Digital Fabrication: laser cutter machine cutting out a running cat shape on a square piece of wood
The Digital Fabrication Studios, located in PNW 303 and PNW 311, are home to a number of digital fabrication processes, including 3D printing, laser cutting, vacuforming, and soldering. Students are able to use the equipment in these rooms to create prototypes, props, and works of art that combine digital rendering and preparatory processes with physical materials, exploring new ways of working in both 2- and 3D.
Equipment
• Trotec laser engraver & cutter
• Lulzbot extrusion 3D printer
•Formlabs resin 3D printer
• Soldering station
• Formech vacuform machine
Authorization
The Fabrication Studio is only for students enrolled in Art Department courses.
Training
Students must receive specialized training for all equipment in this space.
Hours
The room is open Monday - Friday, 8:30 am - 4:30 pm, by appointment only with the Technology Support Specialist.
Access and reservations
Email feshragh@wellesley.edu to schedule use.
Responsibilities of user
• Certain materials can create toxic smoke when laser engraved/cut. The vacuform machine can only be used with very specific materials. You are responsible for clearing any material with the Technology Support Specialist before use!
• You must remain in the room whenever the laser cutter or vacuformer is in use.
• Laser engraver must be vacuumed after every use. You must clean the lens and wipe down all components after heavy use.
• Any files left on the suite computers may be deleted at any time.
• Art may not be stored in this space. Do not leave art or personal belongings in the room.
• You must log your use of the laser cutter in the provided Google Docs link.
Associated costs
The laser cutter costs $1 per minute to operate. You must pay in the Equipment Cage within one week of use.
Food & drink
Food and drink are strictly prohibited in both rooms due to the possibility of chemical contamination.
The Honor Code is recognized in these spaces!
Questions? Need help?
Technology Support Specialist Farimah Eshraghi, feshragh@wellesley.edu