Category Archives: Teaching and Learning

How to make a simple knitting loom

Posted on January 26, 2015 by robertwilkie

Using wood screws and PVC pipe fittings, I like it. Not so sure if this qualifies as “cheap since these loops sell for $10 for a kit. But if the material is on hand…. http://www.instructables.com/id/2-Round-PVC-Knitting-Loom/

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Build a hot-wire ice cutter

Posted on January 22, 2015 by robertwilkie

Not sure why I would do this, but it could be fun to use with kids to melt snow/ice into shapes. http://www.instructables.com/id/Hot-Wire-Ice-Cutter/

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How to use a stepper motor

Posted on January 21, 2015 by robertwilkie

Nice write-up on how stepper motors work, and using an arduino to control them. http://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-use-a-Stepper-Motor/

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Nice simple tutorial on how to start using a CNC, from CAD down

Posted on January 15, 2015 by robertwilkie

Nice write-up, what I also like is the template for the CD case is included, so in theory it could be adapted for other items. http://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-CNC-In-three-steps/

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Mason Soap Dispenser build

Posted on December 16, 2014 by robertwilkie

I have a Christmas present project for the kids to do now. This is a pretty simple build and would be fun to do with the kids. I forsee a trip to the dollar store for supplies in my future. … Continue reading →

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Build your own Stepper Motor driver

Posted on November 24, 2014 by robertwilkie

Interesting build, If I total it all up…I could still by a driver cheaper :). But could be a good learning experience. http://www.instructables.com/id/CDDVD-Bipolar-Motor-Driver-Wo-Microcontroller/

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This could be a fun CNC to build with kids

Posted on November 17, 2014 by robertwilkie

Nice write-up and sourcing of materials to build a rather good looking CNC. You need a 3D printer to print most of the connectors, and the “sides” will set you back $70 to have cut. If I total it all … Continue reading →

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A whole bunch of cheap or free learning sites

Posted on November 4, 2014 by robertwilkie

Article from the simple dollar goes on about all these sites you can take classes on the cheap or free instead of going to college. I just signed up for an android class myself, so I’ll post in a few … Continue reading →

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Build your own Arduino based, one arm, drawing bot

Posted on November 4, 2014 by robertwilkie

What is nice about this build, is not only using an arduino, but servos for the motors too. Its a pretty simple build and could easily be done with kids. I wish the write-up was a bit better thought. http://www.instructables.com/id/Drawing-Robot/

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Got some time on your hands with kids, build a wifi, RPI car

Posted on October 31, 2014 by robertwilkie

OK this maybe a 1/2 day project, the author has 12 chapters on how to build his remote controlled car (Raspberry Pi being used as the controller) with WiFi out of cardboard. Maybe this could be a teenage build too. … Continue reading →

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