Frequently Asked Questions
WHEN IS THE MAKERLAB OPEN?
WHERE IS THE MAKERLAB LOCATED?
We are located on the second floor of Albertsons Library in the College of Innovation and Design. You can find our current open hours here – Come visit us!
WHO CAN USE THE ALBERTSONS LIBRARY MAKERLAB?
The Makerlab is a radically inclusive community that offers access to emerging technologies and innovative culture. All Boise State University students, staff, and faculty are welcome!
WHAT TYPES OF EQUIPMENT DOES THE MAKERLAB HAVE?
Check out our full list of equipment, including 3D printers.
HOW DO I RESERVE A PIECE OF EQUIPMENT?
CAN I CHECK OUT A PIECE OF EQUIPMENT?
Select equipment is available for checkout on the first-floor circulation desk in Albertsons Library. To learn more about the equipment that is available for checkout, visit Albertsons Library’s Technology Lending webpage.
CAN YOU PRINT SOMETHING FOR ME?
We accept some requests to print for others with an associated fee. If we cannot take on your project we would be happy to share some places that may be able to help. Reach out to us at makerlab@boisestate.edu to learn about alternate resources or if you’d like to learn how to DIY it for free.
HOW DO I CHANGE FILAMENT COLORS?
This video shows you how – anyone wearing an apron can help you too!
HOW LONG DO YOU HOLD ONTO A PRINT FOR US?
We will only hold onto it for a week and you can pick up prints any time the MakerLab is open.
HOW LONG WILL PRINTING TAKE?
It depends!  Factors including the model size, complexity, and infill all influence the duration of printing. The software Cura adjusts settings and establishes the length of time to print. Download Cura for free!
HOW CAN I PRINT ON THE 3D PRINTER?
All Boise State University students, staff, and faculty can learn how to print on our 3D printers. Simply reserve time with us to learn how to print!
WHAT KIND OF PRINTERS DOES THE LIBRARY HAVE?
You can find all of our lab equipment, including our 3D printers, on our equipment page.
WHAT ARE THE MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS TO PRINT A MODEL?
To print a model all you will need is an STL file (.stl)! Most 3D design programs can save or export in this format such as Sketchup Make, TinkerCAD and Blender, or you can find already made STL files on Thingiverse.