When it comes to having all the resources you need to complete an art project or you just want a unique place to hang out with your friends between classes, you just can’t beat the Workroom. Now moved to the heart of campus at 623 S. Wabash on the first floor, students have free and easy access to a wide variety of supplies in an environment that breathes creativity.

The Workroom seems to provide endless opportunities to create. Paint, coloring supplies, paper, and craft materials are overflowing. If you need to make something more “hands-on,” the Workroom also provides everything from power tools to an industrial-strength sewing machine, with some fabric provided. Perhaps the most popular tool in the Workroom is the button maker. Student Organizations can make up to three hundred buttons of various sizes per semester, while individual students can make up to fifty. The process is also incredibly easy, with digital button templates available on the Student Organization Forms webpage located here.

We spoke to Jamie Weaver, Columbia alumna and new Workroom Coordinator, about one of the most creative spots on campus. Graduating in 2014 with a MFA from the Interdisciplinary Arts program, Jamie is passionate about providing students with the space and the options to create.

“I love the creative freedom. I like when students come in and realize that everything here is free, just the joy on their face that they can use all of our equipment and supplies. It is a really fun job and I feel incredibly lucky.”

Along with supporting students and organizations with independent projects, Jamie also puts together a variety of unique workshop programs.

“We have workshops all semester long. Next month, we will have some Halloween themed workshops. One workshop we are planning is that you can come in and decorate your own artificial nails to match your costume. With our workshops, students don’t have to come in with any experience or materials, we provide all of that. All you need to bring is yourself and a little creativity.”

The Workroom is open to all students during its active hours, which are 9am to 5pm on all weekdays except for Friday, which is 12pm to 5pm. Students are not limited to only working on school projects, but can use the space for any personal hobbies as well. If you are seeking to learn a new skill, Jamie or another Workroom member will be happy to support you step-by-step.

If you want more information about the Workroom or would like to contact them, click here for more information. You can also follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.