Got a free weekend and R500 to spare? That’s all it takes to build something genuinely cool. PiShop’s latest roundup serves up five beginner-friendly maker projects — from a loadshedding alert light and a custom USB macro keypad, to a desktop weather station, a playable retro Pong game on an OLED display, and a smart plant watering reminder. All powered by the Raspberry Pi Pico, all sourceable locally, and all completable in a single weekend. Whether you’re just getting into electronics or looking for a quick, satisfying build, there’s something here to scratch that maker itch, without breaking the bank.