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Here are all of the tools and materials that I use for my projects separated by category. As an affiliate for these companies, I’ll earn a commission if you choose to use any of these links to purchase a product at no additional cost to you. This is how I support my YouTube channel, blog, and this website. If you use any of these links, thank you in advance!
Tools and Materials
Here are all of the general tools and materials that I use for the projects you see here on this website and on my YouTube channel.
Glowforge Laser Cutter
I’ve had my Glowforge since the beginning of 2018 and I’ve been using it to prototype a variety of projects. There are very active communities on Facebook and on their forums where you can find project ideas and work through project ideas of your own with other people. If you’re interested in purchasing one, use this link to get a discount of up to $500 off of your Glowforge.
Here’s a FAQ and guide to Glowforge that I put together.
PRUSA 3D Printer
This i3 MK3S+ PRUSA 3D Printer is the latest addition to my workshop. I purchased this printer along with the 2 different types of sheets so that I could easily print and remove different types of filament. I primarily use ABS for projects that need strength and durability as well as PLA for models and prototypes that don’t require as much strength.
Enclosure for 3D Printer
To retain heat for my 3D prints and get quality lighting for my PRUSA 3D printer, I use a photo light box like this one. Make sure you measure the overall size of your 3D printer and get the correct light box size.
Odies Oil
I’ve moved on from using Polyurethane to finish my wood projects to using a natural oil finish. I love using Odie’s Oil on my projects because it leaves a beautiful sheen and appearance, is food safe, and it’s very easy to use.
Paper Masking Tape
Paper masking tape is an essential part of laser cutting any material. It protects the material from scorching, burning, soot, and any other debris from sticking to the finished surface of the material. I always get a high tack paper transfer tape.
Table Lamp Base
This is the table lamp base that I use for my projects. I took off the lampshade that came with it and install the ones that I design and make. It has an extended socket with a plastic nut that holds the lampshade in place.
Small Clamps
Small clamps are all over my workshop. I use them to hold my materials together while the glue dries.
Cardboard Sheets
I purchase my cardboard sheets in size 18x24 in a pack of 50. I cut the sheets in half to double the quantity at 18x12 inches. My Glowforge can only fit a maximum sheet size of 11x19.5, so this works perfectly.
Maxi Cure Glue
I use Maxi Cure glue from Bob Smith Industries to glue two pieces of acrylic together. I generally stay away from using chemicals like Weld-On since I work indoors in space with little ventilation. This glue works very well.
Utility Knife
Just like the metal rulers, I have plenty of these around my workshop. It’s important to always have a pack of replacement blades for these utility knives to ensure that they’re sharp at all times.
Standard Light Kit
This standard light kit is an example that’s similar to one that I use. It has an extended socket, nut, and switch. I use it for temporary pendant lights. Make sure you research the type you’re getting and that it will work with your project.
Cutting Mat
This is the next cutting mat that I’ll be purchasing when mine reaches the end of its life. The gray colored one here makes it easier to see the material that’s on it while also making it easier to take good photographs and videos.
Metal Ruler with Cork
I have 4 metal rulers that are at least 24 inches in length with cork on one side. I use these to measure and trim down materials to size. This is a must have for any crafts person.
X-Acto X3000
I use this blade to trim any pieces of material that might’ve not cut all the way through on my laser cutter. I also use this for all intricate cuts and for my leather projects.
T-Shirt Rags
I use these T-shirt rags to apply finishes to my wood projects. Once the finishes are absorbed into the wood, I use a clean rag to wipe off any excess residue. They’re also good for buffing out the Odies Oil finish from the surfaces of a wood project.
Photographing & Filming Equipment & Website Resources
Here are all of the filming equipment that I use to photograph all of my products and to film my YouTube videos. I’ve had a lot of success with these and will eventually upgrade my filming gear along with this list in the future.
Canon EOS 80D Kit
I purchased a camera kit like this one and I’ve been using the EF-S 18-55 lens for a lot of my B-Roll shots and product photography. This is my primary camera.
Sony a6000 Kit
I borrowed this camera from a family member and use it for secondary perspectives in my YouTube videos. I also use it for close-up detail shots while my main camera is in use.
Canon EF-S 10-22 Lens
I use this wide angle lens to film all of my “talking head” shots where the camera is pointing directly at me. I also use this to photograph large products from a closer perspective.
Joby Gorillapod 5k
Whenever I need to clamp my cameras onto something for an overhead or unique side shot, I use a Joby Gorillapod and wrap the legs around an object.
Zhiyun Weebill Gimbal
After much research, my first gimbal purchase is a Zhiyun Weebill because of its build quality and price. I’ve enjoyed using this one so far and it was simple to setup and use.
Manfrotto Tripod
A tripod is a must for anyone who is looking to take photographs and/or videos with their cameras. There’s not much more to say other than, get a tripod.
GVM LED Light
This LED light from GVM has a dial on the back that controls the brightness of the LED light. I use it for filming and photographing all my projects.
Rode Smartlav+
I actually own two of these Rode Smartlav lapel microphones. They’re very high quality, clips onto my shirt, and is easy to use. I plug it into my iPhone and use the voice recorder app.
Wood Glue
I usually have a gallon of wood glue in my workshop because of the amount that I use for all of my cardboard projects. Wood glue works well when bonding two pieces of wood and/or cardboard together.
Epidemic Sound
All of the audio tracks I use comes from Epidemic Sound. There’s so many types of music organized in a simple way where I can filter and find what the right track for the vibe of my video.
Bluehost
For my domain, I’ve been using Bluehost as my provider for my 4 websites. Their customer support has been fantastic and each domain gets a series of personalized email accounts.
