Frequently Asked Questions

A. No! Anyone can take classes at Makerspace Al Zeina. (For safety reasons, some classes have minimum-age requirements). Taking a class is a great way for you to pick up new skills and experience the many ways in which a Makerspace membership can empower you first-hand.

A. You can always check our website Class Calendar and Upcoming Classes for all scheduled classes and workshops. As well you can subscribe to our newsletter to stay tuned for promotional, seasonal and featured classes.

A. Yes! We offer Safety and Basic Use (SBU) classes to get you up to speed quickly and safely. See our Class Calendar for all upcoming classes. After you have successfully passed an SBU, you will be able to make reservations for that machine.

A. We offer several types of classes:

• Safety and Basic Use (SBU) classes are designed to provide you with basic safety training on a specific tool or machine.
• Software & Theory classes provide additional background knowledge to use the software in more detail.
• Pathway classes are offered as building blocks to help you meet your project goals.
• Project-based workshops offer instruction in the specific techniques necessary to complete an in-class project.

See the Classes page for a complete list of currently offered classes.

A. No. Successful completion of the SBU is required for liability and insurance purposes. We understand that it is frustrating to have to take an SBU for a machine which you already know how to use, but we regret that this rule is non-negotiable.

A. No. If you want to use a piece of equipment, you have to take the SBU for it.

A. We are more than happy to have you teach a workshop. Please contact . 

A. See the Payments, Refunds and Cancellations for complete details.

A. Generally yes, but there are some exceptions depending on the workshop areas, classes and equipment. See our Minors and Shop Access for more information.

A. Makerspace Al Zeina is an open-access Do-It-Yourself (DIY) fabrication workshop and a community-based space where entrepreneurs, artists, makers, teachers, and students can learn and work together. Makerspace is open to everyone with an idea: whether they want to make it solo, or to find great collaborators.

All makers, young or old, are welcome to become a member at Makerspace from 8 years onwards. Please see our Minors & Shop Access for more information.

A. Certain areas and machines require in some cases very extensive training, which will be covered in our Safety and Basic Use (SBU) classes. It is about your safety and that of all other members, as well as the preservation of the tools. As a rule, the necessary SBU classes will take place at Makerspace.

A. All workstations and equipment have to be cleared before leaving for the day, but we will surely find a solution, if you have a large, bulky project.

A. We provide a variety of storage options, which can be rented at a daily, weekly or monthly rate.

A. Of course you can, as long as you then keep them in your own storage area. However, no liability can be accepted for workpieces or tools and machines stored in Makerspace (neither for possible damage or loss).

A. Of course, everyone can bring their own material. We sell various materials in our retail section, which can be bought in Makerspace. We cooperate with suppliers to generate attractive prices.

A. Typically, anyone who creates a mess is responsible for cleaning it up after themselves, just like we would do it at home. If you leave the workplace tidy, just like you have found it - or better - than the next member will be just as thrilled as you were, when starting to use that area or equipment.

A. Anyone who gives a workshop or is involved in any Personal Services is insured against a “work accident”.

As is the case whilst at “work”, accidents fall under the private liability insurance of the person who causes the accident. Therefore, everyone who works in the Makerspace makerspace must have a private liability insurance.

A. More important than the damage to the machine is the potential damage that may occur to other members who use a defective machine. It is therefore extremely important to immediately report defects to a person responsible (ideally the General Manager, or at least the Facility Technician) and to secure the machine against further use (pull out the plug, attach a note).

Of course, we endeavour to keep the costs of any damage as low as possible for everyone involved, for example by trying to repair it ourselves or otherwise providing replacement. In case of doubt, however, private liability insurance applies. Therefore, we unfortunately cannot afford to let members without liability insurance on the devices.

A. It always depends on the project and the situation. We have a lot there, but for reasons of space we cannot hold everything. Of course, we are happy to provide one or the other thimble glue or a few screws for your own kitchen table or a few centimetres of adhesive tape. For any other more extensive usage, you will be able to find a good variety of consumables in our retail area at Front Desk.