LINKDAY: Make

Make is an online resource for your project.  That statement sounds a little vague while at the same time  sounding pretentious.  But, if you are a DIY'er then you need to check this site.  Anyone who has ever tried the "Duct Tap" approach to fix something will be in awe of what you will find at Make site.

I read the BLOG several times each week.  I visit the Online Store when I am looking for parts, kits or just browse project ideas submitted by others.


I have no affiliation with the above mentioned website(s). I only wish to share it.


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LINKDAY: Inventables

Inventables is an online retail store that sells hard to find materials to construct your project.

For those with a CNC machine and are tired of carving scraps of wood or styrofoam might be interested in the Acrylic Sample Kit.  Or maybe expand your craft with Cuttable Sheets, 2-Color Acrylic or Machinable Wax.

And do not forget about the other products: magnets, sensors, glow in the dark and light emitting material to name a few.

Inventables has several types of fabrication machines for purchase.  The CNC machine ShapeOko is now available through Inventables.



I have no affiliation with the above mentioned website(s). I only wish to share it.


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LINKDAY: SparkFun Electronics

SparkFun Electronics is an online retail store that sells open source hardware and electronics gadgets. The prices are reasonable with new items coming online everyday.  If you are not sure about an item, there is plenty of customer feedback as well as customer support right from the staff at SparkFun. Another feature of the website allows a project BOM's (Bill of Material) to be created and shared.  If you have a project in mind but not sure what all is needed, these "Wish Lists" can be just what you need to get your project off the ground.

I purchased the electronics for my ShapeOko from SparkFun.

And, I cannot speak for SparkFun (this year), but so far every year they have a HUGE ANNUAL SALE with lots of Give-Aways.  They call it "FREE DAY".  I look forward to this year's event that should be (fingers crossed) in JANUARY 2013.

I have no affiliation with the above mentioned website(s). I only wish to share it.


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LINKDAY: LinuxCNC

LinuxCNC is an open source operating system for realtime control of machinery. There is are pages describing the software. With complete information on how to get it, how to configure it and how to run it. They also include pages to ask for help.

This OS runs well, even on older computers. I don't ask for much and the system is clean and unbulky. With Open Office and Google Chrome Browser I didn't need much more. But then, with the built-in software library “Ubuntu Software Center”, I discovered even more FREE software for graphics, audio, programming, organization and games to name a few.

LinuxCNC is built on top of Ubuntu. Ubuntu is a free OS that can bring life back to an old computer you have lying around. Give it a try. Both LinuxCNC and Ubuntu have live CD's to try before you install.



I have no affiliation with the above mentioned website(s). I only wish to share it.


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CNC Revolution: ShapeOko #329

I have officially joined the CNC revolution.  

Styrofoam wheel