Overview
The ITS MakerSpace is a service of Syracuse University ITS Learning Environments and Media Production. It is a dynamic, hands-on space where Syracuse University and SUNY ESF students, faculty, and staff are invited to imagine, design, build, and explore. Whether you are a first-time maker or an experienced creator, the ITS MakerSpace offers state-of-the-art tools and technology, including 3D printers, laser engravers, embroidery machines, and more, to bring your ideas to life.
Eligibility & Access
The ITS MakerSpace is open to all Syracuse University and SUNY ESF students, faculty, and staff during posted hours. Hours are subject to change; current hours can be found on the ITS MakerSpace contact page. A valid SU ID card is required for entry. Upon entering, all visitors must check in with an ITS MakerSpace staff member.
Individuals outside of the Syracuse University and SUNY ESF communities are not permitted access to the ITS MakerSpace. Those interested in learning more about the space may submit an inquiry through the contact form to request a tour.
Groups & Organizations
Clubs, groups, and organizations from Syracuse University and SUNY ESF are welcome at the ITS MakerSpace. Groups of three or more individuals must complete the contact form in advance to schedule an appointment and ensure adequate staffing coverage.
The ITS MakerSpace is a learning environment and is not a production facility. Bulk and promotional production on behalf of a group or organization is not permitted. Individual members of a group are welcome to use the ITS MakerSpace to create personal projects; however, large-scale or repeat production runs are outside the scope of ITS MakerSpace services. The ITS MakerSpace reserves the right to decline any request that is deemed inconsistent with its educational mission.
Equipment Use & Safety
All tools and equipment, excluding computers, must be used under the direct supervision of an authorized ITS MakerSpace staff member. Unsupervised use of equipment is not permitted. Prior approval from a supervising staff member is required before beginning any project or operating any machine. Machines are only permitted to be used during the ITS MakerSpace’s operating hours.
Users who fail to comply with supervision requirements or staff direction will be asked to cease activity and may be required to leave the ITS MakerSpace.
All users must be of legal age to operate equipment. Minors may only access equipment with prior written approval.
By using the ITS MakerSpace, users acknowledge and accept the following:
- Equipment must be used only as directed by ITS MakerSpace staff.
- The ITS MakerSpace is not responsible for flaws, errors, or defects in user designs or finished products.
- Users assume all risk associated with the use of tools and equipment.
- Misuse of equipment may result in injury, damage, or removal from the space.
- The ITS MakerSpace is not responsible for flaws, errors, or defects in user designs or finished products. This includes, but is not limited to, failed 3D prints, imprecise laser engraving, embroidery errors, garment printing issues, or any other outcome that does not meet user expectations. The ITS MakerSpace is not obligated to redo, replace, or compensate for any project or materials.
- The ITS MakerSpace is not responsible for saved files, lost designs, or any data stored on ITS MakerSpace computers or equipment. Users are responsible for saving their own files to personal storage before leaving the space.
Safety & Dress Requirements
The following dress and safety requirements apply to all users when operating equipment:
- Appropriate eye protection and safety glasses must be worn when using ITS MakerSpace equipment.
- Loose clothing that could become caught in machinery is not permitted.
- Long or loose hair must be tied back and kept clear of all equipment.
- Unnecessary accessories, including headphones, earbuds, ties, and jewelry, must be removed prior to equipment use.
- Closed-toe shoes are required. Heels and sandals are not permitted.
- Additional protective equipment should be worn as appropriate.
Machine-Specific Safety Guidelines
The following guidelines apply in addition to general safety requirements. This list does not cover all aspects of safe operation. For complete instructions, consult an ITS MakerSpace staff member before use.
3D Printers
- Never reach inside a 3D printer while it is in operation. Allow the printer to cool down fully before accessing the interior.
- Ensure adequate ventilation, as plastic fumes are emitted during printing.
- When using a scraper to remove a printed object, always push away from yourself.
- STL files are required and Tinkercad/Thingiverse are recommended resources.
- Filament diameter must match the specific printer being used.
- Non-approved filaments are not permitted.
- Multiple copies of the same print require staff approval and should not exceed quota limits.
Laser Engravers
- Do not use without direct supervision of an ITS MakerSpace staff member.
- Do not look directly into the laser diode pointer beam.
- Do not remove protective covers or attempt to disassemble the machine.
- Use air assist when vector cutting and ensure the area is well ventilated.
- Never engrave or cut any material containing PVC or vinyl.
- Keep the work area clear of unnecessary materials at all times.
Vinyl Cutter/Vinyl Printer
- Do not use without direct supervision of an ITS MakerSpace staff member.
- Keep all body parts and objects clear of the machine during operation.
- Do not adjust machine parts while the power is on.
- Ensure vinyl is properly loaded before beginning.
- Discard excess material.
Dye-Sublimation and Direct to Film/Garment Printers
- Do not use without direct supervision of an ITS MakerSpace staff member.
- Do not leave the printer unattended during operation.
- Never reach inside the printer while it is operating.
- Keep the work area clear of unnecessary materials.
Heat Press
- Do not use without direct supervision of an ITS MakerSpace staff member.
- The heat press can reach temperatures up to 600 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep all body parts and objects clear of the machine during operation.
- Keep the machine on a sturdy, stable surface.
- Always confirm the transfer image is face down against the material before pressing.
- Follow the transfer media supplier’s instructions at all times.
Embroidery Machines
- Do not use without direct supervision of an ITS MakerSpace staff member.
- Accepted embroidery file formats: OMF, EXP, DST. Digitizing software is available for in-house design.
- Change needles every 4 to 8 sewing hours, or sooner if the needle is dull or broken.
- Before changing a needle, confirm the safety grabber blade is in the back position.
- Install needles with the thread guide facing forward and the scarf facing back. The needle eye should be turned 5 degrees to the right (acceptable range: 0 to 20 degrees).
- Do not leave the machine running unattended.
- Designs must be digitized using Melco DesignShop software, available on-site.
Sewing Machines
- Keep hands and fingers clear of the needle and presser foot at all times during operation.
- Never sew over pins or needles; remove them before the needle reaches them.
- Do not pull or push fabric forcefully through the machine; guide it gently.
- If the machine jams, stop immediately and notify a staff member rather than attempting to clear it yourself.
- Keep loose clothing, hair, and accessories clear of moving parts.
- Do not leave the machine running unattended.
Soldering
- The soldering iron reaches extremely high temperatures. Never touch the tip and always return it to its holder when not in use.
- Solder only in a well-ventilated area and turn on fan. Do not inhale fumes.
- Wear safety glasses during use.
- Keep flammable materials away from the soldering station.
- Allow the iron and soldered components to cool completely before handling.
- Never leave a powered soldering iron unattended.
- Wash hands thoroughly after soldering.
Music Studio
- Handle all instruments and equipment with care. Report any damage to staff immediately.
- Return all instruments to their cases and storage positions at the end of each session.
- Volume levels must remain at a reasonable level so as not to disturb other ITS MakerSpace users.
- Recording software sessions should be saved to personal storage; the ITS MakerSpace is not responsible for lost files.
- Food and drink are not permitted in the studio.
- The studio is not soundproof for professional recording; it is intended for learning and exploration.
Equipment & Services Limits
To ensure equitable access for all users, the following weekly limits apply to ITS MakerSpace equipment and services. Limits are per individual user unless otherwise noted.
| Equipment | Weekly Limit | Additional Notes |
| 3D Printing & Resin 3D Printing | 200g of ITS MakerSpace-supplied filament per week | Clients may provide their own filament to exceed this limit. One printer per person at a time. Prints over 24 hours require prior approval. Filament left beyond 30 days becomes ITS MakerSpace property. |
| Laser Engraving | Six household items per week, or up to six 12″x24″ OR three 20”x32” sheets of paper, cardboard, wood, or matboard | Clients must provide items to engrave. Approved materials: wood, glass, cardboard, anodized aluminum, stainless steel, paper, and MDF/matboard. Plastic and acrylic are not permitted due to ventilation requirements. |
| Embroidery | Two items per week with up to two small (5.5″x5.5″) or one large (16″x16″) location per item. Graduation stoles: two small (5.5″L) or one large (13″L) location per week. | Clients must provide items. All designs must comply with intellectual property laws. |
| Direct to Garment/Film | Two prints per person per week. BT-12: up to 8.5″x11″ area. X-Tool: up to 10″x14″ area. | Clients must provide items. All designs must comply with intellectual property laws. BT-12: white or light-colored thin fabrics only. X-Tool: any color fabric. |
| Vinyl Cutting & Printing | Fashion/Iron-On (single color): one 10″x15″ area. Sticker vinyl (single color): one 10″x24″ area. Print & Cut (multi-color): one 6″x20″ area per week. | Clients must provide items. All designs must comply with intellectual property laws. |
| Dye Sublimation | Up to four dye-sub mugs/tumblers/small blanks, or two apparel prints up to 8.5″x14″ per week. | Works only on poly-coated items or 100% polyester light-colored fabrics. Clients must provide items. All designs must comply with intellectual property laws. |
| Studio | Up to 1.5 hours per day | Instruments cannot be removed from the ITS MakerSpace. |
| Sewing | Up to 1.5 hours per day | Clients must supply fabric. |
| Soldering | Up to 1.5 hours per day | Clients must supply additional components. |
| Tools | No limit; must remain within ITS MakerSpace premises | Tool lending is not permitted. Tools cannot be removed from the ITS MakerSpace. |
Conduct & General Policies
Alignment with University Policy
All users are expected to conduct themselves in accordance with Syracuse University’s Code of Student Conduct and applicable University policies while in the ITS MakerSpace.
Minors on Campus
Minors may only access the ITS MakerSpace and its equipment as part of a program that is registered with the Syracuse University Office of Risk Management.
Food & Drink
Food and drink are permitted in the ITS MakerSpace but must not be brought near any equipment or machines. Users are responsible for disposing of food and drink waste properly. Spills near equipment must be reported to a staff member immediately.
Photography & Recording
Photography and video or audio recording within the ITS MakerSpace require prior approval from both ITS MakerSpace staff and all individuals who may be captured in the recording. Recordings must also comply with all applicable Syracuse University policies regarding photography and recording on University premises. Unauthorized recording of other users or staff is prohibited.
Wait Times & Queue
Equipment is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Users waiting for equipment must add their name to the ITS MakerSpace queuing application and must remain present in the space while waiting. If a user’s name is called and they do not respond, they may be skipped and returned to the end of the queue. Users who leave the space forfeit their place in the queue.
Responsible Use of the Shared Space
Users are expected to be mindful of others when occupying equipment or workspace. Excessive noise or behavior that disrupts other users is not permitted. The ITS MakerSpace is a collaborative environment; users are encouraged to be courteous of wait times and equipment availability. All users are responsible for maintaining a clean and safe workspace. Before using any machine, users must confirm the work area is clear. Upon completing a session, users must clean the machine and surrounding area.
Respectful Conduct
All users are expected to treat ITS MakerSpace staff and fellow users with respect at all times. Harassment, discrimination, or disruptive behavior of any kind will not be tolerated. Staff direction must be followed at all times. The ITS MakerSpace is a shared, collaborative environment and all users are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that is courteous and considerate of others. All users are subject to Syracuse University’s Code of Student Conduct and applicable University policies while in the ITS MakerSpace.
Prohibited Substances
In accordance with University, state and federal laws, alcohol and drugs are prohibited at any campus facility. In accordance with the University-wide Tobacco Free Policy, tobacco use of any kind is prohibited.
Prohibited Uses
The ITS MakerSpace is a learning environment. The following uses are strictly prohibited:
- Manufacturing products for commercial purposes.
- Production of weapons, weapon accessories, or weapon replicas of any kind.
- Creation of tools or items intended for use in vandalism or unlawful activity.
Hazardous Materials
Do not dispose of hazardous materials, including batteries, lightbulbs, and ink, in standard waste bins. Users who encounter hazardous waste must notify an ITS MakerSpace staff member immediately and must not attempt to dispose of it themselves. Appropriate recycling bins are available within the ITS MakerSpace for designated materials.
Personal Belongings
Personal belongings must not be left unattended in the ITS MakerSpace. The ITS MakerSpace is not responsible for lost or stolen items.
Emergency Procedures
In the event of a power outage, fire alarm, or other emergency, users must safely stop all activity and exit the ITS MakerSpace immediately, following the direction of ITS MakerSpace staff and all applicable Syracuse University emergency procedures. For complete emergency guidelines, refer to Syracuse University’s Safety Policies, which cover medical emergencies, chemical spills, evacuation, and other critical situations.
Intellectual Property & Copyright
Syracuse University Trademarks & Logos
Syracuse University trademarks, logos, and other identifying symbols may not be printed, embroidered, laser engraved, or otherwise reproduced onto any items, including but not limited to apparel, accessories, promotional materials, or merchandise, without express written consent from the University.
It is the sole responsibility of the user to research and verify whether any mark, logo, or symbol is a protected Syracuse University trademark prior to beginning a project. The ITS MakerSpace and its staff are not responsible for identifying trademark violations on behalf of users. Users assume full responsibility for ensuring their projects do not infringe upon Syracuse University trademarks or any other protected marks.
Third-Party Intellectual Property
All users must comply with intellectual property and copyright laws when incorporating artwork, designs, logos, or other materials into their projects. Unauthorized reproduction, modification, or distribution of copyrighted works is strictly prohibited.
It is the responsibility of the user to research and confirm that all intellectual property incorporated into a project is used with proper authorization. Users must provide ITS MakerSpace staff with proof of authorization prior to beginning any work involving third-party intellectual property, including but not limited to copyrighted materials, trademarks, patents, and licensed content. Projects may not proceed without verification of authorized use. The ITS MakerSpace assumes no liability for intellectual property violations resulting from user projects.
Consequences for Policy Violations
All ITS MakerSpace users are responsible for reviewing and complying with these policies prior to using the space. Violations may result in, but are not limited to, the following consequences:
- Being asked to cease activity and leave the ITS MakerSpace.
- Suspension or indefinite loss of ITS MakerSpace access.
- Referral to Syracuse University for disciplinary action.
- Potential legal action if necessary.
Consequences for policy violations are at the sole discretion of ITS MakerSpace supervisors. By entering and using the ITS MakerSpace, all users acknowledge that they have read, understood, and agreed to these policies.
Additional University Policies
Users of the ITS MakerSpace are also subject to the following Syracuse University policies:
- ITS Computing Policy: Covers copyright, computer lab use, and electronic communications.
- Syracuse University Emergency Procedures: Covers medical emergencies, chemical spills, evacuation plans, power outages, fire, and other critical incidents.