Community Makerspaces and Fabrication Labs Across Singapore
Singapore's makerspace network has expanded steadily since 2014, when the first FabLab opened at the National Design Centre. Today, residents can access 3D printers, laser cutters, CNC mills, and electronics workbenches at multiple locations—some at no cost. Below is a reference covering each major facility, what equipment is available, and how to gain access.
MakeIT at Libraries (National Library Board)
The National Library Board operates MakeIT stations at several public library branches, offering free access to 3D printers (typically Ultimaker or Flashforge FDM machines), vinyl cutters, robotics kits, and micro:bit programming stations. No reservation fee is required—users attend an introductory workshop (approximately 90 minutes) to qualify for independent equipment use.
Available branches include Jurong Regional Library, Tampines Regional Library, and the Central Public Library at Victoria Street. Each branch maintains between 2–4 FDM printers with PLA filament provided free of charge. Maximum print time is typically capped at 4 hours per session during peak periods.
MakeIT is best suited for beginners, students, and hobbyists producing small-scale prototypes. Industrial-grade materials and multi-day prints are not supported.
FabLab OMG (Makerspace@NDC)
Located at the National Design Centre (111 Middle Road), FabLab OMG has operated since 2014 as a public-private partnership between the DesignSingapore Council and private operators. Equipment includes FDM 3D printers, an SLA resin printer, a 60W laser cutter, a desktop CNC mill, a PCB milling machine, and a soldering station.
Membership runs on a monthly or per-visit basis. Walk-in day passes cost approximately SGD 30–50, while monthly memberships range from SGD 150–300 depending on tier and equipment access. FabLab OMG also manages external makerspaces for corporate clients and educational institutions.
The space caters to independent designers, startup hardware teams, and freelance fabricators. Staff can assist with CAD file preparation and material recommendations.
Singapore Polytechnic FabLab & Makerspace
SP's FabLab at the campus in Dover serves enrolled students and faculty, with limited community open days. Equipment ranges from industrial FDM printers (Stratasys Fortus series) to laser cutters and a vacuum forming station. SP also runs the SP Makers & Innovators group, which hosts monthly public workshops on topics like Arduino-based IoT prototyping and laser-cut enclosure design.
SUTD Makerspace (Fabrication Lab)
The Singapore University of Technology and Design maintains an in-house fabrication lab equipped with FDM and SLA printers, a waterjet cutter, a large-format laser cutter, and CNC routers. While primarily for enrolled students, SUTD occasionally opens the space during hackathons and design challenges. Notable student projects include portable medical diagnostic devices with facial recognition components and 3D-printed prosthetic prototypes.
Commercial Co-Working Fabrication Spaces
Several private spaces in the one-north district (Ayer Rajah Crescent and Fusionopolis) rent bench space alongside 3D printing equipment. These typically bundle SLA/SLS printing access with hot-desking memberships. Pricing varies (SGD 400–800/month), but the advantage is access to industrial machines without the capital expenditure of ownership.
Practical Considerations
- All NLB MakeIT locations close by 9 PM; FabLab OMG operates until 7 PM on weekdays
- Bringing personal filament is generally allowed at FabLab OMG but not at NLB branches
- Most community spaces support STL file format; some accept OBJ and 3MF
- Safety inductions are mandatory at every facility before first equipment use
- Children under 12 require parental supervision at all locations
Comparison Table
| Location | Cost | 3D Printers | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| MakeIT at Libraries | Free | FDM (PLA) | Beginners, students |
| FabLab OMG | SGD 30–300/mo | FDM, SLA | Designers, startups |
| SP FabLab | Student access | FDM (industrial) | Students, research |
| SUTD Makerspace | Student access | FDM, SLA, CNC | Engineering projects |
Disclaimer: Operating hours, membership fees, and equipment availability change periodically. Verify directly with each facility before visiting. SG Maker Pulse does not manage or operate any of the spaces listed above.