The Forge
Let’s make things in the Library’s new makerspace!
Create, invent, and learn in our space designed for hands-on creativity.
Spend some time making jewelry, working on a sewing project, or making something cool with our 3D printer. Or just stop in for a few minutes to color a picture or play with some Legos. The Forge is here for you to use and to make your own.
Take a video tour of The Forge
COVID-19 Restrictions
All users must sanitize their hands before entering The Forge. Social distancing and proper mask-wearing are required at all times. A maximum of six people (or two households) will be allowed inside The Forge at one time. No one-on-one or group training classes will be held until further notice. Cleaning supplies available to ensure a sanitary workstation.
Using the Makerspace
Most of the equipment, resources, and supplies in The Forge can be used by anyone whenever The Forge is open.
Some of our equipment requires makers to be trained before use. This process is called “badging.” Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, devices in the room that require special training like the 3D Printer and the Janome sewing machine will be restricted to makers who are already know how to use the devices. We will begin offering training on all badged equipment when it is safe to do so.
If you are experienced with 3D printers and computerized sewing machines, please call 262-532-8920 to contact one of our trainers to verify your eligibility to use these devices.
All users of The Forge should read and understand the Makerspace Policy. If you have any questions, please ask a staff member.
Makerspace Equipment
Donations
We are grateful for all donations. Please consider donating something from our Wish List. Monetary donations are also welcome. Please make checks payable to Menomonee Falls Public Library.
Wish List
Our makerspace is free for anyone to use, and that is possible only because of your generosity! We’re always in need of supplies. If you’d like to contribute, please take a look at our Wish List.
Supply Costs
Supplies for your first project are always free. We need your help to keep it that way and appreciate your donation for additional projects.
Cricut
- 12”x12” Vinyl: $0.50
- 12”x12” Specialty Vinyl (Iron-on, holographic, glitter, et cetera): $1.00
- 12”x12” Transfer Tape: $2
Button Maker
- 2.25” button: $0.10
- 2.25” magnet: $0.50
3D Printer
Filament $0.10 per gram (includes rafts/brims/support & failed prints due to design error)
Paper
- 12”x12” Cardstock: $0.25
- 8.5”x11” Cardstock: $0.10
Laminating Sleeve
- 8.5”x11” Laminating Sleeve: $0.25
Donors
The following donors, along with several unnamed donors who brought in boxes and boxes of supplies, helped make The Forge possible. We can’t thank them enough! These and future donors will be acknowledged on our forthcoming Gratitude Wall inside The Forge.
- Ian, Elaine, and Charley Dickmann
- Community League
- Greater Menomonee Falls Foundation
- Annie Jurczyk
- Joanne Lesing
- Andrew and Emily Lukasek
- MagnaTiles
- Menomonee Falls Optimist Club
- Steve Taggart
- Karen Raschke
- Menomonee Falls Library Friends
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Forge?
The Forge is a makerspace.
Well that was helpful. What is a makerspace?
A makerspace is a collaborative workspace where people can create, invent and learn using a variety of tools and gadgets ranging from high-tech to no-tech.
Who can use this makerspace?
Anyone can use The Forge as long as they follow the rules. Makers age 11 and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times, unless attending a supervised program.
When is the makerspace open?
The Forge is usually open during normal Library hours, but closes 30 minutes before the Library closes.
So I can just come in whenever and use the 3D Printer?
Some equipment, like the 3D printer, requires you to be trained before use. This process is called badging. After you've been badged on a particular item, you can use that item whenever that it is available. Reservations are required for some equipment.
Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, we are not currently training makers in the use of our equipment. If you are already familiar with how to use something in The Forge, you may use it. We will begin offering training on all badged equipment when it is safe to do so.
How do I reserve equipment?
Call 262-532-8920 to make reservations and check on availability.
How much does it cost?
There is no charge for using our equipment, and supplies for your first project are free! After that, we ask that you make a donation for any supplies that you use. A suggested price list can be found in The Forge.
Are you looking for volunteers to help teach classes?
Yes! Once we begin offering classes for the community, we’d like to offer a wide variety of arts and crafts tutorials. If you are interested in sharing your talents with the community please call Ellen at 262-532-8930 to be added to our list of volunteers.
Contact Us
If you have an questions about The Forge, please contact us using the form below.