Our core message is: make something!
Welcome to the makerspace page. We are here to help the Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota community of learners explore the world of making. The makerspace is designed intentionally to get tools into the hands of people who want to create, modify, and explore the world of tinkering, prototyping, and construction. We partner closely with the Kabara Institute for Entrepreneurial Studies to help inspire students to take their ideas and turn them into a business.
This page provides a variety of resources, such as a list of the tools we have available for use, a photo gallery of some of our most epic projects – from the absolute failures to the successes people are raving about years later. The makerspace opened in August of 2021 and quickly became a thriving and vibrant space where students from all background and majors meet and collaborate to bring their unique visions to life.
Ideation Space
This is where ideas are born and nurtured. Whether you’re dreaming up the next big thing with a group or diving deep into a solo project, this is your space to explore. From crafting intricate models to designing eye-catching visuals, we’ve got you covered with everything from popsicle sticks to high-tech tools.
Our ideation space is a hub for students, clubs, and classes alike. We’ve witnessed creative thinking by creating models of the universe, economies simulated with surprising accuracy, and mental health messages brought to life through art. Clubs have made their mark with custom t-shirts, luggage tags, and backpack designs. And for those individual sparks of inspiration, our friendly makerspace staff is always on hand to help turn your wildest ideas into tangible creations.
Fabrication Lab 1
Our Fabrication Lab 1 is a dynamic workspace where imagination meets creation. This versatile space has been the launchpad for countless student projects, from intricate stained glass masterpieces to cutting-edge prototypes. Whether you’re a student seeking a hands-on learning experience, a faculty member exploring new research avenues, or a staff member looking to bring a creative vision to life, Fab Lab 1 is your canvas.
This lab is a melting pot of innovation, where the boundaries between disciplines blur. It’s a place to experiment, to fail, and to learn. Fab Lab 1 is ready to support your next big idea. Come explore, create, and discover the limitless possibilities within these walls.
Fabrication Lab 2
Our Fabrication Lab 2 is a precision playground where technology takes center stage. Often affectionately dubbed the “clean lab” by our makers, this space is meticulously maintained to protect our delicate machinery from harmful debris.
This is where our cutting-edge Cricut tools, versatile 3D printers, and creative sewing machines reside. Whether you’re crafting intricate designs with our Cricut, bringing your digital creations to life with 3D printing, or stitching together your latest fashion masterpiece, Fab Lab 2 is your ultimate destination. We’ve carefully curated this environment to ensure that our technology-driven tools can operate at their peak performance, allowing you to focus on innovation and creation.
LaSalle 142
Discover the heart of hands-on creation in our dynamic 142 workshop. This is where raw materials meet extraordinary craftsmanship. Immerse yourself in the world of wood and epoxy, experimenting with textures, shapes, and finishes. Our state-of-the-art laser engraver adds a touch of precision and artistry to every project. And don’t miss our impressive CNC machine, a technological marvel capable of bringing your designs to life with unparalleled accuracy.
Be prepared to get your hands dirty! 142 is a haven for builders, tinkerers, and inventors alike. The air is often filled with the satisfying scent of freshly cut wood as you shape your ideas into tangible realities. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a curious beginner, this space is your playground for exploration and discovery.
Fab Lab 2 Tools
Our sewing machines are ready to stitch your imagination to life! Whether you’re a seasoned seamstress or just starting your sewing journey, our machine offer a variety of features to help you create your perfect project. From basic stitching to intricate designs, our machine are equipped with essential functions to bring your ideas to reality. Explore your creativity and discover the joy of sewing with our sewing machine!
Discover the power of precision with our serger sewing machines! These versatile machines are perfect for creating professional-looking seams with ease. Whether you’re hemming a garment, finishing a seam, or creating decorative edges, our sergers offer a range of stitches and functions to elevate your sewing projects. Experience the difference our serger can make in your creations.
Bring your designs to life with our 4-color Janome MB-4S embroidery machine! This powerful tool allows you to create stunning, customized pieces with incredible detail. From monograms and logos to intricate patterns, the possibilities are endless. Our embroidery machine offers precise stitching and a wide range of color options, empowering you to express your creativity to the fullest.
Cricut is a cutting machine that has revolutionized the crafting world. With Cricut, you can create personalized projects like never before. From custom t-shirts to unique mugs, the possibilities are endless.
Cricut Venture: If you’re new to Cricut or looking for a more affordable option, the Cricut Venture is a great choice. It’s smaller and more compact than other Cricut models, but it still offers a wide range of cutting capabilities.
Cricut Maker 3: The Cricut Maker 3 is the most powerful Cricut machine available. It can cut a variety of materials, including fabric, leather, and wood. With the Cricut Maker 3, you can create intricate designs and projects that are truly one-of-a-kind.
Cricut Hat Press: This specialized press is designed to apply heat transfers to hats. Whether you’re creating a personalized baseball cap or a fashionable beanie, the Cricut Hat Press makes it easy to add your own touch.
Cricut Mug Press: With the Cricut Mug Press, you can create custom mugs that are both beautiful and functional. Simply design your artwork, apply it to a blank mug, and let the press do the rest.
Cricut Heat Press: The Cricut Heat Press is a versatile tool that can be used to apply heat transfers to a variety of materials to fabric. It’s perfect for creating custom t-shirts, sweatshirts, bags, and more.
Bring your digital designs to life with the MakerBot Replicator+ 3D printer. This reliable machine offers precision and speed, allowing you to create intricate models and prototypes with ease. With its user-friendly interface and advanced features, you can explore the world of 3D printing and transform your ideas into tangible objects.
Preserve and protect your important documents with our laminator. This handy machine seals your papers in a durable plastic pouch, safeguarding them from damage, spills, and wear and tear. Whether you’re laminating school projects, menus, or personal documents, our laminator delivers professional-looking results with ease.
LaSalle 142 Tools
Transform your digital designs into tangible objects with our CNC machine. This high-precision tool cuts through a variety of materials, including wood, acrylic, and metal, with incredible accuracy. From intricate prototypes to finished products, our CNC machine offers endless possibilities for your creative projects. Experience the power of precision and bring your ideas to life.
Unleash your inner artist with our epoxy pouring station. Create stunning, one-of-a-kind pieces by combining resin, pigments, and other materials to achieve mesmerizing effects. Experiment with different techniques and colors to craft unique art pieces for your home or as gifts. Our station provides the perfect environment to explore your creativity and bring your artistic vision to life.
Add a touch of precision and personalization to your creations with our laser engraver. This cutting-edge machine transforms designs into intricate details on a variety of materials, from wood and acrylic to leather and glass. Whether you’re creating custom gifts, personalized home decor, or business branding, our laser engraver offers endless possibilities. Experience the power of precision and bring your creative vision to life.
Belt Sander and Orbital Sander
Achieve a smooth, even finish on your woodworking projects with our handheld belt sander and our orbital sanders. These powerful tools quickly remove material, shapes wood, and prepares surfaces for subsequent finishes. Its adjustable speed and durable construction make it ideal for both rough and fine sanding tasks. Whether you’re a seasoned woodworker or a DIY enthusiast, our sanders are a must-have for any workshop.
Tackle a variety of tasks with our selection of drills. Whether you’re hanging shelves, assembling furniture, or drilling into wood, metal, or concrete, we have the right drill for the job. Our drills feature adjustable speeds, ergonomic designs, and powerful motors for efficient and precise drilling.
Table saw, miter saw, scroll saw, band saw
Table saws are ideal for straight cuts. They offer precise control over blade height and angle, making them essential for many woodworking projects.
Miter saws excel at creating accurate angle cuts, such as miters and bevels, often used in joinery and framing.
Scroll saws are perfect for intricate curves and small shapes, allowing for detailed designs in woodworking projects.
Band saws are versatile tools for curved cuts, making them suitable for a wide range of applications.
Create precise and intricate shapes with our router. This versatile tool shapes edges, creates grooves, and forms joints with precision. With adjustable depth and speed settings, you can tackle a wide range of woodworking projects. Whether you’re creating decorative edges or assembling furniture, our router is an essential tool for achieving professional results.
Achieve precise and accurate drilling with our drill press. This stationary tool delivers controlled power and depth for drilling into various materials with ease. With adjustable speed settings and a sturdy base, you can create clean, straight holes with confidence. Perfect for woodworking, metalworking, and DIY projects, our drill press is a valuable addition to any workshop.
Our makerspace is equipped with a variety of essential tools to complement your projects. From hand tools like hammers, screwdrivers, and pliers to measuring tools like tape measures and levels, you’ll find everything you need to bring your ideas to life. We also offer safety gear, including safety glasses and ear protection to ensure a safe working environment.
Office Hours
A lot of people show up during office hours! Please email us ahead of time if you can to make sure we will be able to help you at your chosen time!
Upcoming Events
- Santa’s workshop
- Wednesday, December 4th
- 3pm-6pm
- No sign up required
- Students, staff and faculty invited
Look what some of our students, staff and faculty have made!
Professional Staff
Terra Lieser
Makerspace Coordinator
Terra is the dedicated coordinator of the makerspace, ensuring seamless operations and a thriving creative environment. With a tape measure in one paint-covered hand and a calendar in the other, she’s the ultimate organizational wizard. Terra transforms chaos into controlled creativity, providing the structure and support needed to turn ideas into reality. She thrives on helping students bring their making dreams to life, one step at a time. Beyond the makerspace, Terra also lends her organizational expertise to the Kabara Institute for Entrepreneurial Studies.
Matthew Klosky
Director of the Kabara Institute and the Makerspace
Matthew Klosky is the chaos engine that draws attention to the space and develops the “what if we” questions. He is constantly waving at people through the windows, inviting them to come in and hear about whatever the project of the hour is. If he isn’t making sawdust or burning something with the laser engraver, you will find him in the classroom teaching business intelligence concepts in the BIDA lab in Aquinas Hall.
Student Interns
Our makerspace interns play a crucial role in fostering a creative and collaborative environment. They assist in various aspects of the space, from organizing materials to leading workshops and mentoring students. Interns are encouraged to think outside the box and inspire others to do the same.
Our interns are passionate about making, learning, and sharing their knowledge. They are enthusiastic, approachable, and committed to creating a positive and inclusive atmosphere.
Priyanka (Pri)
My name is Priyanka Satish, and I’m a sophomore in the 3+2 PA program with a minor in psychology and business. I’m excited to explore digital printing for shirts and candle-making in the makerspace. Fun fact: I fly private planes!
Alyssa
Hi! My name is Alyssa Jones. I am a senior Biochemistry major at Saint Mary’s. I am very excited to create my own LED signs in the Makerspace. I’m also looking forward to working with our new embroidery machine this semester. A fun fact about me is that I love anything with chocolate, especially peanut butter and chocolate together. Therefore, Reese’s are a top tier candy.
Itunu
Hello all!! My name is Itunu! I’m a junior and a cybersecurity major. I’m excited to create wood projects and t-shirt making in the makers space! A fun fact about me is I have a black cat named Nobuo.
Policies
This is not the formal document for the policies and procedures for the SMUMN Makerspace. The formal document can be found below:
Makerspace Policies and ProceduresTo have an interdisciplinary collaboration and creation space. The Anthony ’59 and Sandra Adducci Family makerspace consists of unique workspaces where students, faculty, staff, and external partners can come together to imagine and innovate. Additionally, they can access a range of tools (manufacturing tools, technological tools such as 3D printers, a variety of software and electronics, etc.) to create, to invent, and to learn. Students from all disciplines have the opportunity to come together in this space to work collaboratively to solve real-world problems.
We encourage the making of items for:
- SMUMN coursework
- SMUMN student team/group projects
- Personal projects and hobbies
- Research projects
- Entrepreneurial projects and prototypes
The Makerspace is available to Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota (SMUMN) students, faculty, or staff. Users must possess a valid SMUMN ID card to use the space. All projects must be approved by Makerspace Coordinator, Terra Lieser (Tlieser@smumn.edu) prior to use.
The Makerspace is open regularly Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. unless previously reserved. After-hours use must be approved by the Makerspace faculty or staff. Independent use and access to the Makerspace can be given once the user’s skill proves to be proficient.
Reservations can be made by contacting Terra Lieser, Makerspace Coordinator at Tlieser@smumn.edu or makerspace@smumn.edu.
Users of the Adduci Family Makerspace agree to respect and follow Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota policies, specific Makerspace policies and procedures, and state and federal laws, including copyright and intellectual property. Specifically, we ask the following:
- Foster a culture of support, cooperation, collaboration, innovation, creativity, and Inquire about what others are doing if you see something interesting happening in the Makerspace. Make time to explain your projects and activities to others in the space if they express interest.
- Respect other users along with the space, equipment, and materials. Be responsible for your workspace and leave the space in the condition as found.
- Follow all Safety Guidelines. Be safe by being aware of your surroundings and what you are doing.
- Report the following to the Makerspace Coordinator:
- Accidents and injuries. Call 9-1-1 if needed and alert a faculty or staff member in the Makerspace.
- Broken equipment or out-of-stock materials. Alert the Makerspace Coordinator to these issues.
- Inappropriate behavior or conduct in the Makerspace.
- Other projects in the Makerspace you think are awesome and worthy of praise.
- Engage in required training for the use of specific machines, tools, or materials. If you have a doubt, ask questions.
- Keep all food and drink outside of the Makerspace. Food and liquids do not mix well with electronics and maker materials.
- Make items for positive use and do not create any tools of vandalism, weapons, weapon-like items, or drug-related paraphernalia. Unsafe, harmful, dangerous objects that pose an immediate threat to the well-being of others are prohibited.
- Display of made artifacts is encouraged. The Makerspace Coordinator will manage the display of art and artifacts in the Makerspace rooms. The Makerspace Coordinator reserves the right to remove any artifacts that are deemed offensive, harmful, and or violate U.S. copyright laws.
- Enjoy the Makerspace. It is designed to encourage innovation and creativity.
- Just Ask! The space is designed and intended in the spirit of collaboration and exploration.
Projects created within the Makerspace must respect the intellectual property of others and also follow U.S. copyright law. SMUMN reserves the right to refuse any materials or projects. Users of the Makerspace may bring their own materials and tools only if they are approved by the Makerspace Coordinator. By using the equipment in the Makerspace, the user understands and agrees that there are risks involved using the equipment and hereby accepts any and all risks.
All projects completed in the Makerspace require the Makerspace Coordinator’s approval. Please contact makerspace@smumn.edu with any questions or concerns.
The Makerspace’s 3D printers may be used only for lawful purposes. Users will not be permitted to use the Makerspace’s 3D printers to create material that is prohibited by local, state, or federal law. Unsafe, harmful, dangerous objects that pose an immediate threat to the well-being of others are prohibited. Obscene items or those otherwise inappropriate for the campus environment, including weapons and drug paraphernalia, are prohibited. Violation of another’s intellectual property rights is also prohibited. Careful and judicious choice of project scale is requested to reduce the time of print job and waste of filament. 3D prints that are not picked up within 7 days will become the property of SMUMN.
SMUMN reserves the right to refuse any 3D print request. This decision is made by the Makerspace Coordinator in accordance with university policies. The Makerspace Coordinator will have final say when determining the order of print jobs when there is a queue.
If someone is seriously injured in the Makerspace beyond what is manageable by simple first aid: [Consult with Campus Safety, be consistent with Emergency Response Plan]
- Report any incidents to the Makerspace staff
- All users must ensure that others remain safe in the Makerspace at all times
- When new chemicals/substances are introduced to the Makerspace, users must alert the Makerspace Coordinator and provide Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for all chemicals/substances.
- Proper waste material storage and removal are to be maintained by SMUMN faculty and staff.
- Personal protective equipment (PPE) must be worn at appropriate times.
- Proper Attire
- No loose-fitting clothing or jewelry shall be worn when operating machinery or powered hand tools;
- Open-toed footwear is prohibited in the Makerspace at all times;
- Clothing should be workplace appropriate;
- Long hair must be tied up and kept out of the way of machinery. Beards must also be kept secure;
- Pants are required when using power tools.
- Proper Behavior
- Users are to remain “present”: Only operate machinery when focused.
- Use of the Makerspace under the influence of debilitating medications or under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol is strictly
- Users must avoid all distractions, in particular electronic devices including computers, tablets, and phones, while operating
- Users should keep work areas as clean as possible before, during and after use, as cluttered or dirty work areas can cause accidents.
- Food and drink are prohibited in the Makerspace.
- Listening to music or any other audio via headphones or earbuds is prohibited if it prevents a user from remaining aware of their environment.
- If a user is questioning the safety of the activity they are about to perform, they should immediately stop said activity.
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- Users should seek help/guidance from a trained Makerspace staff user before they continue.
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- Users are not permitted to block fire exits or safety and first aid equipment.
- Keyed access doors must not be propped open unless done so by Makerspace staff.
- Users must respect the safety of other users while in the Makerspace, as well as their own safety.
- Users should only work with the tool appropriate for the job they are doing.
- Only trained and authorized users are permitted to operate machinery and/or hand tools.
- Users must return machinery and hand tools to their default positions or proper storage locations when they are finished working.
- Users may not bring and use their own tools unless explicit consent is obtained from the Makerspace coordinator.
- If machinery use requires keys to access equipment/supplies, users will be granted access to keys once they have been trained and authorized to operate the respective equipment.
- Users must never leave running machinery unattended.
- Machinery should never be tampered with unless the modification of said machinery is within normal operating parameters.
- When operating machinery, please review the risk chart on the official document (Makerspace Policies and Procedures) before use.
- Operation of all risk classes of machinery will require a training lecture and a hands-on walkthrough of equipment.
- Operation of high risk machinery will require the supervision of a designated supervisor at all times;
- All users must follow all SMUMN and Makerspace rules.
- Rule Violations
- Rules are considered “violated” when the action in question is easily/reasonably avoidable;
- 1st offense: user will receive a verbal warning from staff and will be provided with a review of relevant safety measures;
- 2nd offense: users will receive a week-long ban from the Makerspace. Documentation will be kept for the offense3rd offense: user will receive a semester-long ban from the Makerspace. Documentation will be kept for the offense.
- Rules will be enforced by Makerspace stuff and SMUMN Faculty and Staff. Documentation will be recorded and stored by the Makerspace Coordinator.
To ensure that all students have ample time to prepare for final exams, no new projects may be initiated in the makerspace beginning two weeks prior to the first day of final exams. Students currently working on projects may continue to do so until completion.
Exceptions: Students working on class-related projects requiring makerspace equipment may be granted permission to use the space with prior approval from the makerspace coordinator.
Unattended Projects: Any projects left in the makerspace after the final exam period will be discarded unless prior arrangements have been made with the makerspace coordinator.
With questions, please email the Makerspace Coordinator, Terra Lieser.