Makersmiths: A Loudoun County Makerspace

Makersmiths, a new makerspace in Loudoun County, had it’s official ribbon cutting ceremony on August 1st.

I missed the ceremony but dropped in for the open house today at the new facility at 71 Lawson Road in Leesburg, VA. (Open houses are every Tuesday and Thursday in August from 6-9 pm.) In development for more than a year, Makersmiths first hit my radar when they hosted a small maker event at the Loudoun Fair grounds. During that first event, the plans for a Loudoun makerspace was outlined. Those initial plans have now blossomed into a 3,000 square foot facility crammed with equipment.

The first workroom off the main central space contains a few 3D printers including a Printrbot Metal Simple, a circuit board mill, and an electronics workstation. An electronics part bin salvaged from a closing Radio Shack provides storage underneath the desk. Several members are working on 3D printer builds and there was some talk about a future 3D printer build group.

The next room contains textiles and paper cutting tools with the makings of some cosplay costumes. A steam punk costume was completed recently. There were also several sewing machines. A display cabinet outside the room showcases member projects.

The next room contains hand tools, smaller power tools and a large scale CNC machine currently setup to cut skis.

The back room contains large woodworking tools and a dust collection system. The woodworking space is a little tight at the moment but all the equipment is there. The back area also includes a kitchen and bathrooms.

The last area has a garage door that opens up to the outside. The bay includes a 4’x8′ plasma cutter, welders, an ultrasonic cleaner and the start of an auto shop.

The equipment at Makersmiths is simply amazing for a new makerspace. A lot of work has gone into creating a great space. The energy from the members is obvious and the space is very family friendly. After my tour, I promptly joined Makersmiths and was given a key providing 24/7 access to the space. I strongly encourage everyone in Loudoun County to check out Makersmiths and join this growing maker community.

Check for events on Meetup at http://www.meetup.com/Makersmiths/ or come to an open house, every Tuesday and Thursday in August from 6-9 pm.