Life Update: Maker Space Growing Pains + What I’m Making Next
- Dusty Santos
- Jul 2
- 2 min read
Do you want a behind the scenes look at what it's really like in a maker space?
I love Lowell Makes (my local maker space). It gives me access to tools I could never fit in my own home. But because it’s a shared space, we’re going through some growing pains right now.
What’s going on at the shop
Wood shop: Someone is tightening hardware so much that even men can’t loosen it—and threads are getting stripped.
Laser shop: Both lasers need major maintenance, so I can’t use either one right now. One of them is so weak it can't even cut through my plywood. Here are the burnt pieces to prove it.
So in the meantime, I’m doing what makers do when the tools are down: research and assessment. I’m looking hard at what’s working, what needs improvement, and what you actually want me to make next.
A quick look at my current products
K-Cup holder: Beautiful and sturdy, solves a real space problem—but not everyone owns a Keurig.
Matching game: Kids love the pieces, adults love the classic wooden-toy feel. I want to improve the lid.
Dynamic Designs: I’m rethinking how patterns attach to trays—likely as a clean insert with dowels.
Catalog: Designed and ready—just waiting on funds to print.
Key chain charms: My current patterns are niche. I’m leaning into “niche is better”—I just need to find my audience.
Custom key chain charms: I talk about them, but I need better signage and examples so people “get it” instantly.
Wedding placeholders / wearable name tags: A new idea I’m excited about—seat markers that double as name tags + keepsakes (laser permitting!).
Retail items: I’m exploring wholesale so I can offer more homestead items—not just decor. Sourdough + small-home farming are calling my name.
What I’m doing right now
Selling at Londonderry Flea Market this weekend and reinvesting into the wedding name tags (and hoping a laser is back online).
Tracking what actually works: which posts bring people to my site, and what items you want me to carry.
Improving signage: custom keychains, QR codes (website + survey), Venmo, and newsletter sign-up.
Exploring wholesale with an eye toward kits and monthly packages for my best customers.
Quick questions for you...
I've been doing some research on other successful businesses. They all have one thing in common - research! Can you help a girl out?
Take my super quick (honestly it really is quick) survey. Any and all answers help me, help you!
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