Frequently Asked Questions

Tools

  • Can I use any of your tools?

Before you can use our tools, you will need to take the orientation class for each specific tool. For example, if you would like to use our woodworking tools, you will need to take the WoodLab 101 class. 

  • I bought a membership, does that mean I can use the tools right away?

Not right away, but you can after you've taken the corresponding orientation class for the tools you would like to use. We generally recommend taking the orientation class and signing up as a member on the same day, so you can get the most out of your membership.

  • I have years of experience with this tool, do I still need to take the orientation class?

Yes, you still need to take the class.

  • How do I know when a tool is available? Can I just drop-in?

We have an online Tool Booking system for the Laser Cutter, CNC Router, and large Lathe. All other tools are available on a first-come-first-serve basis. You can see a list of the tools we provide here.

  • Do the machine minutes included in my membership get carried over to the next month?

No. Unused minutes will expire at the end of your billing month and will be reset the next cycle.

  • What file types do the CNC router and the laser cutter accept?

Most vector files are accepted: PDF, SVG, AI, and DXF. DWG is acceptable for the CNC router. However, PDF tends to be best at keeping its dimensions.

Classes

  • When are your classes?

Our class calendar can be found here. Typically, they are offered on a weekly basis.

  • Do I need to bring anything to the class?

We need everyone to wear closed-toe shoes and if you have long hair you have to tie it back. You can bring a pen and paper to take notes. Please bring your own safety goggles or they can be purchased at the front desk. We can provide you with disposable ear plugs. 

Students taking MIG Welding & Metal Fabrication 101 and TIG Welding 101 will be required to bring their own welding helmets and welding gloves.

  • Can I come in on the day of the class and pay by cash?

Yes, however, no spot is not guaranteed as priority is given to people who have paid and registered online.

  • I paid full price for the class, but I became a member after that. Is it possible for me to get the member price somehow?

Yes, if you sign up as a member within same day of the class, we will credit the difference towards your first month of membership.

  • Do you offer private classes?

Yes we do. Private classes start at $150+ tax. Prices vary depending on the class. Email us at hello@makerlabs.com to inquire about booking private classes.

 

Memberships

  • May I come in for a tour?

We currently offer a limited number of tours and for a limited number of people at a time. For our tour availabilities and book one for yourself, check out our booking calendar here.

  • Are there any special requirements to become a member?

There are no special requirements, however you must take the safety & orientation class for the tool you want to use before becoming a member. If you sign up for a membership on the same day that you take a class, your membership will be valid starting on a day that you can access some tools. All members must agree and abide by our policies, available here.

  • Can I get a refund for my membership?

No, we do not give refunds for membership fees. And we must be notified 7 days in advance of the renewal date or you will be charged for that month.

  • Can my kids take classes and become members?

    Yes. Children less than 18 years old can get full membership at the affiliate rate when they are attached to an adult with a full membership. MakerLabs members under the age of 18 years old must be accompanied by a trained adult to use any tools, workshops, and/or spaces. 

The minimum age to use any of our tools is 13 years old.

  • How do I cancel membership?

To cancel your membership, please email hello@makerlabs.com at least 7 days before your next billing cycle. For late cancellations where the next month’s membership bill has already been processed, cancellations are subject to a $20 cancellation fee in order to process the refund. After 3 days no refund will be issued.

 

Space

  • How do I get studio space at MakerLabs?

If you are interested in studio space, you can see our current availability here. Waitlist notifications are available if you register on our studio page as well.

  • Is there any difference between space on the ground floor and the second floor?

The ground floor is more suited for work that involves noise and dust. The second floor is mostly a noise-free and dust-free environment. 

  • How do I get 24/7 access to the space?

    Members can apply for 24 hour access after three months of good standing, for an additional charge of $150/month.

  • I have other people that will be working in my space, do they have to become a member as well?

If they will only be using your studio space and will be coming in more than five times in a month, they can become an Affiliate member. Affiliate membership gives the holder access to the studio space during regular hours and the member rate for classes, but will still need to pay the drop-in rate for access to tools.

  • How do I cancel my studio space?

To cancel your studio space, please email hello@makerlabs.com at least 7 days before your next billing cycle.

  • Can I leave my projects to dry overnight?

Members that require overnight space for projects to dry or set will need to set-up short-term storage at additional cost.

  • Is there somewhere I can put my project short-term?

We have short-term storage shelves and areas that are available to keep projects and materials. The rates are based on $1.75/ sq ft per week, at a minimum of 10sqft per week. Any projects or materials that have not made the appropriate arrangements for storage will be disposed of. 

  • How do I reserve space for my event (workshop, meetup, party, etc.)?

    You can reserve the lounge, loading bay, or boardroom here. Our reservation policy and rates can be viewed here.

RUSH JOBS AND FILE PREP

  • Can I expect to get a rush job done immediately at the time of drop off?

If you would like a job done on the spot, we charge $40 per 15 minutes or $3 per minute for the appointment time, subject to availability of a Maker, whichever is greater. The full list of rates can be viewed here.

Can I be present during the job?

Full service in-person appointments cost an additional $40 per 15 minutes or $3 per minute of cutting time (whichever is greater).

  • Can you prep a file for me?

Yes we can. Additional charges apply for design work and and file preparation.