Maker Spotlight: Michael Kowalski

By Brittney St.Amant, Jun 7, 2021

Michael Kowalski is a Maker from Ontario and a founding member of KWArtzLab, a not for profit Maker society. Located in the Waterloo region, KWArtzLab wishes to provide tools, community connections, and learning opportunities for Makers in the area.

Beginning of KWArtzLab

Michael developed this space for creators lacking the means and proper space to create! KWArtzLab is operated solely by volunteers and there are no hired employees or staff. Therefore, it is not freely open to the public and people must join as a member. Members need to pay a small fee and will then receive a key card with 24-hour access to the shop. To govern the workshop, there is an election that takes place each year. At the annual meeting, seven directors are elected, and are meant to serve for a term of 1 year.

Workshop

The workshop has a variety of tools available such as 3D printers, an electronics workbench, and much more! There is a section available for laser cutting which includes a 2×3 ft. bed which can cut materials such as plywood, acrylic, and fabric. Another section is made for fabric arts which includes heavy duty sewing machines, a serger, and a CNC embroidery machine! Lasty, there is also a ‘heavy lab’ where Makers can work with wood and metal working tools such as lathe, mitre saw, bandsaw, drill press, MIG Welder, and a CNC router.

Events

During normal times, KWArtzLab holds weekly events and meetups for Makers to create and learn from each other. An example of the events held are the robot club meetups, oil/lube/filter workshops, and open nights for the public! Adapting to the times, KWArtzLab now has many virtual events and workshops available. Still, the team is hoping to hold their first post-COVID meetup at the beginning of July!

Community

There have been many interesting projects made at the KWArtzLab workshop with talented Makers from all over Ontario. Projects have included a massive 3D printed statue, hex tile murals, and furniture. This is a place where there is a balanced mixture of science, technology, mechanics, and art! People come to the KWArtzLab full of ideas and inspiration to create, thriving off the enthusiastic environment. People can feel free to create as the please in a positive environment, free of judgement, with the support of their peers!

If you are interested in learning more, check out the KWArtzLab website here!