Makerspace

The Makerspace provides equipment, materials, and tools that promote innovation and creativity. The space is free to all U of M Twin Cities faculty, students, and staff.

Learners at all skill levels can visit the Makerspace to:

explore new technologies,
attend workshops and receive guidance on designs and tools,
prototype ideas,
build problem-solving skills,
apply technology to coursework and research,
and have fun, build community, and be creative.

Makerspace staff offer help with projects from idea to creation to project refinement.

Connect with an expert

Equipment and supplies

The Makerspace has a variety of equipment, materials, and supplies, including:

vinyl cutters,
3D printers,
sewing machines,
and soldering irons.

Guidelines

Upcoming Makerspace workshops

Workshops are free of charge on a first come, first-served basis. Registration requested.

Valentine's Day Sticker Making with the Cricut Maker and Roland Vinyl Cutter

Friday, February 14, 3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Make a custom sticker or card for your sweetie! This workshop will introduce you to sticker and card making using a Cricut Maker and Roland Vinyl Cutter.

Intro to 3D design

Friday, February 14, 3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
In this session we'll go beyond the basics of using 3D printing and learn a little bit about how to design your very own model that you can print. This session is oriented towards beginners with little to no experience with 3D design, but all are welcome to attend.

Advanced 3D printing

Friday, February 21, 3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Get started using a robust 3D design program with this brief tutorial. We’ll go over the basics of Autodesk’s program Fusion 360, including navigation the interface and generating solid objects. The workshop "Introduction to 3D Design" is a recommended prerequisite.

Introduction to the sewing machine

Tuesday, February 25, 3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
This workshop will teach you the basics of using a sewing machine, from threading the needle to learning about stitch and fabric basics. We will also talk about using sewing patterns and finding easy beginner projects!

Advanced 3D design

Friday, February 28, 3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Get started using a robust 3D design program with this brief tutorial. We’ll go over the basics of Autodesk’s program Fusion 360, including navigation the interface and generating solid objects. The workshop "Introduction to 3D Design" is a recommended prerequisite.

All Makerspace workshops

Recent Makerspace news

3D-printed gene segment models aid in active learning

Co-instructors Michelle Henry-Stanley and Donna Spannaus-Martin wanted to teach about genetic recombination using a tactile, hands-on educational tool. They connected with our Makerspace staff to produce low-cost sets of 3D printed immunoglobulin gene segments to support new ways of teaching and learning and meet their active learning goals.

Virtual reality helps physical therapy students see new answers

Teresa Bisson works with the Bio-Medical Library to bring Virtual Reality to her neurorehabilitation classroom where students are immersed in a virtual experience. Through active learning, Bisson’s students are becoming thoughtful users of technology and leaders in a new health care environment.

Helping radiology students see 2D medical images in 3D anatomy

As a radiology resident, Mickey Hafertepe has gained insights into the challenge of translating health information into medical practice. Learn how Hafertepe is using 3D printing to help students understand spatial relationships of medical imaging when viewing 3D anatomy on a 2D screen.

3D printed adaptive gaming device for Nintendo Switch controllers

Using 3D technology to reach individual goals in rehab therapy

You may know Leah Grinvalsky as a Physical Therapy student at the U of MN, but we also know her as a friend to Katrina Simons. This friendship played an important role in Grinvalsky’s first visit to our Makerspace, where she explored adaptive technology solutions to help Simons participate in gaming.

All Makerspace news