The Maker Space is a not for profit community resource where anybody can learn how to use digital tools, collaborate on projects or just make things for their own use. The idea is to make communities more self-sustainable, improve skills and employment prospects as well as giving people the opportunity to be more creative.
I usually run the Maker Space on the 2nd Saturday of each month, opening my workshop to anyone in the community who wants to learn how to use digital tools. There is a 3-hour morning session from 10.00-1.00 and an afternoon session from 2.00-5.00, with room for up to 3 people per session. The suggested donation is just £10. I demonstrate how to prepare a computer graphic, set up either the laser cutter, 3D printer or the router and make an object. Participants then get the chance to design and create something of their own and a truly amazing variety of things have been made.
It is always a really enjoyable day for me. At the moment this is Cornwall’s only open access digital workshop so if you want to get involved in the digital revolution or just want more information please email me: training@cnccraft.co.uk
Here is a short video of the Maker Space in action…..
And here are some of the amazing things that have been made…….
Equipment at the Maker Space includes;
- CNC router for cutting and shaping large timber based materials such as plywood, mdf as well as solid timber. It has been used to make furniture, shop signs and to fit out campervans. It has a bed size of 2440 x 1220.
- Laser cutter/engraver that has be used to make jewellery, children’s toys, leather goods and wall art, form thin ply, wood, card and leather.
- Two 3D printers. One is an ultimaker and will print things up to a 200mm cube, and a larger printer that will make objects up to a 450mm cube. They both print from a biodegradable plastic filament called PLA.
You can download designs for all kinds of things from websites like www.instructables.com or www.thingiverse.com, or you can design your own creations using freely available, open source software such as Inkscape; https://inkscape.org/; or libracad; http://librecad.org. For more complex 3D designs you can use programs like Sketchup; http://www.sketchup.com/ or Blender; https://www.blender.org/
There is a suggested donation of 10.00 per person to cover insurance and consumables. Small amounts of scrap are available, but please bring suitable materials with you if you can and some ideas of what you’d like to make. Places are limited but if you would like to come along or need some advice about a project please email me with Makerspace in the subject: aaron@cnccraft.co.uk
This is what people have said about the sessions:
“A fantastic resource for the local community. Excellent equipment and teaching.”
“Very useful and interesting course, thank you”
“Absolutely amazing. Would recommend to everyone. Enjoyed it so much”
Address and Directions
Conileigh, Skinners Bottom, Redruth TR16 5DY.
From Chiverton Cross roundabout on the A30, go through Blackwater to Smokie Joe’s Cafe. At the bottom of Smokie Joe’s car park take the road sign posted to Skinner’s Bottom. Go up the hill and straight over the cross roads, pass the old chapel on the left. Continue down the hill for 500M and the workshop is on the right. Look out for a blue converted shipping container.
Do not follow the satnav to Applewood Farm