Comparative Blow Torches

On the Cool Tools channel, Sean Ragan goes deep nerd in testing two of the most popular Bernzomatic trigger-torches, the TS8000 and the TS4000. Tl;dr: The TS8000 is the better value. [Via Maker Update.]

Understanding Extrusion Width

I love all of the thoughtful experiments that Stefan does on his CNC Kitchen channel. In this video, he looks at extrusion width, something that most 3D printers usually ignore. He writes: "Extrusion width defines how wide the lines of extruded material are. Higher values require more pressure to squeeze the molten filament out of the nozzle that also presses the layers together. I investigated how different extrusion widths impact the quality and the strength of our 3D prints and discovered that this might be a way to produce strong prints in a short amount of time."

Hiding Screws

Here's something I would never have thought of. You can hide screws in wood by chiseling out a small flap of wood, sinking the screw, and then gluing, clamping, and finishing over the flap. Presto!

Harbor Fright Coupons

Newsletter reader RuddyS wrote to remind people to sign up for Harbor Freight's coupons: "You will get a coupon for 20% off almost once every two weeks. You will also get a coupon for a free item with every purchase, usually this is a flashlight, but I have gotten moving blankets, tarps, screwdrivers, and magnetized tool bars from them. This is the stuff makers need to know!"

Making Miter Joint Clamp Blocks

On her channel, Pneumatic Addict, Elisha shows how she used clamp blocks on the miter joints to a nightstand table. You attach the temporary blocks by putting down painter's tape and then CA gluing the blocks to the tape. When the clamping is done, you can just knock off the blocks with a hammer and remove the tape.

Toys!

I've been seeing people use these Olfa utility knives on maker videos for years. I always wanted one, but never got around to it until a few months ago. For $8, I can't imagine ever being without one again. The tool is surprisingly well made and feels good in the hand. And I love the ability to make the blade as long as I want. While working on Halloween costumes this year, having this knife made foam carving a breeze. There is a reason this knife has five stars and over 300 reviews on Amazon.

Notebook Indexing

People frequently ask me what's my favorite tip from my recent book, Tips and Tales from the Workshop. This notebook trick would definitely be one of them. As someone who's kept Moleskine Cahier pocket notesbooks for over a decade, I have dozens of these books filled with notes and ideas. Retrieving a thought you had several notebooks ago can be a real pain. Having a rough tab index in the back is very helpful.