An exciting space for arts, crafts, and creativity at the Library is our Makerspace, The Forge! Located on the second floor, it’s where you can paint, draw, make jewelry, sew a project, or use the brand new FlashForge Adventurer 5M Pro 3D printer.
Throughout the day, patrons can visit to work on projects developed over time, or to begin something new. The possibilities are endless! Depending on the project, we have an assortment of tools that you can reserve. Today, we’re going to highlight two of them: the Button Pin Makers and the new 3D Printer.
Button Pin Makers
The Button Makers allow you to show off your favorite picture, magazine cut-out, or design with button pins! Just bring your own picture or design to the Library and use our equipment to make the pin you envision.
The Forge offers two different-sized button pin makers – 1.5” and 2.25”. Each pin maker comes with the machine, pinback sets, and mylar. There is no charge to use the equipment, though we encourage a free will donation of $0.50 per pin. The button pin makers need to be checked out with a CAFÉ Library card for in-room use only. Ensure the machine is available when you are ready to make your project by reserving either of the pin makers online.
3D Printer: FlashForge Adventurer 5M Pro
Our new 3D printer allows you to create bigger projects and in less time! Some of the builds that have already been made include game pieces, figurines, card holders, and replicated woven baskets.
Though the new printer is similar to the old one, there are important updates to get makers up to speed. Before you can begin 3D printing, you will have to go through a Badging process. If you used the old 3D printer in 2025, you will need to make an appointment for a 20-minute overview. If you have not used the old machine in 2025, you will need to make a full badging appointment.
To make a badging appointment, please email MDavis@menomonee-falls.org and JKruse@menomnee-falls.org. We will work with you to find a time. After the appointment, you will receive an updated badge and will be on your way to creating the very best that 3D printing has to offer!
We only ask that you reserve the printer at least two business days in advance. You can read more about our 3D Printer and its policies here: 3D Printing.
How to Reserve Forge Equipment
Ready to start creating? Review the reservation instructions below to ensure that you can access the equipment you need to finish or start working on that project just waiting to be made.
- Visit www.menomoneefallslibrary.org/forge/ and select ‘Reserve Equipment’.
- Select the makerspace equipment you would like to make a reservation for.
- Review and select an available time slot to use the equipment. Don’t see any availability? Click ‘Go to Date’ or give the Adult Services Desk a call at 262-532-8920.
- Select ‘Add to Cart’ if you would like to reserve multiple machines (ex. the Cricut and Cricut EasyPress). Select ‘Add to Cart and Checkout’ if you are finished choosing your reservation time, then click ‘Continue’.
- Fill out the form including your name, email, Library Card number, and click ‘Submit my Booking’! You should receive a confirmation email shortly.