MakerFest
May is for Makers! If you didn’t already know, libraries adore Makers. Seriously, we’re big fans. So much so we’re hosting MakerFest along with our library friends at Caledon and Mississauga. MakerFest is a celebration of art, design, media, and technology; a space to geek out with inventors, scientists, fixers and tinkerers; an awesome opportunity to connect with makers and explore creative ingenuity in your community. This spectacular two-day event invites makers of all ages to learn from an inspiring roster of guest presenters, ready to share their expertise. Discover the event lineup on the official MakerFest page.
In the spirit of sharing, we’ve curated an incredible list of online learning resources for makers, inspired by some sessions that will be happening at MakerFest! Take note that your Brampton Library card gets you free, unlimited access to everything mentioned below. If you don’t already have a Brampton Library card, this is your sign to drop everything and apply to get a library card
New to making? Consider this list a starter pack from your friends at Brampton Library. You’ll want to stash these essential resources in your toolkit as you begin dabbling in a newfound interest. If you're a seasoned maker looking to expand or revitalize your skillset, you just might get inspired with fresh content and techniques to cultivate curiosity in your practice.
For the 3D printing enthusiast
Attend 3D Design with TinkerCad, or attend Fabrication with Shop3D, at MakerFest.
Next, dive into more learning with instant access to the latest e-books and online learning content in O’Reilly. We recommend:
Make: Getting Started with 3D Printing, 2nd Edition
3D Printing and Maker Lab for Kids
Mastering 3D Printing: A Guide to Modeling, Printing, and Prototyping
Simplifying 3D Printing with OpenSCAD
You’ll also want to consider:
- If you’re new to 3D printing, TinkerCAD is a great place to start. It’s a free, easy-to-use web app for 3D modeling and design. LinkedIn Learning has a beginner course on learning TinkerCAD, and a course on modeling custom designs in TinkerCAD.
- If you’re interested in further developing your skills, check out this course on optimizing 3D prints, or this course on troubleshooting 3D prints. You can also discover advanced 3D print techniques using materials like metal and resin.
- Making time to visit any of our MakerSpaces at Brampton Library when they reopen in June 2022.
For the podcast creator
Attend the podcasting session with Nav Nanwa at MakerFest.
Next, expand your learning and take a course on producing professional podcasts. This self-paced course is available through LinkedIn Learning, and provides proven tips for producing professional, high-quality podcasts on any budget. You’ll get expert advice on pre-production strategies that will help you identify business opportunities, find your niche, and create a basic outline for your show. You’ll also discover techniques for recording and editing both podcasts and screencasts, along with strategies for marketing and tracking performance.
You’ll also want to consider:
- Honing your skills with more specialized courses on LinkedIn Learning. Try speaking confidently and effectively, vocal production for voice-overs and podcasts, and promoting your podcast.
- Getting technical with e-books you can instantly access anytime, available on O’Reilly. We recommend The Podcaster’s Audio Handbook: A Technical Guide for Creative People and Take Control of Podcasting.
- Taking advantage of the Audio recording studio at Chinguacousy. While the studio is currently closed, this incredible space has everything you need to record and produce a podcast. Keep this in mind when the studio reopens later in 2022.
For the maker with an appetite for entrepreneurship
Attend the Maker-Entrepreneur Spotlight at MakerFest.
Next, expand your learning by taking a course on how to start your own arts and crafts business. This 6-week online class available through Gale Courses will help you discover how to create a business identity, get into the best craft shows, design booths that draw customers, and price your work effectively.
You’ll also want to consider:
- Building an attractive and unique online presence for your business. This beginner class on creating Wordpress websites is available through Gale Courses. There’s also an intermediate class to help you optimize your Wordpress site with plug-ins.
- Finding ways to expand your product offerings or add personal touches in other creative mediums. Learn skills like designing a custom stamp, writing personal messages in calligraphy, screen printing your unique designs, and more with online classes on Creativebug.
- Harnessing the power of social media and branding to promote your business. Take a course on content creation strategy and tools, or learn to leverage your personal brand and create a buzz, with LinkedIn Learning.
For the maker who’s a big fan of all things Cricut
Attend Cricut Basics with Crystal Allen at MakerFest
We also encourage you to borrow Crystal Allen’s books for expert guidance and inspiration.
For new projects to test out on your Cricut, head over to Creativebug. Here are a few classes to start:
- Create pop-up greeting cards inspired by nature.
- Spruce up your denim jacket with DIY basswood flair pins.
- Learn how to make a professional looking custom leather keychain.
You’ll also want to consider:
- Taking your practice to the next level by designing your own vector graphics to use for your next Cricut project. If this sounds interesting, LinkedIn Learning has an entire series on drawing vector graphics.
- Making time to visit any of our MakerSpaces at Brampton Library when they reopen in June 2022. Surprise! We’ll be introducing the Cricut Maker 3, which will be available for use by Brampton Library cardholders.
While we’ve covered a lot of fantastic (and free) options, we also know this list is by no means exhaustive. If we missed something of particular interest to you, we encourage you to explore the Digital Library. You can also connect with library staff. We're always happy to help you find resources for your next project.
Happy making, and see you at MakerFest!