Whatcha Makin' Show

Alex Adams & Alex Duffey
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Join the conversation with Whatcha Makin', the podcast for makers of all kinds! Each week, Alex Duffey and Alex Adams dive into their latest projects, share woodshop insights, discuss selling your creations, and highlight cool finds in the maker community. From learning new techniques to balancing your hobby and business, we tackle the real stuff. Expect a mix of education, entertainment, and genuine chat about the crafts you love, including woodworking, 3D printing, and more. Subscribe and be part of the Whatcha Makin' family! 

  1. 5 days ago

    EP. 50 Starting a CNC Side Hustle with Andy Bird

    On today’s episode of Whatcha Makin', hosts Alex Duffey (Duffey Woodcraft) and Alex Adams (Type A Furniture) dive deep into the world of entrepreneurial woodworking. If you've ever wondered how to transition your CNC hobby into a profitable side hustle—or even a full-time business—this is the episode for you. We are joined by the OG of CNC woodworking on YouTube, Andy Bird of Andy Bird Builds. Andy shares his incredible journey from a specialized career in turf grass management to launching into the full-time making world in 2020. He breaks down how he batched out wholesale products on an early desktop machine, landed high-profile clients like Clint Harp, and eventually grew a viral YouTube channel with over 500 videos. Together, the guys discuss the realities of selling online versus locally, why Etsy might be a "race to the bottom," and the ultimate power of finding a highly specific niche. 🛠️ What's on Our Bench This Week:Alex Duffey talks about his newly completed and custom-modified Next Wave Shark 644 (now a sleek 4x3 rail system), the pains of tramming a rail machine, and hitting the production line for a massive wholesale bookmark order for the Columbia River Gorge Museum.Alex Adams shares his tedious progress on a massive walnut dining table frame sourced from his neighbor's tree, edge-sanding end grain, and scaling up his 3D-printed inventory for upcoming Fourth of July markets and car shows.Andy Bird shares his current design roadblocks for a custom 3x6 ply runabout boat for his son, and previews an upcoming YouTube series called "Will It CNC?" testing non-traditional materials like slate tiles, soap, and even pool noodles.📺 What We're Watching (Maker Shoutouts):Air Art and Airplanes (@airartandairplanes) – For a breathtaking, 30-inch mosaic and textured elephant wall art piece utilizing a century-old barnwood backing.The Forged Fox (@theforgedfox) – Beautiful, highly detailed layered wood and acrylic retirement signs for first responders.Calypso Glasgow – A hilarious, functional stained-glass recreation of a classic SpongeBob SquarePants scene.North Country Craft – A gorgeous, rock-inspired Mancala board using polished river stones.Naughty Bits Machine – A massive, beautifully texturized 35-inch inlaid Porsche plaque.Sepulveda 41 (@sepulveda41) – A stunning 3D wooden manta ray featuring tribal patterns integrated seamlessly onto a metal tail stand.The Wood Carving Man – Entertaining reels featuring hand-carved, dyed Pokémon figurines.Steve Makes Everything – Prolific laser tutorial and review content on YouTube.🔗 Links & Resources Mentioned:Proudly Sponsored by Next Wave CNC: Looking for the best CNC on the market? Check out the Shark series at Next Wave CNC and message them on Instagram to learn how you can submit a "Project of the Month" to earn an extra $500!Connect with Andy Bird: Visit andybirdbuilds.com to find his YouTube channel, courses, and the CNC Moneymaker Membership (where Alex Duffey is a coach!).Upcoming Events: Catch Andy at IWF Atlanta (Aug 25-28) in the Vectric booth and the Vectric User Group Meeting in Nashville (October). Catch Alex Duffey teaching at the Texas Woodworking Show!

    1hr 56min

  2. 17 Jun

    Ep. 48 The Reality of Maker Burnout

    This week on Whatcha Makin, hosts Alex Duffey and Alex Adams dive deep into a topic that every maker, content creator, and small business owner knows all too well: Burnout. Whether it's the "little b" weekly exhaustion of administrative tasks or the "Big B" bi-annual creative wall, the guys talk about how they recognize the signs of getting overwhelmed and share their personal strategies for finding a beachhead, reclaiming their sanity, and getting their mojo back. But before they get into the heavy stuff, there is plenty of shop talk to go around! Alex Duffey celebrates the arrival of his highly anticipated, modified Next Wave CNC Shark 644 rail-system machine (despite a classic shipping mishap courtesy of FedEx) and drops some exciting news about a potential gift shop partnership with a regional museum. Meanwhile, Alex Adams takes us through a nerve-wracking, high-stakes panel glue-up for his massive walnut dining table expansion project, shares his updated setup strategies for local summer markets, and breaks down his recent 3D printing inventory workflow. What’s on the Bench & What's Selling:Alex Duffey: Unboxing the new Next Wave steel rail platform, filming upcoming YouTube content, and celebrating a surprisingly massive win with a brand-new $5 wooden magnet strategy at a freezing, rainy Saturday market.Alex Adams: Fighting glue squeeze-out with 40-grit sandpaper, planning a basement track-saw setup to beat the humidity, upgrading 3D-printed articulating animals to PETG for better heat resistance, and inheriting a flood-damaged bookshelf turned filament storage rack.Community Maker Spotlights (Witcha Watchin’):@belusionsam – An incredibly realistic carved pear queen falcon that will make you double-take.@evergreen_daydreams – Hyper-realistic wooden mushrooms featuring stunning spore detail.@silver_hair_and_sawdust – A gorgeous, salvaged whiskey cabinet masterfully crafted entirely out of walnut offcuts and scrap wood.@citruscedar – An organic branch lamp with a brilliant freehanded angle-grinder channel for LED light strips.@ridged_oak_woodworks – An impressive, completely hand-routed and hand-painted "Stay Squatchy" sign.KGW Woodwellcraft – A mind-blowing, multi-carved Alice in Wonderland themed Mad Hatter and White Rabbit totem pole.Special Month of June Sponsor Note: Whatcha Makin is proudly sponsored by Next Wave CNC. For the entire month of June, Next Wave is running an incredible accessory special: purchase any new HD6 series machine and get a 3-horsepower spindle included absolutely free! Because as they always say, more horsepower, less problems. Want to support the show? Pull up a stool and join our community! You can support us directly by checking out our various tier benefits over at patreon.com/whatchamakenshow. Don't forget to leave us a rating and review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube to help the channel keep growing. As always... Don't burn out in your shop, burn out in the parking lot!

    1hr 34min

  3. 9 Jun

    Ep. 47 Product Failures, Stir Crazy Projects, and Crow Grudges

    Welcome back to another episode of What You Making! After a brief hiatus, the guys are back on the bench to catch up on life, share their latest shop updates, and dive into the messy world of product and project failures. In This Episode:Life Updates: Alex Duffy returns from a two-week medical leave following leg surgery. He shares how going stir crazy on the couch drove him to tackle some light laser work and an upcoming backyard mushroom-growing project. Meanwhile, Alex Adams celebrates his anniversary and discusses his recent yard-seeding adventures.On the Bench: Alex Adams showcases his beautiful, custom laser-engraved cherry wood plaques made for graduating senior runners, detailing his process for converting photos into line drawings using ChatGPT and Lightburn.CNC Adventures: Alex Adams recaps his first experience installing and flattening his new NextWave MDF spoil board kit, navigating the learning curve of Vetric software, and surviving his first emergency-stop battle scar.What Went Wrong: The guys talk about workshop hiccups, including phone overheating issues while filming in a hot garage, the absolute mess of carving black MDF without a dust collection system, and a terrifying, ritualistic discovery in the backyard that leaves Alex Duffy praying he didn't offend the local crow population.Key Takeaways & Pro Tips:Laser Engraving Tip: Alex Duffy shares a technique for making wood engravings pop by doing a double-pass burn, applying a clear coat, filling the engraving with black paint, and sanding it flat.Budget Landscaping: Need a lot of soil? Check local hardware stores for broken bags of garden soil, which are often heavily discounted just to clear inventory.CNC Zeroing: When you're brand new to a CNC machine, using the paper method for micro-adjustments on the Z-axis can be a safer, nerve-saving alternative to a metal touch plate while you learn your machine's movements.Connect With Us:Support the Show: patreon.com/whatchamacallitshowAlex Duffy: Instagram & YouTube @DuffeyWoodcraftAlex Adams: @TypeAFurniture

    1hr 25min

  4. 23 May

    Ep. 45 Finding Your Niche

    In this episode of Watcha Makin, hosts Alex Adams (Type A Furniture) and Alex Duffey (Duffey Woodcraft) dive into the core concept of finding your niche as a maker, while sharing their latest updates from the workshop bench. On the Bench & Whatcha Breakin'Alex Duffey celebrates finishing all of his inventory for the upcoming UFO Fest four days ahead of schedule! He shares details on his custom UFO lights with miniature Sasquatches, cows, and trees, showcasing a magnetic levitating model on Instagram, and dives into his thoughts on the government's recent UFO file drops.Alex Adams has been running his 3D printers non-stop to restock for the local farmers market. He breaks down his latest prints—from self-locking hitch covers and articulated "derpy eye" animals to complex wind spinners and a massive 8-piece Stormtrooper helmet. He also recounts the trials of printing with brittle filament, 3D printing snafus, and a backyard stump-removal project that turned into a muddy mess.The Price is Wrong (Selling Updates)Duffey highlights a massive win: selling three of his large light-up UFOs before the festival even starts, completely covering his booth fee.Adams recaps his successful experience at an early-season farmers market preview and how his son's toy mortar print helped grab the attention of passersby.Important AnnouncementAlex Duffey will be out for the next two weeks undergoing a minor leg surgery. There will be no episode next week. The podcast will return the following week with Alex Adams and a special guest host! Show Sponsor: This episode is proudly sponsored by NextWave CNC. Check out their month-long May accessory specials and learn how you can earn $500 through their Project of the Month program by teaching a CNC project to the masses. Support the Show: Want to join an elite club more exclusive than the astronauts who walked on the moon? Support the guys directly on Patreon.

    1hr 6min

  5. 6 May

    Ep. 43 Ambitious Projects with Corey of Fortress Fine Woodworks.

    In this episode, hosts Alex Duffey and Alex Adams sit down with Corey Rush of Fortress Fine Woodworks to discuss the mindset behind "unbelievable" builds. From solid walnut toilets to fire-vortex tables, Corey shares how a willingness to learn on the fly is more important than existing skill when tackling ambitious projects. Highlights:The "Dragon Toilet": The engineering behind Corey’s most viral project, featuring a heated seat and a functional bidet.Planning vs. Obsession: Using Fusion 360 for complex designs and the "blessing and curse" of late-night problem-solving.Overcoming Fear: Advice on getting over the "hump" of working with expensive, high-stakes materials.On the Bench:Alex Duffey: Batching UFO nightlights for the McMinnville UFO Fest and experimenting with walnut butcher block for cribbage boards.Alex Adams: Setting up his new Next Wave CNC and designing a sentimental military memorial plaque.Corey Rush: Modeling a massive 10-foot Gothic wedding arch and finishing a high-end table with angled joinery.

    1hr 37min

  6. 22 Apr

    Ep. 41 Brooms, Brushes and Hand planes OH MY! : Ashley Pieper

    This episode of What You’re Making features Ashley Pieper of Shallow Creek Woodcraft, a talented maker from York County, Pennsylvania, who specializes in fine furniture and heritage handcrafted brooms. Episode SummaryThe hosts, Alex Duffey and Alex Adams, dive into the world of "brushes, brooms, and hand tools" with Ashley. The conversation explores the intersection of traditional heritage crafts and modern furniture design. Ashley shares her journey from self-taught woodworker to professional maker and teacher, detailing her unique approach to creating functional art. Key HighlightsThe Art of Broom Making: Ashley explains the process of working with sorghum grass, from dyeing the fibers to weaving intricate patterns like the popular "turkey wing" design.Heritage Meets Modern Design: A look at Ashley’s furniture portfolio, including her "Beauty Queen" standing cabinet, which features bird’s-eye maple and playful pink "ballerina" legs.The Power of Hand Tools: Why Ashley prefers the quiet and control of hand tools and how they allow for a personal, "hand-done" aesthetic that machines can't replicate.Woodworking Education: Ashley discusses her role as a teacher for Plain Wellness, an organization that supports mental health through woodworking, and the joy of seeing students (both kids and adults) empower themselves through the craft.Farm Life: A glimpse into Ashley's life outside the shop, managing beef cows and her family's deep roots in the dairy industry.What’s on the Bench?Alex Duffey: Prepping for "UFO Fest" with 75 D&D dice boxes, Sasquatch and UFO earrings, and custom LED UFO lights.Ashley Pieper: Finishing a set of countertop stools and a scale model commission of a historic corner chair for a client.Alex Adams: Recovering from a busy track coaching schedule and preparing to set up his new Next Wave Shark CNC for upcoming projects.Makers MentionedThe crew discusses inspiring work from the community, including: KG Woodcraft: A massive 48-inch hand-carved musky fish.Lou Taylor: Vibrant marquetry patterns and brooches.Merg Works (Morgan Pell): Incredible pictorial woven brooms.Nora Burghardt: A whimsical 8-foot tall rocking chair collaboration.Giles Newman: Intricate nature-themed carvings and wooden rings.Shock the Fox: Specialized CNC-aided guitar building.Legards Furniture: Elegant seating with unique stretcher designs.Guest Info: Find Ashley Pieper at shallowcreekwoodcraft.com or on Instagram @shallowcreekwoodcraft. Learn more about her classes at plainwellness.org.

    1hr 15min

  7. 15 Apr

    Ep. 40 The Maine Event

    Hosts Alex Adams and Alex Duffey welcome a powerhouse duo to the show: Hunter Locke and Brandon Smith co-hosts of the upcoming Maine Woodworking Event. This episode is a deep dive into high-end shop setups, niche product development, and the hilarious perils of Facebook Marketplace. Shop Talk & Tool Envy: The Alexes' get a virtual tour of Brandon’s impressive shop, featuring a massive "tool wall of fame" stocked with Woodpeckers, Bessie clamps, and premium saws. Meanwhile, Alex Adams shares his recovery from a back injury and the chaos of prepping his garage for a brand-new CNC delivery—all while helping his son navigate the "teachable moment" of a woodworking mishap involving a bowl gouge. Niche Craftsmanship: Hunter Locke discusses his fascinating shift into the world of traditional Chinese tea ceremonies, designing custom Kumiko tea tables for a certified tea sommelier.Brandon Smith reveals his new "Book-Tok" inspired product line: laser-engraved bookmarks themed for horror and sci-fi, sparking a collaborative brainstorming session on creative packaging.Alex Duffey is in "full UFO mode," prepping 80 custom lamps and painting Northern Lights-inspired wall art for the upcoming UFO Fest.The "What’s Your Breaking Point" Segment: Hunter recounts a heartbreaking (and relatable) "Marketplace Fail" where he sold his current drum sander before securing a new one—leaving him sander-less but with enough cash to pivot into a new 3D printer. Show Support & LinksSpecial Guests: Hunter Locke & Brandon Smith Sponsor: Next Wave CNC (American-made desktop CNCs)Patreon: patreon.com/whatchamakinshopInstagram: @DuffeyWoodcraft | @TypeAFurniture

    1hr 31min

  8. 8 Apr

    Ep. 39 PPE, April Fools, DIY Clones, and Candy Sushi

    Hosts Alex Adams and Alex Duffey are back after a week off to talk about the intersection of woodworking, technology, and life’s unexpected hurdles. Recorded on April Fool’s Day, the duo kicks things off by dissecting the best industry pranks—from Vectric’s "Easy Clone" software to Festool’s "wireless" wormhole dust collection. In the shop, Alex Duffey shares his progress on a massive batch of D&D dice boxes and reveals his "cheat code" for sourcing metal tulip bases from overseas. He also gives a deep dive into his latest artistic endeavor: two walnut end tables featuring intricate patterns made from 1,400 pennies (which required a trip to nine different banks!). Meanwhile, Alex Adams discusses the technical challenges of large walnut panel glue-ups and the importance of "show face" positioning to manage glue squeeze-out. The conversation takes a turn into lifestyle and health as Alex recount his son's "Candy Sushi" birthday party—including a Pinterest-fail Jell-O experiment—and a gym-related back injury that put him on the sidelines. Topics covered include: April Fool's Shenanigans: Reviewing the best and worst pranks from CNC bit manufacturers and tool brands.What's on the Bench: Penny-inlay tables, walnut furniture, and prepping for the upcoming UFO Fest.Maker Tips: Using blue tape on panel clamps and sourcing small quantities from Alibaba.Personal Life: March Madness, retro Pokemon emulators, and recovering from back spasms.Show Support & LinksSponsor: Next Wave CNC (Makers of the Shark CNC)Patreon: patreon.com/whatchamakingshowInstagram: @DuffeyWoodcraft | @TypeAFurniture

    1hr 42min
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About

Join the conversation with Whatcha Makin', the podcast for makers of all kinds! Each week, Alex Duffey and Alex Adams dive into their latest projects, share woodshop insights, discuss selling your creations, and highlight cool finds in the maker community. From learning new techniques to balancing your hobby and business, we tackle the real stuff. Expect a mix of education, entertainment, and genuine chat about the crafts you love, including woodworking, 3D printing, and more. Subscribe and be part of the Whatcha Makin' family! 

Information

  • Creator
    Alex Adams & Alex Duffey
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    50
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Alex Adams & Alex Duffey
  • Show Website
    Whatcha Makin' Show

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