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Hamilton County Libraries Maker Rally

    Maker Rally logo

    Explore the creative spaces at three Hamilton County libraries by taking part in our Maker Rally, a fun, hands-on activity for adults and teens happening February 2 through April 25.

    How It Works

    Pick up a Maker Rally Stamp Booklet at any of the three locations. This passport-style zine guides you through activities at each stop. Complete an activity and earn a stamp. When you’re finished, you’ll have created your own wooden toy inspired by designer and illustrator Johann Banta.

    Stop 1: Carmel Clay Public Library Digital Media Lab — Use our guided, drop-in activity sheets to design your toy on our iPads or Macs. Next, prepare your design for laser cutting. (Estimated time: 2 hours)

    Stop 2: Westfield Washington Public Library Annie Gotwald Makerspace and STEM Lab — Engrave and cut the toy you designed using a Glowforge laser. (Estimated time: 45 minutes)

    Stop 3: Hamilton East Public Library Ignite Studio — Use an acrylic painting kit to put the finishing touches on your creation. (Estimated time: 1 hour)

    Kick-Off Events

    You can start and complete the Maker Rally any time between February 2 and April 25, but we're also holding three special kick-off events at the Carmel Clay Public Library if you need an extra boost to get started.

    Maker Rally Reception

    Meet other makers at our reception on Thursday, April 25. Bring your Maker Rally toy with you to show others, and take part in a contest to pick the best creations. Details about the Maker Rally Reception are available here.


    Skip Maker Rally FAQs widget
      • No, the creation spaces and activities at the three participating libraries are open to anyone! If you live in Hamilton County, though, it's a great idea to get a card from your home library because you'll also be able to check things out from any public library in the county.

      • No. You need to take each step in order, but you can leave as much time as needed in between, so you can easily go at your own pace. You'll just need to start and finish the rally between February 2 and April 25.

      • No, the Kick-Off events are a more hands-on version of our drop-in activities. You may come into the Carmel Clay Public Library Digital Media Lab any time to try to start the Maker Rally and design your toy. 

      • Each library's creation space has its own age policies. The Maker Rally is designed for ages 14+, so anyone 13 and under will need adult supervision while doing the activities. Consult with each library for more details on age-based policies. 

      • Staff are always available to help answer any specific questions you have while making your toy, but they may not always be able to give hands-on guidance.

      • Yes! All materials will be provided for anyone to make one toy between February 2 and April 25. 

      • For this event, we are limiting supplies so you may make one toy per person. If you would like to make more, you are welcome to buy your own plywood. All other needed materials/equipment are offered freely by the three participating libraries. 

      • The Maker Rally Stamp Booklet and supplied plywood won’t be available after April 25. However, the design and laser preparation activities will stay available in the Carmel Clay Public Library Digital Media Lab if you would ever like to make a toy using your own materials.

      • No, but it is encouraged if you make a toy! Plus, only participants who come to the reception have a chance to win a prize. 


    Details about CCPL Digital Media Lab

    425 E. Main St, Carmel, IN

    Mon–Thu 9am–8pm
    Fri 9am–6pm
    Sat 9am–5pm
    Sun 1pm–5pm

    317.814.3999

    Details about Ignite Studio

    5 Municipal Drive, Fishers, IN

    Mon–Thu 9am–8pm
    Fri–Sat 9am–6pm
    Sun 12pm–6pm

    317.579.0331

    Details about Westfield Washington Public Library Makerspace

    17400 Westfield Blvd, Westfield, IN

    Mon 2pm–5pm
    Tue 4pm–7pm
    Thu 11am–2pm
    Fri 1pm–2pm
    Sat–Sun 2pm–5pm

    317.896.9391