What is the equipment, and what can it do?
Cricut and Cricut Equipment
Cricut Maker 3
The Cricut Maker 3 is a versatile, high-performance cutting machine designed for crafting and DIY projects. It can cut over 300 materials, including fabric, vinyl, paper, and leather, making it ideal for a wide range of creative endeavors. Maker 3 allows users to create custom designs for home décor, personalized gifts, apparel, scrapbooking, and more. With its compatibility with Cricut’s Design Space software, users can access a library of ready-made designs or create their own, bringing their ideas to life with ease and precision. Patrons can enjoy the library’s pro subscription to the Design Space software for full access to design elements. Consult the Digital Services Department with questions regarding necessary materials to purchase.
Cricut Heat Press
The Cricut Heat Press and mug press are used to infuse iron-on materials such as ink and vinyl onto an object. A Digital Services Librarian will determine an ideal time and temperature for the press and use it to affix your design to your chosen object.
Sublimation Printer
Brother SP-1
A sublimation printer is a specialized printer that uses sublimation inks to transfer designs onto specified materials, by applying high heat. The heat creates a chemical reaction which permanently infuses the design on to the object you are transferring to. The sublimation printer requires a sublimation blank in order for the design to transfer. These designs will not infuse unless it is a sublimation vessel. If you want a shirt or a mug with a personal picture, various colors, and for it to be long lasting and permanent, sublimation is a great option for that project. The cost to print is $2.00 per sheet.
Laser Engraver
Boss Laser Engraver
Cut or engrave a variety of materials using our state-of-the-art laser engraver. Materials include wood, glass (no crystal), and slate. Schedule an appointment with a Digital Services Librarian to help design your next project.
Large Format Poster Printer
HP DesignJet Z9
Print large-scale versions of your marketing materials and artwork with our HP DesignJet Z9 poster printer. Choose between three paper options: matte, glossy, or canvas. The cost to print is $1.00, $2.00, or $3.00 per foot, respectively.
3D Printers
3D printers work by using computer software to design or download a special file type (.stl, .obj or .thing). These files are added to slicing software, which enables it to be read by the 3D printers. Once initiated, the material heats up and is dispensed through a nozzle (extruder), and the model is printed layer by layer to create a three-dimensional object from bottom to top. You can create the designs yourself on CAD software (like TinkerCAD), or you can download them from a website like Printables, Thingiverse, or Cults3D. Many are free, but you can also purchase them if you wish to do so. Price to 3D print is .10 cents per gram. Disclaimer: When purchasing files, avoid models that are used for Resin printers.
Embroidery Machines
Embroidery Machines work similarly to 3D printers, as they also use specialized files and software to create and read designs. The machine can stitch a pre-programmed design onto fabric, where the fabric is held taut in a hoop, and the machine automatically moves the needle to create the desired pattern by following instructions from the digital embroidery file. All the Maker has to do is change the thread, and the machine prompts you when, and what color to use for the design. Our SE600 works with a USB and the PE545 can be used with USB or Bluetooth design transfer.
Other Stuff
Button Maker
We have a button maker that uses specified supplies to create personalized buttons. Button makers work by pressing an image around a metal backing and then sealing the image with a plastic cover.
Ellison Die Cutter
Ellison Die Cutters are like cookie cutters, but for crafting! The Ellison Die cutter is a hand-operated machine that uses pre-designed metal “dies” to precisely cut shapes out of paper, cardstock, and other materials
VR
Virtual reality (VR) is a technology that creates a simulated 3D environment that users can explore and interact with in a realistic way.
Podcast Equipment
We have all that you need to create your own podcast in the library. This includes the following equipment:
- Premium USB microphone with blue voice
- 12-input master bus audio mixer
- Kensington classic over-ear headphones
- Professional studio arm
- All necessary cords and adapters
- Digital Support Librarian assistance
What is the space like?
The Makerspace is a place where patrons can come and create by using technology or traditional methods. We also have staff on hand to guide you with your projects. They can be booked for one-on-one appointments to help you with a makerspace project or just help you with anything technology related. We like to think you are only limited by your imagination in this space.
Why is makerspace important?
The Makerspace is important to the community because it allows people to use technology they may otherwise not have access to. The Makerspace is also important because it is staffed by knowledgeable staff members to help you complete any project and learn about all the great things offered in the space.
What will the public be able to use on own/classes?
If desired, patrons can learn how to use the Cricut Machine, Embroidery Machine, Ellison Die cutter, Button Maker, Podcast Equipment, and Sublimation Printer with Digital Services instruction, via One-on-One appointments or through monthly program offerings. After being properly instructed on how to use the equipment, patrons may use these independently. However, appointments are recommended to ensure there is no overlap on using the machines.
Patrons can learn how to search and create 3D models, but staff will be operating the 3D print machines. Patrons also will not be required to use the heat press machines. This is due to safety and risk of burns as the equipment gets very hot.
Apart from workshops focusing on our making equipment, patrons will also find a variety of technology-themed classes offered in the lab, including utilizing Microsoft’s suite of programs, designing your own website and mobile applications, creating graphic design artwork with Canva, and much more.
Stay tuned to see what else our Makerspace will have to offer the community!