This semester, Waynesburg University will begin Maker Nights, a place for all students to create and explore the basics of high-tech crafting machinery. 

The first Maker Night will be held  Tuesday, March 18 in the Benedum Fine Arts Center, room 101. Attendants will learn how to use a laser engraver, 3D printer and more. 

Andrew Heisey, chairperson for the department of fine arts, talked about the upcoming implementation of a maker space. 

“We are teaching students how to make a variety of objects,” he said. 

He explained that maker spaces are areas that contain tools and constituents that allow one to enter with a mere idea and leave with something complete. Most importantly, something designed by oneself.

For this upcoming Maker Night, attendees will be able to create a box out of cardboard and engrave any image or design they would like onto it using the laser engraver. Additionally, the Department of Fine Arts is in the process of implementing 3D printing for future Maker Nights. 

Liliane Portman, graduate assistant for the Entrepreneurial Leadership Program, stated, “Depending on what students want, there is a possibility for it to turn into using the 3D printer.”  

However, as she explained, it is a longer process. The 3D printing activity could take as long as overnight to complete. 

“So, as of right now, it’s just the laser engraver.”

Maker Nights aren’t just for art students. Heisey said Maker Nights are for everyone, even professors. 

Jewelry, coasters, pens and even mouse pads are just a few examples of what the machinery can do. 

Heisey further explained that the things that students will learn at these events will be able to help them in whatever field they choose to go into. 

“There are so many possibilities,” Heisey said. “It’s a place for everyone.”