Welcome to Iowa City's Community Maker Artist Creative Engineering Learning Space!
What is a "Fab Lab?"
“Fab Lab” is short for “fabrication laboratory.” Originally started at MIT in 2007 by Neil Gershenfield, a “Fab Lab” is a place where anyone in the community can build, create, or invent and bring their projects to life in a supportive environment. Here, we encourage learning and experimenting, surrounded by creative, like-minded individuals.
Fab Labs are a trademark and a brainchild of MIT, and a Fab Lab is really a Maker Space which follows guidelines and pratices set by MIT, in their “Center for Bits and Atoms”. To be a Fab Lab, you must meet certain criteria, and follow the Fab Lab Charter
Free Offerings at the Fab Lab
Come check us out the third Saturday of every month between noon and 4pm!
Fiber Arts Studio:
Public Community members can come in for assistance on sewing projects, sublimation projects, and use of our Cricut Maker.
We have multiple Brother sewing machines: we supply the machines and assistance – you bring the materials for your project.
Coaching by Marsha Cheyney, the studio Champion.
Woodshop:
Our full woodshop has everything you need to create anything from a simple shelf to a four poster bed! During the open woodshop, a staff member will be there to guide you and help with whatever project you need!
We know that sometimes you just need a tablesaw for a few cuts, or another tool that you don’t have the space for, and that is one of the reasons we are here! Don’t let a project go unfinished. We are here for you.
Get Involved at the Fab Lab!
Located at 870 S Capital St in Iowa City, the FabLab is a 501(c)(3) non-profit community where everyone gets involved! Whether you are a member or a guest we’d love you to join our funky crew!
We are proudly grateful to share your:
We are always happy to work with new volunteers–no matter the shape or size!
If you are interested in making a donation of any form, please click here or on the DONATE link at top of the page.
"I absolutely love this place, the people are incredibly sweet and supportive and helpful. I got to make my own project using tools from the Fab Lab and help from the employees."
"My daughter attended several summer camps at the Fab Lab last summer. She absolutely loved it. There is such a variety of camps to attend depending on your child's interests...The counselors/staff are AMAZING, it's so laid back and fun."
"The best place in Iowa City and Cedar Rapids to make your ideas come to life."
"...our students are building TV frames for families who are starting anew in our community. The Fab Lab has not only provided the tools and resources necessary to bring this project to life but has also fostered a hands-on learning environment that empowers our students to apply practical skills while giving back to others."
"The Fab Lab is more than just a facility; it is a vital hub of knowledge, creativity, and community
engagement. We are happy to partner with them and excited to see what they can accomplish with
their growth."
"The Fab Lab has allowed Scouts to use their tools and facilities to create the infamous pinewood
derby cars which is a great resource for Scouting families that may not have the abilities to do
woodworking at home."
FAQs
Yes! Before getting to use our equipment, we provide free safety/basics training for all members.
You will have access to all our tools, tech, and software when you purchase a membership! We also have limited materials to provide/can be purchased on site (ex: 3D printer filament, clay, fabric, etc).
Access all our tools and equipment, the space itself, and more! See the full list of dos and don’ts here: Why a Membership?
Memberships are monthly at the Fab Lab and range between $50-$100/month on average (with some discounts offered for students, teachers, EMTs/Firefighters, Vets/Active Duty, and Seniors 65+)
If you’d like to use our equipment/space for your own projects, then you will likely need a membership. However, we have free community events and other open house events that happen at least once a month!
Shopping Cart