Frequently asked questions

Currently the data lab (room 1.12) is open, allowing for collection of equipment from our new loans service and collection of 3D prints from our new print queue.
The workshop (room 1.11) is open on a booking basis to a very limited number of users who have completed inductions.

Currently this is only available to staff and Students of the university, not alumni.

Yes.

We are currently running online workshops that teach about various maker related software or you can contact us for advice.

Yes. All visitors to the main library must wear a mask at all times while inside. In addition the makerspace has hand sanitiser for use on entry to the room.
The library also currently operates on a one-way system with 2m social distancing to be followed at all times.

Yes! Restriction easing means you can drop in to collect a 3D print, loan, cardboard vr headset or to ask a quick question without a booking - but you can't stick around for extended periods of time yet without a booking.

Yes, come in to pick one up.

Restriction easing means you can now sign up to our induction sessions if you want to work in the workshop.
If you just want to loan equipment you can complete our Loans sign-up - this will allow you to loan equipment from the studio.

Feel free to drop into the studio to take a look around or book an induction session to get started using our kit.

Check out our current opening times

Yes, once you have an alumni card giving you access to the library, drop us an email and we will be happy to book you into an induction session. Please note your hours of access will be limited to 10am-5pm.

Yes, you are able to use the makerspace as a result of the SCONUL program. Once you have access to the library drop us an email and we will be happy to book you into an induction session.
Please note your hours of access will be limited to 10am-5pm.

Unfortunately at this time only students, staff and alumni of Edinburgh University and those with SCONUL access can use the makerspace facilities.

Edinburgh University staff and students (but not alumni) who are also inducted users can use our loans service. Some equipment requires you to have completed relevant training.

Yes - as soon as you've completed your Induction, you can drop in any time during our opening hours and chat to our staff. If it's really busy we might make an appointment with you to discuss properly.
You can also get in touch online.

Drop into the studio when we are open or check out our contact page.

You can sign up to our mailing list, check out our events page and also follow us on social media for other exciting updates.

All the equipment in the studio is free to use, basic materials are also provided for free such as 3D printing filament and wood, but can only be used within the makerspace.

Yes, you must ask for express permission first though and ask again any time you want to use a different material.

All details of our equipment can be found on the equipment page

 We have a limited amount of storage space that you can keep a small project in. Remember to write your name, contact details and name on your box.

Let us know!  We’ve bought a number of tools for users because they asked. We also have polls where you can let us know which equipment we should get next. Alternatively check out these other resources.

You can find our scheduled trainings on our events page, after attending a session you will be added to the list of trained users for that piece of equipment.

The makerspace is regularly recruits students to join the Makerspace team, with both voluntary and paid roles including technical support, marketing and project evaluation. For 2020/21 we will be making use of the University’s Unitemps service to recruit. We would recommend adding your details there if you are interested in working with us.

Yes, all users must agree to abide by our code of conduct before completing their induction.

The Makerspace operates on an assisted self-service basis, our staff are happy to provide training and support but are not able to carry out work for you.

The Makerspace is a free, non-prescriptive service with a remit to provide access to new and transformative technology to the whole of the University of Edinburgh. While equipment can be used for coursework, we are unfortunately unable to prioritise urgent work. If you are making to a deadline or require a more managed service, we recommend these alternatives.
Please do not assume the Makerspace equipment will be available for course submissions, contact your course organiser for more information on available resources.

Yes, see our code of conduct for more details.