What is a “makerspace”?

A makerspace is quite simply a shared space dedicated to making. Makerspaces can be anywhere, any size, or target any kind of making: a basement with a sewing table, the corner of a school classroom with craft supplies, or a commercial facility with tens of thousands of square feet of dedicated machine shop space. A makerspace is a place where folks who share an interest in making can gather, share ideas and knowledge, and collaborate on projects.

Okay… so what is “making”?

Adam Savage (maker and former co-host of Mythbusters) describes making as taking your point of view and using it to bring something into the world. It doesn’t matter if that thing is a chair, a novel, a quilt, a cake, or a line of computer code - it all counts as making to us if you’re putting part of yourself into it. We don’t see any reason to draw lines and exclude any kind of craft from making! 

What kind of makerspace does Open Workshops operate?

Our makerspace is approximately 2500 square feet split between two floors, including a machine shop area, craft room, 3D printing and electronics lab, classroom for 12, and a lounge space with snacks and comfy chairs. It's a great place to work on paper, needle, and fabric crafts, 3D printing, CNC and laser cutting and engraving, electronics, woodworking, programming, or just to spend some time in a third place around other crafty people!  Cost constraints mean we've started small, but we hope to grow to support robotics, woodworking, metalworking, and more in the future.

Where is the Open Workshops makerspace located?

Our address is 1532 N. Opdyke Rd., Auburn Hills, MI 48326.  We share a building and entrance with DENNIS Uniforms, and occupy the front suite of the building (#400).

What hours of operation does Open Workshops offer?

Our standard hours of operation are listed on the home page of our website.  As a small, volunteer-run organization, the hours are subject to change - the space will often be open outside the standard hours and may occasionally be closed during standard hours.  If there's a time you want to use the space but it's not open, let us know - we may be able to find a volunteer to open it for you!

What are your shop rules, policies, and procedures?

You can read all of our policies and procedures in our Member Handbook, availble on our public drive.  A physical copy of the handbook is also available for reference in the shop.  All staff, members, and guests are expected to follow the rules in the handbook.  If you'd like clarification on anything in the handbook or have specific questions not covered, feel free to ask a staff member or email info@open-workshops.com!  We'll go over some of the common questions in the FAQ below.

How much does it cost to use the makerspace?

If you're just visiting to check out the space and take a tour - nothing! Additionally, all visitors get a "free trial" day, where you can work on a project in the shop without a membership or day pass.

A membership with Open Workshops is $25/month and includes full access to the tools, equipment, and shared supplies in the makerspace. Alternatively, a day pass is $10 and includes the same rights.

We also offer family memberships and reduced-rate need-based scholarships; see our Member Handbook for details.

What if I don't know how to use a specific tool?

Not a problem - all members must complete a training and safety briefing on the power tools and large equipment before using them. If there's a hand tool or other piece of equipment you're not sure how to use, our staff are happy to help you out!

Do I have to bring my own materials or supplies? Can I store those materials or projects at the shop?

We have a stock of free "scrap" materials and basic supplies (glue, paint, tape, etc.) We also have a small stock of common materials such as acrylic available for purchase at near-wholesale cost. We don't have everything, though - if you're wondering about a specific material or supply, feel free to email us or ask on our Discord server. Please be considerate when using shared materials and supplies - if you're going to use a significant amount of something, please consider bringing your own, donating a replacement, or donating a few dollars our way to cover a restock.

If you're working on a specific project and have a specific material in mind, you'll probably want to bring your own. We have limited space for member-owned materials and in-progress projects at the shop; space is first-come, first-served, members are limited to one project, and projects or materials must fit into a 2' x 2' x 1' space. Please read the posted signage and label and date all materials or projects - or they may be moved to the scrap shelf or discarded!

Are children or teenagers allowed to use the makerspace?

Yes!  Getting the next generation interested in making is critically important. Please note that all children and teens under the age of 18 must have a parental waiver signed by a parent or guardian to enter the shop and must be listed on a family membership.  Children under the age of 10 must be under direct parental supervision at all times; children and teens aged 11-15 must be under direct supervision while using tools or equipment. Teenagers aged 16-17 may use the space in the same fashion as adults.

Is Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) required?  Do I have to bring my own?

Safety glasses are required in the machine shop at all times; hearing protection is recommended when machines are running. A limited number of safety glasses, dust masks, ear muffs, and face shields are available to borrow as needed, and foam ear plugs are also available. That said, you may be more comfortable bringing your own equipment if you have some - that's a-ok!

What kind of classes does Open Workshops offer?

Our plan is to offer a range of classes and workshops targeting a broad set of experience. Currently, we offer introductory classes on popular topics such as 3D printing, laser cutting, and computer-aided design, but we have several more classes and workshops in the works.

How much do classes cost?

Classes typically cost $15/hour and run for two hours, for a total cost of $30. Some classes or workshops may cost more to cover materials or supplies, or may run longer or shorter; check the event listing for details.

Do I need to be a member to attend a class?

No, you don't need a membership or day pass to attend an Open Workshops-hosted class, workshop, or event; however, it's a very welcome way to support our mission and organization!

Can I host an event or themed "night" at the makerspace?

Absolutely! Please fill out our Event Request Form so we know what to expect. Be aware that for events that aren't hosted by Open Workshops, either all attendees must have a membership or day pass, or an hourly space rental fee will apply. We may be interested in officially hosting some events, with you in the lead - we'll let you know if that's something we want to discuss.

I have a great idea for a class or workshop!

Fantastic! Get in touch with us on Discord or by emailing info@open-workshops.com, and we'll help you develop that idea into an event you can host. We have an incredibly talented community, and we want to empower anyone who is interested to lead a class or workshop on the crafts and topics that interest you!

Is Open Workshops a nonprofit?

Yes! We’re a 501(c)(3) nonprofit with the mission of improving the accessibility of STEAM education and engagement. Every dollar of donations and fees we receive is invested back into the organization and community.

How do I donate money, time, equipment, or supplies to Open Workshops?

First of all, thanks for your interest! If you're an individual, check out the Donation & Volunteering page; if you're a business or nonprofit organization, see our info on Sponsorship & Partnership. Your support keeps us moving!

Are donations to Open Workshops tax-deductible?

Yes! Open Workshops is an IRS-registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so monetary and in-kind donations to our organization are tax-deductible.

Are other payments tax-deductible?

Unfortunately, since you get something of value in return from membership fees, class tuition, etc., the IRS doesn’t consider them to be tax-deductible.