Are you an inventor, a maker, someone who loves to craft and create? Often big ideas come with big investments in technology or equipment. But with the Fab Lab at Lake Michigan College, we can take you from inspiration to creation in one space.
The Fab Lab at Lake Michigan College is an open-access digital fabrication studio and collaborative workshop. That means you'll have access to the information, tools, software and space you need to invent and create.
What can I create at the Fab Lab?
If you can dream it, you can make it! At the Fab Lab, you'll have open access to design software, high-tech tools and more. Here's just a brief list of some of the items we offer at the Fab Lab:
- Laser cutters
- 3D printers
- Vinyl cutters
- Woodshop
- CNC router
- Hand tools
- Adobe Creative Suite software
- Serger
- Embroidery machine
- Walking foot sewing machine
You can find a detailed equipment list in our LMC Fab Lab Manual.
What if I'm not sure what I want to make, or I need inspiration?
No problem! Maybe you know exactly what you want to create but aren’t sure how to get started. Or, you’re familiar with the tools but aren’t sure what to make. We offer low-cost, hands-on workshops on a variety of topics and tools. Our workshops give you great training and inspiration for your next creation.
Have an idea for a workshop? We're happy to host or help plan workshops for all ages and interests. Please contact us at fablab@lakemichigancollege.edu.
When is the Fab Lab open?
The Fab Lab will be closed when the Benton Harbor Campus is closed. Open Lab Hours are subject to change based on events/workshops held in the Lab. Follow us on Facebook for updates.
Maker Mondays - Explore with the Experts
From noon to 6 p.m. each Monday, drop in to the Fab Lab and inquire about your projects or take a tour of our lab. This is a great time for the public to inquire about the lab and see if it meets your needs to complete your project(s). We are open throughout the week for private appointments as well. Please email fablab@lakemichigancollege.edu or call 269-927-4851 to reserve a private appointment.
WOW Series - Weekly Opportunity Workshops
These workshops could span 1-3 days and cover a variety of topics, including seasonal workshops. Please click the button below to see our current “WOW Series”.
REGISTER FOR WORKSHOPS >> APPLY FOR SCHOLARSHIPS >>
New Workshops for 2022-23 include:
- Customized Monopoly Boards
- Woodworking - Build A Wooden Planter
- Learn to Solder
- New Holiday Workshops
- Lighted Signs
- And more to come!
Workshops
Other days are available for private bookings/workshops. Please email the Fab Lab with your preferred date, time, and type of workshop that you are interested in hosting. The planned number of attendees is helpful as well. A sampling of workshops include:
- Wood Turned Pens
- Fab Lab 101
- Etching wine glasses
- Various jewelry making
- Red Hawk Stickers
- How to 3D print
- How to Laser
- Tours are also available
Where is the Fab Lab?
The Fab Lab is located within the Hanson Technology Center at Lake Michigan College’s Benton Harbor Campus
Who can come to the Fab Lab?
Open to all makers, ages 8 to 108. We do ask that minors on campus have the appropriate supervision while in the Fab Lab (see chart in the LMC Fab Lab Manual PDF). Workshops and camps will have the appropriate ages listed.
Fab Lab visitors should wear comfortable, fitted, casual clothing and closed-toe/closed-heel shoes. Gym or tennis shoes – NO SANDALS or FLIP FLOPS. Loose clothing and jewelry are not permitted for safety purposes and long hair must be secured.
How much does it cost to use the Fab Lab?
The Fab Lab is free to use for all makers in our area. However, we do have to charge to run certain equipment. Refer to the LMC Fab Lab Manual for current rates and a list of supplies available for purchase. Email fablab@lakemichigancollege.edu to learn more.