Cricut Hat Press
A Cricut Hat Press is a small heat press machine designed specifically for making custom hats. It uses heat and pressure to permanently apply designs—created with Cricut’s Infusible Ink or heat transfer vinyl (HTV)—onto the surface of compatible hats. Contact us at library@jcu.edu for more information.
Cricut Mug Press
A Cricut Mug Press is a small heat press machine designed specifically for making custom mugs. It uses heat and pressure to permanently infuse designs—created with Cricut’s Infusible Ink sheets, pens, or markers—into the surface of specially coated mugs. Download the operation manual. Contact us at library@jcu.edu for more information.
Cricut Venture
Details
Glowforge Aura Laser Engraver and Cutter
The Glowforge Aura is a compact, user-friendly laser cutter and engraver designed for small-scale creative use. It cuts, engraves, and scores materials such as wood, leather, acrylic, and cardstock. We encourage you to explore its creative potential, but please contact us at glowforge@jcu.edu before use for guidance and support.
3 Singer 4452 Heavy Duty Sewing Machines
We currently have 3 Singer 4452 Heavy Duty Sewing Machines and an additional sewing machine that can be used for many kinds of projects and materials including cotton, denim, leather, and vinyl. Download the user manual. The sewing machines are available upon request. To schedule to use the machines, or to arrange a workshop or demonstration, contact us at library@jcu.edu.
A heat press is a machine that uses high, even heat and pressure to transfer designs onto materials such as fabric, ceramics, wood, or metal. It is commonly used for crafting, apparel design, and small-scale manufacturing. Download the operation manual.
Training is required before solo use. To get started:
Complete the Safety & Liability Module and the Heat Press Module in the Curiosity Lab Canvas Training Course.
Or contact us at library@jcu.edu to schedule a training session.
We're working on adding new supplies and equipment. We currently have several kinds of paper, drawing, cutting, laminating sheets, and collage supplies. Stop by to check it out! Limited supplies of paint, fabric, thread, vinyl available upon request. Contact us at library@jcu.edu for more information.
Use cardboard scraps and boxes to create prototypes of new designs, as bases for printmaking, as sustainable canvases for drawing and painting, or for something else! We welcome donations of clean, reusable cardboard and boxes. However, if the cart is full, please recycle cardboard elsewhere.
Adobe Creative Software
The Mac Lab, managed by the Center for Digital Media, is located next to the Library Curiosity Lab and features Adobe Creative software. They offer a variety of digital media workshops and assistance. Visit www.jcu.edu/cdm for more information.
Classroom & Computer Lab Standard Software
To view a list of standard software offered on campus computers, visit https://www.jcu.edu/its/services/computing-and-printing/classroom-computer-lab-standard-software
We offer virtual, self-paced training for many of the tools and equipment in the Library Curiosity Lab through our Canvas course. Complete the modules at your own pace to learn how to safely and effectively use our equipment.
We offer in-person workshops on the following topics. For in-person training, schedule an appointment by emailing us at library@jcu.edu or visit our events page to view upcoming training sessions.
In this hands-on workshop, you’ll learn the basics of design customization using the Cricut Venture. Explore key design elements, practice cutting vinyl, and apply your designs to create personalized items like keychains, cups, or stickers. By the end, you’ll know how to take a design from concept to finished product using vinyl cutting and application techniques.
In this beginner-friendly workshop, you’ll learn the basics of operating a sewing machine and the essential supplies needed for simple sewing projects. You’ll practice sewing techniques while creating a project—like fabric coasters or a pillowcase—to take home. By the end, you’ll feel confident using a sewing machine and following basic project steps from start to finish.
In this hands-on workshop, you’ll learn how to design and create a custom mug using Cricut Design Space, a Cricut cutting machine, and the Cricut Mug Press. You’ll explore the tools and materials needed, practice cutting and applying your design, and complete a personalized mug to take home. By the end, you’ll understand the full process from digital design to finished product.
In this hands-on workshop, you’ll learn how to design and create a custom hat using Cricut Design Space, a Cricut cutting machine, and the Cricut Hat Press. Discover the tools and materials needed, practice cutting and pressing your design, and complete a personalized hat to take home. By the end, you’ll understand the full process from digital design to finished product.
In this hands-on workshop, you’ll learn the basics of designing and creating custom projects with the Glowforge Aura laser engraver and cutter. Explore how to prepare designs, choose materials, and operate the machine safely to cut or engrave your own creation. By the end, you’ll understand the full process from digital design to finished piece and take home a personalized project.
In this hands-on workshop, you’ll learn how to design and create custom T-shirts (bags, wall hangings, beanies, etc.) using Cricut Design Space, a Cricut Venture, heat transfer vinyl (HTV), and a heat press. You’ll practice cutting and applying your design, explore the materials and tools needed, and complete a personalized T-shirt to take home. By the end, you’ll understand the full process from digital design to finished wearable creation.
