For starters, Halloween is my jam.
I’m the kind of person who keeps a running list of costume ideas all year round, and not the pink, prepackaged, jailhouse rock-type of stuff. Creativity is key, and the more ridiculous, the better.
That’s why I got so excited when I heard about the Arkansas Innovation Hub’s inaugural Maker Ball, a costume party for grown-ups that inspires guests to make part of their getup. The idea is to encourage partygoers to repurpose and rethink the items they already own, cutting back on wasted materials and dollars. The Hub has been inviting people to come work on their costumes each Friday night in October, so I thought I’d check it out.
After a quick tour, I decided to start digging into a box of spare metal scraps and pieces donated by Tenenbaum Recycling Group. I pulled out a few pieces, looking for inspiration and chatting with fellow makers about costume ideas and building strategies. Meanwhile, across the room, someone used a laser to cut fabric.
Clearly I need to up my game.
Luckily for anyone else who needs to do the same, the Innovation Hub will be open the next two Fridays from 6-8 p.m. Come with your materials, spread out and make use of the awesome space and gadgets.
The Maker Ball is scheduled for 7 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 30, at the Innovation Hub. Tickets are only $25 and include live music, food and an open bar. Click here for more info.
As for my costume, you’ll have to wait and see. No spoilers. Keep an eye on Instagram for the big reveal.
But one thing is for certain: I now have an unquenchable thirst for laser cutting and 3D printing.