Ep 2. Upright Pianos, Flags, Wet/Dry Vacs, and Medieval Axes

How It's Made season 17 episode 2 takes viewers on a fascinating journey behind the scenes of the manufacturing process of several everyday objects. The episode begins by exploring the intricate workings of upright pianos, revealing the many intricate pieces that come together to produce the beautiful and expressive music we all love. From the delicate hammers and strings to the complex mechanisms that allow players to control the volume, the manufacturing process for these musical instruments is a true feat of engineering.

Next up, viewers get a glimpse into the world of flags - from the simplest designs to the most complicated national banners. As the episode explains, flags are much more than just colorful pieces of fabric - they are symbols of identity, culture, and pride. Manufacturing flags involves careful attention to detail, as each color and design element must be precisely printed or stitched onto the fabric to create the desired effect. Whether it's for a rally, a parade, or a national event, flags are an essential part of everyday life.

Moving on, the episode turns its attention to a completely different type of product - wet/dry vacuums. These powerful cleaning tools are essential for keeping homes, offices, and even factories clean and tidy. As the show explains, the manufacturing process for these machines is a complex one, involving everything from mold-making and plastic injection molding to specialized motor assembly and testing. From small handheld models to industrial-grade machines that can clean up entire factory floors, wet/dry vacuums are an essential part of modern life.

Finally, the episode takes viewers back in time to explore the manufacturing process for medieval-style axes. These heavy, sturdy tools were once essential for farmers, craftsmen, and soldiers alike, and remain popular with reenactors and historical enthusiasts to this day. As the episode explains, creating an authentic medieval-style axe requires not just advanced metalworking techniques, but also a deep understanding of historical manufacturing practices. From forging the steel to creating the wooden handle and sharpening the blade to a razor-like edge, the process of making a medieval-style axe is a true art form.

Overall, How It's Made season 17 episode 2 provides a fascinating look into the manufacturing process behind a diverse array of everyday and historical objects. From musical instruments to cleaning tools and beyond, the show highlights the intricate engineering and skilled craftsmanship that goes into creating the products we use every day. Whether you're a lover of music, history, or just curious about how your favorite products are made, this episode of How It's Made is sure to offer plenty of insights and surprises.