Creative Chronicles

✺ MAKER MOMENTS

This week in my maker's journey, I've been deep into crocheting a special piece for my aunt. It's big and bright, with a pattern that really pops! Though it’s taking a long time and can be pretty tiring, I love working on it. The colors and the design are just beautiful.

Every stitch is a step closer to finishing, and even if it's slow going, it's so rewarding. This project reminds me why I love crocheting—it's all about creating something unique and heartfelt.

✺ INSPIRATION EVERYWHERE

Google, First 25 Years. A book by Joao daMaia.

This week, dive into the dynamic journey of one of the most influential tech companies in "Google: 25 First Years." While Google's unparalleled search engine has driven its growth, the stories behind their other innovative products are equally fascinating. From Gmail's development to the launch of Google Maps, this book unveils the creativity and challenges behind fourteen products that have shaped Google's trajectory. Packed with captivating narratives and behind-the-scenes anecdotes, it offers a comprehensive look into the minds and moves that have defined Google’s first 25 years.

• 30+ handmade illustrations by award-winning Vivi Campos

• 336 pages

• Printed in Portugal

• Ideal for a coffee table (added to my shopping list)

Some pics Joao shared on X 👇

And some of the incredible review he has received since launching it!

✺ RANDOM FACT

In this edition's random fact, we delve into the colorful and creative world of LEGO, a toy that has captivated the imaginations of both young and old for nearly a century. From humble beginnings to becoming a global phenomenon, LEGO continues to inspire creativity and innovation.

A Brief History of LEGO

Founded in 1932 by Ole Kirk Kristiansen, the LEGO Group has been a family affair from its very beginning, passing from father to son. Today, it's helmed by Kjeld Kirk Kristiansen, a grandchild of the founder.

The name 'LEGO' derives from the Danish words "leg godt", which means "play well" – a simple but profound philosophy that continues to guide the company's creations. This ethos is not just a slogan; it's embedded in every brick and minifigure produced.

Fascinating LEGO Facts

•International LEGO Day: LEGO fans around the world celebrate International LEGO Day on January 28th each year.

•Staggering Production: Each year, LEGO manufactures around 60 billion bricks. That's enough to circle the globe more than 5 times if laid end to end!

•Minifigure Population: With about 340 million minifigures produced annually, there are now around 4 billion LEGO minifigures worldwide – outnumbering the human population!

•LEGO Per Capita: Believe it or not, there are 86 LEGO bricks for every person on Earth.

•The Biggest Tire Manufacturer: LEGO produces over 318 million tires annually, making it the largest tire manufacturer in the world, albeit in miniature!

•Diversity in Figures: Historically, 70 – 80% of LEGO minifigures have been male, but the company has been increasing diversity in its figures to better reflect the world today.

To dive deeper into the history and incredible facts about LEGO, check out their detailed history here.

✺ TOP PICKS

✦ Book Recommendation:

• Drawing Attention. Custom illustration solutions for brands today by victionary.

  The collection of projects featured in DRAWING ATTENTION serve to inspire designers with a variety of illustration styles and settings that help to add more narrative layers to a brand.

  

✦ Tool of the week and my favorite tool:

• Figma. Figma is the design platform for teams who build products together. Born on the Web, Figma helps teams brainstorm, design, and build better products—from start to finish.

  

✦ Newsletter Recommendation:

• Creator’s Toolbox. A weekly roundup of news & FREE resources for creators.

• Big Desk Energy. Startup insights, stories, and vibes sent to your inbox every Tuesday

• Austin Kleon. Weekly art, writing, and creative inspiration from the author of Steal Like an Artist and other bestsellers.

✦ Finds from the Internet:

• The Knob. A low-profile mechanical keyboard by Ben Fryc already in Pre-orders! cheffskiss

  

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