I know, Spring is finally here (along with Easter-break from work). So you are probably longing to spend as much time as possible outside.
However, Danish weather is as unpredictable as flip-a-coin … so in case rain does return – here’s a few ideas of what to do. All exported from Maker Day at the Central Library a few weeks ago.
I fell completely in love with these tiny plastic men, made by Copenhagen Fablab. I am not sure what the meaning is, but not all makings need to have one. In most makerspaces it’s the making that makes fun. Besides, who would not feel themselves welcome when met by a group of waving hands?
During this afternoon the lobby at the Central Library is filled with makers and upcoming makers who are all too willing to watch, learn and make. 14 spaces and individuals headline the poster at Maker Day, and with a set like that, 3D-printing is a must 🙂 This one is from RepRap.me who definitely wants to show off all the latest details of printing.
From something brand new to something very old. This phone might bring back a few memories – but look at the cord. It is not there …? Why not? Well, this is actually a cell phone! The cool guys from Labitat has rebuilt it. 2 switches inside the dial registers how far you push it and how many numbers (eight for a Danish phone), send the message to a modem and then it will dial your number. Amazing. I would love to bring that on my next ride to work during rush hour.
Impressed already? I was. And even if you are a beginner in the art of making, there is no need to worry about tools. Most makerspaces let you borrow what you need – also in case of a Maker Day.
Everyone knows origami. The Japanese folding-a-paper-art has gone popular worldwide, but how about making your origami-bird come alive? That’s right. Just grab pliers, wires and a battery and start soldering. In a moment, you will have a bird with flapping wings. The workshop is one of the most popular ones at Maker Day.
From one ancient art to another. 2 years ago Labitat developed this awesome Sand Mandela Plotter for a makerfaire in Rome. The idea was to combine the old Buddhist art with a computerised drawing machine, all made from scratch (of course). The project was a success, and the happy maker actually compared the beautiful drawings to life itself. But he also added that the Buddhist monks are much more careful in their work.
– They can move the sand as precise as the tiniest grain of sand allows. Compared to that I use a shovel, he says.
Finally, wonderful woodwork created by laser cutting is an impressive sight among makers. I cannot even begin to describe all the creations I saw in detailed wood – a pistol, the Eiffel Tower and a dinosaur, just to mention a few. But since this is Easter I prefer to keep it simple: Check out this cool decoration for the holiday, carefully cut as I might have done myself, but this time with a laser.
Feeling inspired? Well, follow the links to the makerspaces in text. They can teach you a lot more …
Don’t forget that the Central Library also got a minor collection of maker tools to borrow 😉