Building a Transformers Prop

Bob Clagett tackles another multifaceted project that resembles an Industrial Design Prototyping 101 project. Here he executes everything from 3D printing to modelmaking to electronics, conjuring up a replica of the “Matrix of Leadership” artifact that fans of the ’80s Transformers cartoon will recognize:

Prototyping an Adjustable Circular Saw Crosscutting Guide

This is pretty cool because we get to see prolific inventor Izzy Swan’s prototyping process. Here he’s making version 1.0 of a gizmo that will let him use a circular saw on a jobsite, rather than having to haul a miter saw:

Homemade Dowel Maker

Izzy Swan shows you the DIY method his father used to use for creating your own dowels:

Shaper Origin Test Drive

Jimmy DiResta received a pre-production Shaper Origin unit, that self-correcting router we wrote up. Here he gives it a test-drive:

DIY Concrete Firepit

A new addition to the Maker’s Roundup: HomeMadeModern shows you how to make a firepit out of concrete that’s been embedded with fire bricks:

Powered Forklift Toy

Matthias Wandel delves into toy design, digging up an old wiper-motor-powered forklift he built way back in 1985. Here he refurbishes it over two videos, then runs it through its paces. It’s pretty satisfying seeing what he can get it to do at the end:

Part 1

Part 2

Easel & Chalkboard Frame

Jay Bates builds an easel out of poplar for an upcoming wedding. I am always in awe of how tidy his shop is, and how organized his planning and execution are:

Board-on-Board Fence, Part 3

April Wilkerson finishes up her massive board-on-board fence project, showing you some clever efficiency tips along the way. I especially like how she builds the gate right into the fence, then cuts it free at the end with a circular saw:

Solid Maple Table

This week Laura Kampf whips up a beautiful, and burly, solid maple table with a live edge and breadboard ends. Am also digging the walnut bowties: