Reader Input
Thoughts, tips, and musings from readers like you.Page 06
In this issue we go back to the basics to teach you fundamental Maker skills. Our Skill School is packed with over 60 skills to help you get started or refine your craft. In this issue we also check in with some of the famous Makers we have featured over the last ten years for their tips and tricks. Projects in this issue include:
Thoughts, tips, and musings from readers like you.Page 06
Isaac Asimov’s predictions from 50 years ago are surprisingly accurate.Page 08
Explore the amazing convergence of art and DIY technology.Page 10
3D printing modders crank out Nerf pieces that shoot farther, faster, and in more interesting ways.Page 16
AtFAB partners Anne Filson and Gary Rohrbacher talk distributed manufacturing.Page 20
When making is inclusive, good things happen.Page 21
Get back to basics with more than 60 fundamental skills to master.Page 22
Even beginner projects can rock steel, aluminum, and copper.Page 24
2×4s and plywood are a Maker’s best friends.Page 26
Paper and cardboard are fun and forgiving building materials.Page 28
Silicone block molds are a quick and easy way to make a whole bunch of the same thing.Page 30
Easy to make and great for picnics, tailgate parties, or other social gatherings!Page 31
Make fabric, leather, or yarn the focus of your next project. Page 32
Get to know the various types of screws and their uses.Page 34
Select the right glue for your materials.Page 35
Create almost anything with duct tape. Page 36
Two little-known tips for using zip ties to keep things separated.Page 37
Welding and soldering give you the power to fabricate steel, control electrons, and more.Page 38
Learn how to use a multimeter properly, and to choose the best motor for your build.Page 40
Rather than learning to code, start thinking computationallyPage 42
These tips will help put youngsters on the path for tech success.Page 43
Add motion to your projects with gears.Page 44
Unlock a wealth of parts — as well as lessons — inside your gadgets.Page 45
Figure out what saw is right for the job — then learn to use it.Page 46
Keep your blades sharp, and use a marking knife.Page 48
Expert techniques to beautify and protect your wood projects.Page 49
Master various routers for advanced making.Page 50
Drive screws and bits with the right tool for the job.Page 51
Capture the mess before it’s made, with a DIY dust collection system.Page 52
Increase productivity and ease eyestrain with improved workshop lighting.Page 53
Correct use of digital calipers is vital to getting precise measurements.Page 54
With so many resources online, learning new skills is a snap.Page 56
Outfit your workspace to provide head-to-toe protection.Page 57
Be prepared. Administer first aid until help arrives.Page 58
For our 50th issue, we’ve collected a small sampling of Makers who’ve had great influence in the Maker Movement.Page 60
Construct your very own, full-size astromech droid.Page 66
There when you need it. Gone when you don’t.Page 72
Build a portable Double Pendulum to create abstract time exposures.Page 74
Use a quadcopter motor and coffee cup to make your own inflatable gear. Page 76
Prepare your favorite fruit for your Ka’s trip through the underworld.Page 79
Entertain yourself with a homemade capacitor.Page 80
Different jobs require different types of pliers. Here’s how to chose the right one.Page 83
Create a custom PCB workstation for your electronic projects.Page 84
Build magnetic micro-stations with the Raspberry Pi Zero.Page 86
Color in the unrecognizable mystery shape, then reveal the real deal as a reflection in a curved mirror.Page 87
All-in-one soldering station, Makey Makey Go, Uzebox DIY 8-bit game console, Atari junk console, and more useful gear.Page 88
This moddable system shows off a versatile construction platform.Page 92
A flame-spewing dunk tank inspired this fan fiction mash-up of Cormac McCarthy and Mad Max.Page 96