FAQ - Tools

  • How Old DO I have to be to use your tools?

    As with all of our 101 classes, you have to be 14 years of age, ages 14 - 16 do need parental or guardian supervision at all times within the space. Some classes are 18+.

  • Can I use any of your tools?

    Before you can use our tools, you'll need to take an orientation for the specific tool. For example, if you would like to use the wood shop you'll need to take the WOODSHOP 101.

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

    Not right away, but after you've taken the required 101 orientations you can. We generally recommend taking the orientations before you sign up as a member to get the most out of your membership.

  • I HAVE YEARS OF EXPERIENCE WITH THIS TOOL, DO I STILL NEED TO TAKE THE INTRODUCTORY COURSE?

    Yes, everyone who desires to use any of the equipment needs to take the 101 class or take a challenge test/class. We need to make sure everyone is safe using all of the tools at Makerspace, and that everyone knows the rules of the space.

    *All private class / challenge tests cost $160 + tax. Metal Shop and Welding is the one exception, a private course is $285.

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

    We have an online calendar that allows you to see if tools are available. There is a maximum number of people allowed in the woodshop and silk screen area. You must book all tools before you use them. Tools are only available to members, no drop ins.

  • Do my machine minutes get carried over?

    No. If you do not use your monthly minutes, they expire.

  • What file types does 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.

  • BETWEEN WHAT TIMES CAN A MEMBER WORK AT THE SPACE?

    You can come and work between 6am and 2am for all memberships.

    All tools must be booked in advance.

  • WHAT TOOLS ARE MEMBERS ALLOWED TO USE IN THE WOODSHOP?

    You can use all of the tools and equipment in the woodshop area and the member’s tool wall, keep in mind we are still building up the wall to add more tools, and we are open to donations of tools/equipment!

  • I’m using the silk screen area, do i have to pay to use the screens?

    Yes, we have screens available for use for $20/per screen, and transparencies available for $4/per sheet.

FAQ - classes

  • WHEN ARE YOUR 101 CLASSES?

    Our 101 classes can be found under 101 Classes & Workshops page. Typically, they are offered at least once a month.

  • Do i need a membership to take a class?

    Nope! All of our classes are available to anyone.

  • WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN CLASSES & WORKSHOPS?

    Classes are offered every month and are the 101 orientation class on the tools we have at Makerspace! The 101 class is the required safety training necessary to use each tool, once you take the class, you can come back to use that particular tool/area at Makerspace!

    Workshops are specialty classes typically only offered once, or every rarely. We’ve had everything from paint nights, soap making, silversmithing etc. If you see a workshop you’re interested in, sign up quick! We may not offer it again, or at least for quite some time.

  • DO I NEED TO BRING ANYTHING TO THE CLASS?

    Nope! For woodshop and metal shop courses, everyone must wear closed-toe shoes and long hair must be tied up. You can bring pen and paper to take notes if you’d like to. Otherwise, we provide you with safety goggles and ear plugs.

    For any classes where this is not the case, it will be listed in the class description and you will be contacted ahead of time.

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

    No, we require all tickets to be purchased in advance, or you can contact us ahead of time and make arrangements to pay the day of a class.

  • Can I get a refund if I missed a class or if I can't attend the class?

    We do not offer full refunds for classes. Class tickets can be transferred to another date as long as you contact us at least 4 days in advance so we have time to sell your ticket to someone else. We will only transfer your ticket to the next class one time. With less than 4 days notice, we can refund 50% of the ticket price.

  • Do you offer private classes?

    Yes we do. Our private class rates are $160 + tax per person. You can email hello@saskatoonmakerspace.com to book or in person at the front desk.

    *All challenge tests/class cost $160 + tax (metal shop and welding is $285 + tax)

  • What age are your classes meant for?

    Our classes are primarily designed for adults, however we do allow youth ages 14+ to come to a class with a parent/guardian. Anyone 16+ is allowed to go to a class on their own but must have a waiver signed by a parent/guardian.

    *Soap making being the exception, it is an 18+ class.

  • How many people are in a class?

    We know that you’ll learn better in smaller class sizes where you can get more hands on practice with the tools, so we only put 1 - 8 participants in a class. Depending on the course, some will have 1 - 2 students, others will have 6-8 students.

FAQ - memberships & studios

  • can I get a tour?

    Yes, tours are offered every Tuesday from 5pm to 7pm. Please book your tour online first!

  • Are there any special requirements to become a member?

    None at all, just sign up online! Once you become a member you will need to book in your member orientation before you are able to use the space. You still need to take the required 101 orientation classes in order to use the tools.

  • How old do I have to be to have a membership?

    Our memberships are available to anyone 17+. Ages 14 - 16 may also have access to the space, but do have to have a guardian with them at all times. The guardian does not require a membership if they do not wish to have access to the tools, but do have to be present anytime the young person is in the space. The guardian may step in and use a tool to ensure the young persons safety, but to use the space for their own projects they would need to have their own membership!

  • DO DIFFERENT MEMBERSHIPS GIVE ME DIFFERENT ACCESS?

    In the past, yes. Now our Maker & Studio memberships all receive 6am to 2am access, effective January 1st, 2025.

  • Can I paint in my studio?

    Yes, we encourage members to make their studios to suit their needs, if that means you get paint on the floor that’s okay with us. We have a clean side of Makerspace that would be a perfect spot to paint.

    With high odour paints and spray paints, we have space in our backyard that can be used.

  • 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 (or 30 days for studio members) of the renewal date or you will be charged for that month.

  • Is there somewhere I can put my project?

    Of course! That’s why we offer our studio based memberships on a month to month basis. If you have a project that needs to be stored while you work on it we would encourage you to get a micro studio space for $110/month. Alternatively, we have lockers of varying sizes available for rent.

  • I don’t want to make it myself, Can I get something made at makerspacE?

    We can connect you with a member who can make something for you! Send us an email at hello@saskatoonmakerspace.com to be put in contact with a member from Makerspace.