How to Get Creative at MIXXER Makerspace

This shop has been compensated by Inmar Intelligence and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #MixxerCommunity #MakeStuffLearnStuff

Have you ever had a project in mind, but did not have all of the tools needed to bring it to life? Let me tell you about a super cool place I recently discovered, which is a maker's dream! MIXXER Community Makerspace is a DIY community space where you have access to the tools you need to create projects in electronics, sewing, woodworking, metalworking, and more! Mixxer’s mission is to provide access to Tech, Tools, and Community, as well as training.

Prior to this opportunity, I had never heard of Mixxer, but as a DIYer, I was definitely exited to learn more! I visited the Mixxer location in the the Industry Hill Neighborhood in downtown Winston-Salem, NC (my hometown.) Alan, the Executive Director, was gracious enough to give me and my husband a personal tour, answered all of our questions, and helped me with each step of my project. Currently, Mixxer is only open to members for safety reasons and they are taking precautions to keep everyone healthy, such as mandatory masks and temperature checks at the door. There are a variety of memberships available including individual, student, and family options.  Mixxer does currently offer limited in-person workshops, along with offering some virtual classes. While Mixxer is only open to members, anyone can join!

One thing I discovered during our conversation and tour is that Mixxer is more than just a workspace; it is a community of makers wanting to share their expertise and knowledge. My husband was interested in the 3-D printers and Alan shared that they have a member who actually builds them and loves to share his expertise with other members. 

As we toured the different workspaces, I was surprised at all of the different areas and tools that were available for use. There was a sewing space; an area for screen-printing; a metal studio with machines for welding, cutting, and metal forming; a woodworking shop with tons of saws and tools, along with large workbenches, and dust collection systems; and even an outdoor urban garden upkept by members.  

We spent most of our time in the Tech Lab, which housed the 3-D Printers and Laser Cutter, which is what I used. Alan walked me through each step from creating my image in the design software, to setting up the wood in the Laser Cutter, to running the machine. I cut the word "hello" out of plywood to use on a round wooden sign, so stay tuned to see how that project turns out! It was mind-blowing to watch the process! This machine can cut a variety of materials, such as wood, leather, fabric, and acrylic.

Another aspect of this organization that I really appreciate is their participation in social causes. Mixxer has launched a new initiative called THRIVE! which works with local nonprofit organizations to reach the people that they serve, invite them to a special event at Mixxer, and offer one-on-one mentoring opportunities for them to have a successful first experience making something. Mixxer is continuing to work with community partner organizations to help establish a scholarship fund to assist people in need of financial assistance to have access to Mixxer. They also have a STEAM Education program that engages students in grades 6-12 for unique learning opportunities that they do not have access to in school. 

The day we visited, Alan showed us beds that volunteers had built for a local organization called "A Bed and a Book." Their mission is building and delivering fully-furnished beds and books to local kids at no cost to their families.

If you would like to support Mixxer and their community partners, you can donate HERE. Your tax-deductible donation makes it possible for ordinary people to do extraordinary things! Mixxer's vision is a world where anyone can have the opportunity to make anything.

If you live in or around Winston Salem, I highly recommend checking out Mixxer. I am already looking forward to going back and my husband is busy thinking up projects as well. I think he was more excited than I was about the space, since we are avid DIYers with a small workshop and limited tools. Mixxer opens up a world of possibilities, whether it is learning a new skill, engaging with other creatives, or just bringing your project to life!

If you want to learn more, follow Mixxer Community Makerspace on their social channels:

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