On Saturday, October 18, we gathered for something a little different — a member tour at MAKE SANTA FE. Those who came out were rewarded with a mind-bending peek into what’s possible when imagination meets tools, tech, and a community of creative doers. The principle is simple: If you need special tools to make something, you come to MAKE, pay for use of the facilities and maybe take classes to learn how to make with the tools, then you make something!
MAKE SANTA FE is packed — and I mean packed — with everything you could ever need to make… well, just about anything. Think of it as a giant playground for artists, inventors, and the endlessly curious. From welding stations and leather tools to CNC routers, laser cutters, and even a water jet cutter, the place hums with potential. Add in a full array of 3D printers (including one that prints with clay!) and you start to realize the only real limit is your imagination. And don’t worry if you’ve never used some of this gear before — MAKE has friendly, knowledgeable people who’ll teach you how to use it safely and confidently.
Our own Lynette Jennings, NMC’s new Program Director, kicked things off by introducing James Johnson, Executive Director, along with several board members who were there to guide us. They divided us into smaller groups for a more personal tour — I ended up with Randy John Castillo, MAKE board member, who was fantastic at pointing out highlights and sharing how makers of all kinds use these tools.
Every room seemed more fascinating than the last. The woodshop had computer-controlled saws that cut wood, metal, and plastic with mesmerizing precision. The textile room had industrial sewing machines and a serger ready for serious fabric projects, plus a steam printer that lets you print directly onto fabric or vinyl. The ceramics area was spotless and beautifully organized, and outside we explored the yard with its forges and sandblaster.
The real heat, though, came from the Raku kiln, where Jim Romberg, the well-known Raku artist, gave a live firing demonstration. Watching him pull glowing-hot pieces from the kiln and explain his techniques was a thrill — the perfect blend of art, science, and a little bit of magic.
We also learned that MAKE isn’t just about tools — it’s a thriving creative community. There are regular Electronics & Robotics Mini Meetups, Maker Community Nights, Friday Night MAKE Tours, Tool Sharpening Meetups, and so much more. It’s a place where learning and collaboration happen naturally, often over the hum of machines and the smell of sawdust.
Before we wrapped up, James announced a special offer for our members: Active NMC members qualify for the Santa Fe Guild Membership at $85/month (regularly $105/month). REGISTER WITH CODE NMC. With such an incredible lineup of workshops — from welding and woodworking to ceramics, 3D printing, and digital design — it’s hard not to start dreaming about all the possibilities.
As people chatted after the tour, you could almost see the ideas forming. Everyone was thinking about what they might make, what tools they’d love to master, and how these new skills could spark something fresh in their own art practice. It might take a little time to absorb all the inspiration — but that’s the best kind of creative overwhelm.
For more information about MAKE SANTA FE, visit makesantafe.org — and get ready to be inspired.
Judy Nelson-Moore
New Mexico Women in the Arts Volunteer
Images courtesy of Judy Nelson-Moore and Lynette Jennings.
