Mind of a Maker
A daily blog inspired by Matthew Dicks
“Every action you take is a vote for the type of person you wish to become. No single instance will transform your beliefs, but as the votes build up, so does the evidence of your new identity.”
To become better at something, you have to practice. What better way to become a better writer and storyteller than to practice by making a habit of writing daily?
In this daily blog, we’ll discuss Maker-related topics as well as what inspires projects, including YouTube videos, Movies, TV Shows, Disney, Star Wars, LEGO, Books, and more. Everything is on the table, and nothing is off-limits.
Disclaimer: The thumbnail images featured on this blog are often AI-generated. See Disclosure page for more information.
5 Reasons Themed Projects Bring Joy Back To Making Things
In 2021, I thought I was burned out on Making things till I started theming projects.
Theming brought joy back to me for 5 reasons:
1. I appreciated my favorite movies more.
2. I use both sides of my brain.
3. I ditched boring shapes.
4. I look for new techniques.
5. I create what stores lack.
1 Simple Way To Bring Life To Themed Rooms Like Disney
Disney is unrivaled at theming and, amongst all their tricks, 1 simple technique is used in almost every themed area.
Texture.
Galaxy's Edge doesn't have perfectly flat surfaces, but the rocks are pitted and rugged.
Small World doesn't just splash color across shapes, but adds glitter and cut outs.
Texture beats flat for theming.
The 1 Simple Change That Helped Me Enjoy Building Projects More Than Ever (even though I was in a creative slump)
Like many, I started making and building projects to solve problems.
However, the novelty of creating a solution to a problem wore off, so how could I get the creative juices flowing again?
The Secret To My Maker Creativity? Star Wars!
A few years ago, I was in a creative slump with no projects I was excited about. Today, I have a massive list of projects I am excited to build and not enough time to work on them all. How? By rewatching Star Wars.
3 Reasons Disney Dominates Theming For Makers Who Want To Theme Projects To Create Their Own Immersive Environment
Disney hods a special place in my Maker’s heart. They are amazing at theming the various areas of their parks. Once you start to pay attention, you’ll find all kinds of areas to inspire your next project.
How To Theme Your Projects As A Maker Bored Of “Just” Solving Problems
If you're a Maker who is bored of "just" solving problems, try unleashing your creativity by theming them!
How I Discovered Solution Projects And Themed Projects Are Better When Combined
I love solving problems. So when I started Making things, I started trying to Make my own solutions to problems, but something was missing.
3 Topics I am Exploring In My Life Right Now
3 things I’m thinking about a lot these days are DIY Smart Home Devices, Writing Online, and Theming Projects Like Disney World.
Overhead Lighting is Terrible
Ever wondered how to transform harsh, boring overhead lights into an immersive experience? Discover how Disney's genius lighting techniques—from textured shadows to animated wall panels—can inspire creative lighting solutions for your own space!
Solving The Problems In Front of Me, but Themed!
For as long as I can remember, I've loved solving problems, but I've found that a solution themed around my favorite things—like a Deadpool-inspired headphone stand or a Star Wars-themed desk—makes the problem-solving journey way more exciting and meaningful.