FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a MakerSpace? What is a Maker?

Makerspaces (A.K.A hackerspaces, hackspaces, fablabs) encourage people to learn to create via personal and group projects. To complete a project, participants learn new things from many different disciplines: Crafts, Robotics, Soldering, Electronics, Programming. Almost every project will involve all aspects of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math). Learning is informal, demand-driven, person-to-person, where people teach what they know, and learn what they don’t.

Makerspaces are usually open 24×7 so members can work on projects during their spare time. Makerspaces fund rent and equipment via member fees, classes, and donations. This equipment and space attracts members. Makerspaces also have “open house” nights where the community can come to learn and get advice. (This also serves as marketing to find new members.)

Makers are a community of people sharing and learning in the context of building things. When people build things for themselves, plucked out of their imaginations, they are more receptive to learning new skills to accomplish their goals. Most projects have an artistic and creative side, but also technical aspects. Every project involves skills in multiple disciplines (electronics, materials, crafting, robotics, soldering, 3d printing, programming, etc).

Anyone can be a maker: engineers, kids, artists, students, entrepreneurs, housewives, etc. All it takes is a drive to turn your ideas into real things. When a Maker gets stuck, the Maker community helps out: They an be a source of ideas, creative work-arounds and resources for learning or getting something done. Makers constantly share what they know and encourage learning and teaching in both formal and informal settings.

What happens at meetings?

Whatever you want. Some people come to work on their projects. Some people come to meet interesting people doing interesting projects. Some people bring their technical challenges, hoping that others have ideas. Because of the diverse background of our members, you can usually get advice about any type of project.

Where is the space?

31332 Via Colinas #108, Westlake Village, CA 91362. (Although we also ‘broadcast’ our meetings Thursday night meetings online)

When are the meetings?

We meet every Thursday from 7-9PM. The Makerspace may be open at other times for classes and other special events.

What equipment do you have?

Not much right now – but we will have more equipment soon. Sign up for our Meetup and/or Mailing list to stay informed. (And let us know if you have equipment to donate)

Currently at the space now:

  • Soldering stations
  • Oscilloscope stations
  • Computer
  • Color Laser Printer
  • Take-apart pile
  • 3D printer
  • WiFi
  • Some crafts
  • Presentation room
    • Projector, TV
    • Tables
    • Seating for almost 20 people

Can I bring my kids?

Yes! But keep in mind that we are not a daycare. Only bring you kids if they are interested in becoming a maker.

What areas does CVMake serve?

The Conejo Vally includes Thousand Oaks, Newbury Park, Westlake Village, Oak Park and Agoura Hills. But we serve the US-101 Tech Corridor, in easy reach for Calabasas, Simi Valley, Camarillo, Woodland Hills, etc.

Why does Conejo Valley need a Makerspace?

Conejo Valley has lots of engineers and incredible artistic talent spilling over from LA. When people get together and share their talents, great things happen.

Makerspaces often spin off amazing projects like Makerbot.

How does a Professional Makerspace differ from a School Makerspace?

A school Makerspace is aimed at kids going to that school. They are only open a few hours a week (instead of 24×7). They are mostly made up of kids (which means you better like working with kids) and there are only a few adults (which limits the pool of experience you can draw from.)

Professional Makerspaces are full of people with deep experience in many diverse fields. No one can be an expert at everything, so everyone has an opportunity to learn from each-other. (“Teach what you know, Learn what you don’t.”)

Are there any other Makerspaces nearby?

Yes, there are lots: