TOOL KIT
These are the resources I’ve tried, continue to use and find value in. If I’m recommending them here, it’s because they have made a positive impact in my life and I’d like to help you achieve the same.
LASER CUTTING
How I Use It: Used to apply colour to, and finish laser-cut products. The Fine Point Posca Paint Pens are excellent for small pieces and engraved details. I apply 2 coats for a solid finish.
Key Takeaway: A great starter pack with a versatile set of colours to get you started. (Set of 15)
How I Use It: Used to apply colour to, and finish laser-cut products. The Medium Point Posca Paint Pens are excellent for large coverage pieces. I apply 2 coats for a solid finish.
Key Takeaway: A great starter pack with a versatile set of colours to get you started. (Set of 15)
How I Use It: To seal and product finished laser cut products. I apply two coats upon completion. For best results, follow the directions and recommended drying times between coats.
Key Takeaway: The BEST ‘non yellowing’ finishing spray to protect your products and keep them looking vibrant.
How I Use It: To hand-draw and create digital files in Adobe Illustrator. The stylus allows me to draw directly and prepare files for the laser cutter seamlessly.
Key Takeaway: The 22” screen is so worth it! Nothing more frustrating then having to pause drawing and scroll.
BUSINESS
How I Use It: Online learning platform created by Pat Flynn—for starting a business as an Entrepreneur. Includes courses for; YouTube, Email Marketing, Affiliate Marketing, Podcasting & Business Management. His podcast is also fantastic when starting out!
Key Takeaway: The BEST value for entrepreneurial courses. Provides access to 18 quality courses.
How I Use It: Email marketing software designed for creators and entrepreneurs. Stress-free UX and customisable templates that look great!
Key Takeaway: Affordable plans with no tiers and no limits. Meaning when your business grows you won’t be paying more. This is the only platform with this membership option.
How I Use It: To create and manage my business website, serving as a hub for blog posts, social media, and a contact form. It offers customisable, aesthetic pages with numerous plugins and integrations.
Key Takeaway: The drag-and-drop editor allows you to create aesthetic and customised options that cater specifically to your business needs.
How I Use It: To create, manage, and organise assets for content creation. Its efficient recall of brand assets, along with easy duplication and export of files and templates, significantly improves my workflow.
Key Takeaway: The free membership provides substantial value and is an excellent starting point to become familiar with before upgrading to Pro.
TEACHING
How I Use It: Creating teaching resources and documentation, including dynamic learning materials, using Google Docs, Sheets, Forms, and occasionally Google Sites.
Key Takeaway: Seamless integration with Google Classroom simplifies the distribution and management of materials to students.
How I Use It: I organise, plan, and manage units of work for each subject and year using Google Classroom. It also serves as a central hub for distributing and communicating with my classes.
Key Takeaway: Seamless integration with G Suite resources provides versatile and engaging methods for distribution.
How I Use It: I organise, retrieve, and back up teaching resources between work and home using Google Drive. The 'Drive for Desktop' sync client with the cloud enhances my efficiency.
Key Takeaway: The 'Drive for Desktop' app allows you to search and manage files directly within your operating system.
How I Use It: I create and teach tutorials for students using Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Premiere Pro, and Acrobat Reader, all of which are industry-standard tools.
Key Takeaway: Consistent workspace, tools, and language across Adobe programs facilitate an easy transition between them.
Full disclosure - these are affiliate links, which means I may get a commission for recommending the product to you. There may also be special deals you can get exclusively from me to you - so keep an eye out!