Some Makerspace tools naturally attract attention. A laser cutter? Very cool. A 3D printer turning a digital file into an actual object? Also very cool.
But tucked among the headline-grabbers are a few Makerspace tools that deserve considerably more love. Whether you want to mend a favourite shirt, create digital art, launch a podcast, record music, or finally tackle that creative project you’ve been thinking about, these three underrated Makerspace tools might be exactly what you need.
1. Sewing Machines: Mend It, Make It
Sewing machines may not have lasers or produce tiny plastic dragons, but hear us out. They’re one of the newer additions to ORL Makerspaces, and they open up a surprising number of possibilities. Hem your pants. Repair a tear. Start a quilt. Experiment with a handmade project. Learn a skill that can help you repair and reuse what you already own.
Better yet, you can try sewing without buying a machine or finding somewhere to store one at home.
The ORL also offers tools and learning resources to help you build your skills, including video tutorials and creative programs such as mending and quilting circles. That means a project can become an opportunity to learn something new and meet other makers along the way.
2. Creation Station: Bring on the Beefy Computer
Some creative projects need more than an everyday computer. Enter the Creation Station.
These dedicated digital media computers are built for creative work, with software including Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Audition, and Premiere. Depending on what you want to make, that could mean graphic design, digital illustration, photography, audio editing, animation, video production, or other ambitious digital projects.
And the ORL is continuing to expand what these stations can do, including a new high-performance computer coming to the Westside Learning Lab. To borrow the highly technical assessment from one of our Maker Educators: it’s “beefy.”
If your home computer starts sounding like it might achieve liftoff every time you open a demanding creative application, the ORL’s Creation Station may be worth a visit.
3. Recording Studio: Your Neighbours Will Thank You
Thinking about starting a podcast or YouTube channel? Recording a voiceover? Making music? Working on an audiobook?
Good audio can make an enormous difference, and ORL audio recording studios give creators access to a dedicated, sound-protected space without the expense of renting a professional studio. They’re also a great option for musicians who need somewhere to practise and record. Turn up the creativity without turning up the volume in your apartment, basement, or spare bedroom.
Explore ORL Audio Recording Studios
What Will You Make?
These are only three of the creative tools waiting inside ORL Makerspaces. Depending on the location, you can explore 3D printers, Cricut machines, digitization equipment, video recording equipment, heat presses, sublimation printers, and more.
Some equipment requires training or certification before independent use, and availability varies by branch. Explore the ORL Makerspaces online to see what’s available near you, learn how the equipment works, and start planning your next project.
Need More Help?
Call us at 1-844-649-8127 or email help@orl.bc.ca. Please include as many details as you can about your question, account, or device. This helps us support you more quickly and accurately.
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