What is a FabLab?
A FabLab is a place brimming with opportunities for learning and innovation, bringing individuals, communities and businesses together. It can be used for education, technological empowerment, skills and technical training, team building, individual projects, problem solving, grass roots research, high tech business incubation and to help turbocharge prototypes to market.
FabLab Sunderland
FabLab Sunderland is part of a global network of digital fabrication spaces that provide 3D printers, laser cutters, vinyl cutters and a CNC router. Think of it as your own personal factory in the heart of the city, a place where you can make (almost) anything. It provides a unique space where you can walk in with an idea in your head and walk out with that idea in your hand!
How Can You Use It?
The FabLab is open to you in various ways.
Pay and Play
This is ideal for you if you have an idea in mind, or feel inspired to make something, and specifically want to work on your own project. You will be able to rent the machines by the hour and only pay for the time and materials you use. The FabLab team will be on hand to advise as and when needed.
Workshops
FabLab holds many workshops which are designed to introduce you to the machinery and a variety of digital fabrication skills. There will be different difficulties of workshops so you can progress your maker skills as you go along. For beginner workshops, no previous experience is required. All workshops must be booked online and the price will include your machine time as well as reasonable materials, so there will be nothing more to pay on the day.
Group Activities
The FabLab can be booked for various events, such as team-building activities, conferences, product launches or children's parties. All events can be tailored to individual needs to create a truly bespoke experience.
Education
The FabLab welcomes school and community groups of all ages and abilities. The Lab can directly enhance the curriculum with STEAM activities, and can be a great way to link digital technologies with science, technology, engineering and mathematics, amongst others.
Commission FabLab
If you don't have time to make it yourself, the FabLab team is available to commission. They can work on anything from prototypes to bespoke signs, including gifts and one-off items.