About Santa Cruz Maker Studios
At Santa Cruz Maker Studios, creativity isn’t just encouraged, it’s the foundation of everything we do. Whether you’re a child exploring the art of crafting, a teen diving into 3D printing and game design, or an adult honing your woodworking and fabrication skills, our studio provides the tools, guidance, and inspiration to bring your ideas to life.
Our 4,000 sq. ft. studio, located on the intersection of Swift St. and Delaware Ave. on the Westside of Santa Cruz, is a whimsical creative playground, featuring:
- A kid-friendly woodshop for hands-on carpentry projects.
- A sewing and beading room for crafting stuffed animals, jewelry, knitting, and more.
- A 3D printing and laser engraving zone to create your own custom designs.
- A flexible multipurpose room, available for community events and workshops.
Here are some examples of things that were made during the youth summer camp (ages 7 – 12) in the sewing and beading room, woodworking station, and 3D printing zone.
Beyond our after-school/homeschool programs and summer camps, our space is available to rent for birthdays, private events, and community workshops. Our multipurpose room is open to local teachers and artisans looking to host adult classes in floral design, knitting, ceramics, and more, creating a hub for creativity at every age.
At Santa Cruz Maker Studios, we believe in the power of making, whether that means a child building their first project, a teen experimenting with new technology, or an adult exploring a lifelong passion.
Come create with us!
Our Team
Kyra Shugar
Founder & Youth Program Director
Kyra Shugar is the visionary behind Santa Cruz Makers Youth Program. As a local mother, she is personally committed to the mission of offering young creators the tools, guidance, and encouragement to turn their imagination into reality. Kyra has been knitting, sewing, and beading for over 25 years, and she knows first-hand how crafting can empower children with creativity, confidence, and problem-solving skills that they will carry with them for the rest of their lives.
Kyra is a graduate of UC Santa Cruz and before launching Santa Cruz Maker Studios, she served as a Director for a California non-profit, overseeing hundreds of residential care homes for individuals with special needs. Her background in leadership, combined with more than 15 years of experience caring for children, fuels her commitment to creating a safe and inspiring space for young makers.
David Shugar
Founder & Creative Director
David Shugar is a UC Santa Cruz lecturer, maker, and systems thinker passionate about blending nature, technology, and design. With an MBA, a degree in Applied Physics from UC Santa Cruz, and a background in biomimicry and 3D printing, he helps students explore how nature’s patterns can inspire innovation. He is the author of The Science of Systems: A Unified View of Nature’s Patterns, which examines the deep connections between science, natural patterns, and sustainability.
Outside the classroom, David runs Shugar Design, an art and carpentry business specializing in laser-cut geometric lights and custom woodwork. His work bridges the worlds of art, mathematics, and engineering, transforming complex patterns into functional design. His love for craftsmanship and hands-on learning aligns perfectly with Santa Cruz Maker Studios’ mission—empowering people of all ages to explore, create, and turn their ideas into reality.
Rachael Torkos
Program Manager
Rachael Torkos is a UCSC graduate with a degree in Psychology, and believes that creative expression is essential to learning, growth, and emotional well-being. It is her passion to help kids explore their creativity, build confidence, and discover the joy of art. With over seven years of experience in the public school district, she’s had the privilege of working with children from diverse backgrounds, valuing each child’s unique interests & perspectives.
In the studio, Rachael guides projects in the textile room, like sewing, beading, and embroidery. Outside of work, she enjoys various arts, including pottery, painting, and multimedia projects. She meets each student where they are and encourages them to explore their creative ideas with each project. Whether it’s threading a needle for the first time or starting your first beading project, Rachael brings patience, encouragement, and a sense of wonder to every occasion!
Claudia Nolasco
Program Manager
Claudia Nolasco is a fourth-year student at UC Santa Cruz and a passionate maker with a growing expertise in woodworking, 3D printing, and hands-on design. As a Program Manager at Santa Cruz Makers, Claudia brings creativity, patience, and a strong commitment to helping young people explore their ideas through building and making
Claudia is dedicated to creating a welcoming and empowering space for kids to learn practical skills while developing confidence and curiosity. Whether it’s guiding students through their first time using tools or helping them bring a project from idea to reality, she loves watching young makers discover what they’re capable of. Her approach emphasizes safety, creativity, and encouraging each child’s unique voice and vision.
Tax & Dependent Care FSA
Families are welcome to use Dependent Care FSA (DCFSA) funds or claim eligible dependent care tax credits for our programs. To submit a reimbursement claim, please use our Tax ID (EIN): 33-3041102.
Contact Us
Email us at admin@scmakerstudios.com
Call or text (831) 265-2621
Visit us at 427 A. Swift Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Join our Team
At Santa Cruz Maker Studios, we’re building a vibrant community of artists, makers, and creatives who are passionate about craftsmanship, collaboration, and innovation. We’re always on the lookout for motivated individuals who share our vision to support and grow the local maker movement. We currently have an open position, please click below to view the job description and find out how you can bring your talents to our team!