So I've realized what my issue is with the projects I've been working on. I think so mechanically, step-by-step, and in concept, it's a really interesting idea. However, in action, it is over almost immediately, and no one can see the individual steps that the machine took to complete the task. It seems like such a loss to not have all those steps noticed. This seems to be the same for most Rube Goldberg style projects - at least with those that have fast paced motions.

I feel like I lose a lot of the appeal of the project because of this. I bet ones like this, or the marble-windchimes, or ping pong balls, could be so much more interesting were they viewed in slow motion. Just a thought. I guess I'm so used to having to hide all the steps to produce a finished product, so it's difficult to show those steps.

You become vividly aware of the fact that machines have wills of your own when you end up with a face full of spray adhesive.

Yum.

Mark-making machine

First, I love the alliteration. I'm already enjoying this project more because it just sounds better. Regardless of the fact that this isn't the sound-producing machine. Thinking about this project, I knew that I wanted to work on modifying my original machine rather than passing it off to somebody else. Seeing the results of my sound machine disappointed me; there was not the gratification I had hoped for.
For this one, I intend on making it a bit more complicated, which also means it will have more of a chance of failing. Or, what we consider is 'failing'. It is always frustrating to have a project not do something I intend, because going into something, I always have a specific goal. It is very difficult for me to let go of this goal, and to just see what happens. I tried to do so in my first project, and felt very unfulfilled because of it.
I have already faced a lot of mechanical issues in his mark-making machine, but will hopefully be able to get them resolved over the weekend.