Isolation

[Nierman]

Solitude is not necessarily complete isolation. One can still observe, study, gain inspiration - and not interact. Pretty much what the internet is for.

I'm not a frame builder but most all makers are creatives. Creatives need to be inside their own heads to be their best when producing. I hated still life and figure drawing in-class because of the distractions. Artists who work in groups might have too much influence on one other and you might never extract their best individual work.

[duanedr]

To me, a large part of what is so enjoyable about bicycle frame building is being alone in the garage with just my thoughts for hours on end. Typically it's late at night and productivity is low (if I try to push productivity up, injuries usually increase as well). My days are spent in meetings and trying to influence other people so, the peace of working by myself and solving problems in my own head is a great counterpoint to decision by committee at work.

[David Tollefson]

There's definitely a catharsis to be found in the alone-ness of fabbing. But there's also a necessary social aspect to making it a business.

[duanedr]

But there's also a necessary social aspect to making it a business.

I definitely agree with you. Being in the front room talking to customers is key to making it happen. And by front room, that includes trade shows, forums, and all of the other places you run into customers. Getting your vision and aesthetic known and building that personal brand is critical.