Questions? Email [email protected]

Anderson & Roane counties, Tennessee

Let's build Oak Ridge a makerspace.

We're a free, all-skill-levels group of makers who meet every month at the Oak Ridge Public Library. Our next goal is a shared workshop with the tools, classes and room to build that none of us could have on our own.

  • Free to join
  • Monthly meeting + monthly social
  • Beginners welcome
Oak Ridge Makers Group logo: an oak tree with an atom, and the words Educate & Create

The makerspace drive

From library meetings to our own shop

A makerspace is a shared community workshop. Members get to use tools that are too big, too pricey or too specialized to keep at home, learn from each other, and take classes. Right now we meet in a borrowed room and bring our own gear. Here's the path to a real space, and where we are on it.

  1. We are here

    Build the community

    Monthly meetings, a monthly social and show-and-tell. Every new member makes the case for a space stronger.

  2. Getting started

    Raise the money

    Grants and local supporters for rent, buildout and a first set of tools.

  3. Next

    Find a space

    A building in Anderson or Roane county with room for a shop, a classroom and storage.

  4. The goal

    Open the doors

    Open shop hours, safety classes and workshops for adults, students and families.

What we want to put in it

Our wish list today. Members will shape the final plan.

  • Wood shopTable saw, bandsaw, drill press, hand tools
  • Digital fabrication3D printers and a laser cutter
  • Electronics benchSoldering stations, test gear, parts bins
  • Sewing & craftsMachines, cutting tables, craft supplies
  • ClassroomSpace for workshops, talks and youth programs
  • Project storageShelves so work in progress can stay put

Get involved

How you can help

Come to a meeting

The simplest way to help is to show up. Bring a project, a question or just your curiosity.

See meeting details

Volunteer

We need hands for events, outreach, grant writing and teaching. Tell us what you're good at.

Email us to volunteer

Know a space?

An empty storefront, a warehouse bay, a hall that sits unused? Point us to it.

Suggest a location

Donate or sponsor

Money, tools and equipment all help. Donations are handled by Eythos, the 501(c)(3) nonprofit that sponsors our group.

Ask about giving

Meetings & events

Come make something with us

Monthly meeting

Oak Ridge Public Library

Next date posted on Discord and in our email updates

Open to the public. Project updates, show-and-tell and planning for the makerspace.

Monthly social

Location varies

Date and place shared on Discord and by email

A relaxed get-together to meet other makers. No agenda.

Membership

Free

No dues while we build toward a space

Anyone interested in making is welcome, from first-timers to pros.

About us

Educate & Create

The Oak Ridge Makers Group brings together hobbyists, professionals, students and tinkerers who like to build things: woodworking, 3D printing, electronics, programming, crafts and everything in between. We believe people learn best with their hands, and that the right tools shouldn't depend on having a garage full of them.

We're working toward a makerspace for Anderson and Roane counties, and we'd love your help getting there.