How to Build a Maker Lab: 5 Key Considerations for Schools and Camps

When designing and building a 3D printing maker lab for schools or camps, several essential factors must be thoughtfully considered. Who will be using the lab—students, staff, or both? What kinds of STEM or design projects will be made—prototypes, engineering challenges, or artistic creations? What’s your budget? What kind of space do you have available?

These questions are critical to building a maker space that supports your educational goals. At Roman EdTech, we help schools and camps launch student-led 3D printing programs. Below are the five core considerations we use when helping partners create a successful 3D printing lab:

1. Audience: Who Is the Maker Lab For?

If your lab is for student use, start with student-friendly 3D printers. These entry-level machines are budget-friendly, easy to maintain, and intuitive for beginners. For advanced students or CTE programs, consider mid-range printers that offer more precision and capabilities.

Tip: A student-led maker club can increase engagement. Older students mentoring younger ones builds community and ownership of the lab.

2. Budget: Know Your Funding Options

Budgets often include hidden limits. For example, public schools may have to purchase from approved vendors. If that’s the case, consider working with your Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) to fund equipment through donations or wishlists. PTAs aren’t usually bound by procurement restrictions and can help you move quickly.

Also remember:

• All 3D printers require maintenance—don’t assume more expensive means easier.

• Support your lab coordinator—they’re learning too.

3. Space: Setup for Stability and Storage

3D printers need a stable environment. Humidity control is often overlooked but important—filament can degrade in moist climates. Use filament dryers when necessary.

Avoid moving printers frequently. Vibration or relocation can throw off calibration and lead to failed prints. Use sturdy tables or install shelving if you plan to scale.

4. Workflow & Rules: Build a System that Works

Establish clear lab processes for students and staff. While some workflows will overlap, assign specific responsibilities for lab managers and student users.

Suggested systems:

• Print queue

• Safety guidelines

• Maintenance checklist

• Hands-on training sessions

A structured system ensures your lab stays organized, safe, and productive.

5. Learning with Intention: Align Projects with Curriculum

A 3D printing lab shouldn’t be just a tech demo—it should enhance learning outcomes. Align lab activities with existing curriculum goals or STEM standards. This helps justify the investment to administrators and families.

If budget is a concern, multiple entry-level printers often serve more students than one mid-range machine.

Example: How I Built a Student-Led Maker Lab

At one school, we built a student-run design lab using three Creality Ender 3 Pro printers (~$200 each) and 3D pens for early prototyping. We shared an Amazon wishlist with the PTA and were fully funded in a week.

We repurposed a storage closet in the art room and invested in tool kits and storage. Students led the lab with the following workflow:

• Design → Slice → Print → Post-process → Display
  We also implemented:

• Safety rules

• A print queue

• Hands-on training

• A maintenance checklist

The lab became a hub for real-world design challenges, and students shared video reports with the school community to showcase their work.

Final Thoughts

Launching a 3D printing makerspace in your school or camp is about more than just buying equipment. With intentional planning around audience, budget, space, workflow, and curriculum, you can build a lab that inspires creativity, teaches real-world skills, and supports long-term learning goals.

Need help building your lab? Contact Roman EdTech to get started with consulting, curriculum integration, or lab setup.