Makerspace
Mines Makerspace: Where Art + Engineering Meet
Vision
The Mines Makerspace, located on the 3rd floor of the Library, is a hub for creativity, innovation, and collaboration. This dynamic space brings together Art and Engineering (A+E) to inspire artistic thinking, foster an innovative mindset, and demonstrate how integrating STEM with Art can transform our world. By promoting interdisciplinary collaboration and engagement with the local community, A+E in the Makerspace positions South Dakota Mines as a center of 21st-century ingenuity.
Mission
A+E in the Makerspace exists to support and catalyze STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics) activities across campus. We aim to make these resources accessible to all students, faculty, and staff while fostering an environment where creativity thrives.
What Can You Do in the Makerspace?
The Makerspace is equipped with tools and materials to bring your creative ideas to life, whether for a class project, research, or personal exploration. Resources include:
- Pottery Wheels (four available)
- Clay Hand-Building and Glazing Space
- 3D Clay Printer
- Embroidery Machine
- Glassblowing/Torchwork Station (coming soon!)
- 3D Printers
- Glowforge Laser Engraver
- Plotter Printer (Free for students; department billing for academic use)
- Sewing Machines
- Hand Tools
All materials—such as clay, glaze, filament, and fabric—are provided free of charge for student use. If you’re unfamiliar with the equipment, our student staff is available to guide you or facilitate your projects.
Events and Group Use
The Makerspace is open for drop-in use during specific hours but is also available for classes, group activities, and events. Mornings (8 AM – 2 PM) are reserved for scheduled activities. If you’re interested in hosting an event or reserving the space, you can do so through the campus scheduling system here.
Hours of Operation
General Drop-In Hours
- Monday–Friday: 2 PM – 8 PM
- Saturday: 12 PM – 8 PM
- Sunday: Closed
Pottery Office Hours
- Monday: 1 PM – 5 PM
- Wednesday: 1 PM – 3 PM (Includes 3D Printing, Wheel Training, and Slip Casting, starting February 4th)
- Thursday: 1 PM – 5 PM
Firing Schedules
- Bisque Firing: Monday: Begins at 1 PM, unloaded by Tuesday ~12 PM
- Glaze Firing: Friday: Begins at 4 PM, unloaded by Monday ~8 AM
Why the Makerspace?
The Makerspace supports creative STEM endeavors, serving as a resource for students and faculty to innovate and collaborate. It is a place where engineering and art intersect to enrich education, spark new ideas, and foster a vibrant campus culture. Whether you’re
prototyping a project, crafting pottery, or experimenting with new materials, the Makerspace is here to support your journey.
If you’d prefer to email your request to the student team, you can send it here!