Making

Understanding the Principles of Making

  • Grasp the relevant manufacturing processes: Conceptualise the intended processes such as machining, fabricating, moulding, 3D printing or handcrafting.

  • Materials and their Properties: Understand the properties of the materials to be used, such as their strength, durability, malleability or brittleness.

  • Choice of Materials: The choice should be based on the product’s functionalities, aesthetic appeal, cost, and availability.

  • Machine and Hand Tools: Acquire apt skills for using both manual tools and machines to get the job done effectively.

Steps to Effective Making

  • Designing Solutions: Prioritise creating complete, sophisticated solutions that solve the real problem at hand.

  • Prototyping: Create a prototype to test your design. Adjust and improve upon the design based on the feedback generated.

  • Planning the Production Process: Before the actual making, plan the step-by-step processes, appoint roles, and gather required materials.

  • Creating the End Product: Manufacture the product using the chosen materials and methods.

Evaluating the Making Process

  • Quality Control: Regularly assess the quality of the product throughout the making process. Do not compromise on the quality standards.

  • Iterative Approach: Follow an iterative cycle of design, test, analyse, and refine. Don’t be afraid to redo steps if necessary.

  • Feedback and Review: Seek feedback from stakeholders, such as potential users, at key stages. This will aid tweaks and improvements.

Considerations During Making

  • Sustainability: Try, where possible, to use materials and processes that have a lower environmental impact.

  • Health and Safety: Ensure all safety norms are followed. The work environment should be kept clean, well-organised, and risk-free.

  • Cost Effectiveness: Deliver the maximum value for the minimum cost without compromising on the product’s functionality or quality.

Remember, making is a continuous learning process. Don’t shy away from getting your hands dirty and improvise as necessary to deliver the most effective and user-friendly product possible.