DO IT YOURSELF: North Carolina's subculture of tinkerers, hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts finds a home in nonprofit makerspaces.

• Author: Cuthrell, Shannon

A 3D-printed prosthetic hand, a light-up hula hoop, a breathing treatment device, brewery tap handles, embroidery display frames and resin pours amassing 2.5 million TikTok followers--these are some of the products of North Carolina's makerspace scene.

The concept of makerspaces--also known as "hackerspaces"--isn't exacdy new, historically applied in public libraries or universities. In recent years, dedicated hubs for do-it-yourself enthusiasts and artists have popped up nationwide, often operating as volunteer-run nonprofits relying on member dues, grants and corporate sponsorships. North Carolina's makerspaces are lined with laser cutters, 3D printers, pottery and fiber arts studios --resources that would cost thousands of dollars to purchase.

More important than fancy equipment, makerspace leaders say, is the diversity in backgrounds their makers bring to the dynamic. "Someone who does a fiber craft like knitting and someone who does electronics probably don't understand each other's crafts, but if you get them talking they'll always find some way to relate," says Zak Smolen, president of Asheville Makers, a 950-square-foot downtown-area spot where 25 members pay $50 monthly to use the space and tools.

A few years ago Smolen wanted to 3D-model an engagement ring, but had a shortfall in experience. Another member needed different help for their project. "We both traded knowledge, him helping me with 3D design and me helping him with electrical circuit design, and together both learned new skills from the experience and completed our projects," says Smolen.

Camaraderie among makers strengthens the whole. While definitions vary on what being "a maker" means, North Carolina's makerspaces say the mindset of their diverse and interdisciplinary crowd defines them better than a formal title.

"We often see collaborations among people that wouldn't have met outside of the makerspace," says Elaine Lamson, executive director of Winston-Salem's 7,200-square-foot Mixxer Community Makerspace. Since opening in 2018, the makerspace has attracted 177 members and 2,500-plus people who create items from art to furniture, jewelry to complex machines.

"Some create for personal use, some for profit, as a learning exercise or simply a creative oudet," says Lamson. "The thing all of those makers have in common is a need for support. That support is what makers often need to be successful, and is central to the service Mixxer provides."

Countless members of...