The Fab Lab, located at the Polsky Exchange, offers entrepreneurs opportunities to transform their ideas into physical objects to share, test and perfect. With a full suite of state-of-the-art equipment to create prototypes and translate ideas into physical objects, the Fab Lab gives members access to tools needed to translate between digital and physical design.

- Expert support: Polsky Center staff provides knowledge and guidance to help members through the prototyping process, assist with determining the best tools for the job at each stage, and connects them with an extended network for additional resources.
- Training classes: Fab Lab 101 is offered on demand and provides an orientation to the Fab Lab’s space and many resources. Follow this with machine-specific authorizations, which will train you safely and expertly use the Fab Lab equipment for your project.
- 2D and 3D Design workshops: Coming up with a good idea and learning how to make a prototype are only part of the process in creating a successful business. In order to take advantage of digital fabrication, you need to translate your designs to a digital file. Our software classes can help you do just that.
- Materials for prototyping: Use of the Fab Lab and materials for prototyping are included in Polsky Exchange membership. Members may be asked to provide their own materials for special projects or if high quantities are required.
- Workshop and hack days: In addition to hardware and software classes, the Fab Lab hosts electronics classes, open houses, and project-based workshops to build community and help members gain skills outside their primary areas of expertise.
Getting Started
Want to prototype and don’t know where to start? Reach out to Team Fab Lab to schedule a design consultation!
Lab Access
Equipment Hours
Success at the Fab Lab
The Polsky Center is proud to have partnered with these companies in the development of their prototypes.
3D Printers
Small user-friendly desktop 3D printer for experimenting with the earliest iterations of a 3D printed prototype, and for prototyping plastic objects. A great way to learn about the 3D printing process.
Desktop 3D printer for experimenting with the earliest iterations of a 3D printed prototype, and for prototyping large plastic objects. A great way to learn about the 3D printing process.
Creates precise and realistic prototypes combining multiple properties like color, flexibility, and transparency. Can print moving parts.
Desktop 3D printer for experimenting with the earliest iterations of a 3D printed prototype, and for prototyping large plastic objects. A great way to learn about the 3D printing process.
Creates strong structural prototypes and moving parts. Great for early iterations of a product.
Computer Numerically Controlled Routers
Cuts large prototypes from wood, plastics, and soft metals. Can engrave circuit boards.
Electronics Kits
A powerful, easy-to-use single-board computer running Linux.
Create flexible circuits, perfect for prototyping wearables and consumer goods. Also a good introduction to electronics.
Learn to prototype non-permanent circuits on breadboards.
A quick way to prototype Internet of Things devices without wires or soldering.
Prototype Internet of Things devices with a wifi-connected microcontroller and an assortment of sensors.
A single-board Linux computer that can be incorporated into prototypes.
Electronics Workbench Test Equipment
Powers projects with the specific voltage and current they need.
Generates custom waveforms for testing electronics projects.
Analyzes analog signals and circuits.
Other Digital Fabrication Tools
Makes custom decals to add branding and realism to low-fidelity prototypes. Can be used as a resist for silkscreens and stencils.
Creates custom packaging and enclosures. Cuts and etches a wide variety of materials for quick iterations and intricate details.
Software
Used to make 2D graphics to be cut on the laser cutter, vinyl cutter, and computer numerically controlled routers. Great for making logos and designing with type.
Powerful, professional engineering CAD software. Design objects to be 3D printed and simulate operations.
Wood Shop Support Tools
Makes straight and curved cuts. Great for finishing pieces from the Shopbot.
Makes straight and curved cuts. Great for finishing pieces from the Shopbot.
Makes holes in a variety of materials.
Quickly smooths and shapes material.
Cuts large pieces of wood parallel to the grain (ripping).