tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28132838144639248962024-03-20T03:09:18.802-07:00BOoMBenevolent Order of MakersNatalie, the Chickenbloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07424213130274740719noreply@blogger.comBlogger129125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2813283814463924896.post-56239007547016179902022-05-12T14:25:00.001-07:002022-05-12T14:25:13.205-07:00Making Dragons<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Xoim37Ych7dwz7IuY6Dstaux-UMC2czCZttX5BsKYhM6e1M9V6bxs5NuW3YHwQVI8xP3UUgpdMlLUWcg3RYSbF9LvK01bZpsa_-uksnrEPFYDWwmlw8-mtTM9pAy7imJORv7lM9HoYQJQfM2CMNMErwyvQAmplju_xdK1RBDGPAp9urBfPqlbLNalg/s1600/anewdrag51222.jpeg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="725" data-original-width="700" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Xoim37Ych7dwz7IuY6Dstaux-UMC2czCZttX5BsKYhM6e1M9V6bxs5NuW3YHwQVI8xP3UUgpdMlLUWcg3RYSbF9LvK01bZpsa_-uksnrEPFYDWwmlw8-mtTM9pAy7imJORv7lM9HoYQJQfM2CMNMErwyvQAmplju_xdK1RBDGPAp9urBfPqlbLNalg/s1600/anewdrag51222.jpeg"/></a></div>
This is Alex Van Valkenberg filling in today. Fourteen years ago <a href="https://www.chickenblog.com/2008/01/everyday-life-30-14-william-entertains_20.html"></a>my mom wrote a post here, about the lego dragon I built,</a> which I recenlty uncovered while doing some spring cleaning. The creature is in a sorry state, having survived several moves, and storage for over a decade, then months of indecision about whether to rebuild her, take her apart, or just keep thinking about it as other projects and demands took precedent. In the end I opted for a mix of the three, and started to rebuild her from the ground up.
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I was inspired by the work on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/JKBrickworksVideo">Jason Allemon of JK Brickworks,</a> among others, to make the new dragon smaller, and more elegant in design. I wanted something that could be displayed on a shelf or desk without walking off the edge, or taking up the while space. To make the new design move, while keeping it smaller and more fluid, I built the majority of the moving components into a large base. The base has a drive-shaft not unlike that of the original, but with a more complex system of levers and cams that move the model above in a more life-like manner.
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By having all of the bulkier mechanisms below, the model above can place more emphasis on form. The smaller design also makes her easier to display, and wont take up all the red pieces in my collection. Natalie, the Chickenbloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07424213130274740719noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2813283814463924896.post-32397850777002548802021-01-04T11:09:00.002-08:002021-01-04T11:14:39.154-08:00Bench Making<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzDTTxbyZoMXxNcj9gUe2tor1DHjlAWckyjl6JH8rDtY6GLEVUhkSiCcFmfkJu1EAqSzw0nw22qEHwh5Yt2EV1l4mftEabzIzyydzZCESLiaJ2kS-W2T264YSWn4HDgicd0FEHZLrZeBCX/s0/set1421.jpeg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="935" data-original-width="700" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzDTTxbyZoMXxNcj9gUe2tor1DHjlAWckyjl6JH8rDtY6GLEVUhkSiCcFmfkJu1EAqSzw0nw22qEHwh5Yt2EV1l4mftEabzIzyydzZCESLiaJ2kS-W2T264YSWn4HDgicd0FEHZLrZeBCX/s0/set1421.jpeg"/></a></div>
The table was a free-cycle find we came across on a bike ride about two months ago. It could not be a nicer fit for the new deck... a long and deep, sturdy table with fitted pipe legs, and heavy wood planks. It looks great! Since the deck was built with making events in mind, we want to keep it both open and inviting, with space for gathering and doing projects, but without crowding ourselves. This is why Alex suggested we <i>don't</i> look for chairs to add to the table. It would be too many pieces of furniture to buy, and to deal with. Then Natalie thought of benches... two pieces of furniture that could seat many visitors, and be easily tucked out of the way when not needed. They could be versatile! The idea stuck, and Geoff, William, Alex, and Max got to work on a design, and making!<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSSbMMoxzzrU2Z_BUVJYpzwSBVxL5m70DP9uSYPd6HIufauhpu4JSNRSco9OFgsp0nabeQp4gNJEW1vySLfbcphiAOxqhv08Ruo0jGdl7ZDxz53-TtvHfbdxjrPOclcYfH3xFmYmsk8YhX/s0/make123120.jpeg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="934" data-original-width="700" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSSbMMoxzzrU2Z_BUVJYpzwSBVxL5m70DP9uSYPd6HIufauhpu4JSNRSco9OFgsp0nabeQp4gNJEW1vySLfbcphiAOxqhv08Ruo0jGdl7ZDxz53-TtvHfbdxjrPOclcYfH3xFmYmsk8YhX/s0/make123120.jpeg"/></a></div>
To compliment the style of the table, Geoff looked for steel pipes to make legs for the bench, and he was happy to find <a href="https://www.brooklynpipe.com">Brooklyn Pipe.</a> Actually, he started at our local hardware store, but the limited selection is what made him do a wider search. Some of the pieces had to be painted, so we could make them look a little more uniform. Technically, it's a bit mismatched, but that kind of suits are aesthetic anyway! I won't get too detailed in describing all of this. They made measurements, came up with a configuration, and then called Natalie over to decide on a paint color, and she went with <a href="https://www.chickenblog.com/2019/09/nocturnal-blue.html">Nocturne Blue, by Behr; same as our picnic table (maybe?)</a><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0LY_YZ2vpjjYAHBvFQ9VWmy-kpiwfBDaCjE52M4Nv90Mfg8qNFNAagmcxCZmz5932jXSNxKIEYhYYhyyv6DsKMoF9gUkG0vLFTu6u5uzjdVt5ZFjJkLl1hoereo5Z2GsCtNuzXRhjauEI/s0/blue1321.jpeg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="934" data-original-width="700" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0LY_YZ2vpjjYAHBvFQ9VWmy-kpiwfBDaCjE52M4Nv90Mfg8qNFNAagmcxCZmz5932jXSNxKIEYhYYhyyv6DsKMoF9gUkG0vLFTu6u5uzjdVt5ZFjJkLl1hoereo5Z2GsCtNuzXRhjauEI/s0/blue1321.jpeg"/></a></div>
William painted the 2"x8", 8' boards. It's <a href="https://www.behr.com/pro/ColorDetailView/HDC-CL-28">Nocturne Blue. But. Maybe not.</a> <i>Our</i> Nocturne Blue looks nothing like it shows on the website. Nothing. And it doesn't even match the other <a href="https://www.chickenblog.com/2019/09/nocturnal-blue.html">picnic table</a> we were looking at when we chose to paint the benches blue, too. What the heck? It's not a disaster, but I suspect we will be going over the benches, someday, with a more subdued blue.
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Using pipes like this is something new for us, and we like it. We are thinking of using the extra parts to make shelves, maybe for the blacksmith shop. <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBWHdBnWKbHNdu_4YIu4fsVV3j8H8d9SirxHsN5sOb5Qz-PiDB8JqBE1W2hr_cLRu1dEqRU-7OXKfYnINsAui3gfXnnihYAOs0nasbIuWJit4JmSDVphLBVHLQ77ShhIi1ujdh-e-7_Bgl/s0/2set1421.jpeg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="934" data-original-width="700" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBWHdBnWKbHNdu_4YIu4fsVV3j8H8d9SirxHsN5sOb5Qz-PiDB8JqBE1W2hr_cLRu1dEqRU-7OXKfYnINsAui3gfXnnihYAOs0nasbIuWJit4JmSDVphLBVHLQ77ShhIi1ujdh-e-7_Bgl/s0/2set1421.jpeg"/></a></div>
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Now we have two benches, and seating for ten, or more. They are very stable, and have a nice, deep seat. We will be able to use them at the table, or pull them away for sitting around the perimeter of the deck... <i>versatile,</i> like we said, and that's good for us. When we can get back to hosting making events, this new space and accomodations is going to be really nice, like an extension of our shop. We look forward to all the making, playing, and sharing we will be able to enjoy.Natalie, the Chickenbloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07424213130274740719noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2813283814463924896.post-91000405910694499412020-12-15T11:12:00.003-08:002020-12-15T11:14:59.270-08:00Making Paper Stars<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_CZYm3bS-srEPWXUvRW65itEtSf6qkXc-c0mlWOe4tz57k-CGhTZhzRGttBySBW0bRKDlOIJKVr8z9tc5g1gP2AZ0EGbvQO1__cBCPLMASdCJG9dE_4D9E9devq4X0sbisQ6E6pOVp-Q/s0/star121420.jpeg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="934" data-original-width="700" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_CZYm3bS-srEPWXUvRW65itEtSf6qkXc-c0mlWOe4tz57k-CGhTZhzRGttBySBW0bRKDlOIJKVr8z9tc5g1gP2AZ0EGbvQO1__cBCPLMASdCJG9dE_4D9E9devq4X0sbisQ6E6pOVp-Q/s0/star121420.jpeg"/></a></div>
Do you want to make some paper stars?
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<br><b>Supplies</b></br>
<br>Paper bags... the more you use, the harder it gets to cut. These were made with eight bags.</br>
<br>Glue... I used a glue stick. But white glue, or hot glue would work, too.</br>
<br>Scissors... sharp ones help.</br>
<br>Paper clips or... these are to hold the two ends together when you open the star for display. You could glue the ends, but then it will be hard to store. I couldn't find any paper clips. (Baffling. They are here. We can't not have paper clips.) I used bobby pins.</br>
<br>Some string, or thread... anything to tie to the star for hanging.</br>
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Start by counting out your bags... 7, or 8, or 9, or 10. It's your choice. Lots of bags make a fuller star, but I didn't want to be struggling cutting through all those layers. I think 8 was a good number. Face them flat/smooth side up, and make a generous width of glue from the opening end, down the center of the bag, to the bottom, then add an equally wide strip of glue across the bottom. The <b>T</b> should reach the edges of the paper, so the points stick, and the center holds together, too. Now, you are ready to lay the next bag on top of the first one. Line up the second bag, with the folded bag bottom going down.
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When you have the two bag pressed together, get out the glue, and make the next <b>T</b>. Press the next bag, and repeat until all of your bags are layered and glued together. I did mine last night, and let them sit for an hour, to dry. I cut two stars, and saved one stack of glued bags for Maria to cut this morning.
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This part is like snowflake cutting. And the first cuts are from the edge and up to the center of the bag, to make a point.
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Maria is making the second cut to finish the point of the star. Our bags came with a lot of printing, which mostly gets hidden when the whole star is pinned, clipped, or glued together.
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Now for the cuts on the sides of the bag, also like cutting snowflakes. The bigger the cuts, or the more of them you make, the more light will come through. We didn't cut near the bottom, where all the layers are thicker with the bag bottoms folded up and glued together.
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Time to open the star! And when you pull up both ends and bring them together, use either glue, maybe staples, or if you have paper clips those will make your star easy to store for another day... attach the two ends together, and <i>ta-da!</i> You have a paper star!<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGFoLI9agrQnL-rzkqjCsSUPs3D-HPrZNCGPtDZhocEGTfPm4nal9sCV03Rv5WI8r98UtqR-YJp9pIKTI4P071pr-ncs0Pkd0xY8-A-P1xwD3dQllxVauJoNtgc47W1ZeCQLGJpHBr-T4/s0/atop121420.jpeg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="934" data-original-width="700" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGFoLI9agrQnL-rzkqjCsSUPs3D-HPrZNCGPtDZhocEGTfPm4nal9sCV03Rv5WI8r98UtqR-YJp9pIKTI4P071pr-ncs0Pkd0xY8-A-P1xwD3dQllxVauJoNtgc47W1ZeCQLGJpHBr-T4/s0/atop121420.jpeg"/></a></div>
We are making more to hang over the mantle. They would be pretty in a window, where light can shine through.Natalie, the Chickenbloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07424213130274740719noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2813283814463924896.post-40850641682349452632020-05-22T16:38:00.000-07:002020-05-22T16:58:09.909-07:00Virtually Maker Faire 2020 Tonight!<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/hearts42920.jpg" /></center><a href="https://makeprojects.com/project/making-personal-protective-equipment-at-home">We are making Personal Protective Equipment at Home...</a> and our Make story is one of hundreds being shared, virtually around the world. As of last night, with <a href="http://sdprint4cause.com/">San Diego 3D Printing For a Cause,</a> we have made, and donated 10,336 pieces of PPE, including ear-savers, face shields, and fabric masks, since April 1!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dy5WubEnvSCT-bgE7EdRlbq4LCAhywsCtPoAdSxMzUprxUzvMEkYWaQJsB2jnXMoA05q6QGVOp46BUfgh8kQQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br />
Learn our Make story, and many others at <b>Virtually Maker Faire!</b><br />
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Around the world makers have been rallying, rising up to solve shortages in medical supplies and equipment, turning makerspaces into micro-factories, creating self-organized community networks, and developing clever distribution strategies. For our inaugural <a href="https://makerfaire.com/">Virtually Maker Faire,</a> makers representing 25 countries will share over 350 presentations, demonstrations, and online project exhibits. Programming is curated into five tracks: Community Organizing, Learning & Teaching, Re-Thinking the Future, Design & Production, and Making.<br />
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Virtually Maker Faire is a stage for makers to connect, share, and learn with each other and a broader public, and show how the community fostered by Maker Faire has sprung into action, using their skills and talents to solve for human needs. <br />
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Plan out your virtual day with the <a href="https://makerfaire.com/virtually-maker-faire-2020/schedule/">full schedule</a> or meet some of our <a href="https://makerfaire.com/virtually-maker-faire-2020/meet-the-makers/">fantastic makers.</a><br />
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<b>Upcoming Session Highlights</b><br />
Check session pages or the schedule for updated times.<br />
Making a Global Movement in Crisis: the Story of Open Source Medical Supplies<br />
Gui Cavalcanti, founder of Open Source Medical Supplies, will talk about the role of Open Source in the pandemic and how their group documented the global fabrication of over 7 million units of personal protective equipment, medical and community supplies.<br />
<a href="https://makerfaire.com/maker/entry/72484/">View Session</a><br />
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<b>How Making 3D Printers Widely Available Enabled Covid-19 Solutions: From RepRap to Prusa</b><br />
Maker Faire Founder Dale Dougherty will talk with RepRap's Adrian Bowyer and Josef Prusa of Prusa Research about the rise of 3D printing and how getting 3D printing in the hands of more people enabled so many of the PPE solutions from the maker community, including developing and testing the Prusa Face Shield and its spread around the world.<br />
<a href="https://makerfaire.com/maker/entry/72347/">View Session</a><br />
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<b>DIY Heroes: Meet the Makers Featured in Make: Vol. 73</b><br />
The new issue of Make: magazine looks at the maker response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Join Make:’s Executive Editor Mike Senese and the editorial team as they discuss the new issue with the various subjects that are profiled in its pages.<br />
<a href="https://makerfaire.com/maker/entry/72406/">View Session</a><br />
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<b>Pivoting in the Pandemic — Adafruit NYC</b><br />
Adafruit founder Limor Fried will talk about pivoting production smartly and safely during the pandemic, from making face shields to essential electronic components as their home town of New York City became a hot spot for the virus.<br />
<a href="https://makerfaire.com/maker/entry/71700/">View Session</a><br />
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<b>How to Use Social Media as a Maker Portfolio</b><br />
Panelists Ana Karen Ramirez, Estefannie Explains It All, Jen Schachter, and Xyla Foxlin will discuss how to leverage social media to showcase your work, create your own maker community, and give a glimpse of the behind the scenes of your processes.<br />
<a href="https://makerfaire.com/maker/entry/72543/">View Session</a><br />
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<b>ArcAttack's Tesla Coil Music</b><br />
Tesla coil music live-streamed from ArcAttack’s shop as a Grand Finale to Virtually Maker Faire!<br />
<a href="https://makerfaire.com/maker/entry/71797/">View Session</a><br />
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<center><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/JK1mbfhk4ZE" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></center>Natalie, the Chickenbloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07424213130274740719noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2813283814463924896.post-66206926618950134172020-05-20T11:33:00.001-07:002020-05-20T11:43:21.640-07:00Making Personal Protective Equipment & Plan C<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/hearts42920.jpg"></center>Together with <a href="http://sdprint4cause.com"><i>San Diego 3D Print For a Cause</i>,</a> we have been developing, manufacturing, and distributing Personal Protective Equipment to healthcare facilities, since late March. As of May 13, in 42 days, with 28 dedicated volunteers, here is what we have achieved...<br />
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<big>Delivered 8,616 PPE articles, including 3,261 face shields.<br />
100+ hospitals and clinics have received PPE, including facilities in California, Arizona, Colorado, Georgia, and the Navajo Nation.<br />
Thanks to additional volunteers, <a href="http://sdprint4cause.com/masks.html">425 sewn masks were made and donated. And! These masks can be ordered at SD Print 4 Cause.</a></big><br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/vmf52020.jpg"></center><a href="https://makerfaire.com">Maker Faire,</a> with <a href="https://makezine.com">Make Magazine,</a> is hosting a global, virtual <a href="https://makerfaire.com/virtually-maker-faire-2020/meet-the-makers/">Maker Faire,</a> on May 23! We love making and sharing, and we are eager to <a href="https://makerfaire.com/virtually-maker-faire-2020/meet-the-makers/">see as many of the entries</a> as possible, in 24 hours! We are particularly interested in Make Magazine's highlight: <a href="https://makezine.com/tag/plan-c/"><i>Plan C From Maker Space:</a> "Comprehensive coverage of the community response to the Covid-19 crisis."</i> And we are going to <a href="https://makerfaire.com/maker/entry/72198/">share our own process and efforts in casting PPE,</a> which includes research, setbacks, prototyping, learning, tinkering, and successes... <i>the usual Make journey, with higher stakes.</i><br />
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<i>Making PPE, at home, while doing all of our usual jobs, like programming, schooling, gardening, chicken wrangling, goat herding, cat grooming, cooking, cleaning... <big>It's a lot!</big> We would like to document all of our work, with tutorials, and we need to create some kind of exhibit-virtual presentation for Maker Faire (yikes). In the meantime, if you'd like an idea of what we have been doing, please look for us at Instagram, @boomNerds, and follow our volunteer friends, where we post on FaceBook as "San Diego 3D Printing for a Cause & Friends."</i> <br />
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<big>Please! Our work is urgent and meant to save lives... <br />
if you can, Follow, Like, Share, Donate, <br />
we would be so thankful! <br />
Support helps and we appreciate all of it! <br />
Thank you.</big><br />
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Natalie, the Chickenbloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07424213130274740719noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2813283814463924896.post-91366776249029062012019-11-25T12:00:00.000-08:002019-11-25T12:00:06.255-08:00BOoM Emporium<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/dragons112419.jpg"></center>Our Etsy shop is the <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/boomEmporium"><b>boomEmporium</b>...</a> The Benevolent Order of Makers are selling their wares, art, and works... for now it's all about our hand carved, original designs and block prints on napkins and tea towels. We look forward to expanding and sharing more of the many articles we create.<br />
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This is all new to us. Thank you for your patience and feedback. And thank you for visiting our shop, and telling your friends about it, spreading the word, sharing our name.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/oaks112419.jpg"></center>Natalie, the Chickenbloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07424213130274740719noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2813283814463924896.post-34514249989842523452019-11-25T08:53:00.000-08:002019-11-25T08:53:39.045-08:00Make Shop Opening Today at Noon PST<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/perch112419.jpg"></center>Today, at noon pst, we will open our Benevolent Order of Makers Shop, at Etsy. <i>That's a long name for a little shop, so we gave it an official name nearly as long, which we will post here when the *doors open!*</i> <br />
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<a href="http://youngmakersclub.blogspot.com/2019/11/coming-soon-maker-shop.html">This link will show you some of the items that will be available.</a><br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/wildflower112419.jpg"></center>We are tweaking, still. And nervous. There were a lot of decisions to make, and questions to address. We are on the fence about international shipping, and... well, more, which we know will eventually sort itself out. For certain, we have a greatly raised respect and awe for all you online makers and shop keepers; you're amazing! Friends, thank you for your support, encouragement, and patience. We hope we manage all of this with grace and efficiency.<br />
Natalie, the Chickenbloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07424213130274740719noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2813283814463924896.post-38646286045268501832019-11-16T14:38:00.001-08:002019-11-16T14:38:30.585-08:00Coming Soon :: Maker Shop<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/6perigoatnpk111619.jpg"></center>Am I putting the goat before the cart? <br />
<i>Yes.</i><br />
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You see, I've been designing and carving stamps, and then using them to print on fabric. A nice thing to come of all of this... many friends have asked me to <i>open a shop, make the napkins, aprons, and tea towels available for purchase.</i> I even took a special request to <i>carve a goat!</i><br />
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I've been busy and I've managed to print a good amount, and I would like to make them available before Thanksgiving. <i>Gee, nothing like creating my own holiday rush!</i> So, without a shop, or a shop name, or mailing envelops, before I figure out <i>PayPal,</i> or <i>Venomo</i> or <i>Carrier Chickens...</i> I am about to launch the business end of a little <i>cottage industry.</i> I am hoping that by announcing this now, and sharing some previews, I will push myself into figuring out the bureaucracy and formal aspects of being a working artist. Another hope is that some clever and dear friends may share their tips and suggestions for handling sales, pricing, packing, exfoliating, and reducing fine wrinkles. <i>Just kidding about exfoliating, but I could probably use some ironing tips... 100% cotton is hard to keep pressed!</i> <br />
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I am going to share some samples of what I have been making, but I am not taking any orders until I can be certain of how I will take payments, and handle deliveries. So! Before I am <i>OPEN</i> I will announce an official day and time, and accept orders, then.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/6turqbirdsnpk111619.jpg"></center>"Buffet" napkins! They are a generous 20" x 20", 100% cotton. There will be a few sets of 5, and mostly sets of 6.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/dfnapk111619.jpg"></center>Alex designed and carved the dragonfly. The patience! He printed them flitting across the napkins, in different directions. They look amazing!<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/5goldtreesnpk111619.jpg"></center>All of these are our own designs, hand carved, and hand printed.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/1chickentt111619.jpg"></center><i>Dish cloth, tea towel, chicken scarf?</i> These would be fun to add embroidery to. They are 27" x 27", 100% cotton, and a very nice weight. Sometimes these are called "flour sack" and can be very thin, and not square... <i>these are well finished, and thick(er).</i> <br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/size111619.jpg"></center>I am really happy with the weight, structure, and feel of these towels. <br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/2beett111619.jpg"></center>Bee and honeycomb on a big, handy tea towel.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/3papeltt111619.jpg"></center>These three stamps are inspired by <i>papel picado,</i> the Mexican art of paper cutting. <br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/goldbee111619.jpg"></center>This bee, with some honeycomb, is printed on a 100% cotton, wrap apron. I love how the wide straps of this can be pull over-head, and cross in the back, so there are no apron strings to tie. Also, it has 2 nice sized pockets in the front.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/2beeaprons111619.jpg"></center>The apron is a nice weight, and looks and feels like natural linen. <i>I haven't taken it off since modeling it.</i><br />
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Designing, carving, and printing has been a lot of fun, and I appreciate how encouraging friends have been. I will be back with an update as soon as possible!<br />
Natalie, the Chickenbloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07424213130274740719noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2813283814463924896.post-271291555232005022019-06-17T11:26:00.000-07:002019-07-26T11:51:20.053-07:00North County Mini Maker Faire<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/paul61519.jpg"></center>Paul~ He is a friend and champion of Mechathulu, our frequently evolving robot beast.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/alex61519.jpg"></center>Alex~ He brought his newest tent, with the temporary covering that I whipped up for the occasion.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/team61519.jpg"></center>Paul and Maria~ Maker Faire is all about making and sharing, but none is possible without good friends.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/2simon61519.jpg"></center>Simon, and his family, are here with Junkade.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/robots61519.jpg"></center>Besides <i>Mechathulu,</i> we also brought the <i>Infernal Percussion Engine,</i> a glockenspiel that plays, powered with a bicycle pump!<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/mm61519.jpg"></center>Our robots are favorites with visitors, because we hand over the controls! And maybe you noticed? <a href="https://northcounty.makerfaire.com/maker/entry/172/">FIRST 2102 Team Paradox is at their first North County Mini Maker Faire... great outreach, Paradoxians!</a><br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/bexhen61519.jpg"></center>Bex is a natural with needle felting, and she only got better! I love her chicken, and when she started a <i>taco-cat,</i> I had to make one, too. <br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/alexv261519.jpg"></center>Alex shared his woodworking art, and introduced robots.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/williamv261519.jpg"></center>William and Geoff have been making a lot of new experiments with resin 3d printing, mold making, developing metal alloys, and casting. <br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/demo61519.jpg"></center><br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/felting61519.jpg"></center>Maria and I had our hands full with our hands-on activity... teaching needle felting at a faire, to all ages and skill levels is a big undertaking! Bex was a quick-study and we soon had her help, too. <br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/paradox61519.jpg"></center>Michael, Darlene, Seth, Gary, and David~<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/talks61519.jpg"></center>Simon and Geoff~ <br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/natalie61519.jpg"></center>FIRST 2120 Team Paradox's newly elected president of outreach can solder! Great seeing you at Maker Faire, Natalie!<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/makey61519.jpg"></center>William and I solder our own Makey Makes, too. And <a href="end of maker faire">we hope these won't be our last...</a> I am too sad to talk about this, just yet.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/gadami61519.jpg"></center>Gary, David, Michael~<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/idomatt61519.jpg"></center>Ido and Matt talk programming and 3d printing programmable robots.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/junkade61519.jpg"></center>Lucas and those clever little diy robots.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/mold61519.jpg"></center>Here is something awesome... Maria's art and design, 3D modeled by William, and then cast in our own alloy of bismuth and tin. That's a <i>Parrot Ox... Paradox!</i><br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/mikegeoffwill61519.jpg"></center><a href="https://northcounty.makerfaire.com/maker/entry/160/">Mike,</a> Geoff and William talking about casting metal, and our own alloy mix, which we are calling <i>BoomNerdium.</i><br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/tent61519.jpg"></center>A nice thing about exhibiting a tent at a faire, is having a place where you can duck out for a bit.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/makers61519.jpg"></center>And after the faire closes for the day, and we've secured our gear, we can treat ourselves to good eats and great company.<br />
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June 16 :: Day 2 at The Antique Gas & Steam Engine Museum and Mini Maker Faire, on Father's Day<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/bt61619.jpg"></center>Before the gates open the makers have a chance to visit and enjoy each others' exhibits, and this morning concert with Bruce Thompson was one of my favorite times of the day. He took requests, and shared back stories about the music. It was beautiful.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/demo61619.jpg"></center>Leslie and Bex got an introduction to Geoff and William's casting projects.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/james61619.jpg"></center>James< too, got to see firsthand what we have been up to lately. And we continued our discussion about the future of Maker Faire and our hopes and ideas, going forward.
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/teaching61619.jpg"></center>One of the skills that goes well with needle felting is hand sewing and embroidery, and since it was a quiet morning, I had time and focus for teaching a couple of children how to sew little felt pockets and bags.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/maria61619.jpg"></center>Maria has been exhibiting at Maker Faires since 2011, when she taught wet felting in San Mateo. This year she was very happy to exhibit something personal and all her own... her projects she made at home, and at school, in her metals class. <a href="http://www.agsem.com/exhibits.php">The Antique Gas & Steam Engine Museum</a> has an awesome blacksmithing barn, and so there were plenty of makers and visitors to appreciate and admire her skills in metal working.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/steam61619.jpg"></center><a href="https://northcounty.makerfaire.com/maker/entry/144/">Doctor Artemus Peepers... aka Dean LeCrone</a> (IG @deanlecrone)<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/luidge61619.jpg"></center>Lucas, <a href="http://youngmakersclub.blogspot.com/2018/07/another-scratch-day.html">who we've met at Scratch Day,</a> and <a href="https://northcounty.makerfaire.com/maker/entry/157/">Ido, the Junkade master</a>... we're basically just hanging out with our friends, enjoying a nerdy Father's Day.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/samples61619.jpg"></center>More samples of William and Geoff's projects with modeling, photogrammetry, resin printing, casting. It's all <i>learning, making, playing, failing, trying again, and sharing!</i><br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/cigarboxguitar61619.jpg"></center>And making new friends! Sitting across from <a href="https://northcounty.makerfaire.com/maker/entry/120/">Sawyer Cigar Box Guitars</a> was lovely, because we were hearing little concerts all day.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/paam61619.jpg"></center>Look who's here for some Father's Day fun... Paul and Amira. Another kind of <i>making</i> that's great at this event is definitely the food, like this roasted corn, and the corn bread they made in the wood burning oven from the corn they milled on site. We love all the making!<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/tacocat61719.jpg"></center>TACOCAT... <i>thank you, Bex!</i> Thank you AGSEM and <a href="http://www.sdmakersguild.org">San Diego Maker's Guild!</a> Thank you, Maker Faire, for dreaming all of this up in the first place. Thank you, BOoMNerds, and all of our maker friends and family. <i>Good things are better shared, and we love to make, play, and share.</i>Natalie, the Chickenbloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07424213130274740719noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2813283814463924896.post-67047787375587941622019-04-24T11:54:00.000-07:002019-04-24T13:31:44.219-07:00Our Mission in Making<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/bigideas42419.jpg"></center><br />
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Our family began this Make club inspired by Maker Faire, and our need to address learning with consideration for neural-diversity. For nearly a decade we have been bringing our projects and hands-on activities to STEM and art events, and school functions, including Maker Faires, Burning Man, FIRST Robotics, Fanime, ComicCon, The Science March, and International Scratch Day. We also host our own events where we mentor and peer-teach sewing, soldering, metal forging, design, CAD, CnC, 3D printing, cooking, gardening, art, sculpting, crafts, crochet, wool felting, embroidery, cosplay, shelter making, electronics, programming, construction, and robotics. We love to make opportunities for sharing skills, and helping people find answers, support, and resources for making things. We especially want to support young people, and people with limited resources and opportunities. We do all of this out of pocket, in our free time, between schools and jobs.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/scoutbooks42419.jpg"></center>A few years ago I found a box of note books in a thrift store. They were small and plain, and what I consider <i>very handy,</i> because of their size, and being well made, but not so expensive or fancy that they were <i>too precious.</i> I love small things <i>and</i> notebooks, so I was super stoked about my find. Then I started using my <a href="https://scoutbooks.com">Scout books</a> and felt a greedy panic! I loved them, found them convenient and helpful, and I worried about finding more, and whether I’d have to conserve the few I had. Fortunately, I discovered more in shops, and breathed a big sigh of relief. <br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/sketch42419.jpg"></center><center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/notes42419.jpg"></center>I use my Scout books to gift, and for travel notes that include important numbers, flight info and reservations and then each book can become a little scrap book of the trip, and I add stickers and any ephemera I collect, sketches, and observations. I have a Scout Book for birding, and another with class notes for oil painting. They slip in my small purse, or back pocket; compact and convenient! <br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/boom42419.jpg"></center>This is not a paid endorsement. No one asked me to promote Scout Books. I just happened to find them on IG today, and it got me thinking about our club branding, how we present Benevolent Order of Makers on social media. We had a logo for our initial blog and club, when we were "Love & Rockets, Art & Engineering." But for years we have been promising ourselves an updated logo, business cards, a <i>Look.</i> And those thoughts lead me to revisiting ideas about <i>who we are, what our club means to us, and where we would like to go.</i> I've been a bit neglectful of this blog, but posting quite regularly on IG at @BOoMNerds... this seems like a good chance to revisit our mission, our ideals, here on the blog, and to share my thoughts on considering using Scout Books as a tool and outreach connection. <br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/stephenakiko10718.jpg"></center>When we mentor, or share our projects, we love to instill the idea in people’s minds that <i>their</i> interests and ideas are worthwhile and achievable. No matter the age or skill level of the people we are connecting with, we want them to feel encouraged and capable, and so we put tools in their hands, we listen to them, and explore their ideas with them. I’m thinking of how nice it would be to put a Scout Book into a child’s hands and say, <i>“Let’s make a drawing of your idea, and write down some thoughts. An engineer, an artist, always keeps notes.”</i> Our notes, our ideas and plans, written down, committed to paper have such a dignity and permanence; it gives us credibility, some empowerment. In Benevolent Order of Makers, all of our projects begin with a conversation that inevitably moves to paper where we sketch, doodle, write lists, make plans, and Scout Books make an ideal tool for this stage of the process. <br />
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For myself, I have found that when I feel unsure or tentative, I write small, I draw small. Sometimes, children feel their lack of expertise means they aren't capable of contributing, or having a "legitimate" voice in a process. A Scout Book is small and intimate, a private and personal space, and with its quality of design, it gives credibility and "officialness" to a person's ideas and efforts. I’m thinking about ordering Scout books to use as a tool, a calling card to represent our mission and ideals. I like to believe that it would be a nice way to introduce our club, and it would initiate and support what we believe in, what we want everyone to believe... we have good ideas, we can develop plans, and learn, we can make, we can play, and we can share.Natalie, the Chickenbloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07424213130274740719noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2813283814463924896.post-54857517915858974812018-11-24T12:39:00.001-08:002018-11-26T20:08:43.646-08:00Making An Unboxing Video :: Electroforming Kit<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/ekit111818.jpg"></center>We came home from San Diego Maker Faire with an awesome gift from our friends at <a href="https://enchantedleaves.com">Enchanted Leaves,</a> and we made an unboxing video (our very first!) to share our <i>electroforming kit!</i><br />
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<center><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/sZ5bXKu8H8o" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></center><br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/acorns111818.jpg"></center>And hey! Through Cyber-Monday, you can enjoy the sweet sale going on at <a href="https://enchantedleaves.com">Enchanted Leaves,</a> where they sell beautiful jewelry, including electroformed designs by Nedda!Natalie, the Chickenbloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07424213130274740719noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2813283814463924896.post-45717585151898778812018-07-25T20:03:00.000-07:002018-07-25T20:03:19.181-07:00Another Scratch Day<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/share51317.jpg"></center>Scratch Day 2017<br />
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<a href="http://youngmakersclub.blogspot.com/2017/05/global-scratch-day_14.html">Remember last year, when we celebrated Scratch Day?</a><br />
Or maybe you haven't heard of Scratch? This <a href="https://scratch.mit.edu/about">link will take you the page <i>About Scratch,</i></a> and this <a href="https://day.scratch.mit.edu">will show you where events celebrating Global Scratch Day are taking place.</a><br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/4mitsd18.jpg"></center>Scratch Day 2018<br />
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Maria is still writing programs using MIT's online program that teaches computer programming. Her favorite Scratch activity is illustrating in vector lines. She's also learned to animate, and she likes using code to create games. Last May she volunteered, again, to teach what she knows about vector line illustration and graphics in Scratch, at the Global Scratch Day event in our area. As a group inspired by outreach, peer-mentoring, and <i>making, playing and sharing</i>... we love Scratch Day, and we are gratified to see our young maker, Maria, bring her skills and enthusiasm to this event where she enthusiastically and skillfully teaches new and intermediate programmers about the exciting possibilities in computer programming.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/2mitsd18.jpg"></center>This year saw an even greater turn out for Scratch Day, compared with last year. There were more participants, and happily, more volunteers. Everything is overseen by Ido Tuchman, with help from Leslie Goldman, and a lot of professional engineers and programmers.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/1mitsd18.jpg"></center>They've got a great venue, but if this continues to grow, we may need an even bigger space for next year!<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/3mitsd18.jpg"></center>Ido welcoming everyone to <i>Scratch Day!</i><br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/5mitsd18.jpg"></center>Maria's class, Vector Graphics, was in the second session of the day, so she stepped in to give one on one support to a beginning Scratch student. In no time, they had finished the tutorial, then moved on to developing an original game.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/10mitsd18.jpg"></center>Not being too sure what the skill levels in the class would be, Maria decided to let her class be interactive and spontaneous. She shared her background and interest in Scratch, and then announced that she would like to share <i>how games and programs can be enhanced with custom art and animations.</i> Taking suggestions, and answering questions, she developed a lesson for a vector graphic animation. There was time to keep everyone caught up in the lesson, while adding more to the project, as the classe's skills and interests developed. The class and lessons stayed fresh, and engaging.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/11mitsd18.jpg"></center>By applying her patience, practical knowledge, and her love of the subject, Maria was able to effectively teach and motivate, and make the lesson fun. And since the classes were larger than last year's classes, Maria was happy to have an assistant, Lucas, a Boy Scout, familiar with Scratch. They made a good team.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/12mitsd18.jpg"></center>Maria brings her love of learning to her class, and it's infectious. <br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/13mitsd18.jpg"></center>Every layer, and line of code used, created this vector graphic and animation, and was developed on the spot, based on ideas and questions from the class.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/14mitsd18.jpg"></center>Scratch is a free learning tool from Mitch Resnick and the Lifelong Kindergarten Group at the MIT Media Lab. If you've ever wondered about writing code, creating software, being a programmer, we hope you will, no matter your age, visit <a href="https://scratch.mit.edu">Scratch, and give it a try.</a> It's simple, encouraging, and made for sharing.<br />
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Here's what a local newspaper had to say about <a href="http://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/news/education/sd-me-scratch-programming-20180512-story.html">Scratch Day 2018.</a> We can't wait for Scratch Day 2019!<br />
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Maria continues to enjoy Scratch, to illustrate, write code, to create games... this one was my Mother's Day gift! Move the teacup to catch falling chamomile flowers, and when the cup is full of flowers it becomes a cup of tea! She wrote this for me and my love of chamomile. And here she is sharing the game with her <i>Tutu.</i><br />
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On a long train ride, Maria used Scratch to illustrate this original character...<br />
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And today, after we talked about <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2018/07/25/us/nia-wilson-bart-stabbing.html">the senseless death of a young woman,</a> Maria, quietly reflecting, went to her desk, where she made art, in memory of Nia Wilson. <br />
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<i>We send our deepest sympathy and kindest thoughts to Nia Wilson's family. We ache to think of anyone missing the chance to follow their dreams. No family should have to experience losing a child, and for it to be such a vicious and dark act, a crime of hate, makes the loss even more heartbreaking. We hope that there is even the smallest comfort for them knowing that their loss is felt, and mourned, that we are speaking Nia's name, lovingly, respectfully, and with grief for her family.</i> <br />
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Natalie, the Chickenbloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07424213130274740719noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2813283814463924896.post-80358180589574877222018-04-03T11:07:00.000-07:002018-04-03T11:07:59.438-07:00Making Our Way to Gaslight Gathering<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/alexvvart4218.jpg" /></center>The Benevolent Order of Makers are excited to be joining forces with our friends, <a href="http://www.sdmakersguild.org/events/">San Diego Makers Guild</a>, in their booth at <a href="http://gaslightgathering.org/"><i>Gaslight Gathering, in San Diego.</i></a> Our makers will be sharing a hands-on activity... making fabric medallions called <i>yo-yos.</i> These scrap-fabric decorations can be sewn together to assemble a bedcover, or used individually to decorate hats, dresses, create mushroom caps, or appliquéd to pillows. They are easy to make, and can inspire Victorian-Steampunk style to just about anything. <br />
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Also in our booth, come see original paintings and drawings by Alex V2, a longtime robotics designer, and fantasy artist. With skill and imagination, Alex seamlessly integrates practical engineering and design into daydreamed inventions and worlds. <a href="http://www.sdmakersguild.org/events/">San Diego Makers Guild</a> <i>will be showing off some steampunk(ish) robots and teaching plastic casting and mold making, with reusable, low temperature thermoplastic."</i> Sounds like there will be plenty going on at <a href="https://gaslightgathering.regfox.com/gg8carnivale">Gaslight Gathering</a> to make a weekend great!Natalie, the Chickenbloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07424213130274740719noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2813283814463924896.post-44791899198287668292018-03-28T12:10:00.001-07:002018-03-28T12:29:50.636-07:00A Maker's Announcement<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/deliver32618.jpg"></center><br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/unloading32618.jpg"></center>Geoff ordered some aluminum. Or did he bid on it? I'm not sure. He's got a system... a bargain finding, deal making system, and that's how we score big pieces of aluminum to weld a storage setup for our workshop. It's also how we, after years of searching and hoping, score a big piece of CNC machinery... <br />
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This almost feels like an adoption announcement. Allow me to formally introduce our newest <a href="http://youngmakersclub.blogspot.com">member of the BOoM-Nerd Family,</a> the bride of <a href="http://youngmakersclub.blogspot.com/2015/04/make-cnc-router-and-make-it-big.html">Frankenrouter,</a> <i>Elsa</i> the CNC mill...<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/details31618.jpg"></center>Frankenrouter was built to mill wood, and other softer materials. Elsa will mill metal. When Geoff joked that this 2 ton machine would be the <i>bride to Frankenrouter,</i> I immediately pictured wide-eyed <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elsa_Lanchester">Elsa Lanchester's</a> iconic portrayal of the reluctant bride.<br />
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She came from the theater department of San Diego State University... <i>ha! another nod to a dramatic lineage.</i> And she came "as is." The first thing Geoff discovered was a stuck collet (stripped drawbar threads.) It took some doing to figure out how to resolve this, but Geoff saved Elsa by boring up into the collet. This was precision work, and risky. He couldn't see exactly what he was doing, because of the angle of the pieces, but the operation was a success.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/elsa32818.jpg"></center>"Let's just call it 'innovative' fixturing," Geoff explained on FB. Sounds good to me.<br />
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Ido was the first to meet Elsa, and other friends have been by. Packages arrive, and now I know <i>they're for Elsa.</i> It's like a newborn is delivered, and she has needs, steals all the attention, receives gifts. Geoff announced, <i>I have to go to the lumber supply,</i> late one evening, and he came back with a blanket for Elsa.<br />
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This morning he texted me... it's a link to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3735B42v-wI">another thrilled Maker, making his own proud adoption announcement.</a> Geoff could not be more giddy, I think. It's like he and Adam Savage have been on the same baby honeymoon, with mills.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/elsababy32818.jpg"></center><i>This?</i> Oh, this is just a baby picture of Elsa. Geoff found it when he was searching the Internet for her history, lineage, early years. He keeps it in his wallet.<br />
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<center><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3735B42v-wI" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe></center>Congratulations, Adam! And happy Making!Natalie, the Chickenbloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07424213130274740719noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2813283814463924896.post-30494121529955477282017-11-09T11:32:00.000-08:002017-11-09T11:32:17.516-08:00Make Little Paper Flowers<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/sunflower8610.jpg"></center>Seven years ago we made big, bodacious paper napkin flowers. Now, we are taking this hands-on activity to a <a href="https://www.barnesandnoble.com/b/mini-maker-faire-2017/_/N-2izw">Barnes & Noble Mini Maker Faire...</a> still paper, still bodacious, but this time a bit smaller! <br />
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Here is our original <a href="http://youngmakersclub.blogspot.com/2014/04/make-paper-flowers.html">tutorial for making paper flowers, and we used napkins, but the same principles apply, and you can easily make large or small paper flowers following our tips.</a> Once you master the basics, it's easy and fun to get creative and make your own unique floral varieties.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/supplies11817.jpg"></center>Our craft store had a variety pack of colored tissue papers. I cut the large sheets down... not too preciously, because everything gets trimmed anyway. Hopefully, this generous supply will be enough for sharing with the visitors to the Faire.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/folded11917.jpg"></center>Perfect timing for photo purposes... Maria is teaching Geoff how to make a paper flower, so here is a picture of Geoff's accordion folded papers, cinched together with string. We've found that six pieces of paper makes a nice, full blossom. More paper gets too thick to manage without tearing paper.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/point11917.jpg"></center>Now... trim the ends. Maria is cutting a point which will give her petals a daisy or zinnia look. Crinkle cut the ends and you can make a carnation.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/curve11917.jpg"></center>Here, Geoff has cut the ends in a nice rounded curve, which will make petals like a dahlia, or ranunculus.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/tie11917.jpg"></center>Now carefully separate each paper... pulling them up toward center, one petal at a time. The paper tears easily, and not every tear means a disaster, but do be patient.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/pull11917.jpg"></center>The center of the flower will get thick, and so don't expect to tug the tissue paper up too much. Once all the petals are up, you can turn the paper, making adjustments to the look of your flower.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/tie11817.jpg"></center>Mix colors, play with the cut ends. We slipped a bobbie pin into the tie at the base of the flower, and we are wearing flowers in our hair. <br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/tres11817.jpg"></center>Tie them together for party decorations. Glue them to a headband, attach them to a parade float, make a piñata!<br />
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Natalie, the Chickenbloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07424213130274740719noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2813283814463924896.post-80031547384007722002017-10-10T10:40:00.000-07:002017-10-11T09:34:51.641-07:00Maker Faire San Diego~Balboa Park<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/boom10717.jpg"></center>A few of us <i>BOoM Nerds</i>... Max, Ido and Bex, Geoff, Maria, Amira, Bambi, Alex, and William, with Natalie and Paul in front.<br />
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We were at <a href="https://sandiego.makerfaire.com">Maker Faire in San Diego,</a> this time in the Museum of Man, with our good friends and collaborators <a href="https://sandiego.makerfaire.com/maker/entry/641/">Junkcade!</a> We were <a href="https://sandiego.makerfaire.com/maker/entry/702/">entry #702,</a> and we came with two of our robots, a lot of woodworking pieces, some props, crafts, 3D printed samples, Bambi's costumes, the Laputa cosplay, and flowers. Lots of flowers. Besides what we shared, and exhibited, there was even more for us to witness, and enjoy, and this post is going to touch on just a bit of what there was to see and do at the <i><a href="https://makerfaire.com">Greatest Show and Tell on Earth: Maker Faire!</a></i><br />
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<i>Ready?<br />
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Think<br />
Tinker<br />
Play<br />
Make<br />
Share!</i><br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/cards10717.jpg"></center>Saturday :: Maria and Bex setting up~<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/tools10717.jpg"></center>Our newest venture... teaching floral crown making. <i>This was a dream come true, really ambitious, and totally worthwhile.</i><br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/davincimaria10717.jpg"></center>Da Vinci, our drawing robot. <br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/crownguy10717.jpg"></center>Fellow Maker in the Museum of Man, Balboa Park, now skilled in the art of flower crown making, too.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/lilmaker10717.jpg"></center>Maria and Natalie agree that seeing people engrossed in, in awe of, and excited for making is a huge reward for us as exhibitors.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/bambi10717.jpg"></center>Bambi and Alex brought props and cosplay samples, as well as art supplies.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/wammo10717.jpg"></center>William, Max, Alex, Bambi, Maria... we count on all of our crew to get this show going.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/nat10717.jpg"></center>Grant and Jordan made it, too, and we got Laputa out into the Park, where they met up with our friends, <a href="https://sandiego.makerfaire.com/maker/entry/662/"> Russel and Frank Lawlor, of <i>The Electric Giraffe Project.</i></a><br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/bots10717.jpg"></center>Looks like <a href="https://sandiego.makerfaire.com/maker/entry/695/">Robot Resurrection</a> and Laputa are going to meet.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/meeting10717.jpg"></center>I've already suggested to <a href="https://sandiego.makerfaire.com">San Diego Maker Faire</a> that next year we should have a <i>Robot Parade</i>. We know about <a href="http://youngmakersclub.blogspot.com/2017/05/make-ours-march-for-science.html">marching, especially for science,</a> and we have award winning <a href="http://www.chickenblog.com/2011/12/i-love-parade.html">robot-in-a-parade experience, too.</a><br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/laputa10717.jpg"></center>Wowzers! Laputa is <a href="http://youngmakersclub.blogspot.com/2016/05/make-big-puppet-robots.html">really, really tall. Like 12' tall,</a> but this fellow towers over our guy! <br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/tommyalex10717.jpg"></center>Do you know <a href="http://blindfilmcritic.com">Tommy Edison, the <i>Blind Film Critic?</i></a> He has a YouTube channel where he shares his impressions and thoughts about the world from his unique perspective. He came to Maker Faire and wanted other exhibitors to bring their projects to him, so he could see and hear what Makers do.<br />
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We won't "say" what we shared... we'll share a link to the video interview when it becomes available!<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/pony10717.jpg"></center>Here is what the invitation to meet Tommy Edison said, <br />
<i>"Outside of the Faire, are you prepared to tell others about your creation without the visual representation? How do you discuss and describe something new, different, or complex without it being there to show off? How do you make keep it clear and concise? <br />
Tommy Edison has been blind since birth and his interview with the makers will give a unique marketing experience. <a href="https://sandiego.makerfaire.com/maker/entry/831/">Talk with a blind man about your project, learn from his life experiences, and learn how to share your projects..."</a></i><br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/talk10717.jpg"></center>Tommy is a warm and funny man, disarming and easy going. It was a treat to meet him, and of course we loved sharing our creations, intentions, and ideas, and then hearing his take on what we've got going on. We even got invited back to share more BOoM projects, like weaving and making the flower crowns. It was an enlightening experience to expand our thinking about what we are making, and how it can be appreciated and described in new ways.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/myron10717.jpg"></center>It's always a highlight of any Maker Faire to see familiar faces, to have friends come and visit. <i>Hello, Myron!</i> Later, we went out to visit our favorite <a href="http://sdarobotics.org">FIRST team... Paradox!</a><br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/puppet10717.jpg"></center>One of our favorite sections of Maker Faire is on the Festival Stage of the Old Globe, where artists from the Globe and other theatrically themed crafts are exhibiting. This is where we met <a href="https://sandiego.makerfaire.com/maker/entry/722/"> Bruce Thompson, and his puppets.</a><br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/makepuppets10717.jpg"></center>He made these paper mâché puppets almost four decades ago, and he was very helpful about how he makes them. <i>A new project for BOoM to play and tinker at? Yes, I think so!</i><br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/clay10717.jpg"></center>Maria had a great time making these tiny puppet heads using the clay Bruce provided for visitors to his exhibit. <br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/tower10717.jpg"></center>Onstage, at the <a href="https://www.theoldglobe.org/plan-your-visit/theatres/lowell-davies-festival-theatre/">Festival Theater,</a> which gives a beautiful and unique view of the <a href="https://www.balboapark.org/attractions/california-tower">California Tower, in Balboa Park.</a><br />
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Day one is almost done... but there's more!<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/park10817.jpg"></center>Another day, and another view of that beautiful California Tower in <a href="https://www.balboapark.org">Balboa Park.</a> <br />
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Good Morning, Maker Faire San Diego!<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/view10817.jpg"></center>This may be one of the nicest spots we've ever had to exhibit from. Just look at the view we had from <a href="https://www.balboapark.org/museums/museum-of-man">San Diego Museum of Man.</a><br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/light10817.jpg"></center>Inside was lovely, too.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/ido10817.jpg"></center>We had great company... in the museum, all over the park. Here are Ido and Simon talking to Aaron about electroplating. <br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/electro10717.jpg"></center>Aaron and Nedda were demonstrating their process for <i>turning nature into wearable art.</i><br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/demo10717.jpg"></center>Both Simon and Natalie are enchanted with <a href="https://enchantedleaves.com/#2"><i>Enchanted Leaves</i>,</a> and we're glad Simon was figuring out what it takes to do this make project. <i>Another new project for BOoM to play and tinker at? Yes, for sure!</i> <br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/geoff10817.jpg"></center>The calm before the fun! Sunday started very gently, but it turned into one of the busiest days we can recall. Robots, supplies, and exhibitors all held up and shined, all day<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/smiles10817.jpg"></center>Flower crown making was popular. <i>Okay... it was insanely popular.</i> This day seemed to bring out the couples, and we loved seeing their collaborations, and enthusiasm. It's fun when <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bewilderwoodworks/">you meet fellow makers,</a> appreciating that they are getting a chance to explore the Faire, too.<br />
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<img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/bewild10817.jpg"></center>We wish we had a picture of every crown and maker. Everyone seemed to be aglow, radiating their Maker happiness.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/flor10817.jpg"></center>Each new visitor inspired us more, and more. We would love to bring this hands-on exhibit back, next year.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/patrick10817.jpg"></center>Hello, Patrick! <br />
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So many friends came by, and we wanted to stop and talk, and hang out with each of them... but wow! We had our hands full. We hope everyone had a great time.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/showtell10817.jpg"></center>Just three days off the router, Alex's latest shield had a lot of admirers. Here he is showing where the hammered bosse will go, when the shield is finished. He worked his art into Autocad, before G-coding it into Mastercam, so it could be cut on our router. Next... a lot of sanding, then painting. Those are day and night bats, with rose-thorn Celtic rings between. <br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/bonita10817.jpg"></center>For several hours Maria and Natalie went through a flower crown making rush... it was wild. By the end we were down to twigs, scraps, bits, and pieces. Happily, we managed to eek out enough supplies for three more visitors to make crowns. They were so humbly thankful, and creative... once again, we felt the connection and inspiration that makes Maker Faire great.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/moments10817.jpg"></center>Friends, and can-do energy... it's what we love about Maker Faire.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/sharing10817.jpg"></center>Sharing what we love is what brings us back for more, and leaves us thinking about <i>next time.</i><br />
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We didn't get a picture of <i>every</i> visitor and flower crown, but these are a few of the beautiful makers who shared their time with us. <i>Thank you, everyone, that was part of making this, another, wonderful Maker Faire.</i><br />
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Natalie, the Chickenbloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07424213130274740719noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2813283814463924896.post-91964518684909808482017-09-25T10:01:00.000-07:002017-09-25T10:01:57.161-07:00Making More Floral Crowns~<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/corona92217.jpg"></center>I've been making more floral crowns, and we have <a href="http://youngmakersclub.blogspot.com/2012/10/make-floral-crown.html">a tutorial for this activity,</a> if you would like to make one, too. In the tutorial, we were using fabric flowers, but all the same principles and supplies apply. If you can't get to a floral wholesaler, look around your own garden, and I've had wonderful luck finding seasonal blossoms in plentiful bouquets at Trader Joe's.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/amiramaria92217.jpg"></center>Maria and I presented Amira with a <i>Happy Thirteenth Birthday Crown</i> of chrysanthemums and whimsical craspedia.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/make92217.jpg"></center>As <a href="http://youngmakersclub.blogspot.com/2012/10/make-floral-crown.html">described in the tutorial</a>, the supplies you'll need are simple and few... 1/4" wide green, waterproof floral tape, 22 gauge green paddle wire, and a cutter. You can add ribbons, too.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/indogo92317.jpg"></center>I easily made three floral crowns from one floral bouquet from Trader Joe's... <i>these crowns don't have flowers in a complete circle, but are more like a headband.</i> Maria wore hers to the Viking Festival.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/flores92217.jpg"></center>Ever since making them for Maria's school promotion, and sharing one with her garden teacher, I have continued making one as hostess gifts for my friends. <br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/corona82317.jpg"></center>This one went to Linda, and with the chamomile it smelled lovely.<br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/amigas72717.jpg"></center>Yanina's was inspired by the sneak peek of her table setting she shared on Instagram... colorful, and artistic.<br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/oside62317.jpg"></center>Our grade school graduate, and her <i><a href="http://www.chickenblog.com/2017/06/22-misty-blue.html">misty blue</i></a> crown. Those dried so beautifully, the crown is hanging in our entryway.<br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/flores62217.jpg"></center>Someday, I would love to <a href="http://youngmakersclub.blogspot.com/2012/10/make-floral-crown.html">bring this hands-on activity to a Maker Faire</a> and share it with everyone... I hope you will enjoy a chance to make your own floral crowns.Natalie, the Chickenbloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07424213130274740719noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2813283814463924896.post-77561992798737920992017-09-16T11:14:00.001-07:002017-09-16T11:16:56.790-07:00Meet the Artist<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/horse91417.jpg"></center><a href="http://www.shelleyreed.com/in-dubious-battle/1"><i>In Dubious Battle</i></a> an eleven panel, oil painting by <a href="http://www.shelleyreed.com">artist Shelley Reed.</a><br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/oilonpaper91417.jpg"></center><i>"Through a large oil painting on a paper grid Reed will allow the viewer to step into the creation of her black and white world, to exist among its painted inhabitants. She will use art historical imagery that is sometimes pastoral and at times aggressive, creating an environment that feels “vaguely familiar, a bit dangerous, and fully relevant to today.”"</i><br />
<br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/profile91417.jpg"></center><br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/view91417.jpg"></center>Shelley Reed's paintings can be seen in Boston, New York, Chicago, and now, Southern California, while she is an <a href="https://www.luxartinstitute.org/artists/shelley-reed/"><i>Artist-in-Residence</i> at Lux Institute.</a><br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/caballo91417.jpg"></center>A unique and enjoyable part of the <i>Artist-in-Residence</i> program is the chance to meet the artist, see them working at their art, and to ask questions. This experience is wonderful for personal engagement, and opportunity to relate to the art with its creator. We were interested to learn that Shelley Reed was painting in oil directly on paper, without gesso. She described the quality and properties of the <a href="http://search.jerrysartarama.com/search?w=arches">Arches paper,</a> and that she enjoyed how the paper behaves with the oil paints. <br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/girl91417.jpg"></center><br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/artist91417.jpg"></center>Shelley Reed will be giving <a href="https://www.luxartinstitute.org/events/studio-series-shelley-reed/">a <i>Studio Talk</i>, October 5th.</a> <br />
<br />
<i>We would like to thank Shelley Reed for the generous and inspiring way she engaged with Maria, Alex, and Bambi; she went above and beyond in her interactions with us, in sharing her experiences, insights, and helpful criticism. As Maker Faire exhibitors, and in our community outreach, we know how much time and energy it can take to engage with the public. We enjoy exhibiting, talking about our interests, and yours, and when someone, like Shelley Reed, makes time to share and personally relate with us, we are especially appreciative. Thank you, as well, to Lux Institute for hosting this inspired program: <a href="https://www.luxartinstitute.org/artists/">Artist-In-Residence is marvelous.</a></i><br />
<br />
(Benevolent Order of Makers is a school, this year... while Maria is homeschooling, we are calling ourselves the <i>Benevolent Order of Makers STEAM Education Academy,</i> or something like that. Really, it's all a pretty natural extension of our regular activities, but with some extra pomp and flare, because that's amusing to us.)<br />
<br />
Natalie, the Chickenbloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07424213130274740719noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2813283814463924896.post-17157687250816338002017-09-14T10:11:00.000-07:002017-09-14T10:43:29.499-07:00Our September Mini Make<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/gamers9317.jpg"></center><i>Ruth, Bex, Ido, and Spencer~</i><br />
<br />
A few times a year we throw open the barn doors and invite everyone in for a day of <a href="http://youngmakersclub.blogspot.com">making and sharing.</a> This time we wanted to welcome our cousin Landon into the mix... he's got designs and plans for making a folding knife, and Alex is mentoring him on this project. Seems we couldn't stop at <i>knife making,</i> so we invited other makers over, and Lisa arrived with a taco salad banquet, then we found ourselves getting a cheese making lesson. It's our love of making, of STEAM education activities and advocacy, that gets these things rolling, but it's our fun and generous friends that turn an idea into an unforgettable event.<br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/dnd9317.jpg"></center><i>Leo, Amira, Maria, and Adrian for a round of DnD~</i><br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/mtg7317.jpg"></center>Magic the Gathering at the next table over, with Lucas, Alex J, Max, and Corey... always room for one more!<br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/everything9317.jpg"></center><br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/home9317.jpg"></center><i>Have we met?</i> Yes... Ido, Leslie, William, Paul, and Simon... lots of supplies and ideas already gathering steam.<br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/ido9317.jpg"></center>Say 'hello' to Ido's little friend. <i>Junkcade and BOoM Nerds</i> are at it again... with a little Arduino magic, Tony Manero is going to light up the disco floor.<br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/landon9317.jpg"></center>Here is Landon, our newest BOoM Nerd. I couldn't keep up with all of the tinkering, experimenting, sandblasting, plasma-cutting fun Landon and Alex were having.<br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/plasma9317.jpg"></center>Two certified welders, and one eager apprentice. Our group works on the idea that anyone can become proficient at a task, and then pass those skills along. So, no matter your age, in any project or activity, you are either a mentor or a student. Peer teaching, engagement, sharing... by encouraging everyone to participate as students, and as teachers, we increase our resources, build confidence, and accomplish more making. Collaboration, and cooperation, make for fantastic skill building experiences.<br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/mako9317.jpg"></center>Ido, Lily, Matt, and Natalie visited the hens and goats, for fun, and to talk about <a href="http://www.chickenblog.com/2013/06/9700-thats-lot.html">coop and run design and construction... <i>we have loads of experience with that, and we are happy to share.</a></i><br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/mentoring9317.jpg"></center>Paul, and Geoff checking out something Simon is in to.<br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/team9317.jpg"></center><i>Ido, Paul, and Matt~</i><br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/research9317.jpg"></center>A little research for the dance floor...<br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/newplayer9317.jpg"></center>Lucas and Max bring Paul M, visiting from Wisconsin, to the table for an MTG introduction.<br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/cheese9317.jpg"></center>And Leslie brings Bex, Adrian, Amira, Maria, and Leo to the kitchen for a mozzarella making introduction. All (clean) hands on the curd!<br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/hands9317.jpg"></center>Landon, mixing in the salt, before we add the boiling water.<br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/moza9317.jpg"></center>Leslie was our expert on this project, and we all marveled at how magical it was seeing the cheese <i>suddenly happen</i>. Making mozzarella was easy, fun, delicious. I wouldn't have guessed we could do it so quickly, simply, and I am glad Leslie shared the curd, and her skills. This needs to be a regular activity.<br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/dough9317.jpg"></center>And what do you do with all that cheese? You top your pizza! For this we had Lisa and Leslie to make dough, and Tim to build a beautiful pizza. This was just about the time Michael came by to check on Leo, and he had a fresh harvest of tomatoes from Grace's garden... just happened. What a fortuitous arrival.<br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/make9317.jpg"></center>And on the porch... electronics, soldering, Arduino, and Tony Manero.<br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/IMG_5128.jpg"></center>And also... Tim, William, Alex, and Bex... with paper mâché for a cosplay mask. <br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/paul9317.jpg"></center>Like I said, <i>Always room for one more.</i><br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/manyhands9317.jpg"></center><i>Amira, Leslie, Lisa, and Tim</i>... pizza's out of the oven! This was round 2 for good eating. Lisa fed us all lunch, too. Cooking is some of the best making there is!<br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/feed9317.jpg"></center>Everyone was on hand to appreciate this make project!<br />
<br />
Want to see Tony Manero do his <i>Saturday Night Fever</i> disco? Check out BOoMNerds on Instagram!Natalie, the Chickenbloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07424213130274740719noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2813283814463924896.post-77499238336228310812017-09-11T10:40:00.003-07:002017-09-11T10:40:47.441-07:00Make Space<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/everything9317.jpg"></center><i>This</i> is everything... friends, and play, and robots, home, sharing, comforts, resources, opportunities, engagement. We are the Benevolent Order of Makers, and we love science, technology, engineering, art, math, music, tinkering, learning, mentoring, and making plans to do more.Natalie, the Chickenbloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07424213130274740719noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2813283814463924896.post-43198936506239431082017-08-30T10:02:00.001-07:002017-08-30T10:04:09.484-07:00Making for a Masked Ball<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/faces82817.jpg"></center>Alex and Bambi made costumes, including masks, and props, for the <a href="http://labyrinthmasquerade.com"><i>Labyrinth of Jareth Masquerade.</i></a> From the Masquerade website... "<i>Costumes fitting our theme are required. Imaginative costumes highly recommended.</i>" They were designing, sewing, sculpting, cutting, gluing, painting, researching, and happily anticipating this moment, and the event ahead, for days and days.<br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/pair82617.jpg"></center>Sewn into the fabric of Bambi's dress are tiny LEDs that light up and twinkle, like fireflies.<br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/wings82817.jpg"></center><br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/ready72817.jpg"></center><br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/smiles82617.jpg"></center>Costumes and props are finished, they have their forms and driving directions... so off they go!<br />
<br />
Here are some glimpses of the making of costumes, masks, and other details... and if you like sewing, design, art, robots, cosplay, STEAM education, electronics, programming, 3D printing, CNC routing, woodworking, metalworking, <i>all kinds of making,</i> please follow BOoMNerds on Instagram! <i>Thank you.</i><br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/design82417.jpg"></center>Alex is always carrying around one, or more, sketchbooks. And they are full of concepts, designs, tests, ideas, and beautiful art.<br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/mask824.jpg"></center>His masks begin in a sketchbook, then move into plaster, which he can use to build a custom fit. Then comes sculpting the modeling in clay, in this case, so he can vacuum-form the actual mask.<br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/mask82517.jpg"></center>The texture of the vacuum-formed plastic has a great effect, so Alex didn't bother sanding it, and went straight to the paint.<br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/wings82217.jpg"></center>A lot of testing and experimenting went into the wings. These, Alex modeled after the wings of a cicada, and he hand-cut them from <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Foamcore">foamcore...</a> the same handy material William used to make <a href="http://www.chickenblog.com/2017/05/10-prop-master.html">Prince Phillip's shield for the <i>Sleeping Beauty</i> musical.</a><br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/dry82417.jpg"></center>Drying rack... which happens to be a box William is constructing for one of his skeletons, but that's <i>another</i> story.<br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/cicada82517.jpg"></center>These are Bambi's finished wings! Alex is testing them for placement on her dress. Bambi designed and made her dress. We need more pictures... I want to show, between all the layers of tulle in her skirt, the fireflies!<br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/sew82417.jpg"></center>Alex designed his outfit, too, and he and William sewed it. <br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/handle82417.jpg"></center>Also out of Alex's sketchbook and research, came the designs for this prop sword. Alex handed his drawings over to William who modeled 11 separate parts, including this handle and pommel, in 3D Studio Max, MudBox, and MeshMixer (<a href="http://www.autodesk.com">Autodesk,</a> whenever you would like to sponsor our <a href="http://www.autodesk.com">club, <i>Benevolent Order of Makers,</i></a> we would be honored.) The parts were 3D printed from William's renderings, glued together, sanded, and painted. The cool part... it's a handle, with a jewel glued on, and a scabbard, but there is no actual sword. It was made to safely pass through security without alarming anyone. A thorough prop prop. <br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/pommel82417.jpg"></center><br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/sword82617.jpg"></center>Alex twisted the wire detail to go around the glass jewel, and finished the prop by wrapping Pearl cotton around the handle and a section of the scabbard. You can also see the sash William sewed.<br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/mask82617.jpg"></center>This is the beautiful mask Bambi made. I love the <i>floating</i> jewels. There are more parts, more details... and we're still cleaning up! The creativity is wonderful, but the collaboration is what really excites me. It's exciting, too, to hear them talk about how much they learn with each new project, and how much it inspires them for the next project.Natalie, the Chickenbloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07424213130274740719noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2813283814463924896.post-51749040442453256922017-08-13T13:57:00.003-07:002017-09-25T09:27:08.406-07:00Get Making! For San Diego Maker Faire 2017<center>Are you ready? Are you making? <br />
We have some helpful links for you... <br />
whether you are looking for tickets for attending, <br />
want to share your creations, <br />
or would love to enjoy the benefits of volunteering, <br />
this is the post for you! </center><br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/grant10117.jpg"></center><center><a href="http://sandiego.makerfaire.com">It's coming back: San Diego Maker Faire!</a><br />
October 7 & 8, 2017, <br />
In Balboa Park~<br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/connect10116.jpg"></center>It's time to get connected~<br />
<br />
<a href="http://sandiego.makerfaire.com/tickets/">Get your early bird <big>tickets!</big></a> <br />
Maker Faire is the Greatest Show and Tell on Earth, <br />
and it's also a terrific value for the whole family. There's plenty to see and do in Balboa Park during Maker Faire... <br />
consider visiting both days, to enjoy everything!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://sandiego.makerfaire.com/volunteer/">We love the <big>volunteers!</big></a> <br />
Sign up to help at Maker Faire, and you will enjoy being a part of creating an amazing event. <br />
Do it for the fun! Do it for the perks! Do it to connect with your community!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://sandiego.makerfaire.com/makers/">Share your Making! Be a <big>Maker Faire Exhibitor!</big></a><br />
All <a href="http://sandiego.makerfaire.com/call-maker-form/">applications</a> must be submitted by August 31. <br />
It's easy to apply to be an exhibitor at Maker Faire, <br />
and it's a gratifying experience to share your creations at a Maker Faire. <br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/talks81217.jpg"></center>The BOoM Nerds have been getting together to share projects and ideas, to mentor, tinker, play, and make.<br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/share81217.jpg"></center><br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/table81217.jpg"></center><a href="http://youngmakersclub.blogspot.com/2016/05/make-big-puppet-robots.html">Big robots</a> are awesome. Electronics light us up! We love 3D printing, <a href="http://youngmakersclub.blogspot.com/2015/04/make-cnc-router-and-make-it-big.html">CNC milling,</a> virtual reality, and telepresence robotics. We go in for <a href="http://youngmakersclub.blogspot.com/2015/01/how-to-make-genuine-inauthentic-viking.html">Viking tents.</a> <br />
Global <a href="http://youngmakersclub.blogspot.com/2017/05/global-scratch-day_14.html">Scratch Day</a> made our day. <br />
<br />
We love to make, and we love to share... <br />
now it's a only a matter of deciding on <i>what</i> to bring <br />
to San Diego Maker Faire.<br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/flores62217.jpg"></center><a href="http://youngmakersclub.blogspot.com/2012/10/make-floral-crown.html"><i>Floral Crown Making~</i></a><br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/props7517.jpg"></center>Maleficent's Dragon~<br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/moreprops7517.jpg"></center>More props from <i>Sleeping Beauty~</i><br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/laputa71217.jpg"></center><a href="http://youngmakersclub.blogspot.com/2017/05/make-ours-march-for-science.html">Our <i>March for Science</a> Laputa Robot</i>~<br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/code7617.jpg"></center><a href="http://youngmakersclub.blogspot.com/2017/05/global-scratch-day_14.html">Makers code~</a><br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/junkcade52717.jpg"></center><a href="http://youngmakersclub.blogspot.com/2017/05/making-with-friends.html">Makers invent, craft, tinker, <br />
sew, cook, garden, design, research, <br />
construct, cooperate, mentor, and <i>play!</i></a><br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/paintboom61717.jpg"></center>We exhibit hands-on projects at Maker Faire~<br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/paulmike61717.jpg"></center><a href="http://youngmakersclub.blogspot.com/2017/06/2017-north-county-mini-maker-faire-two.html">We make friends at Maker Faire~</a><br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/yarnboom61717.jpg"></center><a href="http://youngmakersclub.blogspot.com/2017/05/lessons-in-making-crochet.html">We could bring <i>Crochet Club</a></i> to Maker Faire~<br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/maker72017.jpg"></center><i>So... what should we bring to share??</i> <br />
It seems the only difficulty of a Maker Faire, <br />
is <i>making</i> decisions!<br />
What will <i>you</i> be making?<br />
<br />
</center>Natalie, the Chickenbloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07424213130274740719noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2813283814463924896.post-76357072652975012142017-07-31T13:00:00.001-07:002017-07-31T13:00:14.254-07:00Make a Handkerchief Pretty<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/sniff73117.jpg"></center><center>Handkerchief: /ˈhaNGkərCHif,ˈhaNGkərCHēf/<br />
noun<br />
a square of cotton or other finely woven material, typically carried in one's pocket <br />
and intended for blowing or wiping one's nose.<br />
synonyms: hanky; kerchief, bandanna; tissue<br />
"a monogrammed handkerchief"</center><br />
There are all sorts of <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Handkerchief
">descriptions and histories of the handkerchief.</a> But I think I like the handkerchiefs that are pretty, romantic, edged in crochet, or accented with embroidery. Adding art, something whimsical or romantic, can <i>make</i> a <i>plain square of cotton</i> special.<br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/one72817.jpg"></center><a href="http://collagepdx.blogspot.com">These <i>pocket-handkins</i> came four to a pack, from <i>Collage,</i> in Portland Oregon... a <href="https://sublimestitching.com/collections/blank-textiles-1/products/handkerchiefs"><i>Sublime Stitching</i></a> blank textile. Just the kind of souvenir I cannot resist... one that packs easily, and will inspire creative play.<br />
<br />
I decided to revisit <a href="http://www.chickenblog.com/2016/11/works-in-progress-three-hundred-twenty.html">painting and embroidering.</a> So, I drew a romantic little ratty, with her bouquet of pink posies. It's just a #2 pencil, lightly sketched on the square. You can even <a href="http://youngmakersclub.blogspot.com/search/label/Embroider">trace an image, like I did with a tea towel, in this tutorial.</a> <br />
<br />
The next step was to use acrylic craft paints to fill in color. I use water sparingly, and the cotton square was heavy enough, that none of the paint seeped through, which is nice. But to be safe, I keep waxed paper, or a plastic tray, under my paint projects... newsprint might stain leave marks on the fabric. The paints I use are Martha Stewart's acrylic craft paints. I use a smallish brush, applying thin layers of paint, so they can dry quickly and evenly, and so that I don't leave a thick, stiff feel to the fabric, with too much paint.<br />
<br />
Then, I choose my floss colors, and use only two strands of thread to make simple outlining and detail stitches. French knots make perfect little flowers for a ratty's bouquet.<br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/floss72817.jpg"></center>A bit of navy blue floss for her eye, and gray for her face, arms, and legs. A pale, sage-y green for the stems and leaves, and three shades of pink for everything, else, including all of those French-knot flowers.<br />
<br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/two72817.jpg"></center>After outlining her dress, and creating a belt of posies around her waist, I trimmed the edges in leaves, and more flowers. <br />
<br />
<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/handkin73117.jpg"></center>I wonder, would I actually sneeze into this little handkerchief?<br />
<i>Would you?</i><br />
Maybe your hand painted and embroidered handkerchief will be too pretty for nose-blowing, but it's still an easy and gratifying little project to make.Natalie, the Chickenbloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07424213130274740719noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2813283814463924896.post-83484063592262908922017-07-25T11:19:00.000-07:002017-07-25T11:19:13.123-07:00Make A Miniature Picnic<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/loaves72417.jpg"></center>When <i>Benevolent Order of Makers,</i> (<i>BOoMNerds</i> on Instagram) was at the <a href="http://youngmakersclub.blogspot.com/2017/06/2017-north-county-mini-maker-faire-two.html">North County Mini Maker Faire,</a> Maria and I taught crafting with paper clay. We love paper clay, because it's affordable, easy to use, and we can paint it, after it air dries. Making with the clay was a popular hands-on activity, so I ended up with a lot of loaves of bread from all the demonstrating we were doing.<br />
<br />
Today I set up my paints, so I could paint all the miniature bread pieces. Baguettes, a bâtard, and a traditional slicing loaf... and bagels, and pancakes (not pictured.) Painting isn't just a fun, creative part of finishing the paper clay pieces, it's also a necessary step in protecting them, since any moisture could make them start to disintegrate. The acrylic craft paints seals the dried clay.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/unbaked72417.jpg"></center>These are some of the things I made while we demonstrated how to make with paper clay. The baguettes are rolled from a small ball of clay, allowing the ends to get narrower. Then I use the side of a toothpick to gently dent across the tops of the bread so they appear to be <a href="http://www.thefreshloaf.com/handbook/scoring"><i>scored.</i></a> They've had plenty of drying time, now we need to get them painted, and sealed.<br />
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If you would like more tips and suggestions for <a href="http://youngmakersclub.blogspot.com/search/label/Clay">making with paper clay, please follow this link, where we give a more complete paper clay tutorial.</a><br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/paint72417.jpg"></center>To paint the bread, I used acrylic craft paints. First, I painted the whole loaf in a medium brown shade, being sure to get the entire surface sealed in a light layer of paint. Once the first layer was dry, I used a very dry brush to paint on a slightly darker shade of brown, to make it look like the bread has nice crust to it. The last part was adding the palest brown paint into the scores, where the bread would be less browned. <i>I could add one last clear coat with a glossy acrylic paint... <a href="http://youngmakersclub.blogspot.com/search/label/Clay">something you may notice in the picture of other breads I made.</a> The decision to make the bread shiny is a matter of preference. I like them both ways; shiny, or matte.</i><br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/picnic72417.jpg"></center>Maria brought out some pretty props from her doll house, so we could depict a picnic, featuring a crusty French baguette, <i>still wrapped, and tied with bakery twine!</i> The little bread knife is one of our miniature make creations, too. Today I will finish painting bagels/donuts, and a cake. And we want to create some syrup for the pancakes. We may open a cafe, soon!Natalie, the Chickenbloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07424213130274740719noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2813283814463924896.post-13197711417411030932017-06-19T11:50:00.001-07:002017-06-19T12:07:46.931-07:002017 North County Mini Maker Faire :: Two Days<big><center>Day One</big><br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/paulmike61717.jpg"></center>It's Paul, BOoM cohort, and brother, and Mike... <a href="http://northcounty.makerfaire.com/maker/entry/7/">Mike is the man behind the brilliant <i>AR-Duo,</i> the Steampunk remote controlled rover,</a> and our 2016 San Diego Maker Faire partner. <i>Actually, we go back further than that!</i><br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/cclcards61717.jpg"></center>After hours, Maria and I visited our booth neighbors from the City of Carlsbad. <a href="http://www.carlsbadca.gov/services/depts/library/events/computers.asp">Carlsbad City Library has an <i>Exploration Hub</i>,</a> with fabulous opportunities to explore more make activities, like 3D printing, sewing, and photo archiving.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/cclforce61717.jpg"></center><a href="http://www.carlsbadca.gov/services/depts/library/">Carlsbad City Library</a> generously provided fun supplies for making <i>out of this world</i> father's day cards!<br />
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<big><center>Day Two</big></center><br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/otherburn61817.jpg"></center>Back for a closer look at the captivating <a href="http://northcounty.makerfaire.com/maker/entry/12/"><i>Electric Art and Molten Metal</i> exhibit.</a> These photographs are of live-active <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lichtenberg_figure">Lichtenberg</a> burns.<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/fidgetart61817.jpg"></center>Well, if you are going to <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fidget_spinner">play with a fad,</a> go with DIY... Maria loved customizing and building her own <i>fidget spinner,</i> with <a href="http://northcounty.makerfaire.com/maker/entry/43/"><i>Steamy Tech,</i> at their <i>Kinetic Art</i> booth.</a><br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/junkcade61817.jpg"></center>We love <a href="http://northcounty.makerfaire.com/maker/entry/26/"><i>Junkcade!</i></a><br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/compkits61817.jpg"></center><a href="http://two35.com/index.html">Visiting Two35, with Ava,</a> and learning about their computer kits and curriculum that <i>teach the fundamentals of computer hardware and software.</i><br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/newboom61817.jpg"></center>Benevolent Order of Makers had a good time and great success teaching <a href="http://youngmakersclub.blogspot.com/search/label/Crochet">crochet,</a> and then we got lessons, too! This sweet and talented woman had plenty to share with us about making!<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/newdress61817.jpg"></center>A new dress! It's wonderful what discoveries and connections can be made at a Maker Faire. <br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/treasureboom61817.jpg"></center>Our <a href="http://youngmakersclub.blogspot.com/search/label/Clay">Paperclay tutorials and play were a big hit.</a> Treasure had loads of fun... check out the princess she made. When her clay is dry, she can paint it with acrylic craft paints!<br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/grittercritter61817.jpg"></center>Hey, <a href="http://northcounty.makerfaire.com/maker/entry/25/">Gritter!</a><br />
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<center><img src="http://files.chickenblog.com/images/menrussel61817.jpg"></center>It's always a pleasure to hang out with <a href="http://northcounty.makerfaire.com/maker/entry/22/">Russel, the Electric Giraffe.</a> Maria and I get nostalgic when we see the Electric Giraffe, since he was one of the first, and <i>biggest</i> <a href="http://www.chickenblog.com/2010/05/permission-to-play-think-make-tinker-go.html">inspirations for us to join the Maker movement, back at our first visit to a Maker Faire, in 2010.</a><br />
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Thanks to our hosts, <a href="http://agsem.com">Antique Gas and Steam Engine Museum,</a> and the Mini Maker Faire organizers of the <a href="http://www.sdmakersguild.org">San Diego Makers Guild.</a>Natalie, the Chickenbloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07424213130274740719noreply@blogger.com0