DeCARstruction/reCARstruction: Turning a car into a ball
Not sure what to do with that old gas guzzler? How about turning it into a giant ball? That’s what artist Keny Marshall did with this 1983 Jeep Grand Wagoneer.
Energy & Sustainability
If you’re a maker just starting out your journey in sustainability, it can be overwhelming to figure out how to get started. From understanding the types of materials to utilize, learning what steps will help reduce waste and emissions, and finding inspiring new ways to explore creativity that don’t have a negative environmental impact. The good news is there are plenty of resources available for DIYers looking for ways to make their projects more sustainable – from simple switches you can make today, big-picture ideas for longterm change, or exciting new ways makers are helping push sustainability into the future. In these blog posts we’ll look at tips tricks and ideas specifically tailored towards diyers and makers on the road to creating projects with greater eco consciousness so that not only will you create something beautiful but also respect its impact on our planet!
Real-time energy monitoring
A few months ago I met Mike Costa at Design Continuum. He had a Chumby on his desk which was set to monitor the energy usage of the building. At the time, he was working out the technical details of the system, and now has posted up some info about the project. Here are some highlights:
Real time power monitoring has been proven to effectively reduce power consumption due to waste. It is intuitive to consider that humans need some sort of feedback in order to recognize the presence of waste. For example if one leaves the faucet open one has sound and sight feedback indicating there is waste. What sort of feedback do we have for electricity? None really, this is why these systems can help with waste reduction
NYC big wheel race Saturday
With prizes for most original vehicle and best costume, I’m wishing I had heard about the NYC big wheel race a bit sooner…
Homegrown Happy
I have recently discovered a beautiful blog called Homegrown Happy. It’s written by a new mother living not too far from me on the coast of Northern California. Jazmin is a new friend, and I love her attitude and her gorgeous family. She also has a very interesting lifestyle. Her home is remote, her needs […]
Weird front tricycle scooter for sale now
Saw one of these on Burnet Rd. in Austin today. It’s a Piaggio MP3. Apparently the wheels “loosen up” at speed to allow for cornering, but are stiff at idle so you don’t have to hold the bike up with your legs. There are, supposedly, other advantages as well. I’m no bike expert, but it seems like an interesting novelty. Glad, as always, of comments from those in the know.
How-To: Solar food dehydrator
Check out this solar food deydrator made from reclaimed materials, and get started on your dried fruit recipes!
In the Maker Shed: Sneaky Green Uses for Everyday Things
Ingenuity has met its match in frequent Make Magazine contributor Cy Tymony. In his book, Sneaky Green Uses for Everyday Things, Cy combines the sneaky fun of his Sneaky Uses series with the growing interest in green living. The result is an easy-to-practice manual for conserving energy.
