Tucked away in a corner on the top floor of the King Library is Makerspace. And we are waiting for new visitors.

From 3D printers to embroidery machines, you can find all the models you like in this “space”. And we will make it possible for many people who enjoy fashion to participate.

Ella Roberts, who majors in Business Economics, assures me that she has an interest in creating fashion pieces while currently studying in another field.

“I made a period dress inspired by the Empire waist and flowing Bridgerton style,” Robards said. “I made it for the MUF&D fashion show. I always wanted to make a dress like that.

With a long, wide table and a variety of sewing machines, Roberts can arrange patterns to create pieces and bring them to life. Around her are various staff members in embroidered aprons who help newcomers to Makerspace and help with possible accidents.

One of them is Emily Stevenson, a sophomore in engineering. Her passion for this space began during her freshman year.

“When I walked into this space, I was obsessed with everything I saw,” Stevenson said. “Actually, they told the students they needed to work. I immediately started working on my resume the next day.”

After helping students during her working hours, she practices perfecting a knitting machine. This will be added to the studio soon. During her time at the makerspace, she has witnessed many fashion and architecture students walk through her doors.

“be [fashion] A class that has a final project—they have to build something in Makerspace,” Stevenson said. “They have to build an 8×8. [inch] Since it’s a pattern, people come and do 4 different segments on the embroidery machine. ”

Stevenson also recalls that sublimation machines (printers that use thermal transfer technology) and laser engravers (that engrave hard materials) are also popular in Miami’s fashion community.

Anyone is free to use the fabrics and machines (of course, use them in moderation). Stevenson remembers the various other types of projects students have created in Makerspace.

“We had an architecture student come in and have the curtains made for our office,” Stevenson says. “I have seen people wearing costumes such as cosplay.”

The busiest day of the week is Friday, as most students have free time due to the lack of classes. It is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm on weekdays, but recently it is open until 7:00 pm on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

Stevenson and the Makerspace team are ready to welcome new people.

“When you come over, let’s take a little tour,” Stevenson said. If you’re interested, stop by and I’m so excited to teach you.

Ultimately, Roberts attests to the quality of the facilities and atmosphere at this secret craft location.

“I like 99% [sewing] Here at Makerspace,” Roberts said. “What I had [sewing machines] There are 4 stitch types and these are 99 stitches, which is very cool! I’ve done this before too. But I love this space so I come here most of the time. It’s really calming and kind of a break from everything else. “

This Miami hidden gem is ready for crafters, designers, and enthusiasts to join in. Pre-ordering the Makerspace machine on his website at the University of Miami Libraries is highly recommended.

manovamd@miamioh.edu