Valerie Rios
vrios@howardcollege.edu
(to be announced)
The Dream Maker's Creation Station is a "makerspace." What's a makerspace? A makerspace is a designated area - typically in a library or learning center - that provides equipment that is open to public use. This equipment allows users to "make" items in the "space" and is most often equipment that wouldn't be affordable for the common household.
What does our Makerspace have? The HC Makerspace houses a Glowforge laser printer, a Makerbot Method 3D printer, a button maker, a sewing machine, a laminating machine, and a Cricut Maker.
Is it free? This equipment is free to use, but users will need to bring their own materials or pay for materials in the library. The library stocks 3D printer filament and button making supplies but does not keep a large assortment of materials on hand for the laser printer, sewing machine, or Cricut. Please bring your own materials for projects requiring that equipment. To learn more about prices, visit the page for each piece of equipment.
Will you create a project file for us? The library does not create project files for users, so users will need to already have their project files ready to upload. The library will, however, begin collecting names and contact information for people willing to help users create files. Our only role will be supplying that information, and we will not set prices for those designers or intervene in those services.
Do you have software we can use? Maybe. That'll depend on what software you need. Visit the "Software" tab for our latest updates.
Two different sized button makers are available in the library. It creates 1 inch & 2-1/4-inch buttons. Users will need to have their design printed on plain, thin paper. The library has tools to accurately cut the prints and turn them into buttons. Library staff does not make a user's buttons for them. Buttons are 3/ $1.00.
The library has a wide assortment of supplies and tools to make bracelets, from simply bead bracelets to woven bracelets.
The Glowforge is a laser printing machine. It cuts, engraves, and scores multiple types of materials, including wood, acrylic, leather, and paper. Use of the Glowforge is free, but users must book an appointment, bring their own materials, and have their materials approved by staff. Users must also have their own designs prepared (visit the "Software" tab for information on software that will help you prepare a design). Library staff does not create designs for users.
Review the Glowforge Manual to learn more about the Glowforge:
Where to buy materials:
Glowforge Settings Sheet:
To learn more about how to use the Glowforge, visit the Glowforge education site:
The Cricut Maker can cut, engrave, perforate and much more on multiple types of materials, including paper, vinyl, and leather. Use of the Cricut is free, but users must book an appointment, bring their own materials, and have their materials approved by staff. Users must also have their own designs prepared. Library staff does not create designs.
3D printing is available in the Big Spring campus library. The library uses a MakerBot Method with PLA filament and PVA dissolvable support filament.
What filament colors do you have? We have orange, black, and white. Print jobs should be painted for a more polished look. We do not paint the print jobs.
Who can request a print job? Anyone. This service is open to faculty, staff, students, and the community.
How much does printing cost? Printing is $0.20/ gram for students, staff, community members, and faculty making personal requests. Howard College and SWCD faculty and staff printing for educational purposes or other HC/SWCD business related purposes will not be charged.
What are the maximum dimensions of a print job? The Makerbot Method can print items 6.0" L x 7.5" W x 7.75" H.
How do I submit a print job? You can visit the library to speak with a staff member, send an email to your librarian, or make use of the "3D Print Submission" link in the box at the bottom of the page. Library staff will then contact you with a time estimate for your print job and the total cost of service.
How do I locate a 3D file to print? You have options. You can create your own print, pay someone to create a print, or use a free online service. Library staff recommends Thingiverse. Learn more below.
When/how do I pay for my print job? Print jobs consisting of more than a single print must be paid in advance. Print jobs with only one print will be paid at pick up.
How long does it take to print an item? This depends on the size/weight. Some prints can be completed in an hour, but others may take a full day. Library staff will notify you of the time frame when providing you the cost.
Would you ever deny a print request? Yes. Some items simply will not print properly (stencils, for example). If we know an item will not print, we will deny your print job. Also, if we try to print an item twice and it fails both times, we will not make a third attempt. You will be notified that the print job could not be completed.
What happens if I don't claim my print job? You have until the end of the current semester to pay for and pick up your requested print job. After that, anyone can purchase the item for the price you would have paid.
The Brother 100 stitch computerized sewing machine works well for sewing cuffs, sleeves, buttons, and other projects and works well with most fabrics. Users will need to bring their own fabric, thread, and other supplies. Use of the machine is free, but users must book an appointment. Library staff does not create designs or complete patron's sewing projects for them.
