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

Resistriction: 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.

Classes by List View (fee-based classes only)

  • WW_S06: Lathe Tool Sign-off

    • 30 Sep 2023
    • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Nova Labs
    • 0
    Registration is closed

    Instructor: Ken
    This class, in addition to Green Orientation (GO), is required in order to use the lathes without supervision.
    Woodturning is a fun, absorbing activity. Almost no one comes to the shop just to “putter around” with the table saw or the planer, but once you learn the basics of turning, you’ll want to putter around with the lathe. While this sign-off course is intended for those with no prior experience it is a prerequisite to use the lathe independently and this sign-off is required for the bowl-turning class. This course is NOT a project class, but focuses on the basic skills needed to turn. We will cover spindle-turning as well as learn how to safely use the lathe, how to take care of the tool within Nova Labs policies, and begin to develop proficiency with the roughing and spindle gouges, and the skew chisel. You won’t become an expert with one course, but I hope you will (re)discover that turning is fun and adds a new dimension to your portfolio of woodworking skills.
    Sign off: Woodshop Lathes.
    Prerequisites: 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.
    **Refund is not issued if you are more than 15 minutes late or if prerequisites or safety dress code is not met at the time of the class.
    Note: Our pen turning, bottle top turning, and bowl turning classes are excellent ways to continue learning in a project-centric way.
    Show details

  • AC_S05: CNC Machine Embroidery Sign-off (2 days)

    • 30 Sep 2023
    • 1 Oct 2023
    • 2 sessions
    • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
    • 0
    Registration is closed


    There are so many things you can create with Machine Embroidery - from customizing your own clothing to monograms, patches, applique, quilting and more!

    Attend this 2 part class to get signed off on the PFAFF Creative Home Embroidery Machine and the Happy Voyager 12 Head Industrial Embroidery Machine. Learn the Hatch Customizing software and everything else you need for successful machine embroidery projects.

    This class meets for 2 days. You must attend both classes to get signed off. If you miss one class you will have to reregister/repay for the course. Make up classes will not be offered.

    Perquisites: Age 16+

    Sign off: PFAFF Creative Home Embroidery Machine and the Happy Voyager 12 Head Industrial Embroidery Machine

    This class requires 2 students to run. If less then 2 students register, the class will be cancelled and you will be offered a full refund.

    Instructor: Karen Long



    Show details

  • AC_S03: Introduction to Sublimation Printing - Mylar Edition - Heat Press Sign Off

    • 4 Oct 2023
    • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030 (The Studio)
    • 4
    Register


    Did you know Crafters Cove has a sublimation printer? It
    is the only tool at Nova Labs that will produce a full color object not
    made of paper! In this workshop we will cover what sublimation is and
    how we can use it to customize mugs, tiles, puzzle blanks, satin ribbon,
    felt, polyester fabrics, tshirts and MYLAR. Bring a color picture on usb 

    and take home a custom key chain transparency slide viewer.



    This class also covers the safety signoff for Nova Labs fleet of heat presses.

    Perquisites: none

    Cancellation Policy: 48 hours in advance
    Age requirement: 16+
    Sign off: Heat Press
    Safety Dress Code: N/A
    Class Fee: 65$
    Instructor: Kathy McCabe

    Class must have 3 participants sign up to run. If this does not happen those who have paid will be issued a full refund.

    Show details

  • WW_S03: Table Saw Sign Off

    • 7 Oct 2023
    • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Nova Labs
    • 0
    Registration is closed
    Instructor: Christopher

    This class, in addition to Green Orientation (GO), is required in order to use the Saw Stop table saws and panel saw without supervision.

    Learn how to use the NoVA Labs SawStop table saws and panel saw. In this rowdy 3 hr class, you will learn to employ the table saw and panel saw for the most frequently needed operations: precision cross-cutting and ripping. You'll also learn the true meaning of the phrases "finger-tight", and "about right". You'll learn about "kickback" and how to avoid it.

    Class is required for everyone, regardless of experience level. Sufficiently motivated students who show competence will be signed off immediately at the conclusion of class.

    Homework: Please review the Notions page for the class and watch this short video: Watch this BEFORE turning on a table saw

    Sign off: Table Saw, Panel Saw

    Prerequisite: None

    Safety Dress Code: Woodshop dress code enforced. Comfortable closed-toed shoes; no loose clothing; and hair and beard tied back).

    Show details

  • EV: Cosplay Meetup

    • 7 Oct 2023
    • 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM
    • Nova Labs (Events Bay) 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
    Register

    4 Thundercats Cosplayers at Wondercon 2019 pose for a group photo. These cosplayers are all dressed as different characters from the Thundercats fandom.

    Bring in your current project and work side by side with your fellow makers. Get help with new techniques, use the materials and tools to make your cosplay stand out.

    Are you new to or interested in learning about cosplay, but don't know where or how to start? Stop in for help on getting started. We often invite special guests or have technique presentations.

    Host: La Mar Queen

    Show details

  • BL_S01: Blacksmithing 101 Safety Sign-off

    • 7 Oct 2023
    • 1:00 PM - 3:30 PM
    • Nova Labs, (The Blacksmith Shop), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 3
    Register

    This class covers the basics of blacksmithing with a simple, fun project. Makers learn essential skills like hammer control, tapering, bending and twisting as well as key safety items like how to avoid burning yourself, branding your friends or hitting yourself with blunt objects. You will leave with whatever metal you have beaten into submission. After you complete this class, you can join us at the "supervised practice sessions" and work on anything you can dream up, with help from experienced smiths.

    SIGN OFF:  Blacksmithing Safety.

    PREREQUISITES: Age 16 and over. Any person aged 16 or 17 must have a parent remain on the premises in case of emergency.

    SAFETY:

    • Must wear cotton or wool clothing – no synthetic materials.
    • Shoes must be made from leather or canvas; plastic-topped sneakers will not be allowed
    • Eye protection (goggles) are provided, but you may bring your own for the best fit.
    • Failure to wear appropriate clothing may result in being turned away from the class without a refund.
    Show details

  • 3D_S01: FDM 3d Printer 101 Sign-off

    • 9 Oct 2023
    • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 6
    Register


    Learn how to make your own projects using Nova Labs 3d printers. Class includes instruction on basic use of the printers.

    - Sign off: FDM 3d printers
    - Tools Covered: Prusa Mini, Nova I3 and Nova 300 3D printers. It does NOT cover the SLA machines.
    - Software: PrusaSlicer (https://www.prusa3d.com/prusaslicer/)
    - Class covers the use of PLA, PETG or TPU plastic filaments.
    - Prerequisite: Nova Labs GO New Member Orientation*
    _____________________________________________________________________________________

    This class required for everyone, regardless of experience level prior to using our Nova Labs printers! We use the proceeds of the class to purchase basic filament and help maintain the machines.

    This in-person class is currently limited to Current Nova Labs members only.

    To get a head start, please download and install PrusaSlicer:
    https://www.prusa3d.com/prusaslicer/

    Our latest configuration is in this folder - grab the latest date if you want to slice on your local machine:
    https://github.com/nova-labs/Nova-I3/blob/master/Slic3r_Configs/

    *You may take this class before taking GO but you will not receive the sign off and may not use the tools covered except when supervised by a certified adult or key member. You have 30 days to take GO or the sign off is forfeited.

    Note that unsupervised printer use is limited to Key and Associate members only. This is simply because 3d prints take significant time.

    Show details

  • MW_S05: Bridgeport Mill Safety Sign-off

    • 11 Oct 2023
    • 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
    • Nova Labs (Metalshop), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax VA
    • 3
    Register


    This class is the follow-on to the MW: Vertical Mill Sign Off class, and is designed to introduce the student to the advanced capabilities and features of the Bridgeport and Index vertical mills. We will cover the set-up of the mill, methods of securing parts, basic end mill bits, table operations, understanding the Digital Read Out (DRO), and the differences between the Bridgeport and the Enco Mill.

    After the class, students will receive material, parts, and a drawing of the class project: a machinist tool block with assorted sized of center drills and a 6" stainless scale to keep. Completion and instructor approval of the class project within the next 30 days is a prerequisite to being signed off on the Bridgeport and Index milling machines. 1:1 instructor assistance is available during the project completion period for any student requiring additional direction or assistance with mill operations. 


    --Sign off: Bridgeport Mill (UPON COMPLETION OF CLASS PROJECT AND INSTRUCTOR APPROVAL)
    --Prerequisites: MW: Intro to Basic Metalworking Sign Off and MW: Vertical Mill Sign Off
    --Significant RECENT experience with the Enco Mill or other mill experience
    --17 yo or greater with signed off member supervision


    Safety Dress Code: Metal shop dress code enforced. Comfortable, close-toed shoes; no jewelry; no loose clothing; long pants; hair/beard tied back. ==>DO NOT wear synthetics. 
    Note: Must arrive within 15 minutes of sign off class start time. 

    Instructor: Jonathan Thacher is the CNC steward and a metalworker experienced at both use and repair of the metalshop tools.

    Show details

  • MW_S08: MIG Welding 101 Sign-off

    • 11 Oct 2023
    • 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA
    • 0
    Registration is closed

    Have you always wanted to learn the art of welding or melting metals to other metals? Does that broken metal object irritate you because you don’t know how to fix it? Then this class is for you!

    Sign off: MIG welding

    Safety Clothing: Wear natural fiber clothes, with long pants. Close-toed shoes are required, ideally made with natural materials. Tie back long hair and arrive within 15 minutes of start time.

    Prerequisite: With welding, sooner or later, you are going to need to cut or shape the metal. This is why we require Metal Shop Basic sign-off for all independent welders.

    If you take the welding sign off before the Basic sign-off class, we welcome members at Metal Shop Mondays where you can improve your skills under supervision. Metal Shop Basic sign-off are required to use the welder independently (without supervision).

    Note: If you arrive more than 15 minutes late, that is a safety violation and you will not receive a refund.

    About the instructor: Mike Youmans

    Show details

  • AC_S02: Industrial Sewing Machine Sign-Off

    • 11 Oct 2023
    • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • *Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030 (Crafter's Cove)
    • 2
    Register


    Time to get those sewing projects realized that require something beefier than a home sewing machine.
    Come learn to use the industrial sewing machine which sews a range of materials from light cotton to heavy canvas or several layers of leather.

    All materials provided.
    - Put the finishing touches on your embroidery machine projects.
    - Finally, finish up that heavy quilt that you've been thinking of making.

    Sign off: Consew Industrial Sewing Machine

    Prerequisite: none

    Instructor: Michael Rosin

    Age Restriction: Red tool. Must be age 16 or older for sign off. Use must always be supervised. Supervising adult must be signed off. The parent does not have to take the class with the student but must remain on the premises.

    Show details

  • EL_P01: Intro to Basic Electronic Circuits (Online)

    • 12 Oct 2023
    • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Online event
    Register

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

    Hands-on learning with real components, breadboard, and testing equipment, makes great connections for using the Nova Labs Electronics Toolbench.

    Students are introduced to the basic electronics concepts using TinkerCAD's amazing electronics simulator. Build and experiment with electronic circuits in a visually accurate, functional simulator that is designed for easy use. No components to buy, no soldering. With TinkerCAD you can learn to work with a variety of components, breadboards, test instruments, sensors and there are even Arduinos and displays you can program (not covered in the basic class).

    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 before class.
    • TinkerCAD is a web based simulator, you do not have to download anything. You do have to make an account with login. After you are logged in, the circuits is below the 3D CAD.
    • 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

  • WW_S05: Router Sign-Off

    • 14 Oct 2023
    • 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Nova Labs
    • 2
    Register

    Instructor: Bill

    This class, in addition to Green Orientation (GO), is required in order to use the router without supervision.

    This safety class will introduce you to the router, the single most versatile tool in the woodshop. With the right accessories, the router can do it all. Learn to use a router safely as well as a few basic techniques. The class covers basic setup, operation, safety concerns, and a few particulars of using these tools at Nova Labs. Class required for everyone, regardless of experience level, and demonstrated competence is required to be certified to use the tools independently.

    Review the material prior to attending the class: https://www.notion.so/novalabs/Router-Sign-off-Class-b3d3bc8b106c4358925edb3b0f3b317c

    Sign off: Various routers

    Tools Covered: Routers

    Prerequisite: None

    Safety Dress Code: Woodshop dress code enforced. Comfortable closed-toed shoes; no loose clothing; and hair and beard tied back). Must wear a mask at all times. 

    **Refund and Events Policy: https://www.nova-labs.org/class-and-event-policies/

    No refund if the student is non-compliant with the safety dress requirement or more than 15 minutes late for class.

    Show details

  • MX_P01: Wall Framing 101

    • 14 Oct 2023
    • 9:00 AM - 12:30 PM
    • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Road. Fairfax City, VA 22030 (Events Bay))
    • 7
    Register

    Want to add or modify a wall in your house? Thinking about building an addition? In this class we will build an 8' wall with framing for a door and a window. Learn the best practices and the tips and tricks to build a structural wall that you, and the inspector, can be proud of!.

    Wear clothes you can get dirty. Closed-toe shoes are required. Dust mask recommended. Safety glasses are required at the Nova Labs shop. Some are available for use during class.

    Tools and materials are provided but you are welcome and encouraged to bring your own tools.

    NOTE: We may be working on ladders. You should feel comfortable lifting up to 50 pounds.

    Prerequisite: none.

     Your instructor, Robin Renner has 35 years experience as a carpenter, a contractor, and as a construction director for housing nonprofits. She has worked with hundreds of volunteers teaching and leading construction projects, everything from basic repairs to full whole house construction.  She has taught over 40 training classes ranging from drywall skills and general construction, to electrical and plumbing repairs, to healthy housing and safety.

    Show details

  • WW_P: Hand Plane Tuning and Technique

    • 14 Oct 2023
    • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Nova Labs
    • 0
    Registration is closed

    Instructor: Chris Sexton
    Tired of the noise and dust from big loud machines? Sick of sanding? Nothing compares to the sweet joy you get from a traditional hand plane. But for those who have never used one, it can be a challenge.
    This course will help remove the frustration from bench planes as you get the foundations of hand tool woodworking. You will learn:
    How to flatten a sole and clean up any rust
    Prepare the chip breaker and flatten the back of the iron
    Establish a bevel, add camber, and sharpen
    Properly seat the frog and adjust the mouth
    Set the iron and adjust
    Technique for planing flat and square
    And if you already have your hand planes, bring ‘em along. Students are strongly encouraged to bring along to tune up their own tools during the class.
    Show details

  • EV_P: Trauma Makeup Effects

    • 14 Oct 2023
    • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Nova Labs (Classroom 2), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
    • 8
    Register

    Are you fascinated by the world of special effects makeup and its applications in creating life-like injuries and wounds? This calass introduces you to the art of moulage, The skillful use of special effects makeup techniques to simulate injuries and wounds for various purposes, including healthcare training, emergency response drills, and theatrical productions.

    Class covers essential techniques, safety considerations, and practical applications, including creating realistic bruises, abrasions, lacerations, and minor embedded objects.

    Course Objectives: By the end of this course, makers will:

    • Understand the Purpose of Moulage: Gain insight into the significance of moulage in creating realistic scenarios for healthcare professionals, emergency responders, and the entertainment industry.

    • Master Moulage Fundamentals: Acquire essential skills in applying makeup, to create authentic-looking injuries and wounds.

    • Ensure Health and Safety: Learn the importance of hygiene, safety protocols, and responsible material usage when working with moulage.

    • Enhance Realism Over Time: Understand how injuries change over time and adapt moulage techniques accordingly to accurately represent different stages of injuries.

    • Learn what materials are essential for a basic moulage kit.

    Who Should Attend: Ideal for those interested in special effects makeup, healthcare professionals, emergency responders, aspiring makeup artists, theater enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the art and science of moulage

    Prequisites: due to the graphic nature of this course registrations are limited to makers’ 18 and over.

    Instructor: Elena Clark

    Minimum registration: 4

    Show details

  • BL_S01: Bladesmithing Project: Stainless Steel Knife-Making

    • 14 Oct 2023
    • 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Road Fairfax, VA 22030 (Blacksmith Shop)
    • 3
    Register

    Making a Stainless Steel Kitchen Knife


    Believe it or not, most “chefs’ knives” that you can purchase for less than $200 are not hardened, as the manufacturers know that home users generally won’t be able to tell the difference between raw and heat-treated stainless steel.  

    But we’re Nova Labs Makers, gosh dang it, and we absolutely will be heat-treating our steel!  In fact, we will be heating our knife blanks though several steps (as high as 1900°F) in our precision heat-treating oven, and then cryo-quenching in liquid nitrogen, taking them down to -100°F.

    There are few things more satisfying than creating a tool that you will use on a daily basis, and making a kitchen knife out of high-quality, heat-treated stainless steel is one of those maker-projects where the final product is better than what you can typically buy.  Plus you will learn the steps necessary to make your own set of chef’s knives – you will never lack for holiday gift ideas again!

    In this class you will create a fillet knife out of “Nitro-V” stainless steel, grind it into a basic shape, heat-treat the steel using a precision oven, and cryo-quench the blank using liquid nitrogen.  Along the way you will get signed off on the Nova Labs heat-treat oven, and the 2x72” Grinder.  You will also learn a bit about advanced metallurgy, knife-grinding techniques, and handle-making.

    Two things to note:
    - First, this is NOT a traditional blacksmithing class – we will not be swinging a hammer or even firing up a forge.
    - Second, this is a “homework” class where you will be provided with the materials and knowledge to finish the project, but it will require several hours of your own time to complete the process.

    As part of the cost for this class the students receive:
    •    A stainless steel blank for a 5+ inch fillet knife
    •    Kirinite handle material
    •    Brass pins to secure the handle
    •    A set of six 2x72” belts for the grinder
    •    Two RED tool sign-offs

    INSTRUCTOR:  Patrick Marstall

    PREREQUISITES: None.  

    SIGN OFFS: This class will serve as a sign-off class for the Vertical Heat Treat Oven and the 2x72” Grinder.

    RESTRICTIONS:  Age 16 and over.

    SAFETY:
    •    Must wear cotton or wool clothing – no synthetic materials.
    •    Shoes must be made from leather or canvas; plastic-topped sneakers will not be allowed
    •    Eye protection (goggles) are provided, but you may bring your own for the best fit.
    •    Failure to wear appropriate clothing may result in being turned away from the class without a refund.
    •    Breathing protection is required:  The instructor will provide a cloth mask, but it is recommended that the students provide a proper respirator to avoid breathing in metal dust.
    Show details

  • AC_P: Make a Shoulder Dragon

    • 14 Oct 2023
    • 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
    • Nova Labs3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
    • 7
    Register


    Come make this whimsical dragon and learn basic techniques to make stuffed toys. The dragon is shaped to perch on a person’s shoulder. It is the perfect accessory for the Halloween season. 

    Already cut materials will be provided. Please make sure you sign up early enough to give the instructor time to prepare the materials. Dragons are made from fleece and felt and decorated with a variety of materials. Several colors will be available. 

    This activity is accessible to all ages, but the youngest children may need some adult help. Child may have adult attend for no additional cost per dragon.

    Maximum 6 dragon-making-persons. This ensures the best hand-on experience for each child.

    Prerequisites: no previous sewing experience is needed

    Age requirement: 8+ or with an adult

    Instructor: Fabiana Cesa is a maker educator. She has taught for the Nova Labs MakerSchool for the past three years.

    Class must have 3 participants sign up to run. If this does not happen those who have paid will be issued a full refund.

    Show details

  • WW_S01: Yellow Tools Sign-off

    • 15 Oct 2023
    • 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM
    • Nova Labs (Woodshop)
    • 5
    Register

    Instructor: Anjelika

    COME TO THE WOODSHOP DOOR ON THE SIDE OF THE BUILDING

    This class, in addition to Green Orientation (GO), is required in order to use the yellow tools without supervision.

    Start your woodworking journey with our most approachable power tools. This class is up to 2 hours of fun and learning. Class is required for everyone, regardless of experience level and tool sign off is conditional on a demonstration of competence during the class.

    Sign off: Yellow Safety Tools Covered: Drill Press, Scroll Saw, Oscillating/Spindle Sander, Rikon bandsaw, Mixed Media Bandsaw, stationary sander, miter saw

    Prerequisite: None

    Mandatory Safety Dress Code: Woodshop dress code enforced. Comfortable closed-toed shoes; no loose clothing; and hair/beard tied back.

    Show details

  • 3D_S03: SLA-LCD High Resolution 3d Printer Sign-off

    • 16 Oct 2023
    • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Nova Labs, Inc. 3850 Jermantown Road. Fairfax City, VA 22030 (Classroom 2)
    • 8
    Register

    Nova Labs has a fleet of Phrozen Sonic 4K LCD-based SLA 3D Printers. SLA printing is much higher resolution than our FDM machines, and the LCD process is a good bit faster than laser SLA. These machines can be used to print jewelry or miniatures with a resolution of ~ 50 microns, but the prints do require a bit of post-processing before use. These machines are great for prints that are small but require more detail than the FDM machines can provide.

    If you are interested in learning about this exciting technology and getting signed off on the equipment please join us.

    Note: This class does not cover the Form Labs Form 3 SLA 3d printer  which is a separate sign off.

    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.

    Show details

  • AC_S06: Vinyl Cutter and Heat Press Sign Off

    • 17 Oct 2023
    • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
    • 3
    Register


    With this class you will gain the skills to create custom T-shirt designs, window clings, or go big with vinyl to decorate your car or walls!

    What you'll learn:
    • How to turn an image into a format the vinyl cutter can read
    • How to load the file into VinylMaster Cut for cutting
    • How to set up and get the vinyl machine ready to cut
    • How to cut, remove and tweak your piece
    • How to use the Heat Press to apply heat transfer vinyl to fabrics
    • Tips and tricks for applying vinyl!

    You must arrive within 15 minutes of the class start time or you may be turned away without a refund since you may have missed too much of the safety material.

    Perquisites: none

    Age requirement: 16+

    Sign off: Vinyl Cutter and Heat Press Sign

    Safety Dress Code: N/A

    Class must have 3 participants sign up to run. If this does not happen those who have paid will be issued a full refund.

    Show details

  • AC_P02: Sewing Machine Annual Tune-up Workshop

    • 18 Oct 2023
    • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • *Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030 (Crafter's Cove)
    • 2
    Register


    Does your sewing machine work but is not as good as it

    used to? Maybe it just needs a little TLC. Bring your own machine and
    we’ll provide the tools and guidance to give your sewing machine its
    annual tune-up. YOU will do a test sew then remove the covers, dust
    and vacuum the inside, oil the moving parts, replace the needle and
    take a close look at the bobbin assembly, feed dogs, tension disks and
    hook timing. After reassembly, you will do another test sew and we
    will compare the before and after.

    Perquisites: none
    Cancellation Policy: 48 hours in advance
    Sign off: none
    Safety Dress Code: N/A
    Class Fee: 45$
    Instructor: Kathy McCabe

    Class must have 3 participants sign up to run. If this does not happen those who have paid will be issued a full refund.


    Show details

  • MX_S01: Mixed Media Shop - Basic Tools Sign-off

    • 18 Oct 2023
    • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax (Mixed Media Studio)
    • 3
    Register

    The Mixed Media Shop offers a full suite of wood, metal and plastic-working tools for the needs of Nova Labs members. Learn the ins-and-outs of the basic tools in this hybrid sign-off class. Once signed off members can access the Mixed Media Shops for their own projects as needed.

    Permission to the following Mixed Media Shop Tools: 

    • MX bandsaw
    • Harbor Freight Disc Sander
    • Bauer (Harbor Freight) Belt & Spindle Sander
    • Hengar & Delta Scroll Saw
    • Delta Drill Press
    • Biscuit Joiner
    • Wet Tile Saw
    • Various Circular Saws
    • Dewalt Reciprocating Saw
    • Track Saw

    Sign off: MX Basic tools, Grizzly bandsaw

    Safety Requirements: Closed toed shoes and no synthetic fibers due to fire and melting hazard.

    Instructor: Beej Powers, steward of mixed media shop!

    Show details

  • MW_S06: Metalshop Surface Grinder Sign-off

    • 19 Oct 2023
    • 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
    • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax VA
    • 5
    Register


    The surface grinder is a precision grinding tool designed to flatten steel material, and/or produce a finished surface on steel, Accuracy to .001 can be readily obtained on a steel surface. Nova-Labs Harig618 is a manually operated tool, not computer controlled, but can nonetheless achieve mirror like finishes, precise angles, and perfectly flat surfaces on steel stock. Unlike some machine tools a maker can achieve quality results with a short operational learning curve. Great for makers of all stripes.

    Sign-off: Harig 612 Surface Grinder

    Instructor: Jonathan Thatcher

    Show details

  • AC_P08: Leather Working 101

    • 19 Oct 2023
    • 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
    • 0
    Registration is closed

    Interested in working with leather?  Want to learn some fundamental skills with leather? Come make a slim minimalistic card holder wallet for your everyday carry and learn about leatherworking basics at the same time. In this class, you will learn:
    • The process of building
    • Cutting techniques (and how to use trim allowance)
    • Assembly
    • Gluing
    • Stitching
    • Finishing
    • And tips and tricks!

    In the end, you will leave this class with a wealth of knowledge and a finished wallet (like the one you see in the picture) you can use every day! The class is allocated for three hours but it will most likely take closer to two hours. This class will be taught by Darsh Nand. Darsh got into leatherworking when he needed a unique gift for his 17 (yes, 17!) groomsmen. He came across an Etsy store listing selling personalized wallets and decided he wanted to make them himself. Luckily, Nova Labs was offering a leather pouch making class around this time so Darsh took the class to see if he could actually make the wallets himself. Almost two years later, Darsh has been making wallets, watch bands, and other goods through his small business called DAK Leather. It is a side gig outside of his day-to-day job as a Product Designer and he loves it. He is definitely still learning a lot about leatherworking himself!



    Prerequisite: non    e

    Tool sign off: none

    Dress code: none since we will not be dying the leather
    Age: 18+

    This class must have 3 attendees to make.  If class is cancelled you will be refunded.

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  • EV_P: Trash Monsters: A Scratch-Build Class on Creative Recycling

    • 19 Oct 2023
    • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Nova Labs (Classroom 2), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
    • 10
    Register