The Ultimate Kit Guide

Component Quality: 5

(5=Highest quality) How nice are the components in terms of materials, design, fit, and other qualities? Well-made circuit boards, computer-cut plastic and metal parts, and other precision components add to the experience.

Mozzarella Cheese Kit

Mozzarella Cheese Kit

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Mozzarella Cheese Kit

$25

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Reviewed: November 13th, 2011

I would happily eat my weight in cheese, so the idea of having fresh mozzarella whenever I want has very strong appeal. This kit makes it as easy as buying a gallon of (not ultra-pasteurized) milk. The clear instructions take any mystery out of the chemistry, and I went from hot milk to perfect curds […]

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Phantastron Synthesizer Kit

Phantastron Synthesizer Kit

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Phantastron Synthesizer Kit

$195

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Reviewed: November 11th, 2011

In an alternate Old West universe, folks played synthesizers, and they called ‘em “Phantastrons.” Incorporating tubes, steel panels, and a branded wooden crate ripe for customization, this is one unusual synth kit. The power supply comes mostly assembled, but the 30s-era “turret board” is a challenge for seasoned solderers. Not your standard volt-per-octave functionality; this oscillator […]

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Corned Beef and Pastrami Kit

Corned Beef and Pastrami Kit

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Corned Beef and Pastrami Kit

$30

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I’ve made corned beef every St. Paddy’s day for years now, and have finally perfected my cocktail of pickling spices. Turns out I could have just gotten Leeners’ Corned Beef and Pastrami Kit; theirs is just as good. The kit comes with absolutely everything you need except the brisket (including a scarily effective meat tenderizer), […]

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Bacon Curing Kit

Bacon Curing Kit

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Bacon Curing Kit

$20

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Bacon is enjoying the limelight these days, showing up in everything from chocolate to donuts! If you really want to hop on this fat fad, brine your own. It takes a week, but is incredibly simple and delicious. This kit’s recipe book covers bacon, Canadian bacon, and pancetta. Note to the truly dedicated: invest in […]

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Schacht Mini Loom Weaving Kit

Schacht Mini Loom Weaving Kit

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Schacht Mini Loom Weaving Kit

$35

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Reviewed: November 2nd, 2011

Beginners can learn how to weave their own bags, mats, coasters, and more with this portable weaving kit. The plastic mini loom comes with two shuttles, a beater, a weaving needle, five colors of yarn, and project instructions. Perfect for kids!

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Pee-Wee Herman Paint By Number

Pee-Wee Herman Paint By Number

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Pee-Wee Herman Paint By Number

$35

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Without ever painting a portrait before in my life, I re-created the likeness of Pee-wee Herman with this PopParty Paint by Number Kit. Choose from the Golden Girls, Pee-wee, or my personal favorite, Lindsay Lohan’s mug shot. Better yet, order a custom kit from your own photo for $125, with up to 16 acrylic paint […]

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LED Video Light

LED Video Light

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LED Video Light

$35

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Reviewed: October 27th, 2011

Have you tried taking video using your digital camera but never seem to have enough light? Does your camera have trouble focusing in the dark? LEDs are cheap, and so are resistors, so why not make your own LED Video Light? With this second-generation kit from ProdMod, you’ll transform a simple battery holder into a […]

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Topobo

Topobo

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Topobo

$149

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Reviewed: October 25th, 2011

My living room looks like Darwin’s laboratory. A three-legged creature writhes on the floor. My daughter pulls off a leg and connects it to its face. My son teaches it to walk. It’s really moving now! This is how you play and learn with Topobo. Topobo is part construction toy, part kinetic memory robot. By […]

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