What is the MakerSpace?
The MakerSpace is a multifunctional space designed to help the Deerfield community learn, create, collaborate, and have fun with technology. We will provide everyone with equal access to materials and resources that encourage learning in a welcoming environment.
The MakerSpace is open to all patrons of the Library, and patrons under the age of 12 need to be accompanied by an adult. There is no charge to use the MakerSpace; patrons can use up to $5.00 in materials 3 times a week. You can reserve equipment ahead of time by contacting the MakerSpace staff or using our online appointment form. Equipment and services are available to all patrons on a walk-in basis, subject to availability. Closed-toe shoes are required; no sandals or flip-flops are allowed.
We are here to help guide you in your creative project. The MakerSpace is generally a self-directed workspace; however, when you make an appointment to use the MakerSpace equipment, a staff member will be on hand to help guide you for the duration of your appointment.
Hours
Monday-Thursday: 10 am to 8 pm
Friday: 10 am to 6 pm
Saturday: 9 am to 5 pm
Sunday: Closed
*Closed during scheduled programs. Please refer to our Calendar of Events for the current schedule
Contact or Schedule an Appointment
Phone: 847-580-8929
Email: makerspace@deerfieldlibrary.org
Meet the Machines
The Digital Media Lab is located in the MakerSpace. We offer equipment for converting various types of media into digital files, including:
- 8mm and Super 8 film
- Auido Cassettes
- Non-copyrighted CD/DVD
- Film (35mm negatives and mounted slides)
- Photographs and documents up to 8.5×11.7.”
- Non-copyrighted VHS tapes
- Vinyl records
- MiniDV and Video8 tapes
We can also convert from various types of video cameras
3D printing is a process of making three-dimensional solid objects from a digital file.
The Deerfield Public Library uses one Bambu A1 Mini and three Bambu Lab P1P Printers that are available to all patrons of the library. We print using PLA or PLA+ filament.
3D Print jobs under 50 grams are free. 3D prints over 50 grams are charged at $0.10 per gram of filament. The total cost will be estimated before your print is approved. Please allow up to one week for your print to be completed.
Patrons have access to Singer Heavy Duty sewing machines, a Bernette b79 Yaya Han embroidery machine, and a JUKI serger, along with a variety of essential accessories and tools by appointment. There is no charge to use the equipment. You can bring your own materials to be approved by a staff member, or the library can provide materials such as thread and stabilizer.
The Deerfield Public Library has a Universal Laser Systems VLS4.60 50w CO2 laser for use in the MakerSpace. The laser is capable or cutting, etching, and marking a wide variety of materials. There is no charge to use the laser. The Library has a small selection of materials available for use with the laser for purchase. Patrons are also free to bring in their own materials.
Our vinyl cutting machine uses a small blade to cut digital designs out of various materials, including paper, fabric, and vinyl. It can be used to create things like vinyl stickers, decorations, and papercrafts.
The Library has a Silhouette Cameo 4 cutting machine, Cricut EasyPress 2, and Silhouette Studio design software available for use in the MakerSpace. We have a variety of stick-on and heat transfer vinyl available. Check the list of approved materials for the Silhouette Cameo 4.
Sublimation Printing is a process that infuses full-color images using special sublimation ink on sublimation-ready items. Sublimation printing allows you to put full-color logos, designs, or even photographs on items. Your full color image is printed out on an inkjet printer using the special sublimation ink. Then, a heat press is used to transfer the ink onto your object. Sublimation-ready items include coffee mugs, water tumblers, luggage tags, puzzles, and mouse pads. Be advised that not any coffee mug will do.
You must purchase sublimation-ready items. Sublimation-ready items are available at most craft supply stores. Sublimation also works on standard fabrics. The higher the polyester count, the better it will work. 100% polyester will give you vibrant, brilliant colors, while 100% cotton will look more faded.
Sublimation ink is expensive, so we price our sublimation printing at $2/page for an 8.5 x 11 sheet and $3/page for an 8.5 x 14 sheet. Makers are able to print out two sublimation sheets for free three times a week. Please see our MakerSpace Materials Supply List for our pricing policies for sublimation printing.
Large Format Printing
We offer large-format printing services to all patrons of the library. We use an Epson InkJet printer, which is capable of printing designs on 36″ roll paper. This allows you to print large posters, banners, and blueprints. Prints will be charged $5/foot of printed paper, with a maximum of up to 10 feet.
You can bring your print-ready designs to the MakerSpace on a USB drive or prepare and create designs using software available on MakerSpace laptops.
The MakerSpace features a variety of other smaller equipment available for use, including:
- Laminating Machine (up to 8.5 x 11″ size)
- Button Makers
- Sticker Makers
- Paper Cutter
- Glue Guns
- Heat Gun
Online Resources/Supply List:
Intimidated? Not Sure Where to Begin? Here are Some Project Ideas!
Embroidery Machine: Personalize clothing, tote bags, and patches, or create embroidered gifts like napkins, pillowcases, and wall art.
Laser Engraver: Engrave custom signs, jewelry, coasters, and home decor, or cut wood/acrylic for 3D models like mini furniture or displays.
Vinyl Printer: Create custom stickers, decals, storage labels, heat-transfer designs for fabric, or cut paper for cards, scrapbooks, stencils, gift boxes, and materials like fabric, leather, and wood for home decor.
3D Printer: Print game pieces, phone stands, cable organizers, replacement parts for household items, custom keychains, cookie cutters, and mini prototypes. Check out Thingiverse for ideas & files!
Sewing Machine: Create custom clothing, tote bags, pillow covers, fabric bookmarks, or upcycle old clothes into something new.
Sublimation Printer: Transfer custom designs onto mugs, t-shirts, hoodies, hats, tote bags, phone cases, pillowcases, mousepads, coasters, keychains, ornaments, and more.
