Hello Humans! Welcome back to Part 4 of my Creative Design Process – THE GOLF PUTTER edition. If you've missed out on the earlier episodes, no worries, you can catch up right here.Now, let's dive into the MAKE phase, which, between you and me, is my absolute favorite. I mean, who doesn't love the thrill of creating something real? In this phase, I transform into a bit of a design spectator, sitting back and witnessing the magic as my ideas become an actual, physical product. All the previous phases have paved the way for the ultimate design, and now it's time to bring it to life!
In the third phase, I created a successful 3D model inside SOLIDWORKS. In order to kick start the fabrication process, I borrowed my buddy's waterjet machine to cut out all the stock geometry. Picture this: 1.5” t6-6061 Aluminum being sliced and diced using only water and sand. I then got after creating the custom fixture plate that I will use to hold my stock parts in place while on the CNC machine.
Now, let's talk about my CNC mill – this precision equipment uses really sharp tooling that spins at 10,000 revolutions per minute, with a constant blast of air and coolant to help cool down the cutting.I machined these parts in half and then I flipped the parts over and machined the other sides leaving three small tabs that were cut and sanded off once all my operations were completed.
(Machining of the clear core channel)
Fun fact: This was the first time I have ever attempted to machine PMMA acrylic and it was surprisingly easy. I carefully sanded all the parts by hand after machining had finished. Starting with 600 grit and finishing with 2,000 grit sand paper I got the finish I wanted. This technique is referred to as wet sanding and it did give me an excellent finish on both the aluminum and acrylic surfaces. Polishing compound, a drill, and some elbow grease later, the acrylic was crystal clear, and the aluminum was mirror like. This task was tedious and took exactly forever and a day to complete… but is was worth it!
I was having a blast throughout this make and wanted to finish with some bling, so I fired up the 3D laser to etch in some extra detail on to the putters face. A quick punch of blue paint gave the face even more pop.
For the final assembly, I connected the three bodies of the putter, using stainless bolts, strengthening the design and creating a seamless finish. I used custom made titanium screws to attach the putter face to the head, then opting for epoxy glue to secure the shaft to the putter head.
With everything in place, it was time to install the putter grip—a moment I had been eagerly anticipating. As I stepped back to admire my handiwork, I couldn't help but feel a rush of pride and satisfaction. My custom putter was finally complete, and it looked even better than I had imagined.
With its powerful and sleek design, I could already picture myself confidently sinking 100-foot plus putts with this bad boy. The combination of form and function working in harmony with the high polish aluminum and the clear core channel brings a refreshing perspective to the art of putting.
Now, I'm counting down the days until the weather warms up so I can take my new creation to the golf course. Having something custom-made is truly special to me, and knowing that I designed and crafted it myself makes it even more meaningful.
The Process
This Creative Design Process has been key to countless design challenges during my industrial design career. I've picked up these phases and tips from various sources – past projects, friends, colleagues, and clients. It's crucial to slow down and reflect on these phases, understanding that they work in a circular fashion, each phase influencing the other.
As a designer, my mission is simple – have FUN, create products that kick things up a notch, and stir emotions. I'm always pushing myself to learn new techniques, refine my craft, and fuel my creative superpowers. Being creative, in my book, is the most human thing you can do. So, whether you're tackling your own project or just along for the ride, enjoy Phase 4, and remember – being creative is as human as it gets!
Cheers to creativity,
Jason
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AXZpX54Ji8o