Makerspace Class Project

 Hi Everyone!

If you've been following along on my blogging journey, you'll know that I started this blog as part of a course called Libraries and the Maker Movement.  

Part of the course requirement is a project made at a library makerspace.  I thought you might enjoy seeing what I came up with and learning a little about the process.  I'm not doing a step by step walk through here, but if you need one you see if your local library offers training.

My local library does not have a makerspace, so I had to look for other options. Both the Ives Squared Tinker Lab at New Haven Free Public Library (NHFPL) and the Collaboratory at the Wallingford Public Library are within a half hour of me, so I looked into what they offer.​

I toured both makerspaces and I had several ideas for a final project. However, after seeing what some of the machines can do, I decided to go for the laser cutter and etcher because of its versatility.​  I like that you can etch or cut a variety of materials, such as wood, glass or acrylic.  I was also intrigued that you can etch on a flat surface or a round object like a cup or rolling pin.  

It is also one of the machines that both libraries have on site. The machine uses a certain type of computer file to etch and cut. To make these files, you need access to the computer programs that make them. At the Wallingford Public Library, you can access CorelDRAW and at the NHFPL you can access Adobe Illustrator. Files can be converted from either program for use on the laser etcher/cutter. My husband has an Adobe Creative subscription, so I have access to this program at home which was convenient.

As I said in a previous post, I chose to schedule an appointment at the NHFPL to have a one-on-one session with a librarian to learn how to use the machine and get my card registered to use it on my own. I actually learned how to use the rotary attachment at a second appointment too, but that was not used for the projects I'll show you here.

Rose, the librarian who taught me to use the machine, was very patient and helpful. Since I had not Adobe Illustrator experience, she gave me a quick overview of the basics. That short tutorial was enough for me to create 2 simple projects.

Rule 1
Don't leave the machine unattended

Rule 2 

Turn on the air filter before use.​

One thing I like is that it's easy to preview where the laser will etch and cut using the red laser pointer on the machine.  You essentially set it up to print, but leave the machine open.  This is an important step so you don't waste materials.

Remember that making is a process of trial and error.  Not everything will work out, even if you set things up properly, preview, etc. 

Part of my learning curve included the materials I was using.  In the first project I worked on I used acrylic.  The acrylic sheets I bought have paper affixed to prevent scratching in transport.  I originally took the paper off and etched/cut on a dark green translucent acrylic.  It was hard to photograph that color while in process, so I've included a photo of one I made  another day later.  ​

Then the librarian told me you can leave the paper on and remove later, so I tried it that way.

Something to note is that one sheet of six keychains took just over 12 minutes to etch and cut.  Times vary dependent on what you create. It's a lot of fun to watch the machine etch and cut, but eventually the novelty wears off.  Bring something else to do while you wait.  Make sure it is portable and don't get too engrossed, because you still need to keep an eye out for issues.

Now back to the learning curve. I discovered that if the paper is left on, it sticks and causes issues.

The paper is tacky and when you add heat from the machine the adhesive melts.

The acrylic also melts around the cut edges, which you can see at the bottom.

It is really difficult to remove the paper/adhesive.

When the pieces without the paper come out of the machine, I just had to give a quick wipe to remove any dust. However, it took me almost 10 minutes to get one piece that had paper on it clean.

In a side by side view, you can also see that the one etched with the paper on looses all the detail in the eyes and the lines are generally less crisp overall.

Printed with paper

Printed without paper

All in all, I lost six pieces (one piece of acrylic) and completed thirty over 2 days.

I also completed a second, spur of the moment, project.  I had 2 craft sales upcoming and thought about business cards too late.  I had already purchased acrylic and wood to try on the laser etcher, so I copied my Instagram QR Code and made up a quick file.  I was able to test the QR code while the printer was still going, so it was exciting to see that it worked.   I won't do the whole run through, but I wanted to show you that it is easy to switch to different materials once you know how to use the machine.  I'm looking forward to trying the rotary attachment to make some rolling pins and etched mason jars soon.

This course has inspired me to learn more about all the different offerings that my local library makerspaces have to offer.  I already have a  bunch of ideas to create on the laser cutter/etcher and learning how to use other machines and services will only expand the possibilities.  I hope that my journey so far has inspired you to go out and visit a library makerspace near you!  I will do my best to continue to share via my blog once my class is over.  Please feel free to reach out if you have any suggestions on what library I should visit next or a machine that I need to try.

 

Visit the New Haven Free Public Library (NHFPL)

Welcome!  

Today I'd like to introduce you to the New Haven Free Public Library's (NHFPL) Ives Squared Tinker Lab.  There are several branches of the NHFPL and the Tinker Lab is located at the main branch, right across from the New Haven Green.

If you live in Connecticut, in order to access the library's resources, all you need to do is bring your library card and a photo I.D. with your current address and speak to a staff member.  They'll have you fill out a short form with your contact information and get your card registered to use at the NHFPL.  Once your card is registered, you can use any of the library's services.

The Tinker Lab is very easy to access through the main entrance of the library.  You'll find it to the right through a large archway. The space is bright and open.  

One thing I love is that they have incorporated bookshelves with books on everything from crafting to coding to D.I.Y. all around the room.  

When you first enter, you'll also see that they have computers available for creating files to use on the various machines.  You'll need to use your library card to log in to the computers to work.  While each machine has it's own computer, it's preferred you use the stand alone computers for design work. This is both to free up the machines for use and also because the various machines and computers have time limits.

Something to keep in mind is that several of the machines require training for safety reasons.  These include the 3D printer, laser cutter/etcher, vinyl cutter and Carvey CNC machine. Until you take the training, your library card will not be given access to logging in at these particular machines.  You can also request a training on other offerings like the embroidery machine.  The library offers a couple of avenues for training. 

One way is to watch their online video and then come in for a twenty minute "test" with a librarian to make sure you understand how to use the machine.  They ask that you call before coming in to test so that they can make sure someone is available.  

The second way is to use their online schedule to come in for a one on one session with a librarian, who will walk you through the use of the machine and do the test all at once.  I opted to schedule an appointment since I'm a hands on learner.  The one downside to the one on one sessions is that they only open a few sessions in the schedule at a time.  They open the dates for 2 weeks out each Monday.  So, if you have a deadline (gift making perhaps), this can be tricky.  I wanted to learn how to use the laser etcher and rotary attachment, which requires two certifications, so between forgetfulness and the classes booking fast, it took me several weeks to get my card registered for both.  The great part is that I can now use the laser etcher whenever I'd like.

I've visited this makerspace several times and I've noticed there is usually someone using a 3D printer.  It's obviously a popular offering.  There is a sign above reminding folks that they are limited to one print per day.  The Cricut machine is also at this station.

While the Cricut machine can cut vinyl, the vinyl cutter is available for larger pieces.

The Carvey CNC is for, as you can imagine, carving.  As with many of the machines, you can see examples above on the wall.

There are items that have been made on the various machines on display too.

I also appreciate that there is ample signage to give people information and note the rules.  

There are four large work tables in the middle of the space.  I've seen folks hand sewing, using the embroidery machine, making collages, and more.  I will also note here that there are many labeled cabinets that I haven't explored.

One thing I didn't take think to take a picture is the great instruction guides at every station.  They are laminated and have an O ring to keep them together.  They can be found on the counter or hanging from a peg on the board near the machines.  That way, if you have forgotten a step in completing your project, you can refer to the instructions.  If that isn't enough, I have found the library staff to be very friendly and willing to help.

While I've only covered some of what the NHFPL Tinker Lab offers, I hope I've given you enough of a tour to peak your interest in visiting!