Ep 7. crayons, wooden kayaks, lawn mowers, and gold chains

How It's Made is a documentary-style TV show that takes the viewers behind the scenes of the manufacturing process of products we use in our daily lives. In season 4, episode 7, the show explores the making of crayons, wooden kayaks, lawn mowers, and gold chains.

The episode starts with an inside look at the process of creating colorful crayons. The production of crayons involves mixing pigments and wax in precise proportions to get the desired color. The mixture is then extruded into long, thin strands, which are cut into small pieces and molded into the iconic crayon shape. The episode delves into the history of crayons and the evolution of their design and features.

Next, the show explores the making of wooden kayaks, a high-end watercraft that is popular among adventure enthusiasts. The episode follows the building of a wooden kayak from start to finish, from cutting and shaping the wood to assembling the boat and finishing it with varnish. The process requires a high level of craftsmanship and attention to detail, as each piece of wood needs to be perfectly tailored to create a sleek and stable kayak. Viewers learn about the different types of wood used to make kayaks and the features that make them suitable for different water conditions.

The episode then takes a turn toward lawn mowers, one of the primary tools used to keep our lawns looking tidy. We see how these machines are made, from the construction of the blades to the engine that powers them. The show reveals the different types of lawn mowers available in the market, including the manual push mowers, electric mowers, and gas-powered mowers. We also witness the testing of the mowers to ensure they meet safety standards and performance metrics.

Finally, the episode explores the making of gold chains, a process that requires precision and expertise to craft intricate and delicate jewelry pieces. We see how the gold is melted and cast into various shapes, such as wire, tube, and bar. These shapes are then woven and interlocked to create the chain's desired pattern, finish, and length. Viewers learn about the various types of gold chains used in jewelry making and the significance of gold in different cultures.

Overall, this episode of How It's Made offers an intriguing glimpse into the processes involved in creating four vastly different products: crayons, wooden kayaks, lawn mowers, and gold chains. The attention to detail and craftsmanship required for each product is truly impressive, and viewers will walk away with a newfound appreciation for the hard work and dedication that goes into making everyday items.