What is a “Makers Space” and why would you want to join?
This particular space exists in Kokomo, IN. We are fortunate we have a dedicated shop and we have a lot of toys, not all the toys but a lot. When Bill was living in MI and we were the set and prop masters for a start up theater we had no tools and no shop there. We would make things in our shop in IN and then drive them 4 hours to MI in an open bed pickup truck. Rain, snow, sleet, wind it was painful and had to be well planned out. Enter the makers space, it was local to the theater, it had tools and space to work in and the cost was $50 a month. We did not even have to purchase a year membership we could do a month by month. That particular one offered a key so that we could come and go as we needed to.
Makers spaces will also, often, offer classes, demos, access to experts as well as a community of creators you can learn and teach and expand your skills. Have you ever wanted to learn about 3D printing but didn’t want to commit to buying one before you tried one? Or have hands on learning rather than cyber learning? Maybe you don’t have room or a budget that will allow you to add a lathe or CNC machine to your shop the makers space might have these tools available. You can play with things that your budget and space don’t allow you to own. This is how you can start turning your dreams into reality.
Maybe you are ready to upgrade a tool and you want to give back to the community see if there is a makers space near you. They might love to have a donation and since most are 501’s you might be able to get a tax deduction. If you love something and want to share that passion with others talk to the makers they might love to have you volunteer to offer a class, do demos, hang around to offer help to the community. During our between times in MI we missed the shop, the creating, the relaxation and well being that comes from making things. Volunteering at a makers space is a great way to stay connected to that even if you can’t have a space of your own.
If you are near Kokomo, IN and want to check out what the space looks like and learn more about the community check out their facebook page here.
Meanwhile, go make stuff, have fun, make the world a better place.
