The Fishers Maker Playground has all the tools you need to make the perfect holiday gifts, and Maker members are at no loss for inspiration. These member projects will get the ideas flowing and demonstrate some of the gifts you could make for your loved ones in Fishers’ well-equipped makerspace.
If any of these ideas sparked inspiration, we have a deal for you this holiday season! During Shop Fishers through December 31, you can buy 1 month of membership, get a 2nd month free, or get a discount card for 5 visits for $100 (regularly $125) when you mention Shop Fishers. Purchases must be made in-person at Maker Playground.
On the Laser
The laser cutter is one of the most popular items at Maker Playground, in part because it is easy to use, but also because of the broad array of items you can make on it. The laser cutter can cut and engrave materials such as wood, acrylic, leather, and rubber, and can be used to mark metal for personalized designs.
With this machine, you can take a purchased item and make it perfect for your loved one, the way member Randy Cox (Instagram @randysbigadventures) personalized a knife or Richardo Suecharan (Instagram @skyviewai) made this custom sign for his sister-in-law.
On the CNC Router
Another popular machine at Maker Playground is the CNC Router. Using this machine, members can custom cut and engrave wooden items. The CNC Router can be daunting at first, but staff at the Maker Playground is always willing to help with execution.
Staff member Cassy Coha helped member Lars Lawson (Instagram @larsindy) make this custom sign for a friend.
From the Woodshop
Woodworking projects are a classic handmade present that combine function with beauty. In the Maker Playground woodshop, you can make everything from boxes and ornaments to full furniture pieces.
Member Joseph Vinyard (Instagram @vinyardwoodworks) made this mid-century modern side table entirely out of hard wood walnut. Not only is it a sturdier alternative to the store-bought equivalent that will last for years to come, but it is also a reminder of the thought and work he put into the gift.
On the 3D Printers
3D Printing is a great way to make presents, either from your own 3D designs or from existing files available for download on sites like thingiverse.com. At Maker Playground, the 3D printers can print anything made from plastic up to roughly 13” x 9.75” x 11.5”—the only other limit is your imagination! 3D printers are great for personalized items or stocking stuffers for adults and kids of all ages.
Needle and Thread
Maker Playground has more than just power tools and high-tech machines; it also houses a group called the Needle and Thread Society that meets every month to work on fabric projects and share ideas. Members work on everything from cross-stitching, embroidery, knitting, crochet, needle felt, to weaving. One of our members made these custom stockings that are perfect for the holidays!
Nick Snyder is the Makerspace Manager for the Fishers Maker Playground where he makes sure machines are working and manages classes & programs! Nick loves spending time at Fishers Parks and enjoys trying new restaurants and breweries. In his spare time, he loves playing music, walking his dogs, renovating houses, and traveling with his wife Jennasen. His favorite thing about Fishers is how many activities and events are available to the community. Keep up with him on Instagram!