Makerspace Technology

Our 3D printer can fabricate physical models in a variety of shapes, colors and materials. Whether you’re crafting business card holders, whimsical figurines or essential tool parts, the possibilities to bring your creations to life are endless. To get started, we recommend free online resources such as Thingiverse and Tinkercad to generate designs that can be submitted to the library as 3D printer requests.

The Process

1. Find or create a project to print. See our suggested resources section to get started.
2. Fill out our 3D print request form.
3. You’ll be contacted regarding material, size, pricing and ETA.
4. Once confirmed, your project will enter the print queue and you will be contacted when it is ready for payment and pick up.

Timing

Please allow 7–10 days from project submission to completion.

Materials and Fees

Each project has a $1 machine use fee, plus materials.

PLA $0.15/gram 
PLA is the standard 3D printing filament, ideal for general-purpose 3D prints.

TPU $0.15/gram 
TPU is a flexible filament, able to bend and absorb light impacts. 

PETG $0.15/gram 
PETG is a durable filament, able to withstand pressure and impacts. 

Project Limitations

The maximum print size is 256 millimeters, about 10 inches, cubed.

Suggested Resources

thingiverse.com (ready to print)
printables.com (ready to print)
tinkercad.com (make it yourself)

Submit your 3D print here to begin your project:

Cricut

If you're not already familiar with a Cricut machine, then you'll certainly want to be! It's a precision cutting device many casual hobbyists and even professional designers use to cut paper, vinyl, cardstock or even fabric. It makes stickers, paper cutouts, stencils and more for embellishing everything from water bottles to notebooks to gifts for family and friends.

The Process

1. Find or create a project to cut. See our suggested resources section to get started.
2. Visit the Adult or Youth Services Desk or call 630/393-1171 x121 to schedule an appointment.
3. Staff will help you find images, if needed, and prepare your project for cutting.
4. Once completed, your project is ready for payment and to take home.

Materials and Fees

Each project has a $1 machine use fee, plus vinyl materials at $2 per square foot. Personal materials are allowed but must be approved before use. Pre-approved materials are standard paper, cardstock and vinyl sheets.

Project Limitations

A single piece of a project can be up to 12x12 inches. 

Suggested Resources

flaticon.com (project designs) 
vecteezy.com (project designs) 
jennifermaker.com (project tutorials) 
youtube.com/@Cricut (project tutorials) 
svgnation.com (project designs and tutorials)

Makerspace Policy

Click here to review our established guidelines for staff and members to utilize the library’s 3D printer, smart cutter and any other makerspace equipment and supplies.