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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: Scissor Sharpening Workshop

    • 27 Feb 2026
    • 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
    • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
    • 3
    Register

    Refreshing scissors with a sharp edge is quick and easy once you know how, especially with our powered waterstone grinder, the Tormek! In this hands-on session, I’ll demonstrate how to set up the Tormek and sharpen a pair of scissors, then each participant will practice by sharpening one pair of their own.

    This is not a sign off class, the Tormek is a green tool! A Tormek is a professional-grade water-cooled sharpening system designed for precision and repeatability. It runs at a slow speed with a water bath to keep tools cool, preventing overheating and preserving the steel’s temper. In scissor sharpening, the Tormek provides controlled, consistent angles and a fine finish, making it especially effective for high-quality results.

    Bring a pair of scissors to sharpen! Edges should be bevels, no serrations or other crazy shapes.

    Prerequisite: None

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

    Cancellation Policy: 48 hours in advance

    Instructor: Christopher Pitman


    Show details

  • MW_P02: Welded Octopus Sculpture

    • 27 Feb 2026
    • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Nova Labs, Inc. (Metalshop) 3850 Jermantown Road. Fairfax City, VA 22030
    • 0
    Registration is closed

    In this hands on metalworking class, participants will create a small welded octopus sculpture using stainless steel silverware and bolts. This playful, character driven project introduces MIG welding through a guided, step by step process focused on safe tool use and controlled fabrication. While the overall structure is guided, each sculpture will have its own personality.

    The focus of the class is learning basic MIG welding skills, safe tool use, and guided sculptural construction in the metal shop. No prior welding experience is required. All materials will be provided, and students will leave with a completed welded sculpture.

    NOTE: This class is project based and does not provide metal shop tool sign offs or independent tool access outside of class time.

    Meet the Instructor 

     
    Marie Guagenti

    Marie is a sculptor and educator with a BFA in Sculpture from George Mason University. She specializes in welding and metalworking and enjoys exploring how different materials can connect and transform through the making process. As a mother of three, she values creativity, patience, and curiosity both in and outside the shop.


    Show details

  • Nova Labs Chili Cook-off

    • 28 Feb 2026
    • 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
    • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA
    Register


    What better way to celebrate National Chili Day than with our own Chili Cook-Off? (OK, National Chili Day is actually on the 26th. But who holds a Chili Cook-Off on a Thursday?)

    Come taste your fellow Makers' finest chili. Enjoy the company of other chili-heads. And, most importantly, vote for your favorite.


    The winner will be officially declared The Best Chili in the Whole Room and receive the ultimate prize: Bragging rights for the rest of 2026.

    Everyone is welcome to attend, bring a side dish and vote.

    Interested competitors, DM Noah Steege and Steve Fritzinger. $10 entry fee covers the soon to be highly coveted trophy and prizes.

    Show details

  • BL_P: Introduction to Medieval Knives and Daggers

    • 28 Feb 2026
    • 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
    • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Road Fairfax, VA 22030 (Events Bay)
    • 7
    Register

    Introduction to Medieval Knives and Daggers


    Books, museums, reproductions and applied history activities are an important cornerstone of knowledge, but hands on time with artifacts can be more engaging and enlightening to our understanding.
     Join us for a fun evening with blades and other artifacts from the early medieval to the early modern period. Dinner will be provided with fireside talks. During the evening, students will have time to handle artifacts, take pictures, attempt tracings or participate in additional break out sessions. Living history enthusiasts and makers interested in historical reproduction work will find the evening most enjoyable.

    No skill or experience needed.


    INSTRUCTOR:  Kenneth Johansen


    INSTRUCTOR BIO: A founding member of the blacksmithing program at NovaLabs, Ken has been blacksmithing for over 10 years with the last 5 focused on bladesmithing. His passion for making blades originates from his first love, fencing. These days, Ken prefers to craft sharp objects instead of swing them. Ken is an adept maker and can be found pursuing artistic ventures in any number of mediums including metal, wood, plastic, paints and line drawings. He has completed course work at the Virginia Institute of Blacksmithing (VIB), Center for Metal Arts (CMA), New England School of Metalwork (NESM), Bill Moran Artisan Academy and other advanced workshops. Ken likes to make a wide range of blades, but specializes in historical reproduction work. Ken currently resides in Northern Virginia with his wonderful wife and furbaby.

    SIGN OFF:  n/a

    PREREQUISITES:  AGE: 18+  (due to handling of sharp, pointy objects)

    There may not be a refund if the student is more than 15 minutes late for class

    Show details

  • AC_P: Wood Burning: Personalized Wooden Spoons

    • 1 Mar 2026
    • 12:30 PM - 2:00 PM
    • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA (Classroom 1)
    • 6
    Register


    Create a custom keepsake in this hands-on project class! Learn the basics of wood burning and permanently etch your own unique designs onto a wooden spoon. This personalized piece makes a perfect, decorative addition to your kitchen or a thoughtful, handmade gift. Ignite your creativity and personalize your kitchenware!


    Meet the Instructor 

     
    Tamao Nakayama

    Born and raised in Tokyo, Japan, Tamao Nakayama brings an authentic perspective and a deep appreciation for the Japanese aesthetic to her teaching. Her instruction is rooted in the principle that "less is more," emphasizing clean lines, focus, and mindful execution. Having studied and worked in the arts for over two decades in the U.S., Tamao blends traditional Japanese sensibility with modern creative freedom. Join her to learn the elegance, peace, and beauty inherent in Japanese arts like Calligraphy and the Tea.

    Show details

  • AC_O: 1st Annual Seed Celebration & Swap

    • 7 Mar 2026
    • 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
    • Nova Labs 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030 (Crafter's Cove)
    • 16
    Register

    1st Annual Seed Celebration and Swap!

    Welcome to our first Annual Seed Celebration and Swap!

    Got seeds? Come meet other gardeners and trade your extra seeds while sharing stories about your favorite plants.

    No seeds to share? No worries! You don’t have to bring seeds to attend. Come learn about planting seeds and chill with people who are excited to share their knowledge and bounty.

    Bring your own small bags/envelopes and paper/pens for labeling the seed variety, year harvested, and any other information you think is important!

    Do you grow from seed or starts? What is your seed starting setup?
    Did you harvest any seeds from last season?
    What catalogs are your favorite?


    Show details

  • WW_P12: Beginners Pen Turning on the Lathe

    • 8 Mar 2026
    • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Nova Labs (Woodshop), 3850 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, 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.

    Show details

  • AC_P: Indigo & Ivory: The Art of Sashiko

    • 8 Mar 2026
    • 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM
    • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA (Classroom 1)
    • 11
    Register


    Breathe new life into your favorite textiles. Learn to repair and beautify your denim and home goods using the rhythmic, sustainable art of Sashiko.

    Transform the ordinary into the extraordinary. Join us for an immersive journey into Sashiko (meaning "little stabs"), a traditional Japanese folk craft. Originally developed by farming families to strengthen and insulate garments, Sashiko has evolved into a stunning geometric art form celebrated by modern makers and eco-conscious enthusiasts alike.

    In this workshop, you will learn the meditative "running stitch" that turns ivory thread and indigo cloth into intricate patterns. Whether you are an experienced sewist or a complete beginner, you will find peace in the repetitive motion and beauty in the functional results.

    What You’ll Learn

    • Traditional Fundamentals: How to use specialized long needles and the Yubinuki (thimble).
    • Geometric Artistry: Techniques for stitching classic patterns with precision.
    • Visible Mending: How to artistically reinforce and "upcycle" your own garments.



    What’s Included
    Each participant receives a Sashiko Starter Kit to keep, featuring:

    Bring Your Own Project
    Personalize your own denim jacket, apron, tote bag, or handkerchief! You are welcome to bring an item from home to mend, or you may practice your new skills on the premium fabric provided in your kit.
    Come for the craft, stay for the calm. Let’s preserve history and create something new—one stitch at a time. 


    Meet the Instructor 

     
    Tamao Nakayama

    Born and raised in Tokyo, Japan, Tamao Nakayama brings an authentic perspective and a deep appreciation for the Japanese aesthetic to her teaching. Her instruction is rooted in the principle that "less is more," emphasizing clean lines, focus, and mindful execution. Having studied and worked in the arts for over two decades in the U.S., Tamao blends traditional Japanese sensibility with modern creative freedom. Join her to learn the elegance, peace, and beauty inherent in Japanese arts like Calligraphy and the Tea.

    Show details

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

    • 11 Mar 2026
    • 6:00 PM - 9:00 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


    Show details

  • AC_P: Fabric Fundamentals - Choosing and Working with Textiles NEW CLASS

    • 11 Mar 2026
    • 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
    • *Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
    • 8
    Register

    Have you ever felt overwhelmed by fabric? Or just don't know where to begin? Come demystify the world of fabric selection and learn essential knowledge to set you up for success as you plan your next creation.

    We'll explore common fabric types by content and weave--from cotton to polyester, silk to rayon, and woven to knit and talk about learning to identify differences in weight, drape, and stretch as we touch ALL THE THINGS. Come discover which textiles work best for different types of projects. We'll discuss where to source textiles, practical techniques such as preparing fabric, choosing needles, and working with difficult or specialty materials. Bring your questions!

    Perquisites: None
    Cancellation Policy: 48 hours in advance
    Sign off: None
    Safety Dress Code: N/A
    Instructor: Danielle Priest

    Danielle is an experienced educator in solo and classroom settings, an award-winning cosplayer, and former alterations specialist with tailoring knowledge. At Nova Labs, she primarily teaches classes focused on patterning, using sergers, and hemming and can otherwise usually be found working on a Star Wars costume.

    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_P: Candle Making 101: Candle Pour and Laser Etching - St. Patrick's Day Edition

    • 14 Mar 2026
    • 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
    • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA (Classroom 1)
    • 10
    Register



    Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a hands-on experience that’s more than just festive fun. This beginner-friendly Candle Making 101 workshop teaches you the essential skills needed to confidently create your own small-batch candles at home.
    In this guided class, you’ll learn the fundamentals of professional candle making — from understanding wax types and fragrance load percentages to choosing the right wick and mastering safe pouring techniques. We’ll also cover curing, scent throw, and common beginner mistakes so you leave with real knowledge — not just a finished candle.

    :four_leaf_clover: What You’ll Learn:

    • The basics of soy wax and why wax choice matters
    • How fragrance load works (and how to calculate it properly)
    • How to select and size wicks correctly
    • Proper pouring temperatures and curing guidelines
    • The foundational process to begin making candles on your own

    :four_leaf_clover: What You’ll Take Home:

    • A custom hand-poured St. Patrick’s candle
    • A beginner’s understanding of the full candle-making process
    • The confidence to start creating your own small-batch candles after class

    No experience needed — just bring your creativity and maybe a little Irish luck.
    Perfect for friends, couples, or solo makers who want to learn a new skill in a relaxed, festive setting. DON'T FORGET TO WEAR GREEN!

     

    Meet the Instructor 

     
    Sean Hickey

    Sean is a recent convert from a life as a project manager in commercial contracting to full-time maker and small business owner. As a Northern Virginia Native, he's always enjoyed working with his hands and finding connection in his community.  When he's not running his small business or volunteering at Nova Labs, he's spending time on his little farm out in Southern Maryland.


    Show details

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

    • 15 Mar 2026
    • 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
    • Nova Labs (The Studio), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax VA
    • 5
    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

  • EL_P06: CAD Circuit - PCB Design and Layout Workshop

    • 21 Mar 2026
    • 1:00 PM - 6:30 PM
    • Nova Labs (Classroom 1)
    • 3
    Register

    Hands-on 5 hour workshop. Learn and practice Printed Circuit Board (PCB) design using PCB CAD software. Software is very similar to EagleCAD and other CAD options so this is a good entry point for moving into learning to design your own PCBs.

    We'll cover basic techniques for optimal PCB layout, schematic design, electronic components and semiconductors, and auto-routing! We recommend all students order their OLED alarm clock circuit project after class from a PCB fabricator along with the parts need to do the PCB assembly so hey can get the practice with the full process. **Open office follow-on help will be provided with the assembly if you follow this recommendation.

    BEFORE Class: You must visit EasyEDA.com and make an account

    Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of electricity & common components. Breadboard/Arduino experience is preferred. Highly recommend our monthy EL_P01: Introduction to Basic Electronic Circuits (Online)

    Instructor: Bryce Peterson, advanced electronics and programming engineer

    Show details

  • AC_P: Cosplay 101 Intro to Tools and Materials (Free Demo)

    • 21 Mar 2026
    • 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
    • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030 (Events Bay)
    • 18
    Register


    Have you wanted to cosplay but don’t know where to start or what tools you need? Join us for a beginner deep dive presentation into everything you need to get started in creating your first cosplay as we go over all the tools, materials, and helpful advice from our award winning cosplayer @alexrendesign.

    RSVP - Seating is limited!

    Show details

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

    • 22 Mar 2026
    • 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


    Show details

  • EL_P: Build and Play a Cardboard Synthesizer

    • 22 Mar 2026
    • 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
    • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA (Classroom 1)
    • 14
    Register



    At Nova Labs, we believe you don’t need fancy equipment to make something awesome.

    In this hands-on workshop, you’ll build your own scrappy, chiptune-inspired synthesizer using simple, low-cost components and cardboard. Along the way, you’ll learn the fundamentals of sound circuits while embracing the joy of experimentation. By the end of class, you’ll head home with a fully functional, delightfully noisy creation of your own design.

    No electronics experience needed. Seriously! Whether you’ve never touched a circuit before or you already know your ohms from your amps and just want to get crafty and make some beautifully chaotic sound with fellow makers, this class is for you.

    Age Requirements:
    Ages 9 and up may attend.
    Participants under 16 must attend with a parent or legal guardian who also registers as a student.
    Participants ages 16–17 may attend independently, but a parent or legal guardian must remain on site at Nova Labs during the class (common areas are fine).

    Come build. Come experiment. Come make some noise.

    Instructors: Amanda Jarvis & Nathan S


    Show details

  • AC_P: All Things Sourdough - Advanced Techniques for Better Bread

    • 22 Mar 2026
    • 3:30 PM - 6:30 PM
    • Nova Labs (Classroom 1), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
    • 8
    Register
    Hot, fresh bread straight from the oven on a cold day. What’s not to love?

    Join us if you want to create a perfect loaf of artisan sourdough bread with a light, airy crumb, thin, crisp crust and that much sought after ear.
    In this class, you’ll learn how to:

    • Maximize oven spring for big loaves and a great crumb
    • Build dough strength with advanced tricks and tips
    • Shape the classic loaves: Boules, batards, and baguettes
    • Use specialty flours like Italian Tipo 00 and French Type 55

            Plus, WHAT TO DO WITH ALL THAT SOURDOUGH DISCARD?!
            Don't have a sourdough starter? Each attendee will receive a sample of my venerable starter.

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

            Show details

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

            • 22 Mar 2026
            • 5:00 PM - 8:00 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


            Show details

          • MW_P01: Metal Lathe Threading

            • 24 Mar 2026
            • 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

            Show details

          • EL_P03: Intro to Sensors in Electronics Projects (Online)

            • 25 Mar 2026
            • 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: All Things Sourdough - Advanced Techniques for Better Bread

            • 28 Mar 2026
            • 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
            • Nova Labs (Classroom 2), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
            • 6
            Register
            Hot, fresh bread straight from the oven on a cold day. What’s not to love?

            Join us if you want to create a perfect loaf of artisan sourdough bread with a light, airy crumb, thin, crisp crust and that much sought after ear.
            In this class, you’ll learn how to:

            • Maximize oven spring for big loaves and a great crumb
            • Build dough strength with advanced tricks and tips
            • Shape the classic loaves: Boules, batards, and baguettes
            • Use specialty flours like Italian Tipo 00 and French Type 55

                    Plus, WHAT TO DO WITH ALL THAT SOURDOUGH DISCARD?!
                    Don't have a sourdough starter? Each attendee will receive a sample of my venerable starter.

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

                    Show details

                  • BL_S06: Bladesmithing - Stainless Steel Knife-Making

                    • 4 Apr 2026
                    • 5 Apr 2026
                    • 2 sessions
                    • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Road Fairfax, VA 22030 (Blacksmith Shop)
                    • 0
                    Registration is closed



                    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.

                    INSTRUCTOR BIO:  Pat is many things to many people: Blacksmithing Steward, Nova Labs Board Member, Nova Labs Vice President, and now President, husband, father, amateur lawn care technician. Pat has been blacksmithing for eight years and regularly teaches classes for blacksmithing beginners.

                    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

                    Show details

                  • WW_P19: Guitar Kit Course

                    • 11 Apr 2026
                    • 12 Apr 2026
                    • 2 sessions
                    • Nova Labs (Woodshop)
                    • 0
                    Registration is closed
                    MPORTANT: This is a 2 session class, 6 hours each (dates below)
                    If you've ever dreamed of building your own electric guitar, this is your chance. This intensive, hands-on class will guide you through creating a fully functional electric guitar that you'll take home at the end. With small class sizes (2-4 students), you'll receive personalized instruction throughout the entire build process.
                    Class Overview:
                    Using a high-quality blank kit with pre-routed pockets and a finished neck, you'll have the creative freedom to design your own unique instrument. Shape your guitar body and headstock exactly how you want it, choose your finish, and learn about the concepts that go into electric guitar building. This isn't just assembly—you'll be crafting an instrument.
                    What You'll Learn and Do:
                    • Shape your guitar body and headstock using band saw and hand tools
                    • Understand electric guitar components and how they affect design, playability, and tone
                    • Perform complete fretwork: leveling, crowning, dressing, and polishing
                    • Learn some basic soldering for electronics assembly
                    • Apply stained finishes using low-VOC oil and hard wax
                    • Gain comprehensive knowledge of electric guitar construction from the inside out
                    • Learn next steps to setup the guitar properly for playing
                    Guitar Styles Available:
                    Choose between Telecaster style or Stratocaster style (your instructor can help you select the best option for your goals).
                    Materials Provided:
                    Complete guitar kit (retails for $200), all necessary tools, and finishing materials included in class cost (tools and finishes are for usage during class, not for students to keep).
                    What You'll Take Home:
                    A fully playable electric guitar built by your own hands, plus the knowledge to maintain, modify, and even build future instruments
                    Class Format:
                    Small class size (2-4 students maximum) ensures personalized, hands-on instruction throughout the entire process.
                    3hrs in the morning of instruction
                    Break for lunch
                    3hrs of dedicated office hours to continue working and learning
                    Prerequisites:
                    No prior guitar building or woodworking experience required—just enthusiasm and attention to detail
                    Class Duration: 6 hours per session, 2 sessions, plus break for lunch
                    Class Sessions:
                    • April 11, 2026 9am - 4pm with 1hr break for lunch.
                    • April 12, 2026 9am - 4pm with 1hr break for lunch.
                    Class Cost: (includes complete guitar kit)

                    $550 for members
                    $600 for non-members

                    Instructor: Kalimar Maia. Kalimar started teaching himself to build electric guitars in 2021. He did it all wrong until he eventually got a few things right. He now has a guitar out on tour with the band Toledo. 
                    Show details

                  • AC_P: Introduction to Hat Embroidery

                    • 16 Apr 2026
                    • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
                    • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
                    • 4
                    Register


                    Embroider your own ball caps and more!

                    Learn how to use the hat embroidery attachment for the Happy embroidery machine. We will cover how to attach the cap driver to the Happy, securely hoop a ball cap style hat, position and adjust the embroidery design on the hat, and return the machine to its original configuration.

                    We will also discuss some design considerations specific to making hats.

                    This is a Demo Class - students will not be working on the machine.

                    Prerequisite: None for this demonstration, but sign-off on the Happy Embroidery machine required to do your own work.


                    Instructor: Alex Ralston

                    This class requires three students to run.  If the class is cancelled due to low attendance you will be notified and refunded.

                    Show details

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