Published: June 26, 2026
From Prusa's high-speed filament to $165M in tech-funded trade training, today's TigerDen Daily covers the future of making. Plus, learn how to market like an influencer and turn pallets into treasure this weekend.
Happy Friday, Makers! 🐯
Welcome to your June 26, 2026 edition of the TigerDen Daily. Whether you’re on the job site, in the studio, or revving up for a weekend project in the garage, we’ve got the fuel you need to level up. Today, we’re looking at revolutionary filaments, massive investments in trade education, and how to turn your passion into a powerhouse brand.
🔧 Cool New Tools: The Need for Speed (and Better Tech)
This week, the world of 3D printing is seeing a major shift toward efficiency and better materials.
- Prusa’s High-Speed PLA: Prusa has just dropped a new five-color series of high-speed PLA. Under the right conditions, you're looking at a 40% increase in print speed. For the Maker Mogul looking to scale production, this is a game-changer.
- Polymaker’s Restock Sale: If you need to stock up, now is the time. Through July 5, you can snag deals like 1kg spools of Panchroma CoPE for just $13. Keeping your overhead low is Rule #1 for business success!
- The Transition from ABS to ASA: Industry experts are signaling the sunset of ABS. ASA is emerging as the superior alternative—it’s more UV-resistant, easier to print, and safer regarding fumes.
🏗️ Trade Career Spotlight: Tech Giants Betting on YOU
The tech world has realized that they can't build the future without the trades. Massive investments are pouring into skilled labor training.
- Google’s $50M Pledge: Google is committing $50 million to skilled trades training, helping form America’s Workforce Academy. They recognize the desperate need for specialized technicians to build and maintain the infrastructure of the future.
- Meta’s $115M Workforce Academy: This isn't just about general education; it’s about guaranteed jobs. Meta is focusing on data center infrastructure, providing free training and credentials to create a direct pipeline into high-paying technician roles.
Pro-Tip: If you are looking to enter the trades, look for "Employer-Sponsered Academies." These programs often cover the cost of your certification in exchange for a service commitment.
💰 Maker Mogul Corner: The Power of Presence
What does a creator like Xyla Foxlin have in common with the world's biggest brands? They understand that storytelling is just as important as the product.
- Content is Your Resume: As seen in the latest "30 Under 30" lists, the line between "Maker" and "Media Mogul" is blurring. You don't need 47 million followers like Charli d'Amelio, but you do need a consistent presence on Instagram or YouTube to show your process.
- Engagement Over Reach: For small business owners, focus on "The Top 35 Influencer" strategies: authenticity wins. Use short-form video to show the "behind the scenes" of your workshop. People buy from people, not just machines.
🛠️ DIY Mastery: Weekend Project Inspiration
Got a few days off? Here are three ways to get your hands dirty:
- Upcycled Trash Pallets: Take a cue from Maker Channel—try inlaying yard branches into old pallet wood for a high-end, rustic look on a zero-dollar budget.
- Custom Snare Drums: Feeling musical? The "Sandbar Point" project shows how to turn local Michigan Pine into a stunning snare drum. It’s a masterclass in wood bending and tensioning.
- The Perfect Gateway Project: Not sure where to start? Woodworking with BBQ/Cutting boards is the ultimate entry point. It teaches you about grain direction, food-safe finishes, and precision sanding.
Ready to sharpen your skills?
Explore our three paths today:- [The Trades] – Advance your career.
- [Maker Mogul] – Build your business.
- [DIY Mastery] – Build your home.
Stay creative, stay gritty!
— The TigerDen Team