Claus Machines

If you’re planning on getting a 3D printer for yourself, the decisions about what to buy, and who to buy it from, can be daunting. If you’re trying to buy a gift for a 3D printing enthusiast, and don’t necessarily share his or her passion for the subject, they can be downright overwhelming, not to mention expensive. Fortunately, there are quality gift options short of buying a whole printer, and we’ve listed some great ones, below, from lowest to highest price. On the other hand, if you’re ready to take the plunge and buy a whole printer, our preferred makes and models are listed at the end of the guide, again in order of increasing price.