First off, could you please tell us your name?
I am typically called a Helping Hand; but sometimes I am referred to as a Third Hand or X-tra Hand. I prefer to go by "Helping Hand."
What is your role in MAKESHOP?
I come in handy when people need a little extra help holding onto small parts. I have two adjustable, jointed arms with crocodile clips at the end. The clips allows me to hold items steady, which is helpful when it comes to soldering. I help alleviate some of the stress of using something as hot as a soldering iron. You can see me in action here:
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How old are you?
I'm not really sure. I was manufactured a couple of years ago in a factory. But my roots date back to the instruments used by early clock makers in Germany.
What’s your favorite color?
I really enjoy the colors red and black. I typically work with red wires and black wires. I have become very fond of those two colors.
If you could be any animal or other tool, what would you be?
That's a tough one. I guess if I could be any kind of animal then I would probably be some kind of insect. Perhaps a praying mantis.
What other tools and materials do you often collaborate with?
I work best with my friend the Soldering Iron. The two of us have been friends for a very long time. We make a great team.
What quality best defines you?
I am very flexible.
Finally, what's the deal with the magnifying glass?
People typically use me to work on very small projects where it sometimes takes a magnifying glass to really see what you're working on. Also, it adds a little bit of flair to my design.
Thanks so much to our friend the Helping Hand for answering these important questions.
© 2013 Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh
