Projects are being thought of by using their titles, which helps to keep the thinking through them distinct. The next few blogs will separate those projects out for clarity, however when the hiCraft sketchbook is seen, it demonstrates that varying threads are being worked concurrently. Part of this mixed-up method is to allow thoughts to mature, and so as not to get too bogged down in one area that ultimately may not work – such as the metal oxide tests. It may also reflect the natural way the brain jumps from one thing to another. Inevitably the projects evolve as they are worked on, through deeper understanding of the potential for the project and according to what is possible within my abilities.

It is not plain sailing. Doubts about being able to do this project and to contribute something meaningful is constant. Feedback can fuel the feelings of inadequacy and require some time to absorb. This is what can happen if non-experts are brought into an expert’s field.

Resilience is good, though. As a craftsperson, there is a strong desire to make things work. It takes a lot of effort to make things do so, especially in unfamiliar territory. (It can be challenging in familiar territory too, which is part of the enduring interest in a particular field for a craftsperson.) Luckily, the hiCraft project requires tangible work beyond post-it-note metaphor. Perhaps still metaphors, but visual, handleable, operational and useable. In other words, unresolved ideas – which can be picked up and played with – a space where other thoughts and reactions can grow.

There is a requirement to be practical in making objects. The titles are the starting point of bringing these things into reality. The projects and sub-sections so far are:-

How does it feel to be made?

Story – to be developed
Strictly come potting – video, rough sketch
Throwing education – vague idea

Squishy Clay circuits

Metal oxide tests – largely failed

Anstruther Clay

Seebacko’scope

Puzzle jugs

Double puzzle jug
Gold lustre circuit
Puzzle jug taunts
Arduino code

Never-lose-me Teamug

What follows now is how the Puzzle Jug is being evolved.

Puzzle jugs usually have a taunt written on them

I was reminded that IoT requires some inter-machine connections.

As the puzzle jugs start to dry out they need holes to be made around the collar so that the players can’t just tip the liquor into their mouth. Electronic motifs are a nice contrast to the medieval shapes.