FAQs

- Who can join?

All current UCL students and staff are eligible to become members of the Institute of Making. We are currently unable to accommodate Alumni or non UCL members, but check our events page for regular public open days, Materials Library discovery sessions, research events and masterclasses which are open to everyone. Please do join our mailing list to be kept updated on events and opportunities to visit.

If you're not at UCL, or have graduated or left, head to www.openworkshopnetwork.com to find an open access making space near you.

- How do I join?

After signing up on our Members page with your UCL email address, UK phone number and UPI code (on the front of your ID card), you’ll gain access to the online members area and can book your New Members Induction, which are held at the beginning of every term.

After attending and meeting the team, your UCL ID card will be enabled on the door system, and you can use the space during opening hours. You’ll then be able to book training on specific machines and tools, masterclasses and special member events. 

If you do not have a UK phone number, contact us

- How much does it cost?

It's free! But in general you need to bring your own materials.

- My card does not work on the door

If you've been inducted and it's still not working on the side door (members door), or if you have been issued a new card, or changed your position at UCL get in touch and we'll enable it for you. If you have graduated from or left UCL, unfortunately this is the end of your access.

- Do you host work experience placements?

Unfortunately, we do not host work experience placements.

- When are you open?

We are closed over UCL holidays, and at the beginning of terms while we induct new members. We are also closed for two weeks at the beginning of September for end of year maintenance. The rest of the time, we are open for drop-in making during the times below:

Mon:    Closed
Tues:   10 - 5 pm
Weds:  2 - 7 pm
Thur:   10 - 5 pm
Fri:      10 - 5 pm

Check news announcements on the member dashboard (when you log in) for any unexpected opening hours 

- Can I talk to you about this material /my project?

Yes - as soon as you've completed your New Member Induction, you can drop in any time during our opening hours and chat to our staff. If it's really busy we might make an appointment with you to discuss properly.

- What equipment/software have you got?

Check out our Tools page or drop in and have a look around.

- Using tools and equipment

The best thing to do is to discuss your ideas with our team once you’re inducted, and we can advise you on how to access the tools and skills you need.

• Hand tools, and any machines with a green dot, can be used right after your new members induction. Don't feel shy about asking for guidance, we are here to help - no previous knowledge required.
• 3D printers and laser cutters requre induction even if you've used one before. These happen every week, and we make them bookable month by month. If you can't see any available on our bookings page, wait til next month or join a waiting list. You can book the laser cutter online once inducted, but not the 3D printers which are negotiated on the day.
• Certain tools, like potters wheel and sewing machine don't require induction if you've used them before but you might want some guidance or a refresher. These are also bookable online at the end of every month. You can then book these tools online.
• All other tools are usable by one-on-one induction with a technician. drop in and ask about getting inducted on the lathe, CNC milling machine, acrylic bender, 3D scanners etc.

- Can I bring in my own tools?

Yes you can bring your own tools but please show them first to a technician so they can check they are safe.

- Can I buy materials from you?

We sell laser grade plywood and acyrlic for use with our lasercutters, as well as plastic for vacuum forming, which can be purchased on the online store (instituteofmaking.org.uk/shop). We supply clay and 3D printer filament within reason.

We also have a great supplier list, and there are lots of of great material resources within easy walking distance from UCL - ask our technicians for details. 

- How much do 3D Print materials cost?

If your print is over 100g the price is 54p per 10 grams (prints smaller than this remain free). 

To calculate the price of your print please use this spreadsheet. When you load your model into Cura the software will estimate the amount of material required. Enter this value (either as a length or weight) in either of the green cells (weight or length cells): 

Once you have worked out the cost please log onto: instituteofmaking.org.uk/shop and pay the amount specified on the spreadsheet using a bankcard. 

- What about screws and glues and nails?

We’ve got a selection of glues, nails bolts, screws, and sandpaper for you to use free of charge. However, if you are planning to make a full-scale replica of The Eiffel Tower out of our 2" nails, you should buy your own. We can give you advice on specialist fixings and where to get them locally, if required.

- Can I store my project/tools here?

We don't have project storage. You will need to take your project away at the end of the day, unless it's massive, curing, drying etc. If this is the case, talk to a technician who will issue you with a label to stick on your work for temporary 'right to remain', so we don't throw it away by accident.

- Can I rent /book the space?

The Institute of Making workshop is not bookable for teaching, however if you're already a member and you'd like to lead a teaching session with the Materials Library Collection, or if you have great idea for a masterclass you’d like to put to our events committee, contact us.

- I have a disability - will I be able to access the workshop?

Yes, get in touch for an informal chat with Emily our workshop manager to discuss how we can best make it work for you via members@instituteofmaking.org.uk

We have a step free entrance and a lift down into the main workshop. There is no lift up to our internal mezzanine, but most of our tools up there are mobile and can be brought down.

- I have hearing sensitivities, can I come into the workshop?

If you are sensitive to certain sounds, you can absolutely still come and work in our space. We provide ear defenders to mitigate against machinery or loud hand tools that might be in use. We would also recommend coming in first thing in the morning as the workshop tends to be quieter. 

- I don’t know anything about making - can you help me?

Absolutely that's what we're here for! You don't need any experience, we can work with you to learn as much as you like. Come in to talk with a technician, you do not need to make an appointment.

- I was a member last year, do i need to re-register or get re-inducted?

You do not need to be re-registered. You can come in as normal until you graduate or leave UCL. If you've been inducted on any of the tools, you won't need to re-do it either. If you need a refresher on any of the machines, however, don't hesitate to ask!

It is mandatory to refresh your Member Induction every 5 years. The Induction Refresher will update you on new systems and processes in the Workshop and Materials Library, as well as changes to Health and Safety protocols.