September 2025

MakerSpace Spotlight

Eyelet Setter and Hole Punch

One tool we are using during the bookmark sewing class is the eyelet setter and hole punch. With this tool, you can add eyelets to different materials in two sizes, 3/16" and 1/8". We have a variety of eyelet colors and shapes as supplies last.

Contact the MakerSpace for 1-on-1 help and questions about using the eyelet setter and hole punch. The supplies and the eyelet setter and hole punch are available to use on a first-come, first-served basis during open make times or by appointment.

Here is a collection of art that was left in the MakerSpace this summer as we were trying out new mediums. Thanks to all the artists!

Removing Plastic with Magnets?

Kentucky University's Department of Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering and the UK Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering are working on a solution to microplastics in water. They are using something called NADES (Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents) that are then removed with magnets. NADES are considered environmentally safe, made from natural, non-toxic components. The NADES, when put into a solution containing microplastics, bind to the plastic. This bonded material can then be removed from the water using a magnet.

This research appears to be a continuation of the discovery by Fionn Ferreira of the ability to create a solution that can bind to plastics and be removed using a magnet.

To see Fionn's proof of concept, watch the video below. His discovery won the 2019 Google Science Fair when Fionn was only 18 years old. He has continued to work with this invention through his non-profit Green Journey.

You can also read the published journal article about the use of NADES and magnets to remove plastics here: https://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41598-023-37490-6

References

Ferreira, F. (2019, August 2). Microplastic Removal - Proof of Concept. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NSt9dsye4IQ

Ferreira, F. (n.d.). Fionn Ferreira. https://www.fionnferreira.com/#services

Hunter, J. R., Qiao, Q., Zhang, Y., Shao, Q., Crofcheck, C., & Shi, J. (2023). Green solvent mediated extraction of micro- and nano-plastic particles from water. Scientific Reports, 13(1). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-023-37490-6

University of Kentucky. (2024, February 12). Researchers develop eco-friendly “magnet” to battle microplastics. Phys.org. https://phys.org/news/2024-02-eco-friendly-magnet-microplastics.html