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Author Topic: FabLab  (Read 12895 times)

Offline kwackers

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FabLab
« on: March 07, 2012, 07:22:35 AM »
Haven't seen this before but thought it might be of interest to some.

It's basically a fabrication workshop you can hire - this particular one is in Manchester (U.K) but I believe similar venues exist elsewhere.

http://www.fablabmanchester.org/
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Offline z3t4

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Re: FabLab
« Reply #1 on: March 07, 2012, 01:02:57 PM »
Now that is worth a look. Just behind Argos, not far from Piccadilly.
The laser cutter is calling out to me. :bow:
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Offline PTsideshow

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Re: FabLab
« Reply #2 on: March 07, 2012, 03:48:59 PM »
Yes they are popping up everywhere, don't know what the deal or payment schedule on your side of the pond is. But on this side  the problem is they fold as fast as they open. If they had something like a monthly or bi weekly fees wouldn't be as bad as a year up front and they close a month or so later. The other problem is the popular equipment has long wait times. And you have to use it when your time comes up in rotation, or lose your spot.

This is all second hand info that I have been told. And know that one was collecting money up till the day before they closed! Sort of like the gyms do here  :doh:

It is a great idea if you can keep it open, and the bills paid.
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"The internet just a figment, of my imagination!' 
 
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Raise the Dead!
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Offline Bluechip

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Re: FabLab
« Reply #3 on: March 07, 2012, 05:46:29 PM »
Hi Glen

We have that here too. Grab the cash and fold the 'enterprise'

Which is why I only ever use my debit card for serious money.

At least you can, eventually, get it refunded.

Nearly stung once, never forgotten it.

BC
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Offline andyf

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Re: FabLab
« Reply #4 on: March 07, 2012, 06:51:36 PM »
Well, the FabLab in Manchester UK which Kwackers drew attention to is run by The Manufacturing Institute, an outfit whose aims seem to be to encourage invention and entrepreneurship, and which is sponsored by various industrial concerns. According to its website, individuals can use it at no charge, so users don't stand to lose money if it closes down.

I live about 6 miles out of the city centre, and being of a certain age can get there for £0 on the tram, so might pop in for a look around. It does look to be a bit textile oriented, though.

Andy

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Offline PTsideshow

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Re: FabLab
« Reply #5 on: March 07, 2012, 07:42:39 PM »
Well that sounds like a much better deal then the commercial NON-Profits run here!  :thumbup:
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"The internet just a figment, of my imagination!' 
 
 There are only 3 things I can't do!"
Raise the Dead!
        Walk on water!
                 Fix a broken heart!
and I'm working on the first two!
glen

Offline sparky961

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Re: FabLab
« Reply #6 on: March 07, 2012, 09:59:41 PM »
Interesting concept, though looking at the equipment page it does seem a bit lacking.

Does anyone in the US have first hand experience with Techshop (http://techshop.ws/)?  Same idea but seems to cover the bases a bit more in terms of equipment.

-Sparky
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