Ep 10. Heather Gems and Instant Film

In season 17 episode 10 of How It's Made, viewers are taken on a journey to discover how two distinct products are made: Heather Gems and Instant Film.

The episode begins with a look at Heather Gems, a unique jewelry material made from the stems of Scotland's national flower, the heather plant. The process starts with the harvesting of the heather, which is carefully selected and cut to ensure the longevity of the finished product. Once harvested, the stems are dried, dyed, and cut into small pieces which are then shaped and polished into a variety of jewelry items. Viewers will see the intricate process of shaping and polishing the heather material, including the use of specialized machinery to achieve the desired shape and texture.

Next, viewers are taken behind the scenes of the production of Instant Film, a product used by photographers around the world. The process begins with a carefully formulated chemical mixture that is coated onto a thin plastic sheet. This mixture is then layered with an array of other materials including light-blocking layers, gelatin, and developer chemicals. Once the film has been coated and layered, it is cut into individual sheets and boxed for distribution.

Throughout the episode, viewers will witness the intricate details of both manufacturing processes, from the selection of raw materials to the use of cutting-edge machinery to create the final product. They will also gain insight into the engineering and science behind each process, as well as the history and significance of both Heather Gems and Instant Film.

In addition to the technical aspects of the manufacturing processes, the episode also offers a glimpse into the people who create these products. Viewers will meet skilled craftspeople and dedicated scientists who bring their expertise and passion to the production of these unique and valuable items.

Overall, How It's Made season 17 episode 10 provides a fascinating look into the manufacturing of two intriguing products, while also highlighting the artistry and ingenuity that goes into their creation.