# Machines for Makers

Compare laser cutters, 3D printers, and CNC machines with detailed specifications, real user reviews, and affiliate-free recommendations.

## Overview

Machines for Makers is a comprehensive comparison platform for makers and craftspeople to find the right manufacturing equipment. We provide transparent pricing (including hidden costs), detailed specifications, and authentic user reviews without affiliate bias.

## Key Features

- Advanced filtering system with 10+ filter types for finding the perfect machine
- Side-by-side comparison tool supporting up to 4 machines
- Ink cost calculator with image analysis for accurate project cost estimates
- Real user reviews and ratings
- Complete cost transparency including shipping, software, and consumables
- No affiliate links - purely educational content

## Tech Stack

- Next.js 15 with App Router
- TypeScript for type safety
- Supabase (PostgreSQL) for database
- Tailwind CSS + Shadcn UI for styling
- React Query for data fetching
- Python FastAPI service for price tracking
- Scrapfly for web scraping

## Project Structure

/app
  /(site) - Public website routes
    /products - Machine listings with filters
    /compare - Comparison tool
    /category/[slug] - Category pages (laser-cutters, 3d-printers, cnc-machines)
    /products/[slug] - Individual machine detail pages
    /tools/ink-calculator - Ink cost estimation tool
    /guides - Educational content
  /(admin) - Protected admin panel
    /admin/* - Content management system
  /api - API endpoints for data operations

## Database Schema

Primary tables:
- machines: Manufacturing equipment with full specifications
- brands: Equipment manufacturers
- categories: Machine types (laser cutters, 3D printers, CNC)
- reviews: User reviews and ratings
- ink_calculator_calibration: Calibration data for cost calculations
- machine_specifications: Detailed technical specs
- machine_filters: Searchable attributes for filtering

## API Endpoints

Public APIs:
- GET /api/machines - List machines with filtering
- GET /api/brands - Get brand information
- GET /api/categories - Get category data
- POST /api/ink-cost - Calculate ink costs from images
- GET /api/reviews - Fetch machine reviews

## Development

Local development requires:
1. Node.js 18+ for Next.js application
2. Python 3.9+ for price tracking service
3. Supabase project for database
4. Environment variables for API keys

Commands:
- npm run dev - Start Next.js development server (port 3000)
- python price-extractor-python/main.py - Start price tracking service (port 8000)
- npm run build - Build for production
- npm run lint - Run ESLint

## Content Guidelines

When creating content for this platform:
- Focus on objective specifications and measurable features
- Include total cost of ownership, not just base price
- Highlight software requirements and ongoing costs
- Compare machines within the same category and price range
- Provide practical use cases and project examples

## Target Audience

- Hobbyist makers getting started with digital fabrication
- Small business owners evaluating equipment purchases
- Educators setting up makerspaces
- Experienced makers comparing upgrade options

## Contact

Website: https://machinesformakers.com
Purpose: Educational resource for the maker community