Workshop guides
The Last Ten Per Cent: A Done Checklist for Side Projects
The work between a demo and something shareable is mostly unglamorous. A done checklist for makers: first run, errors, docs, privacy and a graceful finish.
- Shipping
- 10 min read
Preparing a Show HN Post That Follows the Rules
A bench-side checklist for makers: is your project ready, how to word the title and first comment, and how to take a thread's questions kindly.
- Sharing Your Work
- 11 min read
Ways a Side Project Can Earn: Tip Jars to Paid Tiers
Not every side project needs to become a business. A survey of honest ways to earn from one, from donations to paid tiers, with the trade-offs of each.
- Growing Up
- 10 min read
Scoping a Side Project So It Actually Ships
Most side projects stall because they are too big for the hours available. A bench-side method for cutting scope, fixing a finish line and shipping.
- Shipping
- 10 min read
Support as a Solo Maker: Helping Without Burning Out
When people use your project, they will write to you. How a one-person team can offer kind, useful support with clear boundaries and a calm routine.
- Running It
- 10 min read
Sunsetting a Project Responsibly
Projects end. How to close one with care: telling users early, letting them take their data, handing over or archiving, and leaving a clear final note.
- Endings
- 10 min read
Keeping a Maker's Logbook
A simple dated notebook turns scattered effort into knowledge: what you tried, what broke, what you decided and why. How to keep one you will use.
- Craft Habits
- 9 min read
A README That Sells a Side Project
The README is the shop window of a side project. What belongs in it, in what order, how to show the project working and how to keep it honest and current.
- Sharing Your Work
- 10 min read
From Open-Source Side Project to Product
Your side project has users. Should it stay open, become a business or both? Licences, expectations, money and honest communication at the bench.
- Growing Up
- 10 min read
Launching a Weekend Project Without Overdoing It
You built something in two days. How to share it in an honest, proportionate way: a page, a post, a listing and a plan for what happens on Monday.
- Shipping
- 10 min read