Makerspace

Makerspace

Image of patron working on loom in makerspace surrounded by yarn and other tools

Gather with your fellow creators and tinkerers to create and learn in our new Makerspace. High-tech tools and art materials will help you embrace the DIY spirit in an exciting, state-of-the-art environment. Whether you're looking to refine a skill, share a creative experience with others or use the tools to solve a problem, you'll find ample opportunity to discover and try new things.

 

Go on a video tour of the Makerspace!

Learn One-on-One

Attend a one-on-one session! Library staff will work with you for an hour to show you a machine or help you develop a plan for making your own project. Learn a new skill or tool in this low-pressure environment. Contact cfontana@tcpl.org or register on the events calendar to make your appointment. At this time, we only accept 1-on-1 appointments with patrons ages 16+. Patrons may register for up to two (2) sessions of 1-on-1 Makerspace appointments.

Attend an Event!

We have all kinds of Makerspace workshops for children, teens and adults. Learn from a professional while working on a unique project. Library events are always free for participants.

Drop In!

Check the calendar for designated drop-in programs and open hours, which are for ages 12+ and are first-come first-served. Current OPEN HOURS are: MON 12-4, WEDS 10-12, THURS 6:30-8:15 and FRI 2-6. Make whatever you want independently during open hours, or take advantage of the knowledge of volunteers who are happy to help. Stay for a while or just stop by to see what’s happening.

Share What You've Made!

Did you make something awesome in the Makerspace? We want to see it! Send pictures to cfontana@tcpl.org or tag us @tcplny on Instagram. Hearing from patrons inspires us and helps us know what YOU want to see at the library.

Collage of makerspace photos, left to right: laser-cut TCPL logos, a hand with henna decoration, and a person embroidering fabric

Are You a MAKER?

Do you have a secret skill? Are you an ARTIST? A TINKERER? An INVENTOR? Share your skills in the Makerspace! Contact Makerspace Librarian Cady at cfontana@tcpl.org to chat about helping out, teaching, or hosting your own event in the Makerspace.

Makerspace Equipment Options

During one-on-one learning experiences and programs, you may experiment with TCPL's raw materials free of cost. If you plan to make multiples or create a large project, please plan to bring your own raw materials.

Epilog Legend Helix 50 Watt Laser Cutter/Engraver
  • View our Epilog YouTube tutorial! (Quiz mentioned in video will be uploaded soon)
  • Swiftly cut out or engrave various materials up to size 24 x 18 inches. We have birch plywood, tag board, fabric, and limited acrylic on hand, or bring your own. Ask the librarian about approved materials.
  • Inkscape vector software
  • Accepted file types for cutting are .SVG or .AI; .JPEG and .PNG will work for engraving. We will print from a PDF.
Pfaff Creative 1.5 Embroidery Machine
  • Learn how to set up and run computerized embroideries. Learn with our scrap fabric or bring your own
  • Embird embroidery creation software
  • Accepted file types are .VIP and .VP3
Makerbot Replicator + 3D Printer
  • View our Makerbot YouTube tutorial! (Quiz mentioned in video will be uploaded soon)
  • Print a small design using PLA plastic
  • TinkerCAD software
  • Makerbot software
  • Accepted file types are .STL and .MAKERBOT
Cricut Explore Air 2
  • Cut sticker vinyl, paper, iron-on and more with this easy to use tool
  • Cricut Design Space software basics will be covered to design and send your print
Logan Mat Cutter
  • Bring your own mat board, or learn using our brown tagboard
Bookbinding Press (for printmaking with lino or wood blocks)
  • Bring your own pre-carved blocks
Singer basic sewing machines
Woodworking tools/ Art supplies