Common

last modified: October 23, 2025

Get Blog Updates With the New Mailinglist

Posted on 2022-10-30— Common

I'm moving project notifications off Twitter and onto a low-frequency mailing list for new posts and occasional updates. I'd be glad if you subscribe — no ads and you can unsubscribe anytime. Read the full post for details and the subscription link.

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Build a Sustainable Refillable Active Coal Filter

Posted on 2022-09-20— 3D Printing, Common

I show how I built a refillable replacement for the Philips FY3432 active coal filter using 3D‑printed PLA parts, mesh, M3 insets and epoxy. If you want a lower‑waste workshop air filter and practical assembly steps, read the full guide — I cover materials, print files and tips.

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Round Corner Template Set for Woodworking

Posted on 2021-10-29— 3D Printing, Common

I designed a set of 3D-printable round corner templates specifically for woodworking and routing. They’re optimized for 0.4mm nozzles and 0.2mm layers, include snap-in guides, screw holes, and metric/imperial sizes. If you often rout rounded edges, read the full post for printing tips and mounting options.

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Storage Boxes System Survey

Posted on 2021-08-13— Common

I've put together a brief survey to guide development of the storage boxes system. Your feedback will help nudge future changes in the directions users want. Please take a few minutes to share your preferences and ideas — I’d appreciate your input and invite you to check back for updates and results.

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New Storage Boxes

Posted on 2021-08-13— 3D Printing, Common

I've released several new 3D-print storage boxes with the label area moved to a different side so identical boxes can sit in a drawer with labels aligned. I explain size variants, rib adjustments, and how to download updated files. Please read the full post to see illustrations and the catalog link.

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Build and Heat Treatment of a Carbohydrate Source

Posted on 2021-07-06— Common

I walk you step by step through building a solid carbohydrate source, covering ingredients, tools, fermentation, mixing, shaping and oven heat treatment. I use SI units and practical timing tips — read the full tutorial if you’d like to follow along and try this process at home.

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How to Print the Turntable Platform

Posted on 2021-04-05— Common

I show two practical ways to print the turntable platform: filling tiny slots with food-safe epoxy for the best light-blocking results, or adjusting infill to avoid epoxy. I include slicer tips, material settings, and GitHub downloads. Read the full post to follow step-by-step instructions and choose the right method.

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Pet Feeder Update

Posted on 2021-03-15— 3D Printing, Common

I've assembled the new input boards for the pet feeder and I'm testing the sensors—940nm IR LEDs paired with phototransistors. I share photos of the board top and underside, the turntable mounting, and revision notes. Please read on if you'd like to see the test results and next steps.

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Art Like Boards from OSHpark

Posted on 2021-03-12— Common

I ordered 'After Dark' PCBs from OSHpark for my pet-feeding device and wanted to share clearer, high-resolution photos so you can appreciate the black substrate with copper and transparent solder mask. If you’re curious about the look or details, please read the full post and leave questions or feedback.

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The MicroPython Bitmap Tool

Posted on 2021-03-11— Common

I built a simple MicroPython Bitmap Tool to convert bitmaps into MicroPython-ready code. This first version establishes a framework I'll expand with additional converters. If you work with displays or embedded graphics, please read the post and share feedback or questions - I'd appreciate your input.

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Flawless PCB by Eurocircuits

Posted on 2021-02-04— Common

I received another flawless PCB from Eurocircuits for Revision A of my input panel board. The changes are minor — cleaner silkscreen and larger LED pad rings — and the fit and finish were excellent. I share photos, my notes and a brief comparison with OSHpark; please read the full post.

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Tall Boxes Ready for Download

Posted on 2020-11-27— 3D Printing, Common

I've finished testing a new set of tall storage boxes designed for 3D printing. They're stackable with my flat and regular boxes, with reinforced walls and improved corners for cleaner prints. Download the free sample set or read the project page and catalog for full designs.

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Organizer Boxes Optimised for 3D-Print

Posted on 2020-11-21— 3D Printing, Common, Projects

I've been reorganising my lab and designed stackable organiser boxes optimised for fast 3D printing. They use a 60×60mm raster, stabilising walls, dual label slots and rail grids. I offer a free STL subset and explain print settings—read the full post for downloads and the complete shop set.

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Circle Pattern Generator

Posted on 2020-10-01— Common, Software

I developed a small application that generates randomized circle patterns inside a defined rectangle, letting you tweak width, height, precision, spacing and item counts. Results export to SVG and the latest version is available for download. Read the full post for interface details and usage tips.

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My Favourite Board Connectors

Posted on 2020-07-01— Common

I often reach for TE's Micro‑MaTch connectors when I need compact, hand‑solderable board-to-board connections. They saved me routing space and allowed SMD pads on tiny sensor boards. I share my requirements, examples, and practical tips — please read on if you're choosing connectors for small projects.

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Well Made Boards from PCBWay

Posted on 2020-06-23— Common

I received new PCBs from PCBWay for my Always-On project — well-made and affordably priced. The layer alignment and silk detail impressed me, and the sensor boards suit the modular eight-wire connector system. I invite you to read the full post for photos, notes, and upcoming connector details.

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Excellent Cases from Distrelec's RND Brand

Posted on 2020-06-13— Common

I share why I’ve grown to trust Distrelec’s RND enclosures for hobby and professional projects — sturdy IP65 cases, clear lids, pressure plugs, and 3D models, all at low cost and fast delivery. If you’re choosing a case, read the full post for sizes, examples and tips.

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Always-On Project

Posted on 2020-06-05— Common

I recently built 'Always-On', a minimal bidirectional mains-to-Feather bridge combining a power sensor and solid-state relay for safe home-control prototypes. I outline design choices, safe firmware testing without mains, and housing tips. If you're exploring a similar controller, read the full post for a practical starting point.

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Snowflake Decoration Available on the Pimoroni Store

Posted on 2019-11-13— Common

I'm happy to share you can now buy an assembled Snowflake Decoration from Pimoroni with worldwide shipping. The panels arrive pre-soldered, use 5V power and flat cables so no soldering is needed. If you'd like details on the updates and compatibility, please read the full post.

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HAL LCD Demo

Posted on 2019-08-18— Common, Projects

I added a stable Hitachi LCD driver to the HAL layer, using an MCP23008 backend to cut wiring and simplify hardware. This post walks through parts, firmware repositories, and how to run the demo via serial shell. Read the full article for setup steps, code links, and usage tips.

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