The simplest tasks are often the biggest challenge. Many can program a microcontroller; not as many know how to make a simple actuated joint, a custom gearwheel, or a custom chassis for their creations. With 3D printers, we've been promised a revolution in desktop manufacturing, but many of the issues are more fundamental - having to do with mastering CAD software or understanding materials science to make lightweight and durable parts. Meanwhile, on the manufacturing side, a simple, affordable, and home-workshop-friendly solution - CNC machining coupled with resin casting - is already within reach.

This guide is more or less modular. If you're interested in buying a CNC mill, keep reading. If you already have one and know how it works, or want to try the overall process with a 3D printer or other manufacturing process, you can skip directly to the relevant part.

TinyTapeout is an educational project that makes it easier and cheaper than ever to get your digital designs manufactured on a real chip! If you’re new to digital design, start by taking some of our lessons. Then create your own design with the Wokwi template or for advanced users, an HDL. For help and support, check the FAQ and join the fast & friendly conversations on Discord.

A directory of on-demand manufacturers for your creative projects.

Each site listed has instant quotes / online ordering so you can upload your project files and immediately see how much it will cost and how long it will take to make.

This is the LibreSilicon process specification (WIP) Please use XeLaTeX for rendering the documents

Features are:

1 micron (1 um)
twin-well for cmos
pbase / nbase (optional) for bipolar
shallow trench isolation
sonos for flash (optional)
silicification

aiming higher voltages, higher speed and higher feasibilty for modern Analog and System-on-Chip design.

RepRap is an open-source (hardware, software, and documentation) desktop fabrication system which lets you construct arbitrary objects (or parts for assembling more complex systems). It's unique in that you can construct one yourself for about $400us, and it is fully capable of making duplicates of itself.

An open source DIY robotics/rapid prototyping kit much like an Erector set. Lots of standardized pre-milled bars, rods, connectors, and components. Build your own plotter, CNC machine, RepRap, scanner table, or what have you. Capable of three axes of linear motion. Comes with all the electronics you need, including an Arduino, stepper motors, and a motor driver board.