Good morning Fish! Happy MLK day 2024!
Hackerspaces were invented in Berlin, Germany, for nerds who lived in cramped apartments and didn't have the space for an electronics fabrication bench. They have since made it to the USA as "makerspaces" and expanded in scope. There will usually be several 3d printers, a laser cutter, and an electronics bench.
Depending on the space available and member body, they may include
- Machining, metalworking
- Joinery, woodworking
- Soft arts, sewing
- A computer/gaming lab
- Ceramics, casting
But the building is just a place, and the equipment is just tools. To me, the most important thing about the makerspace is the people. There are always weird nerds. And I love nerds.
You can find a makerspace on one of the self hosted "makerspace directories" (they keep crashing or getting replaced every couple years). A lot of libraries have a makerspace program! (usually a couple 3d printers). Sometimes they have joint ventures with colleges.
They tend to be more rare in rural areas where people can just put a shed in their backyard.
Have you joined your makerspace? Are you having fun? Tell us about it!