Anyone can become a maker, regardless of age or previous experience. The maker community is very open and inclusive, so all you really need is the desire to create and learn new things. Once you become a member, you can start experimenting and developing your skills. Let's get started!

A maker is a person who enjoys creating, manufacturing and coming up with new ideas. The term refers to both traditional crafts and modern technology. In fact, it covers a wide range of activities, from wood, metal or textile fabrication to 3D printing, programming and working with electronics. Such efforts can result in a prototype, a functional product or a work of art.

🧠 Characteristics of a Makers

• Creativity: Makers are creative and like to find new ways to build or improve things.

• Practical skills: They know how to work with their hands and are familiar with a variety of tools and technologies.

• Technological skills: They use modern technology such as CNC machines or 3D printers.

• Experimenting: They are not afraid to try new things and learn from mistakes.

🛣️ Potential Career Paths

Makers find employment in a number of areas:

• Entrepreneurship: Starting a small business selling handmade or customized products on platforms like Etsy, Shopify, or through local markets.

• Product design and development: Working in industries like furniture, toys, or tech gadgets, designing unique products.

• Engineering or prototyping roles: Collaborating with R&D teams to create prototypes or refine designs.

• Artisan crafts: Becoming a professional artisan specializing in jewelry, ceramics, woodcraft, or textiles.

• Tech-focused roles: Jobs in robotics, IoT (Internet of Things), or digital fabrication.

✨ Success Stories

Josef Průša is a Czech manufacturer of 3D printers that has become world famous for its affordable and high quality products.

Simone Giertz is an extraordinary maker known for her funny "non-functional" robots that have inspired millions of people online.

🚀 Why Become a Maker

If you're the kind of person who likes to dive into the creative process, looks for innovative solutions and wants to see the results of their work, you might find becoming a maker fulfilling. Making is about being able to express your creativity. Whether you want to turn it into a hobby or a future career, give it a try and see if you enjoy it.

💡 How to Become a Maker

Finally, we've put together five tips on how to become a successful maker:

1. Find your passion: Find out which area you enjoy the most. Explore working with different materials such as wood, metal or ceramics, mastering modern technology and pursuing artistic activities.

2. Start with simple projects: First, focus on small projects that you can complete in a few days. Go from basic to complex.

3. Learn from others: Take inspiration from communities and use the resources available, whether it's online tutorials, how-to guides or books.

4. Visit workshops in your area: If you don't have your own tools and want to meet other makers, check out a nearby makerspace or attend a workshop.

5. Document and share your work: Show photos and videos of your projects to others. Share them on social media and learn from feedback.

Now you know where to start. So what are you waiting for? Use one of our tips or begin by taking a MAXP course in the Constellation Leo.

Author of the blog post:

Šárka Dvořáčková, Nadační fond vzdělávání a podnikání