http://www.mech.uwa.edu.au/NWS/How_to_do_stuff/
Dr Nathan Scott · October 2000, updated June 2006, March 2008
Some people grow up with tools and dirty hands. Those people have a huge advantage when they get to university because they already know heaps about how materials, processes and tools work. They know how to use a screwdriver, where to buy screws and paint, and lots of simple, practical details which are not in any textbook. If your childhood was NOT spent pulling things apart and fixing cars, then you need help.
You can't design anything unless you know what
manufacturing processes are common and what they can do.
You can't design anything unless you have
some idea what is cheap and what is expensive.
You might learn something just by reading all the pages, and if you have the time this is a good idea. Something you read might spring to mind later and save you some trouble.
If you have a specific problem e.g. "How do I make a box for electronics?", you might find the answer in the list below, or at least get close. If you don't see what you want there, send me an email message so I can add to this resource.
This site is to help you as you learn. The information is as good as I can make it but probably contains errors. Before you use this information it is your responsibility to verify it by your own process of testing and reasoning. Specific processes and products are provided as examples but this does not mean that they are the best for the job. Where companies or products are referred to by proprietary name this does not constitute a recommendation or warranty of fitness for any particular purpose. Where prices are quoted they are only approximate and are there to help you make comparisons rather than to draw up a precise budget.
Some safety information is given in the text but it stands to reason that I can't warn you about everything that could possibly go wrong. Read all the precautions on hand tools and on the materials you buy. Think carefully while you work. Don't rush your work or leave it to the last minute - this is when errors and accidents happen. If you don't have the right tool or the right materials, it might be better to wait rather than risk wrecking the job or hurting someone. Wear safety glasses and covered shoes. Tie long hair back and roll up your sleeves if you are working near anything that moves (e.g. lathe, mill, power drill). See the section on hand tools below for more help with working safely.
"Don't sue me, I don't have any money".