What is a Maker Space?

Did you know that the first prototypes for smartwatches (i.e. pebble and iwatch) were created in a maker space?

What is a Maker space?

If you have been paying attention to education recently, you may have heard the word "Maker", "FabLab" or "Hacker space" pop up every now and then, related to the DIY movement. However, it is about much more than fixing broken things. The Maker movement has grown around a community of enthusiasts in arts, electronics, woodworking, metalworking, textiles and programming. They are spaces where anyone can come to create, or just get advice from experts and amateurs alike who all have a passion to learn new things and make something cool.

Some examples of some of the tools you may find at a Maker space include:

Saws
Drills
Lathe
3D Printer
Laser Cutter
CNC Machine
Sewing Machines
Welding Torch
Soldering Iron
and almost any other tool you could need for any project!

While some maker spaces include the materials in the cost of their membership, Others require you to bring in your own materials in order to help keep membership costs down. The first option is ideal for regular makers that need access to all kinds of materials for small projects that don't want to invest a bunch of money in their own resources. The second option is better for making bigger projects where materials can be shared and reused for other parts or projects. Either way, most Maker spaces are welcoming to amateurs, professionals and entrepreneurs alike. This is the perfect place to get help with a DIY project, learn a new skill for fun or your job, and use the space to prototype your ideas and start your own business!

STEM & STEAM

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering/ Entrepreneurship, and Math/ Making) education has become very prevalent in our public schools across the country. The concept of experiential learning has helped many students to find a new passion for education and in some cases, it has even helped kids with learning disabilities come out of their shell and learn about something that could actually provide them with a job in the future.

By contrast, STEAM (same as above, but adds in the Arts) adds an element often put to the wayside during decisions about our children's education. Arts programs, including music, painting, and even shop class are usually the first programs to get cut from public education due to what is seen as a lack of importance in our society. I believe it is important to include art in all of our education because as important as it is to learn about science and math, we also need people to create beauty in our world. If you can combine a passion for art with certain math or science knowledge, you can make some amazing things!

This is what can happen when you combine art and math!

Denver Metro Private Maker Spaces

If you live in the Denver metro region, and you are wondering where some of these Maker Spaces are, here is a helpful little list to get you started! Click the logos below to go to their website!

Denhac - Denver

Tinkermill - Longmont

The Gizmo Dojo - Broomfield

Solid State Depot - Boulder

Pikes Peak - Colorado Springs

Phoenix Asylum - Boulder

Loveland Creator Space - Loveland

Fort Collins Creator Hub - Fort Collins

Famous Makers and Youtube Channels

Denver Metro Public Maker Spaces

Erie Community Library

Boulder Public Library - BLDG 61

Louisville Public Library

Mamie Doud Eisenhower Library - Broomfield

There are many STEM Schools in the Denver area that offer an entire curriculum based on STEM education. However, many public schools are starting to install mobile maker spaces, permanent fab labs in the libraries and robotics and engineering courses in high school. Many public libraries are also beginning to have maker spaces and offer classes to teach you how to use the equipment safely so you can use it to make whatever you want! Check with your local library to see if they have a maker space. In the mean time, here is a short list of public maker spaces that are also kid friendly!

There are many famous makers. You may just not realize it! Look at the pictures of famous makers below and see if you recognize any of them. Then check out some of the videos I have posted below of some of my favorite Makers on Youtube. Please check out their other videos on their channel.

ADAM SAVAGE

The host of TV's "Mythbusters" is probably the most recognizable maker. He has continued his passion for making by working with Make Magazine and has a maker Youtube channel called "Tested".

RON SWANSON

Ok. I know Ron Swanson is just a character on a TV show. However, Nick Offerman is also one of the most recognizable makers. Much like the character he plays on TV, Nick Offerman likes to unwind in his woodshop.

STEVE JOBS & STEVE WOZNIAK

The creators of a little company called Apple. They started out building computers in Steve Jobs' garage. Much like many maker spaces or hacker spaces today, the idea is to share information so we all learn more!

ELON MUSK

One of today's more prolific inventors. He is the founder of SpaceX and Tesla Automotive. His drive and ingenuity are propelling us into an amazing future.

SIMONE GIERTZ

The "Queen of 'crappy' robots" has gained a lot of fame over the last year. Her robots are as entertaining as they are useless. Check out her youtube channel for a great mix of humor and education.

DORIS SUNG

Doris is the creator of "Breathable Architecture" inspired by a desire to make buildings more responsive and use less energy. Check out her Ted Talk or the featured video from The Creators Project.

LAURA KAMPF

From Koln, Germany, Laura is quickly growing as a Youtube favorite of mine. Check out her channel where she has a vlog and talks about her path to becoming a maker. She does woodworking, welding and shows off all kinds of great ideas for things you can do!

LAURA KAMPF

HEDY LAMARR

This actress produced movies throughout the 1930s, 40s, and 50s and was billed as "The Most Beautiful Woman in the World." However, she was also a prolific inventor who helped create the foundation for modern day GPS, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth.