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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

  • BL_P01: Forging a Sea Shell

    • 28 Dec 2024
    • 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • Nova Labs, (The Blacksmith Shop), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 6
    Register


    In this project class, students will hand-forge a spiral seashell on the end of a square bar, cut it off, and drill a hole to hang it on a
    leather cord. The piece can be either finished with blackened beeswax,
    or left as-forged to be finished later. Several blacksmithing techniques
     will be shown in more depth than in the safety signoff, including
    twisting on a taper, scrolling, and working with soft-faced hammers.

    INSTRUCTOR: Robert M.

    INSTRUCTOR BIO:  Robert has been a Nova Labs member since 2021 and a blacksmith since 2022. He is a mentor for Nova Labs' high school robotics team, Newton Squared, and is active in all the loud and/or smelly shops. In the forge, his main interest is small-scale artistic blacksmithing - hooks, keychains, and jewelry.

    PREREQUISITES:   Blacksmith safety signoff (BL101) is required, and it's strongly recommended that you have attended a few of the blacksmith practice sessions and that you are comfortable with the basic blacksmithing tools. Additionally, the Metal 101 signoff is required to perform the cutting and drilling steps; if you do not have it, the instructor will cut and drill your piece for you.

    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

  • BL_S01: PRIVATE EVENT - Blacksmithing 101 Safety Sign-off

    • 29 Dec 2024
    • 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    • Nova Labs, (The Blacksmith Shop), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 8
    • 1 registrant
    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.

    INSTRUCTOR:  Patrick M

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

    SIGN OFF:  Blacksmithing Safety.

    PREREQUISITES:  None.

    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

  • AC_P: Design Your Own Clothing Patterns - Pants Edition NEW CLASS

    • 11 Jan 2025
    • 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
    • 0
    Join waitlist

    Bonfit America Inc Pants Trousers Patterner Instructions By Stanley Lerman - Picture 1 of 6

    Have you ever wanted to design your own clothing?  

    Learn how to use the BonFit Patterner Tools to create custom patterns for pants.   Anything from PJs to formal trousers!  Let your imagination go wild.

    In this class we will learn how to take proper measurements and you will go away with a list of your own so don't wear super baggy clothing.  You are encouraged to bring pictures or sketches of pants you would like to make.

    We will walk though how to make simple pants in the first half of class and discuss more complex designs for the second half of class.

    This is a Demo Class - you will learn how to use the tools but not actually make a pattern in class.

    Prerequisite: None - basic sewing knowledge helpful but not needed.

    Instructor: Karen Long

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

    Show details

  • AC_P: Design Your Own Clothing Patterns - Skirts Edition NEW CLASS

    • 11 Jan 2025
    • 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
    • 4
    Register

    BONFIT patterner skirt Instructions Stanley Lerman Book - Picture 1 of 3

    Have you ever wanted to design your own clothing?  

    Learn how to use the BonFit Patterner Tools to create custom patterns for skirts.  Anything from a simple elastic waist skirt to fitted more intricate skirt!  Let your imagination go wild.

    In this class we will learn how to take proper measurements and you will go away with a list of your own so don't wear super baggy clothing.  You are encouraged to bring pictures or sketches of skirts you would like to make.

    We will walk though how to make simple skirt pattern in the first half of class and discuss more complex designs for the second half of class.

    This is a Demo Class - you will learn how to use the tools but not actually make a pattern in class.

    Prerequisite: None - basic sewing knowledge helpful but not needed.

    Instructor: Karen Long

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

    Show details

  • AC_P: Design Your Own Clothing Patterns - Bodice Edition NEW CLASS

    • 11 Jan 2025
    • 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
    • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
    • 3
    Register

    Have you ever wanted to design your own clothing?  

    Learn how to use the BonFit Patterner Tools to create custom patterns for bodice.   Anything from simple shirts to fitted bodices!  Let your imagination go wild.

    In this class we will learn how to take proper measurements and you will go away with a list of your own so don't wear super baggy clothing.  You are encouraged to bring pictures or sketches of tops or bodices you would like to make.

    We will walk though how to make simple tops in the first half of class and discuss more complex designs for the second half of class.

    This is a Demo Class - you will learn how to use the tools but not actually make a pattern in class.

    Prerequisite: None - basic sewing knowledge helpful but not needed.

    Instructor: Karen Long

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

    Show details

  • MW_P: Metal Lathe Threading

    • 15 Jan 2025
    • 6:30 PM - 10:00 PM
    • Nova Labs, Inc. (Metalshop) 3850 Jermantown Road. Fairfax City, VA 22030
    • 3
    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

    Show details

  • EL_P02: Intro to Microcontroller Programming with the Arduino (Online)

    • 23 Jan 2025
    • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Online event
    Register


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

    Elevate your basic electronics skills with this hands-on introduction to basic microcontroller hardware and programming class using the inexpensive Arduino board. Connect to switches, LEDs, resistors, and other basic components using the TinkerCAD simulator. In electronics, the inexpensive Arduino allows you to add interactive features and control other devices. New to coding? TinkerCAD block coding tools helps get you started to writing code for all our project needs.

    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.

    Other Nova Labs Events you should attend: The Arduino meetups (3rd Tuesday in the month) and Robotics Meetups (1st and 3rd Saturday in the month) now held virtually, at which you can discuss your projects with other makers. After Nova Labs reopens, there will be Electronics Evenings to discuss projects, and members can use the Electronics bench to make things.

    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: Logan Mat Cutter Demonstration NEW CLASS

    • 27 Jan 2025
    • 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
    • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
    • 6
    Register


    Did you know we have a Mat Cutter?  Learn to use this awesome tool and  replace the mats in your art to give a fresh new look or give your new work a professional touch with out paying high prices!

    Come and learn how to set up the Logan Mat cutter. Enrique will give a demonstration on how to cut a photo mat and  mat opening

    This is an  demonstration only, no hands-on.

    Prerequisites: none

    Sign Off: none

    Age Limit: none

    Instructor: Enrique


    Show details

  • 3d_P: Introduction to Onshape

    • 1 Feb 2025
    • 11:00 AM - 1:30 PM
    • Nova Labs, Inc. 3850 Jermantown Road. Fairfax City, VA 22030 (Classroom 1)
    • 6
    Register

    Embark on a dynamic journey into the world of 3D design. You'll learn hands-on, step-by-step techniques to create digital 3D models, which then can be used to manufacture objects using a 3D printer or other CNC machines. Onshape is free and web-based software so you will be able to continue learning wherever you choose. Whether you're a beginner or you have some experience and want to expand your skills, this course provides ample opportunities for growth. You'll learn to design in three dimensions and modify CAD files to craft your own unique creations.

    The class will include an introduction to the Prusa Slicer, so every participant will be able to prepare a CAD for 3D printing. Discover the art of CAD (Computer-Aided Design) and slicing techniques, along with a trove of tips and tricks to bring your ideas to life. Elevate your creativity and join us for an enriching experience. Unleash your potential!

    Prerequisite: None. Age 13+ only please

    To bring: recommend you bring your own fully charged laptop and cable. However, we do have classroom laptops.

    Instructor: Fabiana Cesa and Thomas Carver

    Show details

  • AC_P: Make Your Own Popup Valentine!

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

    May include: A red and white pop-up card with a heart shape. The heart is cut out with smaller hearts inside. The card is open and the heart is popped up. The background of the card is red with white hearts.


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

    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 give to your favorite Valentine.

    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. 

    Design done in class will vary from pictures shown here.

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

    Age requirement: 11+ (or with adult)

    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.

    Show details

  • TS_S01: Stained Glass Sign-off - Valentine's Day Edition

    • 8 Feb 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
    • Nova Labs (The Studio) 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA
    • 7
    Register


    Learn stained glass and make a beautiful project. Choose from our great selection of colors and patterns! You’ll learn the safe operation of our cool tools including glass cutters, pliers, soldering iron, and grinder. You will assemble your piece using the copper-foil method. Materials are included.

    Non-members: Make one or more projects during class depending on your speed and artistic talents.

    Members: Free stained glass in a variety of colors and textures is included as part of your membership! After taking this sign off class, you'll be able to return as often as you wish to use the free stained glass, extensive tools, and supplies to make even more projects for your home or gifts. Combine this tool with the laser cutter or sublimation printer to add personal touches to your projects.

    Sign Off: Stained Glass

    Prerequisites: None

    Safety Clothing: Please wear safety glasses, disposable gloves, mask, and closed toed shoes. No dangly sleeves and tie back long hair. Please arrive within 15 minutes of start time

    Instructor: Enrique Granados

    Show details

  • 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
    • 4
    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.

    Show details

  • 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)
    • 8
    Register

    Embark on a dynamic journey into the world of 3D design. You'll learn hands-on, step-by-step techniques to create digital 3D models, which then can be used to manufacture objects using a 3D printer or other CNC machines. Onshape is free and web-based software so you will be able to continue learning wherever you choose. Whether you're a beginner or you have some experience and want to expand your skills, this course provides ample opportunities for growth. You'll learn to design in three dimensions and modify CAD files to craft your own unique creations.

    The class will include an introduction to the Prusa Slicer, so every participant will be able to prepare a CAD for 3D printing. Discover the art of CAD (Computer-Aided Design) and slicing techniques, along with a trove of tips and tricks to bring your ideas to life. Elevate your creativity and join us for an enriching experience. Unleash your potential!

    Prerequisite: None. Age 13+ only please

    To bring: recommend you bring your own fully charged laptop and cable. However, we do have classroom laptops.

    Instructor: Fabiana Cesa and Thomas Carver

    Show details

  • Nova Labs 5th Annual Juneteenth BBQ and Potluck

    • 14 Jun 2025
    • 4:30 PM
    • Nova Labs (Outdoors) 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax VA
    • Be the first
    Register


    Open to all. Please sign up so we know how many we are serving. Then either now or closer to picnic day.

    Come to the Nova Labs Juneteenth Barbeque and bring your friends and family for a fun-filled community day. Share red foods, dress snappy, and learn about African American traditions, inventors, and makers. This is outdoors in the fresh air with lots of room.

    Volunteers will be there to provide activities for the whole family: 

    • Tie-dye t-shirts and bandanas, kids STEAM activities, and more
    • Plenty of seating but you can bring your lawn chair and relax

    ===================================================

    More about the holiday

    Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. June 19th or Juneteenth is a time for family, friends, and community to celebrate freedom. Juneteenth is worthy of recognition for some important historical reasons.  First the Emancipation proclamation was signed by Abraham Lincoln on January 1st, 1863.  Second, Robert E. Lee did not surrender the Confederate Army until April 9th, 1865. Finally, The enslaved people in Texas, some 250,000 men, women, and children did not learn about their date with freedom until General Morton Granger and his 2,000 union soldiers arrived in Texas to inform them on June 19th, 1865.

    Just like our makerspace, Juneteenth celebrations almost always focus on education and self-improvement. But importantly, the Nova Labs Juneteenth tradition is an opportunity to bring our community together, to reunite, and to plan bright futures together in celebration--over some great barbeque.

    The following is derived from Juneteenth.com:

    Barbeque is a traditional focus of Juneteenth celebrations, formerly enslaved people celebrated by eating meats such as lamb, beef, and pork each of which was rarely available to enslaved people. Consuming red foods is another recognized tradition of Juneteenth.  Strawberry soda, “Red Drink”, beet salad, and red velvet cake are all examples of foods which are welcome and common at Juneteenth celebrations. “The crimson is a symbol of ingenuity and resilience in bondage,” according to The New York Times.  The red is significant as some West African traditions associate the color red with strength. Other traditions include wearing ornate or fancy clothing in celebration of Juneteenth. Formerly enslaved people were not allowed to wear clothing of any consequence, dressing with sophistication is an  exercise in freedom on Juneteenth.

    Show details

Email: support@nova-labs.org

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