7 Essentials for Starting a Makerspace

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The Oxford Living Dictionary defines a makerspace as “a place in which people with shared interests, especially in computing or technology, can gather to work on projects while sharing ideas, equipment and knowledge.” Makerspaces are the new coffee shop for makers, providing them with an opportunity to share and collaborate with their peers. They also give makers a chance to use the latest technologies that they might not otherwise be able to use, guiding them to just the right machine for their project.

Figure 1: Makers can use lasers to accurately cut or engrave parts for their latest project. Here, an Epilog laser is customizing a guitar body by engraving a spider graphic that will be inlaid with wood veneer. Source: Epilog LaserStarting a makerspace may seem like a daunting prospect, but this article is here to help. Below are seven essential components for creating a successful makerspace.

(1) Literature

A stocked library is a must. A makerspace needs to ensure that its makers have access to educational resources on a variety of maker-related subjects, from laser cutting to electric wiring to 3D printing. Literature can also take the form of instructional booklets about each of the machines in the makerspace.

(2) Laser Cutter

Lasers can be an incredibly helpful tool for makers. Need to engrave a design onto a piece of metal or make intricate cuts to a piece of wood? A laser cutter could be the answer. Lasers are also great for adding a final flourish to a project. They can engrave illustrations, names, signatures or photos onto a variety of surfaces.

(3) 3D Printer

3D printing has been adopted by many makerspaces as a way to quickly create prototypes. What once could take weeks to create can now be done in a matter of a few hours. 3D printers are also used for printing intricate parts and pieces of a project that would otherwise be difficult to create.

(4) Scanner

A scanner is a vital tool for both laser cutters and 3D printers. It can be used to digitally transfer sketches or outlines of whatever the maker needs made to the machine that can make it. A scanner can also be used to archive sketches for further planning.

(5) Sewing Machine

Makerspaces aren’t just for electronics projects. Textile artists often turn to makerspaces to work on pieces such as clothing, embroidery, patchwork and a variety of other sewing-based projects. By the way, a laser cutter can be used to cut and engrave fabric, too!

(6) Screen Printing Press

Along with a sewing machine, a screen printing press can expand the utility of a makerspace for textile artists. It allows makers to transfer designs onto fabrics and materials with ink. Again, laser cutters could play a role in the level of creativity involved, as they can be used to create the intricate stencils that play an essential role in screen printing.

(7) Video/Graphics Editing Software

Makers do not only dabble in physical projects. Many are photographers or videographers looking to collaborate with others and get access to software that they might not have at home. Video and graphics editing software also opens doors for product design and marketing possibilities, and is an excellent complement to both laser cutters and 3D printers.

Makerspaces are not for engineers alone. Makers come from almost every industry, and include fashion designers, graphic designers and robot builders. Makerspaces are important spaces for people who want to create, especially those without access to the latest and greatest in technology. They also provide a space for makers to collaborate with one another.

Now that you’ve got a list of essentials…go forth, set up a makerspace and create!