This Month's Featured events

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• WW_P13: Hand Tool Sharpening

  • When
    17 Nov 2025
  •  
    7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
  • Location
    Nova Labs
  • Spaces left
    2

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  A sharp tool is a safe tool and in this class various techniques for sharpening chisel and plane blades will be demonstrated. Emphasis will be on using wet and diamond stones, with and without different honing jigs, and how to use and set up the Tormek slow speed wet stone grinder. As time permits, sharpening other tools such as the spokeshave, carving tools and hand saws will be discussed.
  

  You are encouraged to bring a personal tool or three to try to get your own edge on. Otherwise, the instructor will provide personal or studio tools to practice with.

  Instructor: Bill
  

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• MW_P01: Metal Lathe Threading

  • When
    20 Nov 2025
  •  
    6:30 PM - 10:00 PM
  • Location
    Nova Labs, Inc. (Metalshop) 3850 Jermantown Road. Fairfax City, VA 22030
  • Spaces left
    1

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  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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• WW_P06: Wood Turning: Create a Penguin Army for Festive Decor

  • When
    21 Nov 2025
  •  
    7:00 PM - 9:30 PM
  • Location
    Nova Labs
  • Spaces left
    0

  Registration is closed

  
  

  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

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• BL_S06: Bladesmithing - Stainless Steel Knife-Making

  • Start
    22 Nov 2025
  •  
  • End
    23 Nov 2025
  •  
  • Schedule
    2 sessions
  • Location
    Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Road Fairfax, VA 22030 (Blacksmith Shop)
  • Spaces left
    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.

  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

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• Nova Labs Maker Thanksgiving Dinner

  • When
    27 Nov 2025
  •  
    2:30 PM - 6:00 PM
  • Location
    Nova Labs (Orange Bay), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA

  Register

  

  Join us for our 8th annual holiday meal, affectionally known as Makesgiving.

  We're gathering for a family Thanksgiving dinner featuring turkey, ham, pork ribs, desserts, and all trimmings. We'll pull out the fancy smancy plates, real table cloths, fine wine goblets and silverware. No plastic or disposables, this is a real family home cooked meal!!

  Are you staying in town this year, single, or empty nester? Not up for all that cooking but want a fantastic variety of foods? Come share a meal with lots of conversation, plenty of laughter, and after dinner, feel free to make something or watch the game.

  We welcome guests (no limit), donors, and anyone who volunteered in 2025. Come, let's be thankful for our great building full of tools and everything else we have.

  Link to Group Meal: https://www.PerfectPotluck.com/KNNC4688

  Note: yes, you may sign up now, and come back the week of the event to tell us what you are bringing!

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• WW_P01: Long Grain Cutting Board Workshop (2 days)

  • Start
    29 Nov 2025
  •  
    9:00 AM
  • End
    30 Nov 2025
  •  
    12:00 PM
  • Location
    Nova Labs (Woodshop), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax VA
  • Spaces left
    3

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  IMPORTANT: This is a 2 day class (29 and 30 November)

  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 

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• LC_P: Laser Cutting Exotic Materials - EVA, Craft Foam, Cosplay

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

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• AC_P: Scissor Sharpening Workshop

  • When
    5 Dec 2025
  •  
    6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
  • Location
    Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
  • Spaces left
    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

  
  

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• WW_P12: Beginners Pen Turning on the Lathe

  • When
    6 Dec 2025
  •  
    9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
  • Location
    Nova Labs (Woodshop), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax VA
  • Spaces left
    3

  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.

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• CS_P01: Mold-making and Plastic Casting 101

  • When
    6 Dec 2025
  •  
    10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
  • Location
    Nova Labs (The Studio), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
  • Spaces left
    2

  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.

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• CS_P: Epoxy Resin Light Art Sculpture (2-days)

  • Start
    6 Dec 2025
  •  
  • End
    13 Dec 2025
  •  
  • Schedule
    2 sessions
  • Location
    Nova Labs (The Studio), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
  • Spaces left
    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

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• AC_P: Holiday Sergers Bag and Pouch Edition

  • When
    10 Dec 2025
  •  
    7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
  • Location
    Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030 (Classroom 1)
  • Spaces left
    4

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  Sergers are great for fast easy sewing projects. Prepare for the holidays and practice 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
  • Practice inserting a zipper with a domestic machine and a zipper foot. 

  You can choose to create a zippered pouch and/or a decorative petal drawstring pouch (does not require sewing a zipper). 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 but students may precut (contact instructor to discuss dimension) and bring their own if desired.
  

  Sign off: none

  Prerequisite: Basic sewing skills

  Maximum participants: 5

  Age requirement: 14+

  Safety Dress Code: Reading glasses if needed

  Instructor: Danielle 

  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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• TS_P: Metalcrafting - Custom Stamped Holiday Ornaments

  • When
    10 Dec 2025
  •  
    7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
  • Location
    Nova Labs at 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030 (The Studio)
  • Spaces left
    5

  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.

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• AC_S: Hem Your Own Pants & Blind Stitch Machine Sign-Off

  • When
    11 Dec 2025
  •  
    6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
  • Location
    Nova Labs (Crafters Shop), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
  • Spaces left
    2

  Register

  
  

  
  

  
  

  Have you ever wanted to hem your own pants but worried they wouldn't look professional? Join this class to learn 3 hem styles and sign-off the blind stitch machine too!

  In this class, we will learn 3 commonly used techniques for hemming pants:

  • blind stitching 
  • top stitching 
  • "original jeans hem" 

  We will cover the general differences between an industrial and domestic sewing machine as we learn to set up and adjust the industrial blind stitch machine. You will learn to prep and finish all three hems using a combination of the blind stitch machine, a serger, and a domestic sewing machine.

  Join us and find out just how EASY a professional hem can be!

  Perquisites: home sewing machine experience, serger experience recommended but not required

  Age requirement: 16+ 

  Sign off: Chandler Mark 50 Industrial Blind Stitch Machine

  Safety Dress Code: shoes with backs - no flip-flops

  PLEASE BRING ANY GLASSES OR EYEWEAR NEEDED FOR THREADING NEEDLES

  You are welcome to bring in your own pants/slacks/jeans. Practice hems will also be available.

  Instructor: Danielle 

  This class must have two students to run. If the class is canceled due to lack of attendance you will be issued a full refund. If you arrive more than 15 minutes late, that is a safety violation and you may not be able to join the class.

  Per Nova Labs policy, there is no refund if the student is non-compliant with the safety dress requirement or more than 15 minutes late for class.

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• AC_P: Cookie Swap and Decorating

  • When
    13 Dec 2025
  •  
    2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
  • Location
    *Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030 (Crafter's Cove)
  • Spaces left
    12

  Register

  
  

  Do you love cookies?? I mean who doesn't love cookies!!!  

  To participate in the swap bring 3 dozen cookies  (3 different containers of one dozen each - NO SUGAR COOKIES, THESE ARE ALREADY PROVIDED) and the recipe on a printed sheet of paper so people can photograph it.  You will "swap" pick from other peoples cookies and take home 3 dozen different cookies.  Please no store bought cookies.  

  Then stay and decorate sugar cookies with frosting and candies!  This is NOT a professional decorating class. Just good old fashion fun of decorationg Holiday cookies. 

  Sugar cookies, frosting, candy decorations and apple cider provided.  

  Perquisites: none

  Instructor: Karen Long

  Children under the age of 13 must be accompied by a paying adult.

  Class must have 3 participants sign up to run. If this does not happen those who have paid will be issued a full refund. Class will be cancelled Thursday Dec 7th if at least 3 participants have not signed up.  

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• AC_P: Sew a Quilted Placemat

  • When
    14 Dec 2025
  •  
    9:30 AM - 12:30 PM
  • Location
    Nova Labs (Crafters Cove) 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
  • Spaces left
    3

  Register

  
  

  Step into the quilting world and learn to create a quilted placemat from start to finish! this hands-on class focuses on key quilting techniques that build precision and confidence - all at a domestic sewing machine! Come learn how to:

  • Square up fabric and batting
  • Layer and pin materials for stability
  • Maintain consistent seam allowances while piecing
  • Finishing touches such as topstitching and knot burying

  Class will discuss layout, texture, and how quilting lines can enhance your overall design. 

  Taking the piece home is optional. The instructor will take any leftovers for donation to the "kennel quilt" program at Capital Quilts in Gaithersburg.

  Materials will be provided.

  Students may bring a walking foot or other personal sewing accessories (e.g. a rotary cutter; personal cutting mat; fabric chalk, etc.) if desired.

  Perquisites: MUST KNOW HOW TO OPERATE A SEWING MACHINE. Instructor will not review this. If you have any questions, please contact instructor before registering.
  Cancellation Policy: 48 hours in advance
  Age requirement: ages 14 and up (minors must have accompanying adult present nearby)
  Sign off: none
  Safety Dress Code: N/A

  Instructor: Sairah Khan

  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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• CS_S01: Bubble Free Casting - Pressure Pots and Vacuum Chamber Sign-off

  • When
    14 Dec 2025
  •  
    10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
  • Location
    Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA (The Studio)
  • Spaces left
    2

  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

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• AC_P: From Cute Pic to Perfect Gift

  • When
    14 Dec 2025
  •  
    2:30 PM - 5:30 PM
  • Location
    Nova Labs (Classroom 1), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
  • Spaces left
    7

  Register

  
  

  Need a last-minute gift for a pet lover who drinks too much coffee? Want to immortalize your dog’s derpy expression on a hat, hoodie or handbag?

  You need the “one weird trick” for turning cute pet pix into line art ready for any craft machine. With this class and a little practice you can use your dog’s, cat’s or even your kid’s photo with the sublimation printer, mug press, embroidery machine, laser cutter and more.

  You’ll learn how to import photos in Inkscape, using the curve tool to outline your photo and the weird trick to get maximum cuteness with minimum talent.

  To Bring: Laptop with mouse and Inkscape v1.4 installed. Digital photo of pet you'd like to draw. A half or three quarters profile (see above) is best for beginners. Drawing tablet optional.

  Prerequisites: None

  Instructor: Steve Fritzinger is the composites steward in the Studio, a woodworker, chef, bread baker, hot sauce maker and cosplayer.

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

  • When
    18 Dec 2025
  •  
    7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
  • Location
    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.

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• EL_P06: CAD Circuit - PCB Design and Layout Workshop

  • When
    17 Jan 2026
  •  
    1:00 PM - 6:30 PM
  • Location
    Nova Labs (Classroom 1)
  • Spaces left
    7

  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

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