Upstairs Maker Lab · Big Rapids

Make something amazing.

Cut, build, experiment and bring your ideas to life with shared maker equipment. Reserve your station, choose approved materials from our center, and use the posted instructions to get started.

Membership benefits begin November 1, 2026. Equipment sessions are subject to readiness, scheduling and availability.

Choose a maker station

Cutting & design

Cricut Maker 5

Make vinyl decals, cardstock projects and designs from compatible thin craft materials. Approved wood and other specialty materials require the correct tool and extra time.

Nonmembers: $20 per two-hour session.

Basic: $10/hour. Plus: $5/hour. Premium / Ultimate: $5 per two-hour Cricut session.

All machine materials must be purchased from the Discovery Center.

3D creation

3D Printing

Turn digital designs into real objects with our Creality Ender 3 V3 SE. Our regular printing material is PLA filament. Projects can take longer than the time needed to submit a file.

Nonmembers: $15/item plus $0.25 per gram.

Basic / Plus: $0.25/gram. Premium / Ultimate: Actual center-supplied filament cost.

Materials are measured based on actual job usage. Failed prints and multipiece jobs are reviewed with staff before billing.

How it works

  1. Choose a station and request an available time.
  2. Pick up the approved materials for your project from us.
  3. Read the posted machine instructions and follow staff guidance.
  4. Use your reservation to create, then clean up your work area.

There is no separate upstairs admission or Maker Lab registration fee. You pay the applicable station or project charge and material costs.

Maker Lab safety

  • Children under 12 may enter the Maker Lab with a parent or responsible adult, but may never operate machinery.
  • Ages 12–17 must have signed permission from a parent or legal guardian before operating any approved machinery.
  • Ages 18 and older may operate approved machinery after completing the required safety instructions.
  • Equipment instructions and safety information are posted at each machine.

Questions or reservations?

We are preparing Maker Lab availability for the November opening. To ask about equipment, supplies or scheduling, contact the center. We'll confirm before you travel.

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