Makerspace

1. Button Maker

A button maker is a machine with the ability to make pin-back buttons, magnets, keychains and more.

Tecre Co. (2016). How to make a button with the Tecre button maker machine [Video]. YouTube. https://youtu.be/Mg38Vm6KLJI?si=ULTzcusH6EBiuuS6

Using the Button Maker

1. Create your graphic.
   • You can make a button out of anything put on a piece of paper (e.g. a drawing, your graphic printed out).
   • Be sure to size your graphic to fit the correct size button. The Makerspace button machine is for 1.25" buttons.
   • You can download a template for the correct button size in whatever software you are comfortable using (e.g. Word, Adobe Photoshop): Button Design Templates
2. Bring your paper to the Makerspace to be fit into the button of your choice.

Button usage will be determined on a case by case basis but will generally be limited to 3-5 buttons to learn the technique. If you require more than the limited amount, you must provide the button making supplies.

2. Hydroponics Tower

A hydroponics tower is vertical garden system that allows plants to grow indoors without soil.

Tower Garden. (2021). See how Tower Garden FLEX works [Video]. YouTube. https://youtu.be/a53AY4Jo_2g?si=XRShFqEj2DXhurMU

Using the Hydroponics Tower

Led by the Indigenous Cultural Advisor at the Miyo-pimâtisiwin Centre, we will be using the hydroponics tower to grow Indigenous medicine and culturally important plants. Stay tuned for more information!

3. Colouring books

Need to relax and unwind? Our colouring books offer a creative outlet to de-stress and recharge. With 20 original drawings in 6 books, there are a variety of intricate themes and designs.

These colouring books are made by Print + Design, a NorQuest College program available to inmate learners at Fort Saskatchewan Correctional Centre.

Print and Design is a hands-on 7-week program where learners gain knowledge and skills in the major aspects of the print industry, such as pre and post-production, materials, and digital printing. The experience gained working in Print and Design gives learners a better opportunity for successful reintegration after release. Eligible graduates could transition into a functioning print shop where they could continue to develop their skills.

To ensure everyone has a chance to use the colouring books, you are encouraged to complete one page at a time. You may remove your pages and take them with you.

4. Wooden stacking zen stones

These uniquely shaped, smooth wooden stones are designed to help foster focus, attentiveness, and relaxation. Use them for moments of mindfulness or as a simple way to de-stress.

How to use:

1. Find a calm space. Set aside a quiet area, free of distractions, where you can focus on stacking the stones. This can be your desk, a table, or any flat surface.
2. Focus on breathing. Before beginning, take a few slow, deep breaths to center yourself. This will help you enter a relaxed and mindful state.
3. Begin stacking:
   1. Choose a stone to place at the base of your stack.
   2. Gently stack additional stones one by one, balancing them carefully. Focus on each stone's weight, texture, and shape as you place it.
   3. Take your time, enjoying the process of balancing and building the stack. There's no rush.
4. Mindful practice. As you stack, let go of any racing thoughts and concentrate solely on the task. If a stone falls, calmly start again, using this as an opportunity to reset and refocus.
5. Reflect. Once your stack is complete, pause for a moment to appreciate your work. Take in the balance, symmetry (or lack thereof), and let the process ground you. Feel the sense of calm and focus the stones have helped you achieve.