10BitWorks: San Antonio's Premiere Makerspace (Formerly Hackerspace)

Overview

10BitWorks is a non-profit, membership-supported project coworking space and learning center located in San Antonio, Texas. Established in 2010, it serves as a "tech/shop lab environment where innovators, techs and creatives get together to make their own ideas whether practical, experimental, or just for fun" ("10BitWorks _ San Antonio's Premiere Makerspace-2017.pdf"). Originally identifying as a "hackerspace," 10BitWorks transitioned its self-description to "makerspace" in 2014 to better reflect its evolving focus beyond purely technology and electronics to encompass a wider array of creative crafts and tools ("Our transition from Hackerspace to Makerspace"). It is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, formed "exclusively for educational purposes" and dedicated to "instruction of the public on subjects useful to individuals and beneficial to the community" ("About Us » 10BitWorks.pdf").

Key Themes and Ideas

1. The Makerspace/Hackerspace Identity and Evolution

10BitWorks' journey from "hackerspace" to "makerspace" highlights a broader definitional shift within the community. While acknowledging the historical roots of "hackerspaces" in programming and electronics, 10BitWorks (and others) adopted "makerspace" to be more inclusive and accurately represent their diverse offerings.

  • Original "Hackerspace" Identity: When founded in 2010, 10BitWorks was San Antonio's "first hackerspace community" ("Techies join forces at local hackerspace - San Antonio Express-News.pdf"). The term "hacker" was used in the "hobbyist sense," referring to individuals who "use technology to create new hardware as well as improve and modify original hardware" ("S.A.’s first makerspace_ 5 things you need to know about 10BitWorks.pdf").

  • Connotations of "Hacker": Mike Perez, a member, clarified that the "hacker" depicted by Hollywood, as a "computer wizard skulking in dark offices stealing technology and information," is a "far cry from reality." Instead, the "real hacker is someone who simply enjoys tinkering" ("Techies join forces at local hackerspace - San Antonio Express-News.pdf"). Jeremy Zunker noted that some people misinterpret the term, asking, "Don't hack into my bank account" ("Techies join forces at local hackerspace.pdf").

  • Transition to "Makerspace": In 2014, 10BitWorks "shifted from calling ourselves a hackerspace to referring to our organization as a makerspace." This change was driven by their evolution from "being primarily tech focused, to having much more tools and equipment." The goal was to be "truly a place to make practically anything you have an interest in" ("Our transition from Hackerspace to Makerspace").

  • Distinction in Terminology (Broader Context): Gui Cavalcanti, founder of Artisan's Asylum, notes that "hackerspaces largely focused on repurposing hardware, working on electronic components, and programming," often with "tendencies towards collectivism, and radical democratic process." In contrast, "makerspaces" aim to "enable as many craft to the most significant extent possible," often structured more like "traditional businesses" due to the cost of maintaining professional-grade equipment ("Is it a Hackerspace, Makerspace, TechShop, or FabLab? - Make:"). Allen Pan suggests the difference is in "connotation," with "hacker space" invoking a "clicky meritocracy" where one needs to "impress them," while "makerspace is a bit softer," more "inviting," and "open to someone coming into it as a novice or or as a beginner" ("Makerspace vs. Hackerspace? // ft. Allen Pan").

2. Community-Driven and Collaborative Environment

10BitWorks emphasizes its identity as a welcoming community where members of diverse backgrounds and skill sets come together to learn, create, and share.

  • Diversity of Membership: The community is described as "diverse," including "makers, artists, engineers, fashionistas, programmers, hackers, gamers, jewelers, hams, and much more" ("10BitWorks _ San Antonio's Premiere Makerspace-2017.pdf"). This also extends to "radio operators, video and board game designers, machinists, programmers, retired NASA engineers, embedded systems engineers, mixed-media artists, and college students" ("Making art with spare parts and 10Bitworks _ San Antonio, Texas Local Community News & Journalism.pdf").

  • Mentorship and Skill Sharing: A core principle is that "All makers can mentor each other in their unique abilities that we each bring to the space" ("10BitWorks _ San Antonio's Premiere Makerspace-2017.pdf"). Members are encouraged to teach and learn from one another; if a visitor doesn't know how to use equipment, "Our community members can help teach you" ("10BitWorks _ San Antonio's Premiere Makerspace-2017.pdf"). This is an "organic environment where people are brought together by their love of creating" ("Hacking into Hackerspace « Benchmark Brands.pdf").

  • Collaborative Coworking: 10BitWorks is also a "coworking makerspace" with desk spaces where members can "setup your laptop, artwork, hardware or software projects and work along with others around you while being helped and offering your help where you find interest" ("San Antonio Coworking Hacker & Maker Space - 10BitWorks.pdf").

  • Community Governance: It is "board-run by members of the community and anyone is invited to our monthly member meeting to add their input on the shape and direction of 10BitWorks" ("10BitWorks _ San Antonio's Premiere Makerspace-2017.pdf").

3. Accessible Tools, Equipment, and Learning Opportunities

A primary function of 10BitWorks is to provide public access to high-end manufacturing equipment and educational resources that individuals might not otherwise be able to afford or house.

  • Extensive Equipment: The space offers a wide array of tools and equipment, including "3D printers, laser cutters, robotics, electronics, and maker materials" ("10BitWorks _ San Antonio's Premiere Makerspace-2017.pdf"). Specific examples include "CNC Mill, Table Saw, Drill Press, Fully Stocked Electronics Workbench, CNC Craft Cutters, Welding Equipment" ("10BitWorks _ San Antonio's Premiere Makerspace-2017.pdf"). More recent sources add "Woodworking & CNC (Avid Pro 8x10’ CNC), Welding & Metalworking (MIG and TIG welding, lathe, mill), Ceramics & Glass Blowing (multiple kilns, dedicated glass kiln), 3D Printing (FDM and resin printers), Laser Cutting & Engraving (Rabbit 80W laser), and Electronics Building & Repair (solder rework station, electronic microscope, oscilloscope, digital function generator)" ("Home (Copy) — 10Bitworks Makerspace", "Tools and Equipment — 10Bitworks Makerspace").

  • Addressing Accessibility: Gregory Bluntzer, a member, highlights that "not everybody needs to have tools if they have an apartment or if they are a student. They may not have access to these resources." Thus, it's "cheaper if everybody uses a communal space" ("Hacking into Hackerspace « Benchmark Brands.pdf"). This makes "cutting edge technology" accessible ("San Antonio Coworking Hacker & Maker Space - 10BitWorks.pdf").

  • Learning and Workshops: Beyond open access to tools, 10BitWorks holds "classes, workshops, community meetings, and events" ("10BitWorks _ San Antonio's Premiere Makerspace-2017.pdf"). Past examples include "soldering class, a welding class and... a beer brewing class," often offered "free or fairly cheap as the goal is to keep them affordable" ("Hacking into Hackerspace « Benchmark Brands.pdf"). While specific classes were not being offered in July 2025, there was a plan for a new schedule in Fall 2025, with members still providing "unstructured teaching and mentorship" ("Current Hours, Membership Structure, Classes, and Equipment - July, 2025").

4. Impact and Success Stories

10BitWorks fosters innovation, skill development, and personal growth, leading to tangible outcomes for its members.

  • Member Creations: Members have created diverse projects, such as "an acoustic guitar from scratch, a 3d printed humanoid robot that responds to voice commands, an electric water purifier, wireless light-up wearables, 3d printers from parts produced by a 3d printer, virtual reality video games, a massive radio antenna, and many more" ("10BitWorks _ San Antonio's Premiere Makerspace-2017.pdf"). Notably, LED shirts for San Antonio's Luminaria event were a point of pride ("Hacking into Hackerspace « Benchmark Brands.pdf").

  • Personal and Professional Development: The space has been a catalyst for members who have "started companies, finished their masters thesis, received job offers, and found friends for life" ("10BitWorks _ San Antonio's Premiere Makerspace-2017.pdf"). It's a place to "master practical problem-solving, and connect with an authentic community of creators" ("Home (Copy) — 10Bitworks Makerspace").

  • STEM Skill Development: Makerspaces like 10BitWorks are seen as crucial for "preparing those who need the critical 21st century skills in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM)" by providing "hands on learning, help with critical thinking skills and even boost self-confidence" ("What is a Makerspace? Is it a Hackerspace or a Makerspace?").

  • Entrepreneurship and Incubation: The space fosters entrepreneurship and can act as an "incubator and accelerator for business startups" ("What is a Makerspace? Is it a Hackerspace or a Makerspace?").

Operational Details

  • Non-Profit Status: 10BitWorks is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization in Texas since October 2011 ("About Us » 10BitWorks.pdf"). It is "entirely member-funded and we couldn't exist without the support from our community" ("10BitWorks _ San Antonio's Premiere Makerspace-2017.pdf"). Donations are tax-deductible ("About Us » 10BitWorks.pdf").

  • Membership Structure:Past (2015): Offered free membership (Saturdays 1-6 p.m. access) and paid memberships starting at $40/month ("S.A.’s first makerspace_ 5 things you need to know about 10BitWorks.pdf").

  • Current (July 2025): No longer offers day rates or free plans. Monthly memberships include:

  • Individual: $75/month

  • Household: $100/month

  • Business: $150/month ("Current Hours, Membership Structure, Classes, and Equipment - July, 2025").

  • "24/hr access members may open at any time" ("10BitWorks _ San Antonio's Premiere Makerspace-2017.pdf").

  • Location:Past (2012-2015): 1020 Roosevelt Ave, San Antonio, TX ("Hacking into Hackerspace « Benchmark Brands.pdf", "S.A.’s first makerspace_ 5 things you need to know about 10BitWorks.pdf").

  • Current (2017 onwards): 130 W. LaChapelle St, San Antonio, TX 78204, located "off of S. Flores," an area known for the monthly "Second Saturday celebration" ("10BitWorks _ San Antonio's Premiere Makerspace-2017.pdf").

  • Hours (as of July 2025):Wed: 9am - 1pm

  • Thu: 9am - 1pm

  • Sat: 9am - 1pm

  • Sun: 9am - 1pm

  • (Visitors are advised to contact before coming) ("Current Hours, Membership Structure, Classes, and Equipment - July, 2025").

  • Note: Previous hours (2017) were Tue/Wed/Thu 6:00p-9:00p, Sat 9:00a-6:00p, and 24-hour access for some members ("10BitWorks _ San Antonio's Premiere Makerspace-2017.pdf").

  • Contact: Phone: 210-547-0221, Email: 10bitworks@gmail.com, Public mailing list: sa-hackerspace ("10BitWorks _ San Antonio's Premiere Makerspace-2017.pdf").