Episode 295: It’s like feeding a rhinoceros

Making It · 12 Feb 2021 · 58m

What this episode covers

Jimmy Diresta, Bob Clagett, and David Picciuto discuss the creative process of nurturing ideas that initially seem 'hokey' or insignificant, using Bob's leather slot-and-tab bag and Jimmy's shark-tooth knife as examples. They explore how self-editing can kill potential projects and advocate for giving ideas a chance to evolve through prototyping. The conversation shifts to practical shop challenges, including Jimmy's Grizzly bandsaw issues caused by a riser block and the importance of having adequate 220V power for heavy machinery.

Other shows on the same ground, closest first.

  • Product Startup · 30m

    010: I have an idea, now what? Developing, testing & prototyping physical products.

    Filip Valica, host of the Product Startup Podcast and engineer at Mako Design + Invent, explains how to validate product ideas and build prototypes on any budget. He argues that ideas have little value until validated through customer feedback and iterative prototyping, warning against the 'if you build it, they will come' trap. Valica details a spectrum of prototyping methods, from DIY cardboard and dollar-store 'Frankenstein' builds to using 3D printing services like Shapeways and outsourcing to manufacturers or invention promotion companies.

  • Embedded.fm · 59m

    136: Let's Try Out Some Broccoli

    Simone Giertz, an inventor and YouTuber known for building 'shitty robots,' discusses her process of creating humorous, often dangerous devices like a vegetable chopping machine and a wake-up alarm that hits her with a rubber arm. She explains that her non-engineering background allows her to learn through enthusiastic, idea-driven prototyping using Arduino, embracing failure as a key part of the process. Giertz also touches on her experience working at Punch Through, the challenges of filming and editing solo content, and how she uses comedy to make electronics accessible to a broader audience.

  • Shop Talk Live · 1h 07m

    STL362: Hold the Saw like a Baby Bird

    Jeff Miller, a prolific furniture maker and author, discusses his transition into building classical guitars and skin-on-frame canoes, treating them as new creative challenges. He explains his design philosophy, which applies musical concepts like melody and harmony to furniture curves, and details his rigorous prototyping process involving comfort and aesthetic iterations. Miller also emphasizes the critical importance of body mechanics and proper tool handling, using the 'baby bird' analogy for saw grip to minimize tension and maximize efficiency.

  • Being an Engineer · 1h 12m

    S2E01 How to Determine if an Idea is Worth Pursuing – Mechanical Engineering Professor at MIT | Alexander Slocum

    Alexander Slocum, a Mechanical Engineering Professor at MIT, discusses how to determine if an idea is worth pursuing, emphasizing the importance of philosophy in design, managing ego, and validating market demand before production. He shares personal strategies for work-life balance, such as tinkering with children and using exercise to maintain productivity, and advises engineers to invest in their companies or pursue residual income through real estate or stock options. Slocum warns against the pitfalls of relying solely on patents, citing his own 'Massages Soap' failure, and recommends using provisional patents and handmade prototypes to validate demand before committing to expensive tooling. He also outlines a peer-review process for design teams and stresses the importance of protecting equity and seeking legal counsel for partnerships.

  • Shop Talk Live · 1h 08m

    STL237: Just the facets, ma'am

    Fine Woodworking deputy editor John Benson joins Mike and Dave to discuss his career path from restoration carpentry to magazine editing, emphasizing the importance of design over pure craftsmanship. The team advises beginners to start with small, functional projects like spoon carving and cutting boards to build hand-eye coordination and confidence without the pressure of large investments. They highlight key designers like Wharton Esherick and James Krenov, discussing how to develop a unique design voice by studying masters and following personal instincts rather than rigid rules. The episode concludes with practical shop tips, including the utility of V-blocks, cross-cut sleds, and honing guides for sharpening.

The summary, chapters and topics are generated from the episode’s audio by this directory, not written by Making It. The episode itself belongs to its publisher.