#workshop supplies

Cool Tools: The 3Dconnexion SpaceMouse Wireless 3D Mouse

Long considered an indispensable asset for anybody working in CAD, the 3D mouse is a quintessential tool that belongs on the desktop of any industrial designer or engineer.

Within a 3D application such as SolidWorks, Rhino, Fusion 360, or Keyshot, the directional, zoom and rotate functions provide an intuitive extension of the users’ design intent. To put it quite simply, a 3D mouse helps get…

Cool Tools: The Ultimate Tool Box is the Trusco Tool Box

Founded in 1959 as a professional tool manufacturer to support Japan’s burgeoning manufacturing industry, Trusco—a combination of the words “Trust” and “Company”—is still manufacturing some of the best toolboxes, today.

While their stripped-down design makes them a must-have for many design aficionados, the pressed steel boxes are ridiculously useful for just about anything—tools or not.

St…

Cool Tools: KingMoore Tactical Military Build Belt

As somebody’s wise old uncle probably said at one point or another in history: never underestimate the power of a reliable belt. While it might be an easy item to overlook in the wardrobe department, having a belt with the right fit can make or break a day in the workshop — particularly if you’re bending up and down with that old Shop Vac hose.

While a good, solid leather belt and…

Cool Tools: The Hudson Durable Goods Waxed Canvas Work Apron

Few shop tools—yes, we’ll call it a “tool”—are as indispensable as a reliable work apron. While not a “tool” in the traditional sense, a good, durable apron can serve many purposes ranging from tool organization to even psychologically making yourself ‘present’ in the workshop.

But no two aprons are alike—and striking the balance between functional and economical isn’t always easy. Which is…

Cool Tools: Trusco Toolboxes

Founded in 1959 as a professional tool manufacturer to support Japan’s burgeoning manufacturing industry, Trusco—a combination of the words “Trust” and “Company”—is still manufacturing some of the best toolboxes, today.

While their stripped-down design makes them a must-have for many design aficionados, the pressed steel boxes are ridiculously useful for just about anything—tools or not.

St…

Cool Tools: Geier Glove Co. Elkskin Work Gloves

Founded in 1927 in Centralia, Washington by the Geier Brothers, the Geier Glove Company has been churning out some of the world’s finest work gloves for heavy wear and tear.

Made from Elkskin, which is more rugged than deerskin, these gloves can stand up to just about anything you can throw at them—from nasty wood splinters to cold steel bars. Heck—they even make great winter gloves whether…

Cool Tools: Hudson Durable Goods Waxed Canvas Work Apron

Few shop tools—yes, we’ll call it a “tool”—are as indispensable as a reliable work apron. While not a “tool” in the traditional sense, a good, durable apron can serve many purposes ranging from tool organization to even psychologically making yourself ‘present’ in the workshop.

But no two aprons are alike—and striking the balance between functional and economical isn’t always easy. Which is…

Cool Books: ‘The 3D Printing Handbook’ by 3D Hubs

Since screaming on to the rapid prototyping scene in 2013, 3D Hubs has been relentless in making sure their message is heard. Billed as the “AirBnB of 3D Printing”, the company’s business model is based on experienced 3D printer technicians renting out their equipment to other users on a per-project-basis.

Not surprisingly, the 3D Hubs crew has learned a thing or two about what makes for “good…