Fab:Social illustrates digital arts at Northside in Derry

FAB Social participants and managers with HE staff (Photo: Ken Reay)

The women said they were delighted with the knowledge and skills they gained, making a range of items from personalised mugs and canvas bags to cushions, toys, decorations.

Rachel Duffy, the Project Manager in Northside’s HUB, was pleased with the results the Makers Club produced.

She said: “The Fab:Social project is an excellent opportunity for people to learn about digital fabrication machinery and use of equipment that is not readily accessible.

FAB Social keeping a steady eye on the vinyl cutting machine.

“Our aim is to provide skills to local people who can then create their own art and designs, share their learning experiences and help the community to benefit.”

One of the participants, Caroline, was delighted to be able to attend the project.

She said: “I’ve really enjoyed my time learning at the Hub here. I’m quite a creative person and having access to these types of digital machinery was brilliant. I’ve made cushion covers, printed mugs and created objects on 3D printers – where else could I get to do that in the City?”

The Housing Executive’s Collon Terrace office provided a community grant to help Fab:Social’s Makers Club come alive.

FAB Social's Lorraine using a printing machine.

Patrick Duddy, Housing Executive Patch Manager for the area, was at the most recent workshop.

He said: “I can’t believe the amazing work people have made at the Makers Club, it’s fantastic. The Housing Executive was pleased to be able to fund this social enterprise.”

Fab:Social is a digital fabrication project based at the HUB in Northside Village Centre, Shantallow.

It provides training and access to digital fabrication machinery, such as 3D printers, laser cutters, vinyl cutters and CNC Shop Bot.

Anyone interested can check out the Fab:Social Shantallow Facebook page or email Rachel Duffy at [email protected].