What's FabLab?

A global network of experimental citizen workshops equipped with various fabrication tools from digital to analog

Philosophy of FabLab

FabLabs aim to expand the possibilities of personal fabrication and foster a culture where users themselves create.

Four Conditions for Using the FabLab Name

Open to the Public

The facility must be open to the general public at least once a week, either free of charge or in exchange. This democratizes access to fabrication tools.

FabLab Charter Compliance

The lab must display the "FabLab Charter" guidelines on its website and within the facility, conveying its principles to users.

Common Recommended Equipment

Standard equipment enables knowledge sharing between labs. Recommended tools include laser cutters, CNC routers, milling machines, 3D printers, and more.

Participation in Global Network

Participate in the global FabLab network through annual conferences, collaborative workshops, and video conferencing systems to share resources and operational knowledge.

Recommended Equipment

Key equipment recommended for FabLabs

Laser Cutter

For cutting and engraving materials

CNC Router

For cutting large wooden materials

Milling Machine

Precision machining of metals, wood, and plastics

3D Printer

Creating three-dimensional objects

Cutting Plotter

Cutting paper and vinyl

Electronics Equipment

Designing and manufacturing electronic circuits

History of FabLab

Started in 2002 from research by MIT Professor Neil Gershenfeld, by 2011 FabLabs had expanded to over 50 locations in more than 20 countries. In Japan, the first FabLabs opened in Kamakura and Tsukuba in 2011.

FabLabs in Japan

Currently, there are more than 18 FabLabs across Japan, distributed from Hokkaido to Fukuoka.