Ep 19. Brushes & Push Brooms, Blackboards, Smoked Salmon, Zippers

How It's Made is a documentary television series that takes a behind-the-scenes look at how everyday items are manufactured. In season 2, episode 19, we get a glimpse into the production process of brushes and push brooms, blackboards, smoked salmon, and zippers.

The episode kicks off with a segment on brushes and push brooms. Viewers will learn about the various materials used to make these cleaning essentials, from natural fibers like horsehair and boar bristle, to synthetic bristles made from nylon or polyester. We'll see how the bristles are attached to the brush head, and how push brooms are constructed with durable materials like wood or aluminum.

Next up, we'll dive into the world of blackboards. While chalkboards are slowly being replaced with whiteboards and smart boards in many classrooms, there are still plenty of uses for this classic teaching tool. We'll see how a slab of stone is cut and treated to create a smooth surface for writing, and how special chalks are made to adhere to the board without smudging or erasing too easily.

Moving on to the culinary world, we'll learn about the process of smoking salmon. This delicacy is a staple in many cuisines, and we'll see how it's made from start to finish. From selecting the freshest fish to curing it with salt and sugar, and then smoking it with fragrant wood chips, viewers will gain a newfound appreciation for this fishy treat.

Last but not least, the episode concludes with a segment on zippers. These versatile closures are used on everything from pants to purses, and we'll see how they're made in a factory setting. We'll watch as plastic or metal teeth are molded and attached to sturdy fabric tapes, and how zippers are tested for strength and durability.

Overall, this episode of How It's Made offers a fascinating look at a diverse range of products, from cleaning supplies to classroom fixtures to gourmet food items to fashion accessories. Viewers will gain insight into the manufacturing process and the skill and attention to detail required to produce these items efficiently and at a high level of quality.