Making It

Making It is an American reality competition show aired by NBC from 2018 to 2021.

A deviation from the traditional competition-oriented reality shows, "Making It" is wholeheartedly about creativity, crafting, and the love of all things homemade. The show beautifully meshes friendly competition with the assurance of camaraderie, making it a feel-good variety series full of color, imagination, and warmth.

The idea behind Making It is to celebrate the creativity and crafting abilities of people from diverse backgrounds and skill sets. Each episode offers a unique glimpse into the world of DIY and craft enthusiasts — everyone from welders and carpenters to felt craft artists and paper makers.

The contestants brought into this creative mélange are eight "Makers" from across the United States, each possessing a distinct style and set of skills in crafting. Each week, they compete in two challenges—the "Faster Craft" and the "Master Craft." The "Faster Craft" puts the participant's ability to think on their feet to the test, where they must create a themed project with both speed and precision. Meanwhile, the "Master Craft" is a more long-form, deep dive project that allows these artists to showcase their intricate crafting skills over a longer period.

The delightfully crafted set that replicates a charming summer camp adds a layer of artistic allure to the show. It aptly mimics the aesthetics of artisanal beauty that the contestants' projects embody. Truly, Making It is as much a feast for the eyes as it is a celebration of creativity and camaraderie.

At the helm of the show are the co-hosts, Amy Poehler and Nick Offerman, known worldwide for their roles in the popular sitcom Parks and Recreation. The two bring their signature humor to the show, offering light-hearted and often hilarious interactions that complement the competitive vibe. Their contrasting personalities—Amy's naive enthusiasm for crafts and Nick's seasoned expertise as a woodworker—makes their banter a delight for viewers.

The competitors' crafting talents are judged by esteemed experts in the field. The original judges, Dayna Isom Johnson, an Etsy trend expert, and Simon Doonan, Creative Ambassador for Barneys New York bring a mixture of market-based trendiness and high-design conceptualization to the table. The judges not only assess the creations but also offer critiques and advice to the Makers, furthering the friendly and constructive atmosphere of the show.

One of the delightful aspects of Making It is its philosophy of fostering a positive and uplifting environment. Unlike most reality competition shows where rivalries and conflicts make up a significant part of the narrative, Making It strikes a different chord. Here, the emphasis is laid on celebrating the spirit of crafting, encouraging the contestants to harness their creativity, and uplifting each other throughout the journey.

What sets Making It apart is how it manages to rise above being just a competition. It touches on the emotional backstories of the contestants, lending a depth of character to the otherwise carefree structure of the show. Many of these contestants are self-taught artisans balancing their passion for craft with their day jobs, inspiring viewers with their commitment and persistence.

Moreover, Making It, through its charming and creative ride, underscores the importance of handmade aesthetics in the digital era. It emphasizes the significance of materiality, the joy of creation, and the pleasure of tactile experiences, which are often buried under the fast-paced, technology-driven world.

Through its run from 2018 to 2021, Making It has successfully crafted a niche for itself in the realm of reality shows with its unique premise, captivating creativity, uplifting vibes, and a lively, humorous narrative. The universal love for hand-crafted items, a desire to create something novel, and the joy in celebrating the makers resonates with audiences of all ages and backgrounds, making this show a delightfully entertaining watch.