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MEHPL -- Mobile Makerspace
Processing Request
A makerspace is a place where creative people can gather, create, invent, and learn. The library’s version is a Mobile MakerSpace. Staff can set up all or part of it anywhere in the library. Whether you want to tinker with technology, such as the Makey Makey; create a replica of the Eiffel Tower using our 3Doodler pen; or just cut designs with our shape cutting machine to use in your scrapbook, the Mobile Makerspace has something for you, your family, and friends.
- Silhouette Cameo 2 Electronic Cutting Tools (designs are available)
- 3D Printer
- Glowforge Laser Cutter/Printer
- Die Cut Systems and Dies -- Ellison, Accucut, All-Star
- Makey Makey
- Sphero Sprk Edition
- Buttonmaker
- Scanner
- LEGOS
- Strawbees
- and more.
Click the Makerspace Equipment tab for information and details about the equipment available.
Please note that there is some equipment that is for use only in Library programs or by Library staff, at this time. These include the Sphero, 3D printer, Glowforge, and Eggbot. We completed procedures so that print orders for the 3D printer and Glowforge can be submitted for staff to run. Eventually, we may provide "certification" or detailed training so they become available for direct use. When we are at that point, we'll post information so you may learn more about the "certification" process.
At present, we will be hosting the following regular program unless the library is closed on a specific day. Please note the designated ages for each program.
LEGO Afternoon -- Every Wednesday from 4:00pm - 5:30pm. This program is for ages 8 and up. We'll provide the LEGOS so please don't bring your own. Don't worry, we have DUPLOS available for the younger children.
And don't forget to check the Library Calendar since the MakerSpace Coordinator will also schedule periodic programs that either highlight specific aspects of the makerspace, such as showing how to use the 3Doodler pen or Silhouette Cameo, or a specific craft, such as scrapbooking and themed-craft days.
For the most part no! General use of the space, equipment, and software is free of charge with your library card. Some equipment needs material though, such as paper, vinyl, wax, plastic, etc. Depending on the equipment you can either bring your own items or purchase them from us. Click the Fee Schedule tab to see the current makerspace fees. For instance, you may bring in your own paper, cardsotck or vinyl for use with the letter/shape cutters. The MakerSpace coordinator must approve all user-supplied materials before they are used on MakerSpace equipment to prevent damage to equipment, or harm to users within the Library.
Yes, we accept a variety of new or "like-new" items for donation, such as LEGOS, duct tape (various colors and designs); scissors, crayons, colored pencils, sticker, unopened school glue or glue sticks, markers, beads, and jewelry making supplies, etc. For information on additional items needed, contact Molli Hall at 722-1255.
Button sets-- $ .50 per button
3Doodler Pen -- $ .50 per strand of filament
3D printer -- $1.00 per print job + $0.10 per gram (for fillament used)
Eggbot -- $1.00 per print job
Fake eggs -- $ .50 each
Ping pong balls -- $ .05 each
Vinyl -- $2.00 per foot
Transfer paper -- $2.00 per foot
Card stock (8-1/2 x 11) -- $0.04 per sheet
Sticker paper (8-1/2 x 11) -- $0.50 each
Copy paper (8-1/2 x 11) -- $0.02 each
Cutting Machine Supplies
Please bring your own materials for cutting.
We have designs available. If you need a design we don't own, you may bring in your own design or you may pay us to purchase the design you need.
Manual Cutting Machines -- Ellison, AccuCut, and All-Star
Please bring your own materials for cutting.
A wide variety of dies are available for use. Ask the staff fo the binders to see if we have a design that will meet your needs.
Please note: Most items, such as paper, cardstock, etc. are straight forward supplies. Just in case though, the MakerSpace coordinator must approve all user-supplied materials before they are used on the equipment. This will help prevent damage to equipment, or harm to users within the Library.
Basic fee charge for each project: flat fee of $2.00 plus $0.10 per minute of laser time used (rounded to the nearest minute)
Glowforge "Proof Grade" materials
The price listed is the cost that Glowforge charges the library for the material.
[Note: The library cannot cut sheets. When purchasing the material, you will be purchasing the entire sheet, but you will be able to keep the unused portion.]
Hardwood (Finished) -- 6" H x 12" W x 1/8" thick -- $17.50 per sheet
Options: Walnut, Red Oak, Poplar, Ash, Maple, Cherry
Leather (Natural) -- 5" H x 10" W x 1/48" thick -- $14.00 per piece
Plywood (Finished) -- 12" H x 20" W x 1/8" thick -- $22.00 per sheet
Acrylic -- 5" H x 10" W x 1/8" thick -- $6.50 per sheet
Options: Clear, Black, Yellow, Red, Orange, Blue, Purple, White, Fluorescent Pink, Fluorescent Green
Draftboard (Unfinished) -- 12" H x 20" W X 1/8" thick -- $9.00 per sheet
Cardboard -- 12" H x 20" W x 1/8" thick -- $1.00 per sheet
Request a print job. Library staff will oversee the printing.
The Basics
3D printing is the process of creating physical objects from a three dimensional digital model. This technology has been around for awhile, but typically used by engineers and industry designers. 3D printing technology is quickly evolving and therefore public printing is becoming more common. Our unit is an Ultimaker 2, which uses plastic filament to build objects layer by layer. It can print a cell phone protective case, model airplane, or just about any object that can be designed.
Features
- Print Area: 223mm x 223mm x 205mm
- Only files in .stl format can be printed so you must Save As or Export in STL format. If given the option of binary or ascii – choose binary.
- Uses Cura software
- Prints need to run for only 4 hours or less.
What You'll Need
To have a print job printed at the library, patrons can simply save their custom or selected design on a flash drive and fill out a 3D print request form which can be picked-up at the Library or printed from the library’s website. Click here for a copy of the form. Once the 3D print request form is filled-out and returned to the Library a staff member will be in contact with details about scheduling a print job session.
You will also need the Cura software so you can view and approve your design before submitting it to the library. Designs created using other software may not print correctly on the Ultimaker.
For more information please thoroughly read the 3D Printer Guidelines and 3D Printer Request form.
Cost
The cost of 3D printing at the library will be a $1.00 per print job handling fee and an additional $.10 per gram to offset the cost of the filament. 3D print services are available to library card holders in good standing only.
Please Note:
The library will not print any item that is prohibited by local, state, or federal laws; is unsafe, harmful, dangerous or poses an immediate threat to the well being of others; is obscene or otherwise inappropriate for the library environment; or is in violation of another's intellectual property rights.
Documentation and Other Helpful Links
175 Amazing Ways 3D Printing Is Changing The World
Thingiverse -- A large online collection of 3D models created by site users.
Cura -- Free software to prepare your model for printing on the Ultimaker.
Sketchup --A great piece of software for beginning 3D modelers.
Ultimaker community--If you have questions about creating your own designs for the printer.
Painting your object
The Basics
Stamp out a variety of shape silhouettes with an Accucut machine. Make flashcards for your classroom, decorate a nursery, cut out your own holiday decorations, create signs for your next big party or celebration, and add life to your school projects. All you need is craft paper and you’re ready to begin!
Features
- Can cut multiple sheets at once
- Dozens of pre-made die to choose from
- Die Features:
- AccuCut standard wood dies have steel-rule blades that ensure a precise cut with each pass through the machine. The steel-rule blades are protected by foam that also helps to eject the shape from the die. Dies cut face up in AccuCut machines so it’s easy to see what you’re cutting.
- Compatible with the Ellison machine also if die fits in machine platform.
- Die Sizes per 8-1/2 x 11 paper
- Jumbo -- 1 per page
- Large -- 2 per page
- Small -- 3 per page
What You'll Need
Use of the machine is free. Construction paper is available. You may bring your own construction or craft paper. You may also be able to use fabric, cardboard, cling vinyl or other products. Use of other materials will need to be approved by library staff.
Documentation and Other Helpful Links
Shape Size Guides
Die-Cutting Basics with Materials Guide
Project & Lessons Ideas
Folding Techniques
The Basics
Special alignment marks on top of the AllStar dies offer quick cutting guidelines for creating perfectly cut visuals and hands-on projects for everything from scrapbooking to fundamental foundations to helping students recognize advanced concepts.Only AllStar and Bigz dies will work with this unit.
Features
- Only for use with paper and card stock.
- Easy to use
- Encased with sturdy plastic and Standard dies feature special alignment marks for an at-a-glance guide to cutting perfection.
What You'll Need
Use of the machine is free. Construction paper is available. You may bring your own construction or craft paper. You may also be able to use fabric, cardboard, cling vinyl or other products. Use of other materials will need to be approved by library staff.
Documentation and Other Helpful Links
The Basics
Running for student body president? Have a favorite band? Whatever your obsession, use our button maker to show your enthusiasm with a personalized, self-made button. The button maker is quick and easy to learn! Create buttons using fabric or paper designs.
Features
- Built-in center pivot for faster processing
- Creates 2-1/3 inch buttons
What You'll Need
Use of the machine is free. Button machine accessories must be purchased at desk.
Bring your own design – images must be scaled to 2-1/3 inches in diameter and saved as JPEG, GIF, PNG, or .DOC to be printed. You can also bring a hard copy of your image if it’s ready to go.
Cost
- Button: $0.50 per button
Currently available for library programs ONLY.
The Basics
The EggBot is an easy to use art robot that can draw on spherical or egg-shaped objects. It's designed to draw on all kinds of things that are normally “impossible” to print on such as eggs, golf balls, light bulbs, mini pumpkins, and even things like wine glasses — with a bit of work. Use it to personalize Christmas ornaments or impress your friends with masterpiece Easter eggs. The EggBot is not just a cool gadget; it’s also a great introduction to CNC (computer numerical control) and do-it-yourself robotics.
Features
- All of the electronics and software are designed to be hackable and repurposable, so you could easily computer control an Etch-a-Sketch or create something totally new.
- EggBot software allows you to control the ‘bot from within Inkscape — a superb freeware illustration program.
- Includes accessories such as:
- an electro-kistka (hot wax dispenser) accessory which allows you to create traditional decorated eggs using the wax-resist and dye method;
- an available diamond engraving tool that can etch and engrave hard materials like glass and stone;
- extra-large chassis that fits larger objects, up to 6.25" in diameter, such as ostrich eggs.
Restrictions
The basic eggbot is recommended for ages 10 and up; under 13, adult supervision is required.
The electro-kitska and diamond engraving tool may only be used by adults. Extreme caution should be used with both.
Training in the use of the Eggbot is required since some calibration is required.
What You'll Need
Use of the eggbot is free, but you'll need:
- Plastic or wooden eggs, ping pong balls, blank holiday ornaments, etc. Make sure you have extras since the eggbot will need to be callibrated and tested several times in order to ensure it is adjusted correctly.
- A design which you can create artwork using the drawing program Inkscape, and plot on your Eggbot from within Inkscape. You can download Inkscape for free, create your design, and then bring in the design on a flash drive to have it created on the Eggbot.
- Pens in the colors you wish on the object. Ultra fine point Sharpies are the “gold standard,” but many pens of a similar diameter will work, too. (Please see the Eggbot documentation for additional notes on pen choices for Eggbots.)
- If decorating eggs is your focus and you wish to use our Electro-Kistka attachment, capable of painting wax onto eggs for traditional wax-resist and dye (batik) processes, you'll need strip wax and edible dye. Please note that use of the Electro-Kitska will require that you make multiple trips to the library since the eggs will need to be dyed and dried between each color.
Cost
- Wax strips -- $0.25 each strip.
- Plastic eggs -- $0.25
Documentation and Other Helpful Links
Eggbot FAQ
Electro-Kistka attachment
Eggbot Kit Wiki -- documentation on use, accessories, Inkscape documentation, etc.
Pen Choices
Inkscape -- recommended illustrator software
If decorating real eggs is your focus, you may want to look online at Youtube for a video on how to properly empty and clean the eggs without breaking them.
The Basics
Stamp out a variety of shape silhouettes with an Ellison machine. Make flashcards for your classroom, decorate a nursery, cut out your own holiday decorations, create signs for your next big party or celebration, and add life to your school projects. All you need is craft paper and you’re ready to begin!
Features
- Can cut multiple sheets at once
- Dozens of pre-made die to choose from
- Die Features:
- SureCut Dies feature the finest quality steel-rule and genuine birch cutting block. Slightly smaller designs for matting purposes.
- ClearCrop Dies featured see-through acrylic for ultra-precise cropping.
- Encased with sturdy plastic, AllStar Dies are encased with sturdy plastic and Standard dies feature special alignment marks for an at-a-glance guide to cutting perfection.
- Sizzix Bigz Dies are also encased with sturdy and are made from high-quality wood and steel rule surrounded by foam.
- AccuCut Dies may also be used with this machine.
- Die Sizes per 8-1/2 x 11 paper
- XL -- 1 per page
- Large -- 2 per page
- Double cut -- 1 per page
What You'll Need
Use of the machine is free. Construction paper is available. You may bring your own construction or craft paper. You may also be able to use fabric, cardboard, cling vinyl or other products. Use of other materials will need to be approved by library staff.
Documentation and Other Helpful Links
What is a Glowforge?
The Glowforge 3D laser printer creates beautiful things at the push of a button. Built on laser cutter & engraver technology, Glowforge uses a beam of light the width of a human hair to cut, engrave, and shape designs from a variety of materials. You can see what it does in this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ysCaqh38JVQ.
The Glowforge is different from our 3D printer. It uses subtractive manufacturing while traditional 3D printers use additive manufacturing. A 3D printer builds up material, like plastic filament, layer by layer. With Glowforge, you put a piece of material like leather, wood, or acrylic in the machine and it carves out the product using laser light. The technical name for the category of tools that includes Glowforge is a CNC laser cutter engraver, but that's a mouthful, so the company calls it a 3D laser printer.
Features
- Print Area: The Glowforge bed can accommodate materials measuring 12” x 20". The size may be reduced somewhat when the laser operates at high speed, as it can take space for the laser to decelerate.
- Files can be submitted in JPEG, PNG, SVG or PDF format.
- Uses Glowforge software
- Project run time cannot exceed 4 hours.
What You'll Need
To have a print job printed at the library, you will need to stop by the library and pick up a copy of the Glowforge Guidelines and Policies and the Glowforge Request Form. Read the Guidelines completely so you have a thorough understanding of the policies, including any restrictions.
You will also need to determine the material you wish to have used for your project. At this time, we are restricting the material to only select Glowforge Proofgrade™ materials. These materials may be purchased from the library, but there is a limited selection at this time. You may check with the Glowforge operator to make sure we have the material(s) you wish to be used in stock. For a price list, click on the "Fee Schedule" tab of this document.
Once you've selected your design and materials, simply save the custom or selected design on a flash drive, fill out the Glowforge request form, and pay for the material to be used. To actually have your design completed, a flat fee of $2.00 plus $0.10 per minute of laser time used (rounded to the nearest minute) will be assessed for each file submitted. Projects are completed on a first come basis and you will be called when your item is completed. The library does reserve the right to refuse any Glowforge request. Also, the library cannot guarantee file print, engrave, or cut ability, nor confidentiality of designs. Removal of the masking on items is up to the patron.
For more information please read the Glowforge Guidelines and Policies and the Glowforge Request form thoroughly.
Cost
The cost of Glowforge projects at the library will be the Proofgrade™ and $2.00 plus $0.10 per minute of laser time used (rounded to the nearest minute) will be assessed for each file submitted. Glowforge services are available to library card holders in good standing only. Don't forget, only Glowforge Proofgrade™ materials will be allowed to be used in the Glowforge. Those materials are available for purchase at the library. For the materials and price list, click on the "Fee Schedule" tab of this document.
Why can't I use my own material?
A Glowforge is like a microwave - putting the wrong material in can damage it. Some plywoods can have glues that make them difficult to cut, and unknown plastics and other materials can be something other than they appear, so materials from other suppliers may not really be laser-compatible. Items that are pre-painted or lacquered, leather that is treated for consumer use, etc. may all contain flammable materials and the laser cutter could trigger a fire. Proofgrade™ materials on the other hand are specially formulated for the Glowforge 3D laser printer and are most likely to give the best quality prints.
Please Note:
The library will NOT create any item that is prohibited by local, state, or federal laws; is unsafe, harmful, dangerous or poses an immediate threat to the well being of others; is obscene or otherwise inappropriate for the library environment; or is in violation of another's intellectual property rights.
Documentation and Other Helpful Links
Thingiverse -- A small online collection of projects created by site users.
The Basics
Welcome to the world of MaKey MaKey! A world where every day objects are much more than what they appear. Bananas are more than just a curvy fruit - they’re keys to a virtual piano. Play-dough isn’t just a fun child’s toy - it’s the controlling force behind Pacman’s up/down/left/right. And your simple pencil drawings are a portal to Portal.
Features
- Makes the use of a computer more engaging as the user can make use of physical objects to simulate softwares and games.
- Does not take much skill to actually construct a controller for Makey Makey.
- Uses Scratch to program software to create games and interactive activities.You can search the internet for Scratch programs/flash games to play with.
What You'll Need
A laptop or tablet, a computer program, the Makey Makey, and some other items to use as the controller portion, such as bananas, playdough, strings, a drawing, etc.
Cost: None
Documentation and Other Helpful Links
Quickstart Guide
Scratch
PDF of ideas to come up with your own creations!
Guides, projects, videos and more
Currently available for library programs ONLY
The Basics
Sphero is the first robotic ball gaming device that you control with a tilt, touch, or swing from your smartphone or tablet. It lets you learn problem-solving skills, as well as coding/programming. They are controlled by free apps on the library's devices.
Features
- Apps make the ball into a truly smart toy. You can play golf, experience augmented-reality games such as Sharky the Beaver, or explore other apps.
- You can even program the ball yourself.
- Designed to appeal to everyone – approachable for beginners yet sophisticated enough to challenge seasoned programmers.
What You'll Need
A sphero and a library device loaded with the software, such as:
- Draw and Drive -- users can draw a picture or path, using the various colors and then press play to see the Sphero perform what they drew.
Cost: Only available at library programs at this time.
The Basics
Design your own shapes, or use pre-designed ones. Cut out vinyl decals, customize apparel, or make stickers and temporary tattoos. The Silhouette Studio design software is availabe as a free download from Silhouette America.
Features
- Studio files can be transferred to the cutter via USB stick or via a laptop.
- Images can be imported in other formats (JPG, BMP, PNG, and GIF), traced over with the system’s designer studio software, and then cut
- Machine can cut: paper, cardstock, adhesive cardstock, adhesive vinyl, fabric, heat-transfer material (e.g., designs that you could iron on cloth), printable heat-transfer material, rhinestone templates, temporary tattoo paper, vellum, and magnetic paper
- Training videos and design are available on the Silhouette American website.
What You'll Need
Use of the Silhouette Cameo Electronic Cutting Tool is free. Vinyl and colored cardstock are available for purchase.
You’ll need to bring a design in a common image format to be converted. You may also choose a ready-made design from the software’s library. You can see the designs available by clicking here. If you would like to have the design cut out using a particular color or type of cardstock, vinyl or fabric, please bring that with you.
Cost
- Vinyl: $2.00 per linear foot
- Colored card stock: $0.10 per sheet
Documentation and Other Helpful Links
Don't forget to check the individual design descriptions at the Silhouette Design Store. They often have links to videos, tutorials or other design ideas. You may also download the basic edition of the Silhouette Design Studio software for free so you can create, manipulate, and save designs at home before you bring the design to the library.
- Hobby & DIY Storage – The Guide to Creating Storage for Your Hobby's Bits and Pieces
https://www.yourstoragefinder.com/hobby-storage - Many hobbyists don't think of storage when they start their hobbies; it can get messy to try to clean-up halfway through. Check out this guide to hobby storage which includes tips for tools, supplies, and more.
- The Ultimate Guide to Protecting Your DIY & Hobbies for Artists, Builders, Hobbyists, and Tinkerers
https://www.justgreatlawyers.com/protectingyourhobbies - Whether you're a crafter creating and reselling your goods, a builder looking to create a new device or structure, a hobbyist tinkering in programming, modeling, or robots, or a tinkerer creating something new, an understanding of things like copyrights, trademarks, and fair use is important. Here's what you need to know about these important factors.
- Beyond the Books: The Library as a Makerspace
https://www.accreditedschoolsonline.org/resources/library-makerspace/ - This writeup talks about the growth of makerspaces within libraries, including in school and community libraries. It highlights the benefits of makerspaces (such as promoting cross-generational learning), how libraries are leading the charge, and also how schools are getting involved.