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CODES AND RESTRICTIONS: Some events have restrictions and codes and will give a warning.

Restriction: This means the event is restricted to only allow certain groups such as members or specific groups. Be sure you are logged in using your member account. Member applicants may be excluded from some sign off classes with a long waitlist.

Codes: This means the member waitlist is still being processed. Hover over the Resources menu to view the waitlist process. Check back in 24 hours to see if seats are open. Contact support@nova-labs.org if the code is not released within 24 hours.

This page shows featured events only. View all events

This Month's Featured events

  • AC_P: Indigo Explorations (Members-only)

    • 23 Aug 2025
    • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Nova Labs 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
    • 11
    Register

    Indigo Dye Workshop Series

    Join us for a three-part hands-on journey into the art of indigo dyeing and the beauty of Japanese Shibori techniques. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to expand your skills, this series offers opportunities to experiment, learn, and create.

    Workshop 1: Indigo Explorations

    Kick off the series by dipping your toes—literally—into the world of indigo. Bring a pre-loved clothing item* to give it a new life with rich blue hues. Learn simple folded Shibori techniques using blocks to create striking patterns. Shibori is a traditional Japanese tie-dye method that produces beautiful, one-of-a-kind designs.

    *Natural fibers like cotton, linen, silk, wool, hemp, rayon/lyocell are best. Synthetics like polyester or nylon will not work. 

    Cost: Free for members. Participants are invited to make an optional donation in support of Nova Labs. 

    Other Workshops in the Series

    Workshop 2: Indigo Stitched Shibori - September 6, 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM

    Workshop 3: All About Indigo Dye - September 13, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

    Hosted by Amanda Jarvis, Education Programs Director at Nova Labs, Amanda is an interdisciplinary designer and textile artist who integrates traditional craft with contemporary making.



    Show details

  • 3d_O: Onshape - Open Office Hours ("OOH") - Members Only

    • 23 Aug 2025
    • 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
    • Nova Labs, Inc, 3850 Jermantown Road. Fairfax City, VA 22030 (Orange Bay)
    • 8
    Register

    Onshape Open Office Hours ("OOH")

    Whether you're just starting your Onshape exploration or already deep into it, if you have questions—we have answers.

    • Why won’t my sketch fully constrain?

    • Why am I getting errors when adding a fillet?

    • How can I make sure my design is 3D-printable?

    Whatever the question, this is your chance to meet with NL’s Onshape experts and get the help you need. Bring your curiosity—we’re here to support your design journey. If you are working with other CAD software, don’t hesitate to reach out, they all operate on the same basic concepts.

    Prerequisite: None. Age 13+ only please.  Please register so that the hosts can manage expectations.

    To bring: We recommend you bring your own laptop, charger and mouse.

    Hosts / Instructors: Fabiana C and Thomas C

    Fabiana is a maker educator and founding member of the Nova Labs Makerschool. She has been teaching at Nova Labs and organizing STEM events for kids since 2019. Her other classes include Paper Engineering and Introduction to Mosaic.

    Thomas is a maker and computer engineering student with a passion for 3d design and manufacturing. He is a firm supporter of the Right to Repair and has been refurbishing computers since he was a pre-teen.
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  • EL_P03: Intro to Sensors in Electronics Projects (Online)

    • 28 Aug 2025
    • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Online event
    Register


    *** Live Mentor Class *** (Not a pre-recorded session)

    Add to your basic electronics skills with sensors. Learn to add sensors and program your circuits to make them interactive, able to control devices, or sense the environment. This is required for robot, GPS, heat sensing, IoT, shutting off automatically based on conditions, and other projects. We'll cover digital and analog sensors.

    Note: The 4 classes in our basic electronics series (EL_P01, P02, P03, and P04) along with a successfully mentored project earns the Nova Labs Basic Electronics Microcertification.

    Prerequisites: None. *This is an adult class, but beginners of all ages are welcome.

    Before Class: Sign up for a free TinkerCAD account before class so that you can take full advantage and follow along on your screen.
    • TinkerCAD is a web based simulator. You do not have to download anything. You do have to make an account with a login.
    • Register for an account: Go to web page www.tinkercad.com
    • Log into TinkerCAD; it will help if you have also accessed TinkerCAD Circuits (below the “3D Designs” option) and looked at the interface.

    Zoom Link: Available upon registration only. The link is also sent in 2 reminder emails. Email us at support@nova-labs.org if you do not receive it within 15 minutes of registration. Contact us at least 1 day before the class if you did not receive the 3 emails.

    ***Your instructor, Nick Carter, is donating all proceeds for this class to Nova Labs. You may contact him at nick.carter@nova-labs.org.

    Show details

  • AC_P: Indigo Stitched Shibori (Members-only)

    • 6 Sep 2025
    • 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
    • Nova Labs 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
    • 11
    Register

    Indigo Dye Workshop Series

    Join us for a three-part hands-on journey into the art of indigo dyeing and the beauty of Japanese Shibori techniques. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to expand your skills, this series offers opportunities to experiment, learn, and create.

    Workshop 2: Indigo Stitched Shibori

    Go deeper into Shibori with stitched resist techniques, which create more intricate designs than folded styles. In this intermediate-level session, you’ll learn how to stitch and gather fabric for dyeing. This workshop focuses solely on stitching, so you’ll have time to prepare your pieces for dyeing at the next event.

    Cost: Free for members. Participants are invited to make an optional donation in support of Nova Labs. 

    Other Workshops in the Series

    Workshop 1: Indigo Explorations - August 23, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

    Workshop 3: All About Indigo Dye - September 13, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

    Hosted by Amanda Jarvis, Education Programs Director at Nova Labs, Amanda is an interdisciplinary designer and textile artist who integrates traditional craft with contemporary making.



    Show details

  • AC_P: All About Indigo Dye (Members-only)

    • 13 Sep 2025
    • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Nova Labs 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
    • 12
    Register

    Indigo Dye Workshop Series

    Join us for a three-part hands-on journey into the art of indigo dyeing and the beauty of Japanese Shibori techniques. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to expand your skills, this series offers opportunities to experiment, learn, and create.

    Workshop 3: All About Indigo Dye

    Learn to set up your own indigo dye vat and explore different types of vats, materials, and fabric preparation. We’ll have three different prepared vats for you to try. Bring your stitched Shibori pieces from the previous workshop or other fabrics you’d like to dye. We recommend preparing new fabric ahead of time by scouring. You can read about how to do that here: Scouring Guide.

    Cost: Free for members. Participants are invited to make an optional donation in support of Nova Labs. 

    Other Workshops in the Series

    Workshop 1: Indigo Explorations - August 23, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

    Workshop 2: Indigo Stitched Shibori - September 6, 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM

    Hosted by Amanda Jarvis, Education Programs Director at Nova Labs, Amanda is an interdisciplinary designer and textile artist who integrates traditional craft with contemporary making.



    Show details

  • AC_P: Intro to Pattern Making - T shirt edition NEW CLASS

    • 13 Sep 2025
    • 9:30 AM - 12:00 PM
    • *Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
    • 4
    Register

    Wholesale T-shirts Manufacturer Supplier Exporter Bangladesh Factory

    Have you ever had a piece you loved to wear so much you wished you could duplicate it? In this class we will learn how to create a pattern from an existing t-shirt. You will learn to use the tools to create a flat pattern of a knit t-shit. Bring a favorite t-shirt you know fits well (please send a picture to the instructor prior to the class for approval) or one can be provided for practice purposes. Get started making your own patterns!

    Prerequisites: Basic sewing skills, intro to serger recommended
    Cancellation Policy: 48 hours in advance
    Sign off: None
    Safety Dress Code: N/A
    Instructor: Danielle Priest

    Danielle has been an educator for nearly 20 years, working with students privately and in classroom settings. Over the past 5 years, she has primarily instructed classes in beginning sewing, operating specialty machines, embroidery, and clothing/costume construction. Her favorite thing to make is Star Wars costumes, which have won awards at contests around the country.

    Class must have 2 participants sign up to run. If this does not happen those who have paid will be issued a full refund.


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  • TS_S04: From Slab to Cab: Lapidary Tools Sign-off

    • 13 Sep 2025
    • 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • Nova Labs (The Studio), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax VA
    • 1
    Register

    Shape and polish your own cabochon and set it into a bezel in this lapidary tools signoff class!

    This class will cover the basic operation, maintenance, clean-up, and safe use of the cabochon machine and trim saw. Students will make a pendant by measuring, cutting, shaping, grinding and polishing a slab of rock into a cabochon, and learning how to set it into a bezel. Slabs and bezels will be provided.

    Sign-off: Lapidary tools

    Safety requirements: Students must wear closed-toed shoes, safety glasses, tie back long hair and secure loose clothing or jewelry.

    Clothing may become wet or stained, so dress accordingly. Highly suggest bringing an old towel. Waterproof aprons are available for use in The Studio.

    Instructors: Mark and Tracy Ummem


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  • TS_P04: Cutting-Edge Jewelry Making: The Art of Piercing

    • 14 Sep 2025
    • 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • Nova Labs (The Studio), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax VA
    • 4
    Register

     

    No, not THAT kind of piercing!

    Piercing is using precision sawing to create intricate designs. In this workshop you will practice a skill that is foundational to jewelry making and is a great way to add detail to your work. Students will learn exercises to practice sawing, the steps of piercing, and the differences between sawblades and their uses.

    Students will complete a pierced disc to be incorporated into a finished pendant. All materials, including precious metals, are provided. Come with ideas or use provided templates.

    Prerequisites: None

    Metalsmithing Series: Advance your metalcrafting skills by taking all three of our metalcrafting & jewelry techniques classes. Take in any order. Join our waitlist at portal.nova-labs.org/waitlist

    • TS_S01: Jewelry Tools Sign-off - Intro to Soldering and Tools 
    • TS_P02: Intro to Metalsmithing - Texturing and Stamping Metal Jewelry (Pendants edition)
    • TS_P02: Intro to Metalsmithing -Texturing and Stamping Metal Jewelry (Earrings edition)
    • TS_P03: Metalsmithing - Custom Spinner Ring Design, Sizing, and Shaping
    • TS_P04: Metalsmithing - Cutting-Edge Jewelry Making: The Art of Piercing

    Instructor: Lauren Hillman, Jewelry artist and The Studio instructor

    Show details

  • WW_P12: Beginners Pen Turning on the Lathe

    • 15 Sep 2025
    • 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Nova Labs (Woodshop), 1930 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax VA
    • 5
    Register


    Turn a custom wooden pen!

    In this project we will discuss pen kits, blank materials and finishes, then craft your pen. You'll take home a one of a kind pen - Hand Crafted by YOU!

    This is a guided limited tool use class, no prior experience  or sign offs required.  This will not provide lathe tool sign off status.

    All materials provided to make 2 wooden bodied pens.  No resins or mixed media allowed in this class.

    Prerequisite: None. Important: You must be a members AND have the WW Lathe Sign-off to use the Lathe outside of this class.

    Sign Off: None

    Mandatory Safety Dress Code: Closed-toed shoes, short sleeves, no loose clothing, and hair tied back. Must wear a mask at all times. Optional: Hearing protection, particle filter, or dust mask.

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  • AC_S01: Introduction to Long Arm Quilting Sign-off

    • 20 Sep 2025
    • 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
    • *Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030 (Crafter's Cove)
    • 2
    Register


    Safety Sign off for the Gammill Vision 18-8 Long Arm Quilter. Learn how to set the machine up for a quilting session, how to load your project onto the rollers, how to start quilting and finally how to remove your project and return the machine to a ready state for the next maker.

    Sign off: Gammill Vision 18-8 Long Arm Quilter

    Prerequisite: none

    Instructor: Kathy McKabe


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  • AC: Fabric & Costume Swap (Members-only)

    • 20 Sep 2025
    • 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
    • Nova Labs 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
    • 23
    Register

    Fabric and craft stash swapping is a great way to exchange materials with fellow makers and a fun opportunity to clear out fabric and yarn you no longer need. Have a cup of tea and a nibble, chit-chat with other makers, and hunt for that perfect piece for your next project!

    This is a casual, community freecycle-style event—not a one-for-one trade! Simply bring your unwanted fabric and costumes, browse what others have brought, and see if you find any "treasures."

    How It Works:

    • Bring a box with your name on it containing costumes, props, supplies and clean, folded fabric.
    • Bringing materials to swap is encouraged but not required to attend.
    • Look through the available materials and take home anything that inspires you.
    • At the end of the swap, any unclaimed items must be taken home by their original owners.

    Event Details:

    • Who: Members and their guests only.
    • Registration: Required so we can plan refreshments.
    • Where: Events Bay Community Space

    Join us for a relaxed gathering—your "trash" might just be someone else's "treasure"!



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  • EL_P05: Make Electronics Projects: From Schematics to Circuits

    • 20 Sep 2025
    • 12:30 PM - 2:30 PM
    • Nova Labs (Class Room 1), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
    • 8
    Register


    Learn to read and create schematic diagrams for electronics projects. Order all the correct parts needed (or get them for free in the Nova Labs Electronics Bench). Learn to identify all the symbols and how to connect them. Resistors, inductors, capacitors, transistors, LEDs and ICs will be covered.  As we learn, we'll get some hands-on practice to solidify the new skills. Makers will read and  prototype basic buildable circuits like you’d find in standard maker projects. 

    To advance your skills in electronics, we will also cover other skills needed to help you go from schematic-to-circuit such as, interpreting data sheets and reading schematics for existing electronics.

    Note: The 4 classes in our Advanced electronics series (EL_P05, EL_S01, EL_P06, and EL_P07) along with a successfully mentored project earns the Nova Labs Basic Electronics Microcertification.

    Instructor: Mark Anderson

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  • CS_P: Epoxy Resin Light Art Sculpture (2-days)

    • 20 Sep 2025
    • 27 Sep 2025
    • 2 sessions
    • Nova Labs (The Studio), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
    • 7
    Register

    Learn to make custom resin light sculptures suitable for gift giving, decorating, or night lights. You will learn the basics of resin casting, and resin coloring with alcohol inks. After you complete both sessions, you will be able to take further steps in exploring advanced techniques and make other customized art light sculptures for your friends and family.

    This two-part, hands-on class is split into two 3-hour sessions to allow time for resin curing. Be sure that you can attend both sessions.

    All casting materials will be provided. 

    Prerequisites: None

    Safety and clothing: Materials used in this class will permanently stain clothing. Dress accordingly. 
    Show details

  • WW_P04: Basic Wood Bowl Turning on the Lathe

    • 21 Sep 2025
    • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Nova Labs (Woodshop), 1930 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax VA
    • 2
    Register


    Your instructor for this class is Steven.

    If the door is locked, come to the side door at the woodshop.

    In this class, we'll explore design concepts and techniques needed to transform a piece of wood into an attractive and functional bowl. Process fundamentals will include:
    - design fundamentals
    - wood selection
    - options for workpiece holding
    - shaping the exterior and interior
    - sanding, finishing, decoration

    Prerequisite :
    – WW Lathe Safety & Tool Sign Off
    – Recent turning experience (attendance at a WW/Lathe Open Office Hour is strongly recommended)

    Mandatory Safety Dress Code: Closed-toed shoes, short sleeves, no loose clothing, and hair tied back. Must wear a mask at all times. Optional: Hearing protection, particle filter, or dust mask.

    Show details

  • MW_P01: Metal Lathe Threading

    • 23 Sep 2025
    • 6:30 PM - 10:00 PM
    • Nova Labs, Inc. (Metalshop) 3850 Jermantown Road. Fairfax City, VA 22030
    • 0
    Registration is closed

    It's reckoned that the Greeks invented the screw back in the 5th century BC. By the 1st century BC, the Greeks and Romans were using screw presses to press clothes, olives and wine. The first nuts and bolts appeared in the middle 1400’s. They were hand made and not interchangeable. Joseph Whitworth In England proposed a standard screw resulting in the Whitworth Screw thread in 1841. In Philadelphia in 1864 William Sellers proposed a standard American V thread. Near the end of the second world war (78 years later) the Sellers thread became the "US Standard”.

    The screw cutting engine lathe is the oldest and most important of machine tools. The first screw cutting lathes were made in the US in the early 1800’s and allowed the making of locomotives, electric motors and automobiles which drove the industrial revolution. The metal lathe with a lead screw is used to cut threads. Also the metal lathe makes it easier to cut threads using taps and dies.

    In this class we will review the different types of screws. We will use taps, dies and the lathe to single point turn V threads.

    Prerequisite: Metal lathe sign-off

    Instructor: George Clessas

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  • EL_P04: Intro to LEDs, RGBs, and NEOPIXELS

    • 25 Sep 2025
    • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Online event
    • 6
    Register

    This class will introduce students to LEDs, how they work, different kinds available and how to control them. TinkerCAD examples will be used to illustrate how LEDs are used in circuits and how to control their illumination using Arduino UNO. The class cover single color and RGB discrete LEDs, LED strips, and NEOPIXELS.

    Note: The 4 classes in our basic electronics series (EL_P01, P02, P03, and P04) along with a successfully mentored project earns the Nova Labs Basic Electronics Microcertification.

    Prerequisites: None. *This is an adult class, but beginners of all ages are welcome.

    Before Class Sign up for a free TinkerCAD account before class so that you can take full advantage and follow along on your screen.

    • TinkerCAD is a web based simulator. You do not have to download anything. You do have to make an account with a login.
    • Register for an account: Go to web page www.tinkercad.com
    • Log into TinkerCAD; it will help if you have also accessed TinkerCAD Circuits (below the “3D Designs” option) and looked at the interface.

    Zoom Link: Available upon registration only. The link is also sent in 2 reminder emails. Email us at support@nova-labs.org if you do not receive it within 15 minutes of registration. Contact us at least 1 day before the class if you did not receive the 3 emails.

    ***Your instructor, Nick Carter, is donating all proceeds for this class to Nova Labs. You may contact him at nick.carter@nova-labs.org.

    Show details

  • TS_S03: Airbrush Tools 101 Sign-off

    • 28 Sep 2025
    • 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
    • *Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030 (The Studio)
    • 5
    Register


    If you’re an artist, baker, model maker, or makeup artist, airbrushes are a tool that you should be familiar with. They allow you to apply and blend paints, inks and other finishes in ways that are almost impossible to duplicate with other tools. In this course, we’ll discuss how airbrushes work and the different types of airbrushes available on the market. We’ll look at how to set up and use an airbrush. You’ll have a chance to try the various types of brush, and to practice with one or more of the brushes available. We’ll look at some of the more common problems that you might encounter and how to fix them. Finally you’ll learn how to clean an airbrush before packing it up.

    Sign off: Airbush tools
    Prerequisites: none
    Instructor: Adam Renner


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  • AC_P01: Inkscape for Crafters Demonstration

    • 11 Oct 2025
    • 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
    • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
    • 5
    Register

    Did you know that Crafter uses CNC machines too? The Craft Shop contains several embroidery machines, an industrial vinyl cutter, Silhouette (paper, vinyl, fabric) cutters, and an Eggbot art robot, all using CNC technology. Using Inkscape, I will demonstrate how to create a vector from an image that can be made into stickers, stencils, masks for screen printing, designs for t-shirts, decorated eggs, applique, and embroidered patches.

    This is an Inkscape demonstration only, no hands-on.

    Prerequisites: none

    Instructor: Kathy McCabe is an advanced seamstress, crafter who uses CAD, laser cutter, and many other tools in her work. She also teaches the Industrial Sewing machine class.

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  • 3D_S04: 3d Scanner 101 Sign-off

    • 20 Oct 2025
    • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Nova Labs-Classroom 2, 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 7
    Register


      

    3D Scanning Yellow Tool Curriculum

    The class covers the basics of 3D scanning as well as a hands-on demonstration with one of the 3D Scanners. Upon completion of the class you will be signed off to use any of the NovaLabs Yellow 3D Scanners on-site at NovaLabs.

    Overview

    • Types of 3D Scanners
    • Intro to 3D Scanning
    • Intro to post processing
    • Hands on Demo with one of the NovaLabs 3D Scanners

     

      More information can be found at https://www.notion.so/novalabs/3D-Scanning-0fdc94c7f01e4e149bc4f886cc6c23fa

      Prerequisites:   None

      Sign Off: [3D] HP 3D Scanner

      Instructor:  Brian

      Instructor Bio:  Brian is a co-Steward in 3D printing and likes to think of himself as a friend to many shops, other shops are silent on if the feeling is mutual. In the real world he is a software architect so he tries to avoid architecting software at the labs and focus more on things that get hot, spin quickly and/or make a lot of noise. He takes photos and enjoys making and consuming food and beer.

      Please arrive at this safety class on time. If you arrive more than 15 minutes late, you may not be able to take the class and there will not be a refund or rescheduling.

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    • 3d_P: Introduction to Onshape

      • 15 Nov 2025
      • 11:00 AM - 1:30 PM
      • Nova Labs, Inc. 3850 Jermantown Road. Fairfax City, VA 22030 (Classroom 1)
      • 8
      Register


      Course Description: Get ready to transform your ideas into reality with "Introduction to Onshape". In a little over two hours, you'll learn and practice enough skills to create your own 3D models. Every great design —whether a bold, imaginative piece or a precise custom part— starts with CAD (Computer-Aided Design) before it can be manufactured.

      Whether you're a new maker or an experienced one, this course provides CAD-rookies with an opportunity to learn navigate Onshape and master its essential tools. With hands-on, step-by-step class exercises, you will gain experience quickly and be ready to continue the journey on your own.

      At Nova Labs, 3D printers and other manufacturing machines await your projects.  Discover the art of CAD, along with tips and best practices to help bring your ideas to life.

      Join us and start creating 3D models even before you leave the class!

      Prerequisite: None. Age 13+ only please

      To bring: We recommend you bring your own laptop, charger and mouse. However, we do have classroom laptops. Signing up for an Onshape.com account before class is encouraged.

      Instructors: Fabiana Cesa and Thomas Carver

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    Email: support@nova-labs.org

    Nova Labs, Inc. is a 501(c)(3), EIN 45-3796580

    © 2020 Nova Labs, Inc. All Rights Reserved.