Facilities and Storage
There is not necessarily a "right" or "wrong" way to arrange your space, and as you go you'll discover what's best for your particular space. If you visit enough Makerspaces, however, you'll start to notice a few things they have in common.
Layout, Furniture, and Workspace
Students need to gather for collaboration and sharing, freely access materials, and move comfortably from place to place. See how some of the spaces below are set up to make these things easier.
Students need to gather for collaboration and sharing, freely access materials, and move comfortably from place to place. See how some of the spaces below are set up to make these things easier.
Storage
There are many clever ways to store tools and materials, and the most efficient makerspaces have storage that is both easily accessible and securely contained when the space is not in use. The most common types of storage you'll see in makerspaces are:
There are many clever ways to store tools and materials, and the most efficient makerspaces have storage that is both easily accessible and securely contained when the space is not in use. The most common types of storage you'll see in makerspaces are:
- traditional shop storage - metal tool chests, steel cabinets, etc.
- custom storage - things you can build using tools and materials in the Makerspace
- repurposed storage or shelving
Material Storage
Storing materials can get a bit complicated as materials begin to accumulate in your makerspace (but this is a good thing!) The key is to try to stay on top of keeping the space organized with designated storage areas for different types of materials and packaging.
- stiff sheets and long bars can go on horizontal or vertical racks
- rolls and spools can be hung on bars and hooks through the hole in the middle
- smaller materials can go in bins of various sizes - small bins can be grouped using racks or bigger bins
Personal Storage
Tidy workspaces are safe workspaces - plan personal storage areas for your students to keep their belongings out of the way while they work.
Safety
Safety in the shop is critical. Therefore, every Makerspace should have
- clear, age-appropriate warnings and reminders on display
- safe handling procedures for all equipment
- first aid supplies - kit, eye wash station, etc. as needed
- personal protective equipment (PPE) and basic safety supplies - depending on the tools in your shop that could mean work gloves, disposable gloves, ear protection, safety glasses and masks
How-to Signs and Reminders
Reminders are critical in a space with multiple tools and resources - sometimes the more you learn the more you can forget. Signs can be simple words and pictures on paper, 3-D objects, or interactive web platforms.
Community Building Signs
Signs that welcome users, identify staff, celebrate students, facilitate student-teacher communication, and reinforce a sense of belonging help to create a collaborative atmosphere.
Project Display
Space is at a premium in many schools, and the Makerspace is no exception. However, if you can, it's helpful to designate spaces in or around the Makerspaces to proudly display finished projects. Show off a few smashing successes (and educational failures) on display to inform and inspire future creations.