If you haven't stopped by Parkade Plaza to see the progress of MACC's new makerspace, the before and after is striking. Although progress slowed during the pandemic, staff is now putting the final touches on the MACCLab and working hard to get the space open to the general public.
This is a state-of-the-art collaborative space that brings innovative, top-of-the-line equipment and tools to a community workspace with creative entrepreneurs in mind. The unique space allows for makers and doers of many ages and skill sets to develop and improve their trade. Not restricted to students, this space is for the community at large and will offer monthly and annual memberships. Members will be required to take and pass a Makerspace safety class.
The MACCLab comes fully equipped with state-of-the-art machines and tools including a full service woodshop, metal shop, and CNC shop allowing carpenters, fabricators, programmers, mechanics, and more to build and improve their skills and craftsmanship. Also, there is a large general space that can be used for a variety of self-starters and creatives. Here you will find 3D printers, computers, electronic equipment, wide format printers and vinyl cutters for large print jobs and framing. Finally, there is a large section of the space dedicated to textiles and crafts. This space features sewing machines, a long-arm quilter, an embroidery machine, precision cutters and more.
This is a truly collaborative space open to all makers, creators, entrepreneurs and doers, ensuring access to learning opportunities for all students and community members. So stop by, check out their progress, and meet Maggie Holper, the MACCLab manager.
A key part of the MACCLab makerspace is classes--not just to ensure member's safety but to help makers expand their skill sets. They are seeking paid instructors for the following classes:
Intro to Woodworking
3-hour access class introducing the woodshop equipment, safety protocols, and uses. The proficiency of the students will be tested through the creation of a small wood project. All materials are provided within the class fee.
Intro to Framing
1-hour access class introducing the picture frame and mat cutting tools as well as safety protocols, and uses. The proficiency of the students will be tested through the creation of an 5x7 photo frame. All materials are provided within the class fee.
Basic Metal Works
2-hour access class introducing the metal shop equipment, safety protocols, and uses. The proficiency of the students will be tested through the creation of a small project. All materials are provided within the class fee.
Lathe Access Class
1-hour access class introducing the metal lathe, safety protocols, and uses. The proficiency of the students will be tested through the creation of a small project. All materials are provided within the class fee.
Metal Forming
1-hour access class introducing the box and pan break and plate shear as well as safety protocols, and uses. The proficiency of the students will be tested through the creation of a small project. All materials are provided within the class fee.
Metal Milling
2-hour access class introducing the CNC Mill and Bench Milling machines as well as safety protocols, and uses. The proficiency of the students will be tested through the creation of a small project. All materials are provided within the class fee. Additional training in AutoCAD is available.
Intro to CNC Routers
2-hour access class introducing the CNC routers as well as safety protocols, and uses. The proficiency of the students will be tested through the creation of a small project. All materials are provided within the class fee. Additional training in V-Carve and Coreldraw will be available at a later date.
Intro to Vinyl Cutting
2-hour access class introducing the GCC vinyl cutters and the Cricut Maker machine a well as safety protocols, and uses. The proficiency of the students will be tested through the creation of a MACCLab t-shirt. All materials are provided within the class fee. Additional courses in heat transfers and cricut use will be available at a later date.
Intro to Heat Transfers
2-hour access introducing the heat transfer software and printer along with the heat press uses and safety protocols. The proficiency of the students will be tested through the creation of a MACCLab mug. All materials are provided within the class fee.
Intro to Longarm Quilting
1-hour access class introducing the HandiQuilter Simply Sixteen as well as safety protocols, and uses. The proficiency of the students will be tested through the creation of a small quilted tapestry. All materials are provided within the class fee.
Intro to Machine Embroidery
1-hour access class introducing the Melco Bravo embroidery machine as well as safety protocols, and uses. The proficiency of the students will be tested by embroidering a totebag. All materials are provided within the class fee.
If you're interested, please contact Maggie Holper, the MACCLab manager.
