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Makerspace

Makerspace at Santori Library with tables, stools, machines, and rolls of colorful vinyl.

Makerspace Hours

Monday - Thursday:

1 - 7 p.m.

Friday - Saturday:

1 - 4 p.m.

The Makerspace closes at 5 p.m. on the following dates:

  • Wednesday, April 14
  • Thursday, April 23

Appointments

Appointments are not required, yet guarantee machine availability for your visit.

Make an appointment by calling 630-264-4117 or online here. Appointments must be made at least one day in advance.

Schedule an Appointment

The Heat Press is currently unavailable due to maintenance. Small heat press projects may still be completed; please call the Makerspace at 630-264-4203 with questions about your project.

Available Machines

Bambu Labs X1-Carbon 3D printer

3D Printing

The Makerspace has a pair of Bambu Labs X1-Carbon 3D printers that print in PLA. PLA is a safe, high-quality biodegradable plastic filament.

Mint green Cricut cutting machine

Gray and blue ScanNCut machine

Cutting Machines

The Cricut Explore Air 2 and the Brother ScanNCut SDX 125E can be used to cut designs out of a variety of materials. Create a design with the Cricut Design Space, then cut on cardstock or other materials up to 2 millimeters thick.

The Brother ScanNCut scans and traces your designs and precisely cuts them out. The ScanNCut can cut material up to 3 millimeters thick.

Heatpress machine

Heat Press

The Makerspace heat press can transfer your designs to fabric, hats, and mugs! Single-color heat-transfer vinyl cut on the Roland GS-24 or Cricut Maker 3 can be used, as can full-color designs printed using our sublimation printer. Make promotional materials for your business, or creative goodies for your family and friends! 

The Heat Press is currently unavailable due to maintenance. Small heat press projects may still be completed; please call the Makerspace at 630-264-4203 with questions about your project.

White and silver laser cutter

Laser Cutting/Engraving

The Makerspace has two laser cutters available for customer use: the Epilog Mini and the Glowforge. Our laser cutters can cut and engrave a variety of materials, including wood, acrylic, leather, cardboard, and more! Materials for laser cutting, including specialty items such as cutting boards, keychains, and coasters, are available for purchase.

Large printer on wheels printing a poster of a smiling face

Plotter Printer

The HP can print posters up to three feet wide on a variety of materials, including glossy, heavyweight, adhesive, and outdoor paper. Grommets are available for certain materials.

White and black printer machine.

Sublimation Printer

The sublimation printer can print full-color designs created using the Makerspace’s creative software onto fabric, plastic, or metal sublimation blanks. 

Rowland brand vinyl cutter

Vinyl Cutter

The Roland GS-24 can cut vinyl decals up to two feet wide in an assortment of colors. Oracal 651 permanent outdoor adhesive vinyl is available for purchase in the Makerspace and can be used on windows, vehicles and more. The Makerspace also has a supply of Siser Easyweed Vinyl which can be used with our Heat Press to create your very own T-shirts!

Software

  • Affinity - This all-in-one graphic design software is used for vector design, digital illustration, and photo editing.

  • Adobe Acrobat Pro – Adobe’s PDF editor 

  • Adobe Illustrator – Adobe’s drawing program that allows you to work with vectors.

  • Adobe InDesign- Adobe’s layout software allowing you to create flyers, menus, and brochures. 

  • Adobe Lightroom- Adobe’s photo management software. 

  • Adobe Photoshop – Adobe’s painting program that can edit photos, create graphics, and more.  

  • Bambu Studio - This slicing software is optimized for use with Bambu Labs 3D printers.

  • Blender - This software is a 3D creation suite used for 3D modeling and animation.

  • Corel Suite 2025 – Drawing and painting software 

  • Cricut Design Space – This software allows you to access the Cricut and cut a variety of materials. 

  • GIMP - This software is an open-source alternative to Adobe Photoshop.

  • Roland CutStudio - This software allows you to easily prepare designs for vinyl cutting.

Pricing

3D Printing PLA: $.05 a gram

Siser Easyweed HTV: $3.00 a ft

Oracal Outdoor Sticker Vinyl: $1.00 a ft

Standard, Heavyweight, Photo Paper: $5.00 a ft

Outdoor Banner Paper: $10.00 a ft

Sublimation Printing (Sublimation Sheet Size (8.5x11)): $1.00 a sheet

Laser and Sublimation Materials: At cost

FAQ

Where is the Makerspace located?

On the 1st floor of Santori Library.

When is the Makerspace open?

Monday - Thursday from 1 - 7 p.m. and Friday - Saturday from 1 - 4 p.m.

Do I need to have a reservation to use the Makerspace?

No, the Makerspace is open for walk-in use. A reservation for a specific machine may be made to guarantee availability. A customer without a reservation can use an available machine for up to 1 hour.

How long can I reserve a machine for?

A customer or group of customers can reserve a single machine for 1 hour per day. Reservations will be honored up to 15 minutes past the scheduled time.

Can I make multiple reservations each day?

No, each customer or group of customers is limited to a single reservation per day.

Can I use the Makerspace machines independently?

Yes, all customers are encouraged to use the machines independently. Staff are available to teach new customers the basics of operating the machines, offer troubleshooting help, and process payment for materials.

Are there any machines I can't use independently?

The 3D printers and sublimation printer are operated by Makerspace staff.

What safety precautions are there in the Makerspace?

Makerspace supplies include rubber gloves for working with certain glues or paints, heat-resistant gloves for operating the heat press, and an air purifier. Makerspace staff may require customers to use safety precautions when working on certain projects. A signed facilities and equipment waiver is required from all customers before use of the Makerspace machines.

How long can I stay in the Makerspace?

There is no time limit on using the Makerspace. Customers may use a machine for more than 1 hour so long as no other customers are waiting to use it; if another customer is waiting, the first customer should end their use of the machine within 10 minutes of being notified.

How old do I have to be to use the Makerspace?

Customers over the age of 12 are allowed to use the Makerspace. Customers under the age of 18 must have a caregiver's written approval to operate Makerspace machines.

Can I use the Makerspace without a library card?

Yes, we welcome any customers to use the Makerspace regardless of where they live.

What does it cost to use the Makerspace?

Materials for all machines are sold in the Makerspace at cost. Customers are required to use the provided materials for the plotter printer, 3D printers, and vinyl cutter.

Can you bring in your own materials?

Yes, customers are welcome to bring in outside materials for use with our Cricut, laser cutter, or heat press. Please note that all materials must be reviewed by Makerspace staff to ensure that they are safe to use. It is recommended that customers bring in a receipt showing where the material was purchased and what its intended use is.

Can I send requests to the Makerspace from home?

3D print requests may be sent to Makerspace staff using the 3D printing request form. Makerspace staff cannot accept remote requests for any other projects.


Upcoming Programs

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Thu, Apr 30, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Santori Library - Technology Lab 218
Learn programming basics with Java here at your local library.

Sat, May 02, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Santori Library - Study Room 315
Walk in and meet one of the library's Digital Navigator Career Coaches. No appointment necessary. Reúnete con un asesor profesional de la bliblioteca. ¡No se requieren citas!

Wed, May 06, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Santori Library - Teen Program Room 224
Want to upgrade your wardrobe or create a gift? Come and assemble a pair of flower earrings made from pieces cut out from our Makerspace's Epilog laser cutter. All materials will be provided.
This event is full

Mon, May 11, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Santori Library - Technology Lab 218
The GNU Image Manipulation Program, or GIMP, is a free, open-source image editor with similar functionality to Photoshop. Join us to learn the basics and explore how to use this powerful digital tool.
This event is full

Tue, May 12, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Santori Library - Technology Lab 218
Learn how to use Microsoft Excel to create a budget for yourself or your family.

Thu, May 14, 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Santori Library - Study Room 315
Walk in and meet one of the library's Digital Navigator Career Coaches. No appointment necessary. Reúnete con un asesor profesional de la bliblioteca. ¡No se requieren citas!

Mon, May 18, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Santori Library - Meeting Room 125,Meeting Room 125/126 Combined
Come to the library to paint a Settlers of Catan game piece for your next board game night.

Tue, May 19, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Santori Library - Technology Lab 218
Aprende utilizar Microsoft Excel para crear un presupuesto para ti o tu familia.

Wed, May 20, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Santori Library - Makerspace Room 119
Explore your creativity by painting on a ceramic coaster with a flower design. Choose your colors and paint your flower as unique as you are!
This event is full

Thu, May 21, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Santori Library - Meeting Room 125/126 Combined
Create your own shadow box filled with flowers and vibrant colors!
This event is full

Tue, May 26, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Santori Library - Study Room 315
Walk in and meet one of the library's Digital Navigator Career Coaches. No appointment necessary. Reúnete con un asesor profesional de la bliblioteca. ¡No se requieren citas!

Rescheduled
Thu, May 28, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
New date Tuesday, May 26, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Santori Library
Walk in and meet one of the library's Digital Navigator Career Coaches. No appointment necessary. Reúnete con un asesor profesional de la bliblioteca. ¡No se requieren citas!

Thu, May 28, 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Santori Library - Study Room 315
Walk in and meet one of the library's Digital Navigator Career Coaches. No appointment necessary. Reúnete con un asesor profesional de la bliblioteca. ¡No se requieren citas!

Thu, May 28, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Santori Library - Technology Lab 218
Further your programming basic knowledge with Java in part two of our Introduction to Programming class.
Registration opens Thursday, April 30 2026 at 9:00am

Mon, Jun 08, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Santori Library - Makerspace Room 119
Curious about cutting machines like the Cricut Maker 3? Join us in the Makerspace to learn how to create a design in Cricut Design Space and then cut it on our vinyl sticker material. 
Registration opens Monday, May 11 2026 at 9:00am

Wed, Jun 10, 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Santori Library - Study Room 315
Walk in and meet one of the library's Digital Navigator Career Coaches. No appointment necessary. Reúnete con un asesor profesional de la bliblioteca. ¡No se requieren citas!

Wed, Jun 10, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Santori Library - Technology Lab 218
Join us to learn how to set up and use Libby, Hoopla and Kanopy?three free apps that let you borrow ebooks, audiobooks, movies, and more using nothing but your library card.

Sat, Jun 13, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Santori Library - Study Room 315
Walk in and meet one of the library's Digital Navigator Career Coaches. No appointment necessary. Reúnete con un asesor profesional de la bliblioteca. ¡No se requieren citas!

Mon, Jun 15, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Santori Library - Makerspace Room 119
Join us in the Makerspace and see how to use our Epilog laser machine to cut out a small wooden plant trellis that will support your plants as they flourish!
Registration opens Tuesday, May 19 2026 at 9:00am

Tue, Jun 16, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Santori Library - Meeting Room 125
Come to the library to do a paint along in the style of Bob Ross's classic PBS show!
Registration opens Tuesday, May 19 2026 at 9:00am

Tue, Jun 23, 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Waubonsee Community College - Aurora Downtown Campus Library, 18 S. River St., Aurora, IL 60506
Learn more advanced skills for using Microsoft Excel at Waubonsee Community College! This is the first part of a two-part series.

Tue, Jun 23, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Waubonsee Community College - Aurora Downtown Campus Library, 18 S. River St., Aurora, IL 60506
¡Ven a aprender y practicar los conceptos intermedios de Microsoft Excel en la biblioteca del campus Aurora Downtown de Waubonsee Community College!

Tue, Jun 23, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Santori Library - Makerspace Room 119
Stickers, buttons, keychains, t-shirts, and more! Come see what you can make with the machines and technology in the library's Makerspace and make your first project for FREE. Ages 12 - 18.

Wed, Jun 24, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Santori Library - Study Room 315
Walk in and meet one of the library's Digital Navigator Career Coaches. No appointment necessary. Reúnete con un asesor profesional de la bliblioteca. ¡No se requieren citas!

Wed, Jun 24, 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Santori Library - Study Room 315
Walk in and meet one of the library's Digital Navigator Career Coaches. No appointment necessary. Reúnete con un asesor profesional de la bliblioteca. ¡No se requieren citas!

Wed, Jun 24, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Santori Library - Makerspace Room 119
Feeling patriotic? Come to the Makerspace and paint a wooden sign for Independence Day, cut on our laser cutter! It'll be the perfect decoration for your holiday party!
Registration opens Monday, May 25 2026 at 9:00am

Thu, Jun 25, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Santori Library - Makerspace Room 119
Join us in the Makerspace to design and customize your own tumbler!
Registration opens Thursday, May 28 2026 at 9:00am

Tue, Jun 30, 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Waubonsee Community College - Aurora Downtown Campus Library, 18 S. River St., Aurora, IL 60506
Learn more advanced skills for using Microsoft Excel at Waubonsee Community College! This is the second part of a two-part series.

Tue, Jun 30, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Waubonsee Community College - Aurora Downtown Campus Library, 18 S. River St., Aurora, IL 60506
¡Ven a aprender y practicar los conceptos intermedios de Microsoft Excel en la biblioteca del campus Aurora Downtown de Waubonsee Community College!

Mon, Jul 06, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Santori Library - Technology Lab 218
Aquí aprenderá las habilidades básicas para usar el ratón y el teclado. Registro requerido.
Registration opens Monday, July 6 2026 at 6:00pm

Wed, Jul 08, 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Waubonsee Community College - Aurora Downtown Campus Library, 18 S. River St., Aurora, IL 60506
Learn important tips for resume building at Waubonsee Community College! This is the first part of a two-part series.

Wed, Jul 08, 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Santori Library - Study Room 315
Walk in and meet one of the library's Digital Navigator Career Coaches. No appointment necessary. Reúnete con un asesor profesional de la bliblioteca. ¡No se requieren citas!

Wed, Jul 08, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Waubonsee Community College - Aurora Downtown Campus Library, 18 S. River St., Aurora, IL 60506
¡Ven a aprender usar Microsoft Word para crear un currículum profesional en la biblioteca del campus Aurora Downtown de Waubonsee Community College!

Sat, Jul 11, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Santori Library - Study Room 315
Walk in and meet one of the library's Digital Navigator Career Coaches. No appointment necessary. Reúnete con un asesor profesional de la bliblioteca. ¡No se requieren citas!

Tue, Jul 14, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Santori Library - Technology Lab 218
Come to the Makerspace and learn about making and formatting PDF files for large-format printing.
Registration opens Tuesday, June 16 2026 at 9:00am

Wed, Jul 15, 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Waubonsee Community College - Aurora Downtown Campus Library, 18 S. River St., Aurora, IL 60506
Learn important tips for resume building at Waubonsee Community College! This is the second part of a two-part series.

Wed, Jul 15, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Waubonsee Community College - Aurora Downtown Campus Library, 18 S. River St., Aurora, IL 60506
¡Ven a aprender usar Microsoft Word para crear un currículum profesional en la biblioteca del campus Aurora Downtown de Waubonsee Community College!

Wed, Jul 15, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Santori Library - Teen Program Room 224
Let's paint wooden leaf coasters created using our Makerspace's laser cutter!
Registration opens Wednesday, June 17 2026 at 9:00am

Thu, Jul 16, 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Waubonsee Community College - Sugar Grove Todd Library, Collins Hall, Sugar Grove, IL 60554
Learn more advanced skills for using Microsoft Excel at Waubonsee Community College! This is the first part of a two-part series.

Thu, Jul 16, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Santori Library - Makerspace Room 119
¡Acompáñanos en una clase de Introducción a Cricut!
Registration opens Thursday, June 18 2026 at 9:00am

Mon, Jul 20, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Santori Library - Technology Lab 218
Tinkercad is a free web app for 3D design that's easy to learn and accessible for all ages. Join us as we explore the basics of this app and learn how to make our own 3D designs.
Registration opens Monday, June 22 2026 at 9:00am

Wed, Jul 22, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Santori Library - Study Room 315
Walk in and meet one of the library's Digital Navigator Career Coaches. No appointment necessary. Reúnete con un asesor profesional de la bliblioteca. ¡No se requieren citas!

Wed, Jul 22, 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Santori Library - Study Room 315
Walk in and meet one of the library's Digital Navigator Career Coaches. No appointment necessary. Reúnete con un asesor profesional de la bliblioteca. ¡No se requieren citas!

Wed, Jul 22, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Santori Library - Technology Lab 218
Don't take the bait! Join us to learn how to spot common internet scams, including phishing emails, fake websites, and suspicious links, so you can browse, shop, and bank online with confidence.

Thu, Jul 23, 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Waubonsee Community College - Sugar Grove Todd Library, Collins Hall, Sugar Grove, IL 60554
Learn more advanced skills for using Microsoft Excel at Waubonsee Community College! This is the second part of a two-part series.

Wed, Jul 29, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Santori Library - Makerspace Room 119
Feeling inspired to design, but don't know where to start? CorelDRAW is the software of choice for Makerspace creators, and we're here to help.
Registration opens Monday, June 29 2026 at 9:00am