The evolving landscape of Industrial Design education requires a balance between theoretical instruction and hands-on experience with manufacturing processes and relevant materials. However, many traditional teaching methods do not provide sufficient opportunities for students to engage directly with fabrication and material manipulation, limiting their ability to develop practical skills essential for the industry. The lack of integration between conceptual design and real-world manufacturing techniques creates a gap in industry readiness. To address this challenge, this study explores the integration of small-scale countertop sized fabrication tools and machines within the lecture venues to create an immersive Studio-Based Learning (SBL) environment. By embedding these tools directly into the educational space, students gain hands-on experience with material manipulation, prototyping, and iterative problem-solving. This approach bridges the gap between theoretical design concepts and the realities of production, drawing on principles of Embodied Cognition that emphasise learning through physical interaction. Through engaging with a specific group of students over multiple projects, this study has demonstrated that students who engage with small-scale fabrication tools exhibit improved proficiency in traditional manufacturing methods, greater confidence in hands-on material manipulation using larger more intimidating machines, and an increased ability to apply practical skills to their own design processes. The opportunity to physically prototype and refine their designs fosters a deeper understanding of materials, production techniques, and product feasibility. Embedding traditional manufacturing approaches into Industrial Design lecturing studios not only enhances students’ technical competencies but also cultivates an innovation-driven and practice-oriented mindset, where students are not afraid to take action to initiate the process. This approach ensures that graduates are well-equipped to navigate the complexities of modern design and manufacturing industries. By emphasising hands-on learning through small-scale fabrication, this study provides insights into best practices for integrating traditional manufacturing techniques into Studio-Based Learning, ultimately contributing to a more effective and industry-aligned design education model.