Cicero Public Library

The Forge: Your Creative Workshop
The Forge is the Cicero Public Library’s makerspace, a place where you can explore your creativity and bring your ideas to life. Equipped with a variety of tools and equipment, we offer a hands-on learning environment for individuals ages 12 and up. Whether you’re a seasoned maker or just starting out, our makerspace provides the resources and support you need to create amazing projects.

Contact via e-mail: makerspace@cicerolibrary.org

• 3D printer
• Glowforge laser cutter
• Cricut machine
• Sewing/Embroidery machine
• Mug press machine
• 12 X 12 Heat press machine
• Hat press machine

*Required before machine time

1-on-1 Class: Schedule a personalized tutorial with our Forge master to learn the intricacies of our machines. Sign up here.

Request Machine Time: Reserve your time on one of our machines, including the Cricut, sewing/embroidery machines, heat presses, and Glowforge laser cutter. Request Machine Time.
Note: To request a 3D print, please submit a Project request.

Submit Your Design Projects: Have a design project in mind? Submit your files for engraving or 3D printing. We can help bring your ideas to life. Project Submission Form.

Printable version of The Forge Rules 

SAFETY
Follow all safety guidelines.
Familiarize yourself with emergency procedures.

RESPECTFUL USE
Treat equipment with care.
Clean up after yourself.
Respect others’ projects and time.

TRAINING
Complete required training.
Use machines only with proper authorization.

MATERIAL
Use only approved materials.
Avoid hazardous materials.

SUPERVISION
Do not leave machines unattended.
Inform staff if you need to step away.

BEHAVIOR
Be respectful and avoid disturbances.
Follow all noise and conduct guidelines.

PROHIBITED ACTIONS
Do not modify machines without permission.
Do not bring food or drink into the space.

By following these rules, you contribute to a
safe and productive makerspace environment.

Ownership of Library Card:
Only the patron named on the library card is authorized to submit designs.
Library cards of spouses/partners or children cannot be used for design submissions.

Personal Accountability:
Patrons are responsible for any designs submitted under their library card, and they must adhere to all maker space rules.

All rules are designed to ensure a smooth and respectful experience for all makerspace users.

Violation of these rules may result in the rejection of design submissions or loss of maker space privileges. Patrons are encouraged to reach out to makerspace staff if they have questions about the submission process or rules.

Printable Version of Design Submission Rules

Proof of Licensing:
The patron submitting a 3D model or other format file for printing or cutting may be asked to provide proof of licensing for the design.
Designs must adhere to licensing agreements, and patrons are responsible for ensuring compliance.

Respecting Licensing Agreements:
Designs must be submitted with consideration for any licensing restrictions imposed by the design’s creator or owner.
Makerspace staff reserves the right to inquire about and verify licensing details.

Commercial Use Clarification:
If the design is intended for commercial use, the patron must clarify this during the submission process.
Commercial use may require additional permissions and may be subject to different rules and fees.

Compliance with Intellectual Property Laws:
All submitted designs must comply with intellectual property laws and licensing agreements. Any violation may result in the rejection of the design.

Appropriate Content:
Designs submitted should comply with community standards and not include offensive, discriminatory, or inappropriate content.

File Formats:
Submit designs in compatible file formats specified by the maker space for the respective machines.

Submission Limits:
There may be limits on the number of designs a patron can submit within a specific time frame. Check with makerspace staff for details.

Design Approval:
All submitted designs are subject to approval by makerspace staff. Designs that violate the rules will be rejected.

Printability:
Designs must be structurally sound and printable using the available 3D printers.
Ensure that the design does not have features that are too fine or fragile for successful printing.

Print Orientation and Size:
Submit designs with a clear indication of the preferred print orientation and size, if applicable.

Support Structures:
If necessary, include support structures within the design. Alternatively, provide instructions for staff-generated support.

Material Selection:
Specify the preferred material for the print (e.g., PLA, ABS) if options are available.

Raster vs. Vector:
Clearly indicate whether the design requires engraving, vector cutting, or both.

Material Compatibility:
Ensure that the design is suitable for laser engraving on the chosen material.

Size and Placement:
Clearly specify the desired size and placement of the design on the material.

Image Resolution:
For engraving, submit images with sufficient resolution for quality engraving.

Printable Price List

3D Printing:
PLA Filament: 10¢/gram ($1 Minimum)
Custom: See Bottom

Sewing Machine/Embroidery:
Embroidery: 50¢ per 1,000 stitches
Sewing Machine Use: 50¢ per 1,000 stitches

Glowforge Laser Printer:
Light Basswood Plywood: $5 Per 11.75”X11.75”X .125”
Acrylic: $10 Per 6”X 5”X .125”
Cardboard: Free
Other or Non Proofgrade Material: See Bottom

Cricut Maker 3:
Vinyl Cutting: $2.50/12X12 sheet
Cardstock Cutting: 50¢/12X12 sheet
Color Paper: 10¢/11X8 sheet
Sticker Paper: $1.50/11X8.5 sheet

Cricut Hot/Mug/Hat press:
Heat Transfer Vinyl Application: $1 per 12X12 Vinyl
Blank Mug: $4 each

Laminator:
Laminating: $1/per sheet

Additional Charges:
Other Filament: 50¢ per gram
Sewing Materials (Thread, Fabric, etc.): Priced based on type
Other Vinyl Sheets: Priced based on type
Design Assistance (If Applicable): Free

Notes:
Prices are subject to change based on material and market costs.
Ensure that prices cover operational costs and maintenance.
Custom projects or specialty materials may require a custom quote.