letter openers

My Industrial Processes/Craft class finished some sample letter openers (or full blown knives) a few weeks ago. This assignment was given to the students as a way for them to learn various industrial techniques in a sample format; BUT applied to an actual finished object. Each week students had to complete a specific task to accomplish the final pieces you see here. Each class period was filled with a demonstration and then students had to execute that technique between class periods. Techniques covered included: working with aluminum and stainless steel, layout techniques (traditional and digital), cutting (drilling, bandsaw, and grinding), hydraulic die forming, finishing (etching, sandblasting, polishing, anodizing aluminum), and cold connections (rivet, micro bolts, and cutting threads). 

I would have to say that for a sample piece, and for the limited amount of time spent, that the majority of the students did quite well. We still have some issues with craftsmanship and minor finishing, but you have to start somewhere. I know that teaching this sample in a multiple deadline fashion has also trained the students to have a good work ethic. I see more students working outside of class in the Digital Craft Research Lab than I have ever seen and the community is growing rapidly. Good things are happening...