When TeenHQ opened in 2016, it introduced something new to Bay Area libraries: a full MakerSpace just for teens. With only a parental waiver and a short training, teens could use real fabrication tools. The space started with a 3D printer, vinyl cutter, sewing machines, a serger, a desktop CNC machine, a laser cutter, a full electronics station, hand tools, and computers with CAD software like OnShape and SketchUp.
Teens started using the MakerSpace right away. Just three days after opening, on August 23, 2016, TeenHQ held its first MakerSpace Training on the 3D printer and vinyl cutter, which brought in a dozen teens. After that, trainings became a regular part of TeenHQ. Staff led sessions on the CNC machine, soldering iron and electronics station, sewing machine and serger, and laser cutter. These sessions were held every two weeks at first, then monthly as the program grew. In 2019 alone, more than 100 teens attended over 50 training sessions.
After completing training, teens could book equipment on their own. Before this system ended in 2020 due to the pandemic, 116 different teens had reserved equipment for a total of 688 hours. The 3D printer was the most popular, with 91 teens making 263 bookings and using it for 312 hours. The laser cutter had 61 bookings, and the vinyl cutter had 36. Saturdays were the busiest, and most reservations happened after school between 2 and 5 PM.
Since it opened, the MakerSpace has held over 270 sessions and welcomed nearly 900 teens through trainings, drop-in hours, and hands-on craft programs. Sessions have ranged from practical trainings on the 3D printer and vinyl cutter to more unusual ones, like a Laser Cut Cookies program that used the laser cutter in a tasty way.
The MakerSpace, like the rest of TeenHQ, had to adjust when the pandemic closed the space in 2020. When it reopened, the MakerSpace switched to a more casual, drop-in style. Programs like 3D Printing Drop-In and Crafternoons made it easier for teens to try the tools without signing up for a full training session.
Today, the MakerSpace has two Lulzbot Taz Pro 3D printers, a Glowforge laser cutter, an HP DesignJet large format printer, a Cricut Maker 3, a button press, and a Babylock sewing machine and serger. Teens can use these tools during TeenHQ MakerSpace Studio, which happens on the first and fourth Wednesday of each month for up to five teens at a time. Standalone programs have also been offered monthly since 2023, including Custom Keychains, where teens make laser-cut keychains using the Glowforge, and TeenHQ Poster Printing.
After reopening to teens in Fall 2022, the MakerSpace has built back from its pre-pandemic heyday.
From late 2022 to June 2026, teens have made over 188 posters, 124 keychains, and at least 150 3D-printed objects. Over 108 teens have come in to use the button makers to create fun, personalized swag, and others have come in to learn to sew using the sewing machines.
After ten years and many new tools, the MakerSpace still follows its original idea: give teens real equipment, teach them to use it safely, and see what they create.
MakerSpace programming now runs Wednesdays from 4–5:30 PM, rotating through four different offerings. The 1st and 4th Wednesdays are TeenHQ MakerSpace Studio, an open studio session for up to five teens at a time to work across the space's full toolset, from the 3D printers and Glowforge to the sewing machines, Cricut, and button press. The 2nd Wednesday is TeenHQ Poster Printing, where teens can turn an image or design into a 24"x36" poster on the HP DesignJet. The 3rd Wednesday is TeenHQ Custom Keychains, where teens design and laser-cut their own acrylic or wood keychain on the Glowforge. All programs are free and open to middle and high schoolers (grades 6-12).
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