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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

  • IC_P: Build and Engage a Following on Instagram (ONLINE CLASS)

    • 20 Mar 2025
    • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Nova Labs (Classroom 1), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax VA
    • 8
    Register

    Unlock the potential of Instagram to build your brand’s credibility and reach new customers. In this workshop, you'll learn effective strategies to engage your current audience and grow your following, all while making the process enjoyable. Perfect for creative entrepreneurs and small business owners looking to enhance their social media presence. Suitable for ages 18+.

    Note: It is highly recommended that participants have an existing Instagram account prior to attending the workshop.

    This is an ONLINE class. All registrants will be sent a zoom link the day of the event. A recording will be available to all registrants after the class. 

    Business of Making Series: This series is designed for makers, artists, and creative entrepreneurs who are interested in taking the first steps to building a business. This season kicks off with seven workshops led by practicing artist and small business owner, Lee Sowell of Lee Strawberry.

    Meet the Instructor: Lee, owner of Lee Strawberry, LLC, is a northern VA based artist who has had multiple years experience running a creative business. They have used a diverse set of avenues - online content creation, selling at conventions, and working with clients, to find creativity and enjoyment both as an artist and entrepreneur.
    Show details

  • AC_O: Fabric & Yarn Swap (Members-only)

    • 22 Mar 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    • Nova Labs 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
    • 7
    Register

    Fabric and yarn 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 yarn, browse what others have brought, and see if you find any "treasures."

    How It Works:

    • Bring a box with your name on it containing yarn 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 only.
    • Registration: Required so we can plan refreshments.
    • Where: Fabric Boxes staged in Classroom 1. Refreshments in Craft Shop.

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

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  • AC_P: Make a T-shirt Class for Kids and Adults (10 and up)

    • 22 Mar 2025
    • 2:00 PM - 4:30 PM
    • Nova Labs3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
    • 5
    Register


    Wear your emotions!

    The participants in this class will make and take home a whimsical t-shirt similar to the ones in the photo. Makers will construct their own emoji using a variety of parts available.

    The class will offer a hands-on introduction to the Silhouette cutter and Silhouette Studio, its companion software. These tools are used to design and cut vinyl appliques for t-shirts, stickers, signs and more. Nova Labs offers three Silhouettes and they are classified as green tools. The instructor will also demonstrate the use of the heat press. 

    Younger children are welcome with an adult helper. Adult helpers should come prepared to help exclusively. Usually, it is not possible to help a young maker and make your own project in the same session

    Please include color and size choice with your early registration (at least three days before). There will be a limited selection of t-shirts for late registrations or you may bring your own blank pre-washed t-shirt.

    Price is per t-shirt making person. Adults helping children do not need to pay. 

    Maximum: 6 T-shirt making persons.

    Prerequisites: no previous sewing experience is needed

    Age requirement: 10+ 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.

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  • CANCELED MW_S10: Hand Plasma Cutter Sign-off

    • 23 Mar 2025
    • 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
    • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA
    • 6

    Ever wanted to cut freehand designs in steel like you would a piece of paper? Join the handheld plasma cutter class and get a sign off, learn to cut steel like butter!

    After your sign-off is in the system, you could cut steel sheets and make lanterns, candle holders, hearts and roses, anything you can dream up!

    Prerequisites: Class is open to the public and does not require a pre-requisite to take it. However, if you take this class before the Metal Shop Basic Sign-off class, you may not use the tool without supervision. Members may attend Metal Shop Mondays where you can improve your skills under supervision. Metal Shop Basic Sign-off and a membership are required to use the hand plasma independently (without supervision).

    Safety: Wear non-synthetic clothing, closed-toe shoes, and remove all rings, watches, and other such jewelry. Bring eye protection and dress appropriately for outdoor work.

    Sign-off: Hand Plasma Cutter

    Class is required for everyone wishing to use the listed tools, regardless of experience level. After taking this class, inexperienced or moderately experienced people should select a project and come in for help and practice on Metal Shop Mondays Open Office Hours.

    Note: Must arrive within 15 minutes of class start time.

    Instructor: Mike Youmans

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  • TS_P: Make Your Own Leather Dog Collar and Leash

    • 24 Mar 2025
    • 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM
    • Nova Labs, (The Studio), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
    • 5
    Register

    Make Your Own Leather Dog Collar & Leash for Furry Best Friend!

    Treat your four-legged best friend to a custom leather collar and matching leash—crafted by you! In this hands-on class, you’ll make a custom leather dog leash from scratch (almost—you’ll start with a blank strap). First, you’ll learn leather 101 and learn the basics of leather and its characteristics. Then, dive into flexing your elementary school math skills to determine how long of a leather strap you need to make for your bougie pup. Oh, your pup’s not easily impressed? Well, let’s also make a matching dog collar to show your pup whose really the boss. 

    And are you worried your pup will think you’re cheating on it because it sees you leave home with a bunch of stuff to make a leash and collar? No problem! Leave your imaginary leatherworking supplies at home since we’ll provide all the materials and tools necessary! So bring yourself and the excitement to spoil your pup! 

    Sign up now—your pup will thank you with extra tail wags!

    IMPORTANT: Before class, measure your dog’s neck size (see instructions in the email we'll send you)

    Prerequisites: None, Age 16+

    Sign-off: None

    Instructor: Darsh

    Show details

  • AC_P: Machine Embroidery 101: Patches

    • 25 Mar 2025
    • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Nova Labs3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
    • 1
    Register


    Learn to make patches on the Pfaff single thread embroidery machine but need a starter project?

    . . . or just curious about making patches using these machines? In this class, we will learn how to cut felt on the laser, sublimate an image to the felt using the sublimation printer and the heat press, and then use the Pfaff to stitch the satin stitch edging on our patch. We will go over the embroidery process in both inkstitch and hatch.

    Demonstration class only – no signoffs, no hands on.

    Perquisites: You do not need to be signed off on the Embroidery Machine to attend this class. However, you will not be allowed to use the Embroidery Machines outside of class until you are signed off.
    Cancellation Policy: 48 hours in advance
    Age requirement: 16+
    Sign off: none
    Safety Dress Code: N/A

    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. [masked]

    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

  • MW_P: Metal Lathe Threading

    • 27 Mar 2025
    • 6:30 PM - 10:00 PM
    • Nova Labs, Inc. (Metalshop) 3850 Jermantown Road. Fairfax City, VA 22030
    • 1
    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

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  • EL_P04: Intro to LEDs, RGBs, and NEOPIXELS

    • 27 Mar 2025
    • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Online event
    • 4
    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

  • AC_P01: Ukrainian Easter Egg Decoration

    • 5 Apr 2025
    • 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030 (Classroom 2)
    • 5
    Register


    This method uses a wax-resistant batik style to preserve color and form after it is dyed in each color bath. We will teach you some of the history and tradition with hands-on use of the tools, dyes, and waxes. All supplies will be provided. Paying folks will be able to actively participate, receive an egg stand, and take your decorated egg with you.

    Prerequisite: None

    Instructor: Dave has been teaching this class which celebrates the Easter season for several years.

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  • WW_P01: French-Style Rolling Pin with Celtic Knot Design (2 days)

    • 6 Apr 2025
    • 9:00 AM
    • 13 Apr 2025
    • 12:00 PM
    • Nova Labs (Woodshop), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax VA
    • 1
    Register

    IMPORTANT: This is a 2 day class (April 6 and April 13)

    In this hands-on woodworking class, students will craft a French-style rolling pin featuring an intricate Celtic Knot-inspired design. Participants will learn essential lathe turning techniques, precision inlay work, and finishing methods to create a functional and artistic kitchen tool. 

    You do NOT need any tool sign offs for this class. Turning experience is a plus and would be a benefit to you, but not required. This is a limited tools use project class and will not provide any woodshop tool sign-offs.

    This is a 2-day workshop.

    • Day 1 - Sunday, April 6th at 9:00 am - will focus on design, materials, jigs, finishes, cutting and the glue up of your rolling pen.
    • Day 2 - Sunday, April 13th at 9:00 am - will focus allowing students to turn the rolling pin on the lathe, sand and finish the rolling pen.

    Prerequisite: None. 

    Instructor: Steven 

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  • WW_P: Hand Plane Tuning and Technique

    • 7 Apr 2025
    • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Nova Labs
    • 0
    Registration is closed
    Instructor: Christopher 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

    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.

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  • TS_P: Make your own Leather Belt

    • 9 Apr 2025
    • 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Nova Labs, (The Studio), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
    • 1
    Register

    Make a leather belt from scratch – No experience, no tools, no problem!

    Ever wanted to craft something with your own two hands that is beautiful and wearable.

    You’ll make a custom leather belt from scratch (almost—you’ll start with a blank strap). First, you’ll learn leather 101 and learn the basics of leather and its characteristics. Then, dive into flexing your elementary school math skills to determine how long of a leather strap you need and where to make holes on your new handmade-in-the-USA belt.

    Best of all, you get to take your masterpiece home and wear it with pride until it doesn’t fit anymore. But don’t worry, you can take the “Make a longer leather belt from scratch!”. And to sweeten the deal even more, no need to lug anything on the metro because all materials and tools are provided, so just bring yourself and maybe a friend for moral support (as long as they buy a ticket too). 

    Sign up now and get ready to craft a belt so fine, your jeans will thank you!

    IMPORTANT: Before class, measure your waist (see instructions in the email we'll send you)

    Prerequisites: None, Age 16+

    Sign-off: None

    Instructor: Darsh

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  • TS_S03: Airbrush Tools 101 Sign-off

    • 20 Apr 2025
    • 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
    • *Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030 (The Studio)
    • 4
    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_P: Paper Engineering 101 Make Your Own Popup Mother's Day Card

    • 26 Apr 2025
    • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
    • Nova Labs (Classroom 2), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
    • 6
    Register

    Show your Mom just how much they mean to you with an amazing popup card you make yourself!

    Put that geometry knowledge to work for you and get started in the art of making pop-up paper structures. Learn about and experiment with v-folds, parallel folds, converging creases, and more. A few basic skills are all that is needed to gain an understanding of the wonders of paper pop-up engineering, and start designing your own creations. 

    During the second part of the class we will assemble a precut pop up card to take home and celebrate the beginning of summer.

    This activity is accessible to all ages. Adult/child teams are strongly recommended for children younger than 11 or children with little experience making. An adult/child team will only build one card and pay for one registration. 

    Maximum 6 registered attendants.

    Prerequisites: ability to use scissors, fold and crease paper. Level of difficulty: intermediate 

    Age requirement: 11+ 

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


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



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  • Nova Labs Volunteer Appreciation Day Dinner

    • 26 Apr 2025
    • 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
    • Nova Labs (Events Bay), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax VA
    Register


    To all those who volunteer to help build and support your makerspace, let us honor you! Please invite your families to join us for the celebration.

    To get accurate numbers for catering you must register by Wednesday the 3rd including any guests that you plan to bring.

    We want to honor you for your hard work in painting, wiring, leading, organizing, patching, cabling, sysadmining, filling out the paperwork, cleaning the dust bin, taking out the trash, mentoring, etc. You make the makerspace happen with each hour you dedicate to serving.

    Join us for a delicious catered meal, with exciting extertainment and lots of laughs in our Maker Lounge, especially decorated for the celebration of YOU!

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  • 3d_P: Introduction to Onshape

    • 3 May 2025
    • 11:00 AM - 1:30 PM
    • Nova Labs, Inc. 3850 Jermantown Road. Fairfax City, VA 22030 (Classroom 1)
    • 4
    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

    Show details

Email: support@nova-labs.org

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