Frequently Asked Questions
CLASSES
Why do I need to pay for a class if I am a member?
Some of the classes offered will have you use our consumable materials to learn the task. Additionally, some of our instructors may charge for their time. The costs are different for every course offered and the charged amount reflects that. In some cases, the cost may be $0.
Do you offer classes? Do I need to be a member?
We do offer classes and are working on monthly schedules. If you are an artisan or hobbyist and would like to share your knowledge and expertise, please let us know! As for being a member, most classes will be offered without the requirement for membership. However, members do get a discount and priority registration for classes. Additionally, some classes may be offered as members-only.
CONSUMABLES
Can I bring in outside materials?
Yes! We know hobbyists sometimes have their preference in what they use so we do not want to restrict that. Having said that, there are comments and restrictions …
Laser Cutter/Engraver: some materials release toxic and corrosive fumes when cut. Please see this page at the bottom for what can and can’t be used in the laser cutter/engravers.
Can you order materials for me wholesale?
Yes and no. We certainly can help with the purchase of hard to find consumables (such as clay, glazes, stained glass, acrylics), but at some point in the process, the state needs their tax! So, while we would be able to purchase it wholesale, we would need to re-sell to you with the sales tax included. We may also incur additional costs (transportation, shipping, etc) that would be added to the re-sale cost to you. Finally, some of the vendors need minimum order sizes (this is especially true with stained glass). If you’re on the hunt for something specific, come and talk to us to see what we can do!
MEMBERSHIP
Can I exchange equipment/teaching for a membership?
While we appreciate the offer, we are just starting out and need to make rent! We may revisit this type of barter system in the future, but at this early stage, we need to pay the bills. By the way, we’re not making money off this venture. All of the workers are paid $0/hr and we personally have invested tens of thousands of dollars to make this vision a reality. We want this to be a community piece and not just another commercialized business. We were laughed at when we explained our business model to a marketing professor, but we firmly believe in the people, not the money (but enough money to pay our bills)!
I would like to purchase a membership as a gift to someone else, can I?
Awesome! Because the membership’s are tied to an email address, and you likely do not want to spoil the surprise, just contact us at Tiffany@druicitymakerspace.com and we’d be happy to setup the gift membership for the duration of your choice. You can: Set it up to pay every month indefinitely (how generous!) Set it up to pay for X months from the first time the receiver comes to the Makerspace Set it up for a specific duration and specific start time. We’ll provide you with a unique physical gift card so that you can actually have something to hand the recipient. This card will have the code they need to create the membership for the duration requested. We’re really flexible and glad you are thinking of giving such a unique gift!
I have a new card number, how does it update?
If your card number is new because you had a compromised number and your credit card company gave you a new one, our payment processor should be able to automatically update to the new number. However, if that doesn’t work or you just wish to use a different credit card – log into your account and simply change the card on file. If you are having trouble with that, stop on in and we can easily change it for you in person.
Is this like a gym where it is impossible to cancel?
No! The membership model works like this: Monthly Members your card on file is charged every month on the day you signed up (i.e. if you sign up February 7th, you’ll always renew on the 7th). You are pre-paying for the month. So, if you did sign up on February 7th and then decide on March 9th you want to cancel, you just login and cancel your membership. Because you would have already paid from March 7th to April 7th, you will still retain access to the space for that time. We do not pro-rate refunds or offer refunds on memberships. Yearly Members similar to monthly members, your card on file is charged once a year on the date of your sign up for another yearly membership. If you would like to switch from Yearly to Monthly, please contact us so that we can change your membership type. There are no penalties for doing so.
MISC
How do I request you provide a tool/equipment/consumable?
Just talk to us in person or contact us electronically. We’re open to all suggestions. Just know that we don’t have an infinite amount of money to purchase each and every item!
Do you have X?
We might! As we started entering in all the equipment we have, we were quickly overwhelmed with the quantity and variety. If you’re looking for something or just wondering, contact us and we’ll be able to tell you. Plus, we’re always adding to our inventory of equipment – we may have something that’s not up on the website yet.
Can I come in after hours?
At this time, no. We understand that other makerspaces across the nation have a 24-hour access policy. However, with us just starting out, we don’t have the capability or capacity yet. But, it is something we would consider in the future.
Can you host special events? Corporate, birthday, moms night out, etc?
Yes! We do have the ability to host special events. Maybe you are looking for a unique corporate retreat idea where you and your co-workers have to make a stained glass piece. Or, maybe you want a brithday party where the participants get to paint pre-made pottery and have it fired. Please e-mail us at Tiffany@druidcitymakerspace.com to discuss what we can do!
I’ve noticed parking gets pretty full downtown, do you have dedicated parking?
No, sorry we do not have dedicated parking. There is a variety of parking around our location. Temerson Square has its own parking lots, there is street parking on University, and the FREE parking garage is just two blocks down!