From skateboards to toys, the Web 2.0 world of make-on-demand continues to expand for a populace that runs on a mixture of Adderall and instant gratification. Magcloud is just one of the latest in the trend, a print-on-demand service where you upload a PDF and they print you a real, professional paper magazine with saddle-stitched covers. You can order as little as a single issue printed with the Indigo printers developed by HP (MagCloud is an HP Labs project). If you, like me, grew up in the era of zines and got a job at OfficeMax to use the copy machine and long-reach stapler, MagCloud is an interesting endeavor in outsourcing the DIY aesthetic (which makes it more like DIT — Do-It-Themselves). I have to admit I’m kind of excited about it though, and am already brainstorming ways to use the technology. The project is still in the beta phase, but fully usable for those with a major credit card and a US address.

ADM Skateboards is a new skate company bringing art, sport and philanthropy together. Founded when Ben Myers decided to reproduce some of his late brother’s painted skatedecks to raise money for a memorial fund, ADM quickly grew to a full product line of tees, decks and hoodies represented on both the East and West Coast. Using a business model that includes donating a portion of profits to drug awareness programs, skateboard park developments, and other positive non profits, the team at ADM plans to use their company to help expose young artists as well as make a difference. The team is also internally composed of young designers and artists, a characteristic that is already evident in their beautiful selection of maple decks. ADM is also hunting down new artists and riders to further represent the company, so if you want get on board, head here for the details.

I grew up admiring the skill (and cojones) of mostly U.S.-based skateboarders, but kids these days have the privilege of idolizing skateboarders from all over the world– talk about a sport that has really taken off from a popularity standpoint. As I quickly learned from watching Alai Skateboards‘ new video Alaiolé — which is available for download on their website — Spain is among the European countries with top skateboard talent. Alai Skateboards not only represents the prolific talent of Spain’s skate scene, but they are also on the ball from a artistic standpoint. Based in Barcelona and Bilbao, Alai has made some collaborations with some of the most talented urban artists in España– their new ‘big bang‘ series and their limited edition artist series are definitely worth a look.