The UM Makerspace is a new area for students to explore technical skills and use machines to bring their projects and ideas to life. It’s located in the University Center at the heart of campus and is a collaboration between the Office of Research and Blackstone LaunchPad.
To learn more about the Makerspace and how it works, and what resources are available to students, I interviewed Jordan Crawford, the Student Life Program Manager of both the Makerspace and the UM Vault - a one-stop shop in the UC for handmade and unique art and gifts.
Read on to discover how students can use the Makerspace to create innovative projects and ideas:
Crawford described the Makerspace as “a creative hub where innovation meets hands-on learning […] it’s a collaborative space equipped with cutting-edge tools like laser cutters, classic sewing machines and a serger station, empowering students, faculty, and staff to bring their ideas to life.” Crawford also highlighted the availability of the Makerspace to be open to all members of the UM community.
When asked about what tools students can use in the Makerspace, Crawford listed “two laser cutters, a Cricut machine, a large vinyl cutter, heat press, sewing machines, a serger, and an embroidery machine.” Students can use these tools to make stickers, sew a fabric arts project, or engrave their favorite water bottle with a cool design.
In addition, Crawford said that the UM Makerspace has “power tools, jewelry making tools, leather making tools, sewing kits and more.” These tools allow students to have more freedom when prompted to do a creative project for a class or patch a hole in a shirt. The possibilities are endless for creativity and progress.
Crawford recounted how they "recently had a Grand Opening for the Makerspace and UM students’ staff or faculty had the chance to create a wooden coaster with the laser cutter, or they could pick out iron-on patches to put on a trucker hat or tote bag.” The UM Makerspace holds events for students to try something new with guidance and support.
For more specific, student-driven projects, Crawford said, “We have had a few students over the past few weeks use the sewing machines and Cricut. One student made a hat using the sewing machine and the other student used the Cricut to design a graphic for some shirts they had.”
When asked what makes the Makerspace important, Crawford described it as “handing students the keys to innovation. Not every student can afford expensive tools or tech, but the Makerspace gives everyone the chance to create, experiment, and build—regardless of major or background.”
Additionally, Crawford described its use toward classroom knowledge: “Students can apply classroom concepts in a tangible, hands-on way, which deepens understanding and sparks curiosity.” The Makerspace gives students a chance to challenge their learning and extend it into a physical product of curiosity that enhances their knowledge from their classes.
Crawford describes how the Makerspace is a place to try new things: “Whether you’re an engineering major or a design student, the Makerspace gives you the freedom to try, fail, and try again. That process builds creative confidence and resilience.”
Crawford also mentioned that the Makerspace is “a natural gathering point for interdisciplinary teamwork. Artists, coders, engineers, and entrepreneurs all cross paths, leading to innovative projects and fresh perspectives.”
Finally, Crawford connected the Makerspace to life after college: “Learning to use real-world tools, think like a maker, and work in collaborative environments preps students for the job market—especially in industries that value innovation and problem-solving.” The opportunity to prepare for the future through honing in on these skills is significant in a student's college career.
When asked what the Makerspace has coming up in the coming semester, Crawford says they’re “excited to offer different events for the UM community. From workshops to crafting evenings, the possibilities are endless. [They] will be posting all future Makerspace events on GrizHub, so the UM community should be checking that next semester.”