Ep 10. Goalie Pads, Lapel Pins, Cardboard Boxes, Crystal Wine Glasses

How It's Made is a documentary-style television series that explores the intricate process behind the creation of everyday items we often take for granted. In season 3 episode 10, viewers are treated to a behind-the-scenes look at the production of goalie pads, lapel pins, cardboard boxes, and crystal wine glasses.

The episode begins with a visit to a factory that specializes in manufacturing goalie pads for ice hockey players. Viewers are taken through the process of creating the pads from the stitching of the material to the insertion of foam padding. A particular focus is given to the use of high-tech materials such as Kevlar, which adds extra durability to the pads. Viewers also learn about the importance of proper fit to ensure maximum protection for the goalie.

Next, the show transitions to the creation of lapel pins. These small, intricately designed pins are commonly used as accessories and collectibles. The process of creating these pins is surprisingly complex, with each design requiring a separate mold to be created before the shaping and coloring process can even begin. The show also highlights the importance of quality control in ensuring that each pin is perfect before it is shipped off to the customer.

After lapel pins, the focus shifts to something far more mundane: cardboard boxes. Boxes may seem like a simple and straightforward item, but their creation is anything but. The show highlights the various methods used to manufacture cardboard boxes, including the use of punch presses to create the various shapes and sizes required. Viewers are also shown how the boxes are held together with various adhesives and how they are tested to ensure maximum durability.

The final segment of the show explores the making of crystal wine glasses. While these glasses may look delicate, their creation is a complex and precise process. Viewers are taken to a crystal factory where the artisanal craftsmanship of glass blowing is still alive and well. The show explains the various steps involved in shaping the glass, including the use of molds and careful manipulation of the hot glass as it is worked into its final shape. The importance of quality control is again emphasized as small imperfections can cause the glass to shatter when filled with liquid.

Overall, How It's Made season 3 episode 10 offers viewers a fascinating look into the creation of four very different products. Whether it's the high-tech materials of goalie pads, the intricate designs of lapel pins, the manufacturing process of cardboard boxes, or the artisanal glassblowing required to create crystal wine glasses, this episode of How It's Made is sure to fascinate viewers with its detailed exploration of the creation of everyday items.