If you’re not particularly in tune with the inner workings of a computer, you likely don’t know what Arduino is. In the simplest terms, Arduino is a single-board microcontroller that hobbyists can use to create computer-powered devices, with sensors like thermometers, light meters, and more. Here are a few key facts about Arduino:

Arduino is an open-source computing platform.
This means that anyone can use it and help to develop it. The Arduino board can be assembled by hand, or it can be purchased already assembled. Owners can use Arduino alone or in conjunction with software running on an existing computer.

Newcomers to computer programming can use Arduino.
In fact, that’s who it was designed for. Arduino is meant to introduce artists and other non-software developers to computer programming by providing a code editor with syntax highlighting, brace matching, and other features. The language and hardware can be used to create fun home projects like wearable computers, interactive toys, and much more!

Introduction [Arduino]

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr/John Ward

Austin is great place for crafters, with tons of people learning sewing, knitting and other fun crafts. If you'd like to take up crafting as a hobby, one of Austin's best resources might be The Stitch Lab.

The Stitch Lab's owner Leslie Bonnell is a former costume designer who realized that there was a market for truly skilled sewing instruction, so she started offering classes out of her home in 2001. The concept took off quickly and she expanded into a retail location in 2009, hiring a number of other instructors to supplement her offerings.

All of the teachers here win raves from regular patrons – they’re patient, skilled and capable, willing to take as much time as they need to make sure that you’re really understanding the material. The Stitch Lab also has a sizable retail area which sells a variety of cute and funky fabrics from all over the world, as well as thread, floss, embroidery patterns and other notions.

Visit The Stitch Lab's website to learn more about this Austin craft shop!

The Stitch Lab
1000 S 1st Street
Austin, TX 78704
(512) 440-0712
www.stitchlab.biz
www.yelp.com/biz/the-stitch-lab-austin

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr/lollyknit

Head to South Austin's El Taquito for some delightful tacos. Regulars rave that this little taqueria is one of the best in town. The meats are moist and well-seasoned, and the salsas are perfectly spiced. The menu is mostly tacos and enchiladas, but there are some breakfast options as well.

The Barbacoa and Al Pastor tacos are big favorites, and there are numerous other popular choices too. The salsa bar provides many options to top your meal — make sure to give the roasted red pepper salsa a try. El Taquito offers authentic beverages too, like La Fresca and Horchata, a cinnamon rice milk. They're open well past midnight every night so you can enjoy tasty tacos after a night on the town.

El Taquito
1713 E. Riverside Drive
Austin, TX 78741
(512) 851-8226
www.yelp.com/biz/el-taquito-austin

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr/jeffreyw