OKEHAMPTON Library is working with FabLab Devon, in association with FabLab Plymouth at Plymouth College of Art, to offer free FabLab workshops during the February half term.

The workshops, which run on Monday February 15 in Okehampton Library, are designed to give a flavour of what FabLabs can offer, using digital technologies such as 3D printing, laser cutting, 3D scanning and 3D design.

In the Build a Glider workshop for nine to 16-year-olds, from 10am until 12.30pm, young people will be given the opportunity to design, construct and fly a laser cut wooden glider. 3D design software and a 3D printer will be used to develop parts such as a nose and propeller, to improve the flight of the glider and participants will be able to take home their creations.

In the Makey Makey Musical Objects workshop for six to 12-year-olds, from 2pm until 4.30pm young people will turn everyday objects into musical instruments using basic circuits and programming. Selecting from a wide range of objects, they will then programme them to play a musical tune.

The workshops are free and all equipment, materials and tuition will be provided. Places are limited so early online booking is recommended.

The sessions are part of a county-wide collaborative project, funded by Devon County Council. A total of 50 free FabLab taster sessions will be held in primary schools, secondary schools, FabLabs and public libraries across Devon, from Exeter to Seaton to Barnstaple. The sessions will all be led by FabLab Plymouth manager Ian Hankey, from Plymouth College of Art.

Also an award-winning designer and master glassmaker, Ian Hankey said of the workshops: ’The work being done in FabLabs around the world utilises cutting-edge technology, but people shouldn’t be intimidated by that idea.

’I manage the FabLab at Plymouth College of Art now, but a couple of years ago I’d never used technology like this. My background is in hot glass blowing, which is a simple process that hasn’t changed in over 2000 years. Using CAD (Computer-Aided Design) is completely different, because there’s a computer interface between you and the end result, but the results can be spectacular.

’Anybody familiar with the technology can use it to replicate seemingly clever objects, but I try to teach people to be comfortable enough with it to use the technology creatively.

’We’re living in an age where you could build your own 3D printer for as little as £350 and run it on free open source software, so the barriers to 3D printing aren’t as high as they might seem. Hopefully these introductory sessions for young people will give them an idea of how easy the technology is to use, so that they’ll feel comfortable visiting their local FabLab to learn more.’

Councillor Andrew Leadbetter from Devon County Council said: ’These free courses will offer an important opportunity for schools, the public and businesses to learn about the possibilities of relevant technologies such as 3D printing. Devon County Council set up FabLab Devon and are funding this current project in recognition of the importance of digital skills to our economy.’

For more information call the library on 01837 52805 or drop in during opening hours.