The Fabrication Studio

As our makerspaces come together, I intend to dedicate a blog post to each of our four unique studios.  This post will focus on the Fabrication Studio which has quickly become my "home" in the Light Lab.

With a clear view to the courtyard through the beautiful glass doors, I can get ordering, scheduling, and anything digital accomplished while keeping my eye out for visiting students and teachers.  I've put the most hours in the organization of this room so far and it is beginning to really show.

This studio includes many unique features that help it work well for our students:

• Pull-down electric cords - particularly useful for tools and glue guns.
• Concrete floors for easy clean up
• Glass panelled closet to store noisy 3D printers when needed
• DIY sound panels
• Whiteboard table tops that flip up to allow work space to become presentation space
• Dynamic furniture that is flexible, moveable, serves multiple purposes
• Double doors for transporting large materials in and out
• Large basin sink

The Fabrication Studio

Large basin sink, cardboard storage and the laser cutter in the corner

Sewing Station

3D printers, Bulk Fabric and Plenty of Tools

Neat & Functional

From the start, I knew Fabrication would be where I would spend the majority of my non-teaching time.  It houses the most equipment of any studio with the laser cutter, 3D printers, sewing machines and woodworking tools.  This range and versatility make it feel like a place where nearly anything could be made and hopefully will be as time progresses.

Since November, our students have used it to:

• Construct wooden covered wagons
• Sew costumes for a play
• Create an interactive bulletin board
• 3D design and print Roman coins
• Build cardboard prototype castles using design thinking
• Make light-up paper circuit Valentine's Day cards

Fourth graders are currently working on individualized state projects that may incorporate laser cutting, 3D design or construction.  Fifth graders became so enthralled with their study of our solar system in science, they asked to create solar system models.  Their design plans and material lists are finished.  Each group is beginning to construct this week.

Next up, the Natural Sciences Studio.