Policies

Access to the Tenzer Maker Lab is a privilege.

Before using the lab or its equipment, you must complete the safety training and a brief orientation with Tenzer Director Boyles.

Once you finished training, you will gain access to the Maker Lab!

While working in the lab, please keep the door open. This ensures visibility, safety, and accessibility for other community members.

Be welcoming to visitors. If someone is curious about the space, take a moment to explain what you are working on or direct them to Tenzer staff for more information.

Maintain a clean and organized workspace. Put away tools, dispose of scraps and failed prints, and leave the area ready for the next user.

Respect the equipment. Use printers, tools, and materials responsibly, and never attempt repairs or modifications unless authorized.

Be mindful of noise levels. Some projects require concentration, so keep conversations and music at a considerate volume.

Food and drinks should be kept away from printers and electronics to avoid spills and damage.

When leaving the lab, close the door securely behind you to maintain lab safety and equipment security.

All printers are single-color and typically use 2.85mm PLA.

Only Tenzer personnel, interns, and approved advanced users may change filament, switch materials, or perform maintenance.

If you want to try a different color/material, or if you notice a maintenance issue, contact Director Boyles or a current Tenzer intern.

Printers are first-come, first-served. Please be considerate of others’ time and return promptly to remove your print when it finishes.

Long prints should be scheduled overnight whenever possible so printers remain available during daytime hours.

Both curricular projects and personal projects (without direct academic ties) are welcome.

Commercial use of the Tenzer Maker Lab—such as producing items for sale or generating personal revenue—is not permitted.

All printing consumables are provided by Tenzer at no cost to the DePauw community.

Users should not purchase or bring their own filament or parts, as this helps ensure compatibility, consistent printer performance, and quality control.

If you have a specific color or filament type you’d like to use, please contact Tenzer staff or a current intern. We’re happy to discuss options and see if we can accommodate your request.