How to Get Started

So you have an idea but don’t know how to start…

• Review the safety requirements and take the safety quiz
• Learn about the manufacturing processes and what you can make
• Sketch up your idea
• Schedule a meeting with our staff on Calendly
• Come to one of our events or stop by during our open hours
• Join our mailing list for updates about events at EPIC

The more you think through your design before you start to build, the better. If you’re thinking…

• I just need to make this hole a little bigger.
• This doesn’t quite fit, I just need to file off this edge.
• I just need to make this part two or three more times and it should be perfect.
• I forgot this hole the first time, I just need to add one more.

…then please, speak with us first. We always prefer designs that have been well-thought-out before manufacturing. Most iterative design can be resolved in the design stage with careful thought, more complete solid modeling, or by asking a staff member for help. Additionally, EPIC is a prototype shop; we are not well-equipped for production runs.

Mistakes can and will happen; parts will sometimes need to be redesigned, remade, modified, or corrected. If something goes wrong, tell us, help us understand why, and we can help make it right.

Who can use EPIC?

EPIC is available to all current BU Students, Faculty and Staff. Access to resources is on a first-come-first-served basis.

At the end of the semester, we often need to prioritize coursework.  Review our policies and prioritization page for our procedures when capacity is constrained.