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PRINT SHOP
MEMBERS HANDBOOK

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We’re thrilled to have you as part of our creative community! This handbook is here to help you make the most of your Print Shop membership while keeping the space fun, functional, and fabulous for everyone. Think of these as friendly guidelines to keep the creativity flowing. Let’s dive in!

Membership Options

Maker Members

  • For individuals, offering access to the shop 7 days a week, 9 AM – 9 PM.

  • Choose between an annual or 3-month membership.

24/7 Members

  • VIP membership with around-the-clock access to the shop.

  • No need to reserve shoptime (if the shop isn’t in use).

Org Members

  • Perfect for families, companies, or organizations.

  • Covers up to three people for shop use, workshops, or events.

Partnership Members

  • Tailored for agencies and institutions running regular programming.

  • Covers all employees and clients.

Learn more at Print Shop Memberships.

Reserving Shoptime

The Print Shop operates on a first-come, first-serve basis. You must reserve shoptime thru our online system:

  • Online Booking: Book your shoptime here.

  • Appointments: Must be made 24 hours in advance. This secures the Design Lounge and the main lab. Walk-ins are welcome in the front copy shop area if it's not being used.

  • Be Considerate: Only book time you plan to use—no placeholders, please!

Types of Shoptime:

  • Project Consultation: 20 minutes with staff to brainstorm project plans.

  • Independent Shoptime: Available in 1, 2, 3, or 4-hour blocks for the 

  • Supervised Shoptime: Need help? For $25/hour, a personal shop assistant can guide you through software, equipment, and processes.

Late, Cancellation, or No-Shows:
Cancel or reschedule online up to 24 hours before your appointment. For last-minute changes, email us at info@printshopholyoke.org.

Certification

To use equipment unsupervised, you must pass basic competency exams. These can be scheduled when booking shoptime. Exams cover tools ranging from basic hand tools to advanced printers and plotters.

 

Photos, Recording, & Social Media

We love capturing the magic! By entering the shop, you consent to being photographed or recorded for our marketing and social media. If this isn’t your thing, let us know at info@printshopholyoke.org.

 

Ordering Materials

We stock frequently used materials, but if you need something specific or out of the ordinary, let us know—we’ll do our best to help. Planning a big project? Give us a heads-up so we can stock up!

 

Bringing Your Own Materials or Equipment

Yes, with a few caveats:

  • Specialty materials (papers, vinyls, blanks) are welcome, but please ask for approval first if they’re new or unusual.

 

Payment Policies

  • DIY Material Slips: After using materials, fill out a slip with your name, date, project reference, and materials used. Leave it in the "to be billed" box by the reception desk.

  • Invoicing: You’ll receive an electronic invoice via Square with Net 30 terms.

 

Shop Safety

  1. Things are hot and sharp: Be mindful of your surroundings.

  2. First Aid Kit: Located by the sink in the front of the shop.

  3. Safety Zones: Some equipment has marked safety zones—keep them clear.

  4. Hold Harmless Clause: By using the shop, you assume all risks and agree to hold harmless Print Shop Inc., its staff, and volunteers.

P.S. Don’t forget to turn off the heat press!

 

Shop Etiquette

  • Respect Others: This is a shared space. Be considerate of others’ projects.

  • Clean Up: Leave the space as you found it. Wipe surfaces, return tools, and dispose of trash appropriately.

  • Tools Stay in the Shop: No exceptions—we all know what happens when tools go "on vacation."

  • Trash & Recycling: Use designated bins for production waste, food, and recyclables.

 

Saving Files

  • Use the Members Folder on any computer. Create a folder with your name or company name.

  • Back up important files elsewhere—we’re not responsible for lost data.

Flash Drives: Use shop-provided USB drives to move files but return them to the candy dish when finished.

 

Storage

Limited storage is available for project materials. Please coordinate with staff if you need space.

 

The Backyard

Enjoy our backyard for programming or relaxation. Just watch your step—sometimes the dogs leave little surprises.

 

Damaged Tools/Equipment

If something isn’t working, stop using it and let us know. Do not attempt repairs yourself. Misuse or unauthorized experimentation can make you liable for damages.

 

Computer Rules

  • Workstations are first come, first serve.

  • Do not download software or access inappropriate content.

  • Log out of your accounts after use.

 

Lost & Found

Items left behind will be placed in the lost & found bin in the Design Lounge—unless they’re super cool.

 

Food & Drink

  • Keep them away from equipment and others’ projects.

  • Clean up spills immediately.

  • No Funions.

Snacks & Drinks: Help yourself to snacks, soda, or coffee in the Design Lounge. Leave a donation in the piggy bank or scan the QR code to contribute.

 

No Smoking

No smoking of any kind indoors.

 

Visitors, Guests, Helpers & Kids

  • Friends: Welcome to observe and hang out but not to use tools.

  • Helpers: Can assist with your work but can’t do their own projects.

  • Kids & Pets: Allowed, but keep safety in mind. Remember, this isn’t a daycare!

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Bathrooms

The best bathroom option is located on the second floor in the Photo Studio. To access it, you’ll need the access key fob, which hangs on the hook on the side of the reception desk. Use the key fob to unlock the studio door and also the Print Shop door upon your return. Please remember t

o return the key fob to its hook after use.

We’re so excited to have you here! Let’s keep this space creative, collaborative, and community-driven. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out. Happy printing!

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