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“Maker” is a modern interpretation of manufacturing techniques. It is a hobby for some and a way to make a living for others. They are one of the pillars of the modern creative industry. Still, there is no school with a special focus on makers. That is why makerspaces play a very important role in the development of makers and in the achievement of durable impact on the environment.
We are creating a guide to help both those who want to create a makerspace but also for those who want to become “maker entrepreneurs” and learn about how others before them have started, the tools they used and advice regarding green development, business models and engagement with the community.
The Maker ABC project has been funded with support from the European Commission. Its content and material reflect the views only of the authors, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.
Project code: 2021-2-RO01-KA210-ADU-000051270
Generic Definition:
The Z-axis is the third axis of a three-dimensional coordinate system, also known as the vertical axis. It is perpendicular to the X-axis and Y-axis and measures height or depth. In manufacturing, the Z-axis is commonly used in 3D printing, CNC machining, and other types of automated production equipment to control the vertical movement of a tool or workpiece.
In terms of entrepreneurship:
In entrepreneurship, the Z-axis is often used to represent the scalability or growth potential of a business. It represents the potential for growth in terms of size, revenue, and market share.
In terms of community:
In the Maker community, the z-axis typically refers to the vertical axis of a three-dimensional object, while the x-axis and y-axis refer to the horizontal axes. The x, y, and z-axes are used to determine the position and movement of a tool or material within a 3D printing or CNC milling machine. Understanding the relationship between these axes is crucial for accurately designing and manufacturing objects using digital fabrication technologies.
Generic Definition:
FLOSS stands for “Free/Libre and Open Source Software.” It is a term used to describe software that is both free to use and modify, and whose source code is open and available for others to study, modify, and distribute.
In terms of entrepreneurship:
FLOSS is closely related to entrepreneurship in the Maker world, particularly in the context of small-scale manufacturing and product development, by providing Makers with access to low-cost, customizable software tools and resources.
In terms of community:
In the Maker community, FLOSS is often used as a tool for creating and sharing projects, as well as for developing software to control various Maker tools and equipment. Many Maker communities encourage the use of FLOSS to ensure that projects and tools are accessible to as many people as possible, regardless of their financial means.
Generic Definition:
Education is the process of giving or receiving knowledge in order to promote learning, and may be carried out in formal, informal, and non-formal settings. It can refer to the theory and practice of teaching, or the body of knowledge acquired by the learner. It may also refer to a more general set of information about a topic or training in a specific subject, as well as any enlightening experience that promotes growth and learning.
In terms of entrepreneurship:
Education is important to Maker-entrepreneurs, as both formal and non-formal education contributes to the skills and knowledge Makers need to produce their crafts and products. Here it is important to highlight the contributions of non-formal education, since many Makers learn on their own, from other Makers (one-on-one), or as part of a Maker community, sharing ideas and tips for improving and innovating their products.
In terms of community:
Education in terms of the Maker community involves a hands-on, experiential, and collaborative approach to learning that emphasizes creativity, innovation, and problem-solving. It recognizes the importance of providing students with opportunities to learn through making and experimentation and can have a range of benefits for both students and the wider society.
Generic Definition:
ESP32 is a series of low-cost, low-power system-on-a-chip microcontrollers developed by Espressif Systems. These chips also provide Wi-Fi and dual-mode Bluetooth connectivity with embedded devices. While ESP32 is technically just the chip, modules and development boards that contain this chip are often also referred to as “ESP32” by the manufacturer. The ESP32 is most commonly engineered for mobile devices, wearable tech, and IoT applications, though it can be used in a number of different production systems and its capabilities and resources have grown extensively since it was first produced.
In terms of entrepreneurship:
ESP32 in terms of entrepreneurship represents the capacity for Makers to include the microcontroller chip in products and projects that are innovative and highly attractive in our contemporary society. As a result, things like innovations in mobile device and wearable tech represent new opportunities for Maker-entrepreneurs.
In terms of community:
ESP32 in terms of community represents a vibrant and active community of Makers, hobbyists, developers, and enthusiasts who are working together to create innovative and exciting projects using this versatile microcontroller. The community’s focus on collaboration, open-source principles, and knowledge sharing has helped to drive innovation and push the boundaries of what is possible in the world of electronics and IoT.
Generic Definition:
1. practical contact with and observation of facts or events.
2.the knowledge or skill acquired by a period of practical experience of something, especially that gained in a particular profession.
3. an event or occurrence which leaves an impression on someone.
In terms of entrepreneurship:
The making of a project/object/business is a journey filled with creativity, challenges, and fulfillment. For entrepreneurs, every step of the process, from ideation to product realization, is a transformative experience and learning opportunity that shapes their identity and brand.
Experience as a way of being part of the process is also a selling point for makers (see craftsman), as the story behind the object they are creating is as important sometimes as the object itself.
In terms of community:
The concept of experience in the Maker community refers to the idea that Makers engage in hands-on, experiential learning by creating physical objects or prototypes. This approach emphasizes learning through doing and encourages Makers to experiment with materials and techniques to develop new skills and knowledge. The experience of making also fosters creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration among members of the Maker community. By sharing their experiences and insights, Makers can inspire and support each other, while also advancing the overall goals of the community, such as innovation, sustainability, and social impact. The focus on experience in the Maker community is often linked to the broader movement of experiential learning and is seen as a way to promote more engaging and effective forms of education and training.
Generic Definition:
the branch of physics and technology concerned with the design of circuits using transistors and microchips, and with the behaviour and movement of electrons in a semiconductor, conductor, vacuum, or gas.
In terms of entrepreneurship:
From wearable tech to home automation and IoT devices, the applications of electronics in the maker world are vast. Entrepreneurs leverage their technical expertise and creativity to develop solutions that address real-world challenges and consumer needs.
However, electronics entrepreneurship also poses challenges. Technical complexities, regulatory compliance, and supply chain management require careful consideration. Ensuring product safety and cybersecurity is paramount.
In terms of community:
Using electronics in the Maker community involves designing, prototyping, and building electronic devices, circuits, and systems. This can range from simple projects like LED lighting and sensors to more complex ones like drones, robots, and interactive installations. The Maker community often uses open-source hardware and software platforms like Arduino and Raspberry Pi to develop and program electronic projects, and may also utilize 3D printing and laser cutting to fabricate custom enclosures and parts. Collaboration and knowledge-sharing are important values in the Maker community, and members often share their designs and code online, fostering a culture of open innovation and creativity.
Generic Definition:
The art or pastime of embroidering cloth.
Embroidering – decorate (cloth) by sewing patterns on it with thread.
In terms of entrepreneurship:
Similar to carpentry, embroidery is one of those fields of making that has been revolutionised in the modern world. As one of the oldest crafts, embroidery links us so strongly to the past and tradition.
Yet, making is all about mixing the old with the new so there are a lot of makers that use embroidery in contemporary ways.
Here are a few examples:
Cosânzeana – https://cosanzeana.ro/ is a social business that creates embroidery kits on wood
In terms of community:
In the Maker community, embroidery is often seen as a creative and expressive art form that can be used to personalize clothing, accessories, and other fabric-based projects. Many Makers use embroidery to add unique designs and details to their handmade creations, and there are a wide variety of embroidery techniques and styles that can be explored. Some Makers also use embroidery as a form of activism, creating designs that promote social justice causes or raise awareness about important issues.
