Welcome to The Studio, Winnetka Library’s Makerspace
The Studio is a creative hub where you can explore, design, and bring your ideas to life. Whether you're crafting, 3D printing, cutting with a Cricut, or experimenting with new technology, we have the tools and space to support your creativity. Stop by, get inspired, and start creating.
Using The Studio
The Studio is designed for ages 11 and up. Children under 11 must be accompanied by an adult.
Appointments
We recommend making an appointment if you’d like dedicated, one-on-one assistance from one of our Studio specialists. They can help you learn how to use equipment, troubleshoot projects, or bring your creative ideas to life.
Drop In
Feel free to drop in during any of our open hours! However, please note that assistance is not guaranteed without an appointment. We’ll do our best to help as availability allows.
Workshops
Explore a variety of creative skills with guided instruction. Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your techniques, our workshops offer step-by-step guidance and plenty of inspiration. Check our schedule and reserve your spot today!
If you have any questions about using The Studio, please contact studio@wnpld.org or contact The Studio at 847-446-7220.
What Will You Make? Project Ideas for The Studio
With the tools available in The Studio, the possibilities are endless! Here are some inspiring project ideas based on each tool:
Embroidery Machine: Personalize clothing, tote bags, and patches, or create embroidered gifts like napkins, pillowcases, and wall art.
Laser Cutter: Engrave custom signs, jewelry, coasters, and home decor, or cut wood/acrylic for 3D models like mini furniture or displays.
Cricut Machine: Create custom stickers, decals, storage labels, heat-transfer designs for fabric, and wall art with our vinyl cutter, or cut paper for cards, scrapbooks, stencils, gift boxes, and materials like fabric, leather, and wood for home decor.
3D Printer: Print game pieces, phone stands, cable organizers, replacement parts for household items, custom keychains, cookie cutters, and mini prototypes.
Sewing Machine: Create custom clothing, tote bags, pillow covers, fabric bookmarks, or upcycle old clothes into something new.
Sublimation Printer: Transfer custom designs onto mugs, t-shirts, hoodies, hats, tote bags, phone cases, pillowcases, mousepads, coasters, keychains, ornaments, and more.
Equipment
Edit, design, and digitize with our Mac mini, equipped with Adobe Creative Cloud and a scanner for photos, slides, and film. Convert VHS tapes to MP4 files for easy storage and sharing.
This versatile cutting machine is perfect for paper crafting, vinyl projects, and more. Cut larger projects with ease, including materials up to 25” wide.
Easily add custom embroidery to fabric with pre-programmed fonts and designs. The Studio also offers software to convert your own designs into embroidery-ready files.
Engrave custom designs on wood, acrylic, leather, and more with our Epilog laser engraver. A rotary attachment allows engraving on cylindrical objects like glassware and mugs.
Engrave custom designs on wood, acrylic, genuine leather, and more with our Epilog laser engraver. A rotary attachment allows engraving on cylindrical objects like glassware and mugs.
Bring your fabric creations to life with our sewing machine, perfect for everything from simple repairs to detailed garment construction.
A vinyl cutter lets you create precise, custom designs for decals, labels, signs, and heat transfers. It's perfect for crafting, home décor, and personalized projects.
Bring your designs to life with vibrant, long-lasting color using heat transfer sublimation printing. Create custom apparel, mugs, phone cases, and more with specialty ink and materials for durable, vivid results.
3D Printer
3D print game pieces, phone stands, cable organizers, replacement parts for household items, custom keychains, cookie cutters, and mini prototypes.
Makerspace Guidelines
To ensure a great experience for all, please follow these guidelines:
- Self-Guided Creativity – The Studio is a makerspace for independent exploration and hands-on learning.
- Ask for Help – Studio Staff are here to support your learning—don’t hesitate to ask questions!
- Plan Your Visit – The Studio is open to ages 11+ (under 11 with an adult)—book a one-on-one, drop in, or join a workshop; check our calendar.
- Program Closures – The Studio is closed during scheduled programs.
- Material Costs – Some materials provided by The Studio may have a fee. Ask staff if you're unsure.
- Respect the Space – Clean and organize your station when finished so others can enjoy a tidy workspace.
- Stay with Your Project – Keep an eye on your project while it’s in progress to prevent issues or damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
- The Studio welcomes creators of all skill levels! Children under 11 must be accompanied by an adult. Not sure where to start? Ask our library staff about age-appropriate activities and equipment recommendations!
- WNPLD cardholders receive priority (make sure to enter your library card number) in program registration and can schedule one-on-one appointments with our Studio Specialists for personalized assistance.
- Non-cardholders are welcome to create in The Studio.
The equipment is free to use, but there may be small fees for consumable materials like filament, wood, or vinyl. Patrons are welcome to bring their own materials.
| 3D prints | 10 cents/per gram |
| Acrylic sheets | $3.00 |
| Flash Drives | $1.50 |
| Glassware | $1.50 |
| Stabilizer | $1.00 |
| Sublimation Mug | $1.50 |
| Sublimation Tote Bag | $2.00 |
| Sublimation Sheet | $1.00 |
| Vinyl/HTV | $1.00 |
| Wood Sheet | $1.50 |
The equipment in The Studio cannot be used to create anything that:
- Violates local, state, or federal law.
- Could be used as or simulates weaponry.
- Is not appropriate in a library environment.
- Violates copyright or trademark protections.
Yes! You’re welcome to bring your own project materials, but they must be compatible with our equipment. Ask a staff member if you're unsure.
Yes! Safety is a priority.
- Some tools require training before use.
- Protective gear (e.g., safety goggles) may be required.
- Food and drinks are not allowed near equipment.
Studio Success: Quick Tips!
- Plan Time: Projects take longer than expected. Schedule a consultation!
- Learn, Don't Expect: Staff guide, you create. We don't design for you.
- Research First: Prep your ideas and materials before you arrive.
- Book Ahead: Check equipment availability.
- Respect Space: Clean up and treat equipment with care.
- Safety Always: Follow staff guidance.
- Ask Questions: If unsure, ask for help!
- Document: Take notes and photos for future projects.
The Studio is intended for personal, educational, and prototyping use. Commercial production is not allowed.
The Studio honors the memory of Constance Staffileno and her passion for art and art education, and aims to inspire generations of innovators and enthusiasts.