Makerspace: DAM

DAM webpage banner 2022

Welcome to DAM - Design And Make - Beaverton City Library's makerspace!

DAM is a space for community members of all ages to learn, practice skills, collaborate, prototype, and problem-solve. The makerspace contains 3D printers, Cricut machines, sewing machines, fiber art equipment, visual art supplies, button makers, and much more. Come check it out during Open Lab hours! DAM is at the main library, on the second floor.

During Open Lab hours, the space is open for anyone to drop in and use any equipment available. A staff member is stationed in the space to answer questions and assist when needed. A signed waiver is required annually.

Open Lab Schedule 


Monday - Wednesday 2-6 PM 
Thursday & Friday 1-5 PM
Saturday & Sunday 3-5 PM

  1. 1 A woman in a library makerspace using a tabletop loom to create a colorful weaving.
  2. 2 Three teens sitting at a table in a library makerspace, using jewelry-making materials to craft.
  3. 3 A library makerspace with about 15 people of all ages standing or sitting around tables, crafting.
  4. 4 A young person in a library makerspace smiling and using a red button maker.
  5. 5 A woman in a library makerspace using a Singer sewing machine sewing a piece of green fabric.
  6. 6 Two women in a library makerspace, one showing the other how to weave on a tabletop loom.
  1. Equipment
  2. Events

Equipment

Maker Tech General Tools Art Supplies Paper Crafts Fiber Crafts STEM Toys
Creality K1 3D printer

3D Slicing Guide

 Soldering irons

How to-Soldering

 Watercolor supplies Card making supplies Sewing machines

Singer Sewing Machine Guide

 Circuits: motors, battery packs, switches
Cricut Maker 4 with sticker vinyl heat transfer Jewelry making / jewelry repair supplies Acrylic paints Stamping supplies Knitting and crochet needles LEGOs and other building supplies
Cricut Heat Press Glue guns Crayons, markers, colored pencils Paper quilling Hand sewing supplies KEVA Contraptions
Wacom drawing tablet Leather punch Air dry clay Collage materials Embroidery supplies Tinker Toys
Tracing light box Button makers (58mm and 25mm) Rubber Stamp carving Decorative scissors Sewing accessories Robot Puzzle
Laminator (up to 11x17 paper size) Basic tools Pastels Paper cutters Lap looms & Potholder loom Pyramid Stacking Blocks
Comb binder   Duct tape Origami paper Yarn swift and winder
    Needle felting supplies
Iron and ironing board
   
Perler Bead supplies
   Pom pom makers  

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is a makerspace?

DAM, which stands for Design And Make, is a space for community members to come to learn, practice skills, collaborate, prototype, and problem-solve. DAM is meant to be a place to test, tinker, explore, and experiment. See what you can create!

2. Who can visit DAM?

Anyone with a signed waiver can visit DAM. Children under the age of 10 must be accompanied by an adult/caregiver; see Safe Child Policy for details. 

Sign the waiver for adults

Sign the waiver for children under 18

Acuerdo para usuarios del espacio de creación DAM para MENORES DE 18 años

Acuerdo para usuarios del espacio de creación DAM PARA ADULTOS

3. Do I need to pay to use DAM?

There is no charge to use the makerspace. However, please be considerate of others and use materials in moderation.

4. Can I bring materials to work on my own projects? 

Absolutely! DAM is a place for you to work on your own projects as well as explore new ideas and techniques. You can use your own materials or use what’s available. The makerspace is stocked with a wide range of supplies, including paints, markers, clay, yarn, and more. Unfortunately, due to limited space, you cannot store your own materials in DAM.

5. Do I need to reserve equipment in advance?

Equipment in DAM is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Please be mindful of other patrons who may be waiting to use the equipment and limit your time accordingly during busy periods.

6. Can I get help using the equipment?

Yes, library staff and volunteers are available to provide assistance and answer questions to the best of their ability. We also have access to other reading and video materials. 

7. Can I sell items I make in DAM?

The makerspace is intended for personal use and learning, not for commercial production. 

8. Can I volunteer in DAM?

Yes! You can volunteer as a Makerspace Mentor. Fill out a volunteer application.

9. Do you accept donations?

We are unable to accept material donations for DAM. However, we gladly accept cash donations to support the makerspace via the Friends of the Beaverton City Library.

Guidelines for 3D Printer Usage

Check in First: Talk to staff before printing or joining the queue.

Independent Learning: Learn the software and process yourself. Tutorials are available. Staff are available to learn with you but are not experts.

No Inappropriate Prints: Don't print weapons, drug-related items, or explicit content.

Staff Approval: Staff may review your print before it is approved. 

1. Pre-Programmed Models

  • Explore pre-loaded models from the board.
  • One print per day.

2. Printing Your Own Models 

  • Time Limit: Prints cannot exceed 1.5 hours and must be started 30 minutes before closing.
  • File Format: Bring your design in a .stl (editable) format on a USB drive.
  • Supervision Recommended: Stay with your print for the first 10-20 minutes. Early supervision helps troubleshoot initial errors.