Not just for engineers, a makerspace is ideal for fashion designers, graphic designers, robot builders, and anyone else who wants to create using the latest and greatest technology. What is a makerspace? It’s a collaborative workspace in a school, library, or other facility for people with shared interests to work on projects and share ideas, equipment, and knowledge. Use this list of makerspace essentials to set up yours:
- A stocked Library of educational resources on a variety of maker-related subjects, such as laser cutting, electric wiring, and 3D printing, is a must.
- Laser Cutter. Lasers can be incredibly helpful, whether engraving a design on metal, making intricate wood cuts, or adding a final flourish to a project.
- 3D Printer. 3D printing allows makers to create prototypes in a matter of hours, or for printing otherwise difficult to create parts and pieces of a project.
- A Scanner is a vital tool for digitally transferring sketches or outlines to a laser cutter or 3D printer, as well as for archiving sketches for future plans.
- Sewing Machine. Textile artists working on sewing-based projects such as clothing, embroidery, or patchwork would make use of a makerspace sewing machine.
- Screen Printing Press. Further expanding the utility of a makerspace for textile artists, a screen printing press allows makers to transfer designs onto fabrics and materials with ink.
- Video/Graphics Editing Software. For makers like photographers or videographers, editing software will come in handy in a makerspace.
Of course, these essentials are simply suggestions. At the core of any makerspace is the maker mindset of creating something out of nothing and exploring your own interests. Create your makerspace with a supply of whatever media and tools you desire.