How to Become a Maker (Learning Resources)

 Before you can become a maker, you first have to understand what a "maker" is. In it's vaguest form, that would be someone who makes things. Tables, chairs, websites, music, drawings, art, blueprints, code,... even spreadsheets. You were probably secretly a maker without knowing it already!

But... if you're reading this, chances are that you want to know how to make physical things. Below, I'll provide some of my top recommended resources. These are resources that I tend to use myself to learn new things, and no, these are not in any way, shape, or form, sponsored recommendations. Just resources I believe to be genuinely good!

Videos:

Let's start with the easiest way of learning, besides learning from someone in person: videos! Most, if not all of what you will see here will take you to a YouTube channel. These are some of my favorite resources, and are a good place to check for learning a variety of skills.

Adam Savage's Tested

You might recognize that name. Yes, indeed, it is that Adam Savage of Mythbusters fame. In addition to that popular show, he also has worked in the film industry as a prop and model maker, serving as an excellent tutor in making things. If you want to learn how to weather for cosplay, how to make a sword, how to make a case, how to make a model from scratch, or just about any thing you can make with your hands, this is definitely a first place to check. Plus, he and his whole team are pretty entertaining, making it easy to learn things even when you just want to unwind. I highly recommend watching his "One Day Build" videos.

Punished Props 

Looking for how to craft cosplay (or extremely nice costumes, for those unfamiliar with the term)? Look no further! This is probably the best cosplay site out there, and since the host tend to use EVA foam, (what the floor mats used in a garage are typically made from,) you have a hobby craft to practice making that won't cost an arm and a leg!

Evan and Katelyn 

Do you think you can't make stuff? Does it seem too intimidating? Do you have a mild obsession with Cheetos? Do you want to learn how to craft with resin? Is it possible to ask any more questions for an intro? Check out this husband and wife duo, who are happy to share their mistakes and successes. Probably the most entertaining channel out of the bunch, while still remaining highly educational.

I Like to Make Stuff 

Another great channel if you feel intimidated about making stuff. While the host, Bob, may not always show what experts in individual crafts may consider the "correct" way to get things done, he is very good at figuring out a way of getting his projects actually done. And many times, just getting to any finish point in a project is difficult. Bob is also great at showing others how to accomplish what he has figured out, helping you to finish your projects too.

Make Something 

Woodworking, occasional go-karts, some acrylic, and always unique. If you are interested in woodworking, David Picciuto is my first recommendation. Not the typical kind of woodworking channel that would put one to sleep, David and his crew keep everything entertaining and informative.

Woodworking for Mere Mortals

My second pick for woodworking videos is Woodworking for Mere Mortals, hosted by Steve Ramsey. He is still very entertaining, and yet excellent about providing safety precautions along with reasoning behind it. He shares a variety of projects with his audience, and even provides some resources for those just starting out in woodworking and who are on a budget.

Diresta 

Well, if you haven't heard the name Jimmy Diresta, and you want to make stuff... It is time to become enlightened, my friend. Certainly a jack of all trades, Jimmy is not just a maker, but is considered THE Maker by many Do-It-Yourselfers, a.k.a DIY-ers, (not to be confused with lore from the video game Dragon Age). I would also highly recommend checking out his series Making Fun on Netflix. A lot can be learned by simply watching this craftsman.

NerdForge

Okay, if you've stayed on the website this long, you are probably a fairly geeky individual. If this is true, then NerdForge is kind of the ultimate geeky arts and crafts YouTube channel. Martina & Hansi remind me of doing school arts and crafts projects... on steroids... with the cool teachers in the school.

Websites:

Makezine

Heard of MAKE: Magazine? This is their website. Haven't heard of them? Go there. Now. Do not wait. Oh, and help make sure they stay around a while longer by signing up for their subscription. What are you doing, still reading this website instead of theirs? Go! Make things!

Tandy Leathercraft Library

Want to try your hand at leatherworking? Check out Tandy's Leathercraft Library. It is a great resource for downloadable PDF's in leatherworking, including a few "How to" books. While not as user friendly as a previous incarnation of their website (you have to dig through "blog posts"), it is hard to argue with quality resources for free. How can they give these patterns away for free? Well, they are hoping to get you to buy some leather from them at a local store, which I would also happily recommend. Just be expecting not to walk out of the store for very cheap! Also, the people who work there are usually happy to help out novices and are usually very knowledgeable about all kinds of leatherworking.

GlowForge Forums

This web forum is a fantastic resource for Glowforge users, but also a fantastic resource for those of you who have access to a laser cutter. Enjoy! (Full disclosure: I own a Glowforge, and have enjoyed using mine for many years now.)

3D Prints:

Have a 3D printer? (If not, I recommend saving up for one!) Here are the standard resources to get you started.

    Thingiverse

    Printables

    MyMiniFactory