Menu
Log in

Wild Apricot (WA) Portal

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

    • 25 Oct 2025
    • 1 Nov 2025
    • 2 sessions
    • Nova Labs (The Studio), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
    • 5
    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. The first is on October 25th and the second is on November 1st. 

    All casting materials will be provided. 

    Prerequisites: None

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

    Instructor: Michael Cividanes
    • 1 Nov 2025
    • 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
    • Nova Labs (Orange Bay), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA
    Register

    Join us for THE Maker Holiday – a second chance to wear those incredible costumes you've been crafting all season. We’ll have swamp punch, spooky games, great company, and of course lots of food.

    This is a potluck-style event, and you’re encouraged to bring “scary foods or treats” – think creepy, clever, or creatively gross. For inspiration, check out this blog post: Scary Halloween Recipes (via Delish).

    Sign up to bring a dish here: Potluck Sign-Up →

    Costumes encouraged. Makers & friends welcome. Let’s make it a night to remember!

    • 5 Nov 2025
    • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Nova Labs, Inc. 3850 Jermantown Road. Fairfax City, VA 22030 (Classroom 1)
    • 2
    Register

    Come join us for another class in our series on Exotic Materials & Techniques for the Laser Cutter/Engraver! This is Lecture & Hands On class.

    This session explores the most “forbidden” of laser materials: Metals.

    In the past, our 100W CO₂ lasers were thought too weak to cut or engrave metal—but that’s not entirely true anymore. With the right knowledge, metals can be marked or engraved using several different approaches.

    We’ll discuss and demonstrate three techniques:

    • Engraving vinyl-covered metal flasks
    • Using laser marking ink on metal plates
    • Directly engraving anodized aluminum

    Materials are not covered in the price of the class, but will be available at cost. This should include anodized aluminum blanks (name tags and plate) and vinyl hip flask (they make great holiday presents). Various examples of Laser Ink will be shown, but not available during the class.

    Bring your own art files if you wish to engrave on one of the projects. It is highly recommended to bring only vector artwork.

    Prerequisites: None

    Instructor: Steve Sheets

    • 6 Nov 2025
    • 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
    • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030 (Classroom 1)
    • 4
    Register

    Picture: BERNINA 800DL Sergers are for more than seams! Prepare for the holidays and learn one of the most versatile stitches at the same time! Rolled hems create a beautiful finish on any number of projects from sheer fabric on garments to cloth napkins and tablecloths to scarfs. In this class you will learn how to thread and set up the serger to produce a 3 thread rolled hem. To practice, you can choose to create a set of 4 small cloth napkins and/or a "wrap scarf" that can be used to wrap a gift and then be worn as a scarf afterward. Materials are included.

    Sign off: none

    Prerequisite: Basic sewing skills highly recommended

    Maximum participants: 5

    Age requirement: 14+

    Safety Dress Code: Reading glasses if needed

    Instructor: Danielle has been an educator for over a decade, working with student privately and in classroom settings. More recently, she has primarily instructed classes in basic sewing, operating speciality machines, embroidery, and clothing/costume instruction. She is an award winning cosplayer and her favorite thing to create is Star Wars costumes. 

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

    • 8 Nov 2025
    • 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • Nova Labs (The Studio), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax VA
    • 0
    Registration is closed

    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

    • 8 Nov 2025
    • 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Nova Labs (The Studio), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax VA
    • 0
    Registration is closed


    Learn leather tools and techniques while you craft a leather bag. Keep it for yourself or it is perfect for the gift-giving season!

    All tools and materials are provided, no experience needed. 

    Age: Recommended for ages 17 and up.

    Prerequisites: None

    Instructor: Hunter

    • 11 Nov 2025
    • 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Nova Labs (Woodshop), 1930 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax VA
    • 0
    Registration is closed


    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, however, --> Important: You must be a member 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. Optional: Hearing protection, particle filter, or dust mask.

    • 13 Nov 2025
    • 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
    • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030 (Classroom 1)
    • 5
    Register

    Picture: BERNINA 800DL Sergers are great for fast easy sewing projects. Prepare for the holidays and learn one of the most versatile stitches at the same time! The 4-thread overlock stitch secures seams while simultaneously finishing the raw edges of the fabric. In this class you will learn how to thread and set up the serger to produce a 4-thread overlock stitch, as well as review inserting a zipper with a domestic machine and a zipper foot. To practice, you can choose to create a zippered pouch and/or a decorative petal drawstring pouch. Both are great options for environmentally friendly gift wrapping that can be reused and repurposed over and over to hold gifts or anything else you can fit inside! Materials are included.

    Sign off: none

    Prerequisite: Basic sewing skills highly recommended

    Maximum participants: 5

    Age requirement: 14+

    Safety Dress Code: Reading glasses if needed

    Instructor: Danielle has been an educator for over a decade, working with student privately and in classroom settings. More recently, she has primarily instructed classes in basic sewing, operating speciality machines, embroidery, and clothing/costume instruction. She is an award winning cosplayer and her favorite thing to create is Star Wars costumes. 

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

    • 14 Nov 2025
    • 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • Nova Labs (The Studio), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax VA
    • 0
    Registration is closed

    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


    • 15 Nov 2025
    • 11:00 AM - 1:30 PM
    • Nova Labs, Inc. 3850 Jermantown Road. Fairfax City, VA 22030 (Classroom 1)
    • 0
    Registration is closed


    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

    • 15 Nov 2025
    • 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
    • Nova Labs (The Studio), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax VA
    • 8
    Register

    Make a custom pendant for a personalized Mother's Day gift.

    In this fun jewelry-making class, you'll learn to use metal working techniques such as texturing, stamping, and shaping to create a stunning pendant necklace. Learn how to customize and add unique flair to the custom pieces you create. Let our experienced artist help you create your own design. All materials, including precious metals and chains, are provided.

    The pendant project has been chosen strategically because the metalsmithing skills you'll learn in class are considered essential basics for metal jewelry making. The techniques and tools used are designed to advance your skills, but can be applied to metalsmithing other shapes and designs,

    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


    Instructor: Margie Foster, Jewelry artist and The Studio steward

    • 16 Nov 2025
    • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Nova Labs (Woodshop), 1930 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax VA
    • 0
    Registration is closed


    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.

    • 16 Nov 2025
    • 2:30 PM - 4:30 PM
    • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA (Classroom 1)
    • 11
    Register

    History of Tea, or Knowing the Difference Between Teas. The History of Tea is the history of civilization, both Asian and European. For example, do you know the difference between Japanese Green Tea and Chinese Green Tea?

    And which one is historically more accurate? Most people know of the Tea Wars between Britain and China, but do you know the impact of the Mogal Invasion had on Tea? How about the fact that even today, Tea is the most counterfeited trade product in the world. It is that important.And what about the differences between teas? Would you like to know about Green Tea, Black Tea, White Tea & Oolong Tea? And what in the world is Red Tea?

    For those who never tried Tea, this is a great way to try out different types. For those who already love Tea, come learn more. For a coffee drinker, come over to the other side, and try the most popular drink in the world. And for anyone who loves history, please join us and have fun!

    Several different types of Tea will be shared! All tea provided.

    Remember, Tea (and tea classes) make a great holiday gift for the holidays!

    Instructor: Steve Sheets

    • 20 Nov 2025
    • 6:30 PM - 10:00 PM
    • Nova Labs, Inc. (Metalshop) 3850 Jermantown Road. Fairfax City, VA 22030
    • 2
    Register

    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

    • 21 Nov 2025
    • 7:00 PM - 9:30 PM
    • Nova Labs
    • 4
    Register

    Welcome to our enchanting woodturning class where craftsmanship meets the subarctic! In this lively session, you’ll dive into the world of wood turning to create not just penguin holiday decorations, but the beginnings of your very own penguin army. Whether you’re a seasoned artisan or just starting your turning journey, this class promises to ignite your creativity and woodworking skills.

    Prerequisite: Lathe sign-off required

    Materials: All necessary tools and materials will be provided for use throughout the class. We will start with a turning blank made of black walnut and maple, and turn it into chubby, adorable, but fearless penguins. 

    Instructor: Chris Sexton is an experienced woodworker and one of our woodshop stewards

    • 22 Nov 2025
    • 23 Nov 2025
    • 2 sessions
    • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Road Fairfax, VA 22030 (Blacksmith Shop)
    • 1
    Register



    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 belt grinder
    •    Two RED tool sign-offs

    INSTRUCTOR:  Patrick M.

    PREREQUISITES: Age 16 and over.


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

    Mandatory Safety Dress Code: 

    • 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.
    • 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.

      If you arrive more than 15 minutes late, that is a safety violation and you may not be able to join the class.


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

    • 29 Nov 2025
    • 9:00 AM
    • 30 Nov 2025
    • 12:00 PM
    • Nova Labs (Woodshop), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax VA
    • 6
    Register

    IMPORTANT: This is a 2 day class (May 18 and MAY 25)

    Learn to make your own handmade cutting boards. These boards make beautiful finishing touches in any kitchen. Use them as a charcuterie board or buffet table accent. Learn the process and make many more either to give as gifts either in our shop or your home shop. Perfect for the chef or BBQ enthusiast in your life. We'll also show you how to maintain it in beautiful condition.

    You do NOT need any tool sign offs for this class. No experience is needed to take this class. We provide all the training, tools, and materials needed.

    This is a 2-day workshop.

    • Day 1 - Saturday, November 29 at 9:00 am
    • Day 2 - Sunday, November 30 at 9:00 am

    Prerequisite: None. Appropriate for ages 14+ 

    Instructor: Anjelika 

    • 1 Dec 2025
    • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Nova Labs, Inc. 3850 Jermantown Road. Fairfax City, VA (Classroom 2)
    • 5
    Register

    Join us for another class in our series on Exotic Materials Techniques for the Laser Cutter. In this class, we will discuss ethylene vinyl Acetate (EVA) foam, commonly known as craft foam. EVA form is available in a variety of colors and thicknesses and can be painted. Using the laser cutter, you can achieve a higher level of precision and repeatability, while saving time and effort.

    This class includes both a discussion and hands-on practice. However, the class fee does not include materials. Materials are available at cost so you can try practicing the techniques.

    Craft foam example projects are here
    Thicker EVA foam has been used to create cosplay costumes. See examples here.

    To Bring: Bring your own digital art files if you wish to try engraving on one of the projects. (optional) Bring some materials for practice if you wish.

    Prerequisites: None

    Instructor: Steve Sheets

    • 6 Dec 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    • Nova Labs (The Studio), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
    • 4
    Register

    Mold-making and casting are an invaluable part of any maker's toolkit. Whether you want to create decorative pieces, mass produce 3D printed models, or make a one-off part for a DIY project, mold-making and casting will produce durable, attractive finished products. These techniques can be used for jewelry making, prototyping, costumes, creating unique embellishments for your maker projects, and many other uses.

    This class will teach you how to make a box mold using silicone rubber and how to cast plastic parts in that mold. Each student will receive hands-on training. It will also cover the different materials available for mold making and casting, how to choose the right materials for your project, safe handling of materials and potential pitfalls like cure inhibition and bubble formation.

    Recommended Clothing: The materials used in this class will permanently bond to anything they get on. It is strongly recommended you wear old work clothes and shoes you won't mind getting stained.

    Instructor: Steve Fritzinger is the composites steward, woodworker, chef instructor, bread-maker, and cosplay expert.

    • 6 Dec 2025
    • 13 Dec 2025
    • 2 sessions
    • Nova Labs (The Studio), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
    • 5
    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. The first is on October 25th and the second is on November 1st. 

    All casting materials will be provided. 

    Prerequisites: None

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

    Instructor: Michael Cividanes
    • 9 Dec 2025
    • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Nova Labs at 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030 (The Studio)
    • 8
    Register
      
    Make personalized decorations for your own home or as gifts! Learn metal stamping and hammering techniques on aluminum to customize three ornaments: a star, a snowflake, and a tree.

    Safety: Wear closed toe shoes and safety goggles (available to borrow)

    Prerequisite: none

    Instructor: Lauren Hillman

    This class will be canceled if there are less than 4 registrations within 48 hours of the start date.

    • 14 Dec 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA (The Studio)
    • 5
    Register

    Bubbles are a common problem in castings. But in many cases, bubbles have a high impact on your project. For example, you may need a transparent part that would be ruined by bubbles. Or your part’s strength might be compromised by bubbles. In these cases, you need special equipment to get rid of those vexing bubbles.

    Nova Labs has 2 tools to help with this. In this class, you will learn to use the vacuum chamber and pressure pot to eliminate bubbles. You will also learn to operate the vacuum pump. 

    Prerequisite: Mold Making and Plastic Casting 101 or equivalent experience.

    Sign-off: Pressure pots and Vacuum Chamber Sign-pff

    Recommended Clothing: The materials used in this class will permanently bond to anything they get on. It is strongly recommended you wear old work clothes and shoes you won't mind getting stained.

    Instructor: Steve Fritzinger

Email: support@nova-labs.org

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

© 2020 Nova Labs, Inc. All Rights Reserved.