The purpose of this document is to provide instruction on how to utilize MakerSpace resources.
The MakerSpace at the Kimmel Computer Lab is a public space where people can come to learn, collaborate, and work with advanced tools and make their ideas a reality. The MakerSpace is a multi-functional space that is both a computer lab and a place to design and build. At the MakerSpace you'll find, high-end computers, 3-D printers, an embroidery machine, milling machines, laser engraver, vinyl cutter, and Z-space/3-D modeling software.
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Visiting the MakerSpace:
1. The MakerSpace is located in the Kimmel Computer Lab.
2. The MakerSpace operates at the following times:
- Summer Hours:
- Mon-Friday: 10am-4:30pm
- Academic Year Hours:
- Mon-Thurs: 10am-10pm
- Friday- Sunday: 12pm-6pm
3. Use of equipment other than the 3D printers requires an appointment and advanced notice.
Steps to Embroidery:
1. An appointment is required to use this equipment
- Contact a full-time staff member by calling: 315-443-2677 or e-mailing: mkrspcpm@ot.syr.edu
2. User will need to come with an image they will would like to embroider
3. User will have to digitize the image by one of the following options:
- Option 1: Have someone digitize for you
- Send JPEG image to digitizer website (Ex: Fiverr)
- Company sends preview to user for approval.
- If user approves image, user send digitizer fee (5$ and up)
- Company sends. EXP/. DST file to user
- Option 2: Digitize yourself
- Due to limited licensing availability, user will work with staff at one machine
- User is able to create files using Design Shop
- User can then go to MecloUniversity.com to view tutorials on operating design shop (view Video content> Basics> Quick tour gives description of design shop software. Next> Digitizing process)
- FTE will assist in tracing image and setting stitch direction
- Once finished, user exports OMF file
4. All materials require various preparation
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| Hooping: Staff secures fabric on a “hoop” | Backing: materials will get “stabilizer” or backing to stabilize fabric while machine is embroidering design. | Topping: if necessary, a clear sheet of plastic is applied over design. After topping is applied it is dissolved when washed.
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5. User and FTE will Load OMF file into Embroidery Machine
6. Consult with Makerspace Staff to determine what materials will be needed concerning backing, colored string, or embroidered fabric
7. When design is loaded Staff centers design on machine
8. When fabric is locked in place, machine will do broad overlying stitch to secure stabilizer to fabric
9. Simple prints take 2-5 minutes; more complex design may vary
- Staff recommends testing designs before sewing onto final product
Steps to Laser Engraving:
1. User must first request an appointment with a Makerspace FTE (Fulltime Employee).
- Requests for use can currently be made by calling: 315-443-2677 or emailing: mkrspcpm@ot.syr.edu
3. User comes in with desired image and file (including Illustrator/CAD files)
4. User brings in materials; (Plastics are not permitted).
Machine is limited to: 1ft x 2ft materials; ¼” cuts/score/etches
6. Makerspace Staff uploads design on connected computer
7. Staff adjusts laser speeds and line size
8. Staff primarily sets up and runs laser for safety reasons
9. Average jobs 5-10 minutes, cuts are quicker than engraving
Steps to 3D Printing:
1. User walks up to the employee station (located right as you come down the entrance ramp) to request a print.
2. User can bring in a .STL file or sit and learn Tinkercad at a workshop or one-on-one consultation.
3. The employee will ask for the user’s information and create a work order. They will also attach the user's original STL file to the order in case problems occur.
4. Employee and user will take STL file and import it into the MakerBot application on their computer.
- Size, position, and placement changes can be made to the print.
- Raft, supports, infill and other printing options can be modified to the user's desire
5. Printers available are: Makerbot 5th Gen, Makerbot 2, Makerbot 2X, and Gigabot (used for bigger prints)
6. The print file is previewed so the user can see what the final product will look like (this includes print time, and print weight)
7. The print file is exported and saved to the thumb drive and now ready for printing
8. Employee will plug usb into the printer and save the print file into the internal memory
9. Employee will load/change filament before printing. (insert picture: of filament)
10. Makerspace provides materials (basic colors and 1.75 filament) up to 150G Prints.
- IF PRINTS ARE OVER 150G, USER MUST PROVIDE THEIR OWN FILAMENT
- USERS ARE PROVIDED ONLY 200G OF FILAMENT PER WEEK
- SU Bookstore supplies filament on their 3rd floor
11. The user will receive an email with their work order (they will also receive an e-mail when the print is finished).
12. Prints can be loaded until closing
13. Please note that prints are processed on a first come first served basis and may take several hours.
Steps to Vinyl Cutting:
1. User walks up to the employee station (located right as you come down the entrance ramp) to request a print.
2. User provides computerized image to print (i.e.JPEG)
3. Employee will import file, load, and trace file in Roland Cut Studios
4. Makerspace does provide limited materials/colors to print
5. Employee will change vinyl for multi-layered projects
6. Oracal 631 is used for indoor vinyl and 651 used for outdoor
7. Employee will cut piece
8. User can then “WEED” vinyl and remove excess vinyl from piece.
