Nova Labs upcoming events

EL_P03: Intro to Sensors in Electronics Projects (Online) (23 Sep 2026)

Wed, 23 Sep 2026 23:00:00 GMT

*** 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.

AC_P: Woodfired Pizza NEW CLASS (26 Sep 2026)

Sat, 26 Sep 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Homemade pizza is a pleasure. Homemade pizza for a woodfired oven is even better.

In this class you’ll learn how to make true Neapolitan pizzas in a 900° woodfired oven. We’ll cover making the dough, creating a perfect pizza sauce, stretching and topping the pizza, of course, baking the pie. We’ll also cover building the fire, temperature control and a few other things you can make in a woodfired oven.

If you don’t have a woodfired oven, don’t worry. We’ll show you how to make great pizzas in a home oven.

This class will be half in the classroom and half outdoors. Dress appropriately.

Rain date: 10/3

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

EL_S01: Soldering Station 101 - Learn SMD soldering, desoldering, reflow Sign-off (26 Sep 2026)

Sat, 26 Sep 2026 20:30:00 GMT

Welcome to Soldering 101! Here you'll be introduced to the basics of soldering, desoldering, reflow (baking boards), heat shrink, bench power supply, the oscilloscope, and more, all at the Nova Labs soldering station!

Sign off: Reflow Oven
Prerequisite: none.

Suggest taking EL_P01, Intro to Basic Electronics if you do not have general familiarity with basic electronics components such as resistors and LEDs.

Learn about the soldering, measuring, and debugging equipment we have here at Nova Labs or on your home workbench. Learn how to keep these tools in tip-top shape for consistent project results. You'll be coming away with a battery-powered SMD project as well as a sign-off on the Nova Labs reflow oven, which is a yellow tool.

Instructor: Bryce Peterson, advanced electronics and programming engineer

AC_P: Hanko - The Art of Japanese Name Stamp & Seal Carving (NEW CLASS) (27 Sep 2026)

Sun, 27 Sep 2026 15:30:00 GMT

Learn to carve your own personalized Japanese name stamp (Hanko). In Japan, these stamps are traditionally used as signatures on documents and handmade artwork.

Using a linoleum block and a wooden handle, you will carve your name in Japanese (Katakana or Kanji) or the Alphabet. All Beginners Welcome! Students who have taken my other Japanese folk art classes can use their custom stamp to sign their finished pieces.

What You Will Do:

● Learn the history of Japanese Hanko signatures.

● Transfer your design onto the linoleum block.

● Safely use carving tools to cut your stamp.

● Mount a linoleum block onto a wood handle.

● Test your stamp using authentic red vermilion ink (Shuniku) and take your custom stamp home.

Age: Minors 12 and older may attend this event. However, the parent or legal guardian must also register as a student for minors under the age 16. For age 16 and 17, the parent or legal guardian must remain on site at Nova Labs while the minor attends the class, but can be in the common areas.

Create your own custom name stamp. Have fun stamping your signature in a traditional yet unique way!

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.

MW_P02: Welded Octopus Sculpture (4 Oct 2026)

Sun, 04 Oct 2026 18:00:00 GMT

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.

AC_P: Sewing Machine Annual Tune-up Workshop (10 Oct 2026)

Sat, 10 Oct 2026 13:00:00 GMT

Does your sewing machine need a spring tune-up before your summer sewing begins? Bring your own machine and we’ll provide the tools and guidance to give your sewing machine its annual tune-up. You will do a test sew then remove the covers, dust and vacuum the inside, oil the moving parts, replace the needle and take a close look at the bobbin assembly, feed dogs, tension disks. After reassembly, you will do another test sew and we will compare the before and after.

Perequisites: none
Safety Dress Code: N/A

Be sure to bring any needed eyewear for detail work!

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

Instructor: Rick Mansfield

AC_P: Wig Styling for Cosplay and Costumes: Hands-on Workshop (10 Oct 2026)

Sat, 10 Oct 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Do you love costumes? Cosplay? Halloween? A personalized wig can top off your costume with extra polish!

Come learn basic cutting/styling techniques in this NEW workshop. You can explore how to cut with a professional approach, experiment with extreme hairstyles, and learn some tips on how to get the most out of an affordable wig. Wigs and scissors will be provided. Just in time for summer convention season!

Perquisites: None

Age Requirement: 12+

Cancellation Policy: 48 hours in advance

Sign off: None
Safety Dress Code: N/A

Location: Classroom 1

Instructor: Phoenix Fritzinger

Phoenix has enjoyed cosplaying for 12 years and creates their own costumes with a combination of sewing and other skills they are constantly refining at Nova Labs. With a background in cosmetology, they have a special interest in wigs and cosmetics.

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

TS_P09: Leather Tooling 101: Halloween Coaster Workshop (10 Oct 2026)

Sat, 10 Oct 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Get into the Halloween spirit while learning the fundamentals of traditional leather tooling! In this beginner-friendly workshop, you'll learn how to prepare and case vegetable-tanned leather, use common leather stamps, control your striking pressure, lay out patterns, and create clean, consistent impressions. Once your tooling is complete, we'll move into finishing techniques, including applying leather dye, using a protective resist, antiquing to bring out all those stamped details, and sealing your finished work. No previous leatherworking experience is required, and all materials are included.

By the end of the workshop, you'll leave with a set of four handmade Halloween-themed coasters, each featuring a tooled leather center set into a finished wooden coaster with a protective backing. You'll have several Halloween designs and patterns to choose from, giving you plenty of room to make your set your own while practicing different tooling techniques.

The 4-hour class is intentionally relaxed, giving you time to learn, experiment, ask questions, and—most importantly—have some fun hitting leather with a hammer!

Age: Recommended for ages 17 and up.

Prerequisites: None

Instructor: Michael Ramsey

WW_P12: Beginners Pen Turning on the Lathe (13 Oct 2026)

Tue, 13 Oct 2026 22:00:00 GMT

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

AC_P: Make Great Big Paper Wigs (15 Oct 2026)

Thu, 15 Oct 2026 22:00:00 GMT

Turn ordinary paper
Into an extraordinary wig.
Fun bouncie and big!
Long luxurious locks
Nearly weightless
Any color any texture
Perfect for cosplay
Or to match your outfit
Every day!

Children Ages 12+ welcome to register but must attend with their parents.

Meet the Instructor

Donna Milligan

Donna is an interdisciplinary artist and activist. Obsessed with fantasy, puppets, boots and earrings.

3d_P: Beyond the Sketch: Designing Multi-Part Assemblies and Hinges in Onshape (17 Oct 2026)

Sat, 17 Oct 2026 15:00:00 GMT

This class is intended for people who have some experience using Onshape. For beginners, we recommend the Introduction to Onshape class.

During this session, the instructor will guide you through the design of a box to store flash drives. New skills included are: how to use variables, make print-in-place hinges and how to use ‘assembly’ to simulate the opening and closing of the box. The design process learned here can be reproduced to make all sorts of boxes and other similar objects.

Flash Drive Case _ Box Assembly - Opera 2026-08-23 20-16-15.gif

The class presupposes attendees can do the following comfortably:

Create a document
Navigate the Onshape space using the view cube and the controls of the mouse
Create sketches using lines, rectangles, circles, constraints, the dimension tool and construction geometry
Extrude sketches into parts
Modify parts using chamfer and fillet
Move back using the rollback bar and make changes to previous stages

Prerequisite: Familiarity with the use of a computer and the internet plus the Onshape skills listed above.
Age 13+ only please

To bring: We recommend you bring your own laptop, charger and mouse. However, we do have classroom laptops. Make sure you know your Onshape.com login credentials.

Instructors: Fabiana Cesa and Thomas Carver.

Fabiana Cesa is a maker educator, familiar with all sorts of digital tools. She is a founding member of the Nova MakerSchool. Thomas Carver is a junior engineer for a defense startup and a proficient CAD designer with extensive experience.

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

AC_P: Sashiko 1 Indigo & Ivory Beginner Moyozashi Experience (18 Oct 2026)

Sun, 18 Oct 2026 15:30:00 GMT

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 technique known as Moyozashi 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. Breathe new life into your favorite textiles and learn to repair and beautify your denim and home goods using this rhythmic, sustainable art.

What You’ll Learn

The Fundamentals : Master the use of specialized long needles and the essential running stitch.
Professional Techniques : Learn "needle loading" and "slack" methods to ensure perfectly flat, uniform patterns without puckering.
Precision Finishing : Navigate corners and intersections for a clean, elegant, and professional look.
Seamless Stitching : Learn to start, end, and splice thread by overlapping stitches—securing your work beautifully without the use of knots.
Geometric Artistry : Create intricate, classic designs with mathematical precision and traditional flair.
Visible Mending : How to artistically reinforce and "upcycle" your own garments.

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

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

TS_P03: Forge Your Own Fancy Fidget: Make a Custom Spinner Ring (18 Oct 2026)

Sun, 18 Oct 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Continue your silversmithing journey in this project class. Spinner rings are a great way to build on the skills learned in the jewelry sign-off class and to learn new techniques and tools. You’ll use the guillotine shear, rolling mill, and ring bender and get more experience with the torch.

A spinner ring is the classiest accessory a chronic fidgeter could ask for. A small ring is held captive by a wider, flared ring, giving you a shiny fidget accessory that is suitable for the office—or anywhere! And it’s made of sterling silver and copper, so it’s a piece of wearable artwork.

Prerequisites: TS_S01: Jewelry Tools Sign-off - Intro to Metalsmithing Soldering and Tools (or equivalent jewelry soldering experience). https://portal.nova-labs.org/event-6803482
(If you’ve taken the sign-off but it’s been a while, come to Studio open office hours sometime to refresh your skills.)

Safety: Wear closed-toe shoes, long pants, and safety goggles (available to borrow).

Instructor: Lauren Hillman has been silversmithing since 2018 and is a “technique collector,” always learning new skills in the studio. You can find her selling jewelry at local craft shows as Wandering Songbird.

AC_P: Jean Editing (22 Oct 2026)

Thu, 22 Oct 2026 22:00:00 GMT

Who doesn’t love a good pair of Jorts? (jean shorts) They are so comfy and easy to wear, but have you ever wanted to do more with your jants? (jean pants)

In this jlass (jean class) learn how to customize and upcycle your own pair of jeans with a variety of techniques including patches, embroidery, bedazzling, painting, and more! Also learn how to handle bulky jabrics (jean fabrics) on a regular sewing machine!

One pair of pants in your size is required for this class. Additional materials will be provided. (including a bedazzler)

Perquisites: None

Age Requirement: 12+

Cancellation Policy: 48 hours in advance

Sign off: None
Safety Dress Code: N/A

Location: Crafter's Cove

Instructor: Phoenix Fritzinger

Class must have 4 participants sign up to run. If this does not happen those who have paid will be issued a full refund.

MW_P01: Metal Lathe Threading (22 Oct 2026)

Thu, 22 Oct 2026 22:30:00 GMT

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, is an experience metalworker who has been teaching with us for over 3 years
Email: george.clessas@nova-labs.org

BL_S06: Bladesmithing - Stainless Steel Knife-Making (24 Oct 2026)

Sat, 24 Oct 2026 13:00:00 GMT

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

TS_P09: Leather Construction 101 - Tooled Pocket Knife Sheath Workshop (24 Oct 2026)

Sat, 24 Oct 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Build a pocket knife sheath that's made to go wherever you do! In this hands-on leatherworking workshop, you'll create a versatile leather sheath designed to securely carry a folding pocket knife while giving you multiple ways to wear it. The finished sheath can be carried horizontally or vertically on a belt and can also attach to a backpack strap, making it a practical everyday project rather than something that just looks good sitting on a shelf.

Along the way, you'll learn several foundational leatherworking skills, including basic leather tooling and stamping, pattern and piece layout, punching stitching holes, saddle stitching, edge finishing, dyeing and finishing, and installing hardware. You'll also learn how the different layers and attachment points work together to turn flat pieces of leather into a durable, functional sheath. You'll have room to customize the tooling and finish so your sheath feels like your own. No previous leatherworking experience is required, and all materials are included.

Age: Recommended for ages 17 and up.

Prerequisites: None

Instructor: Michael Ramsey

BL_S06: Bladesmithing - Stainless Steel Knife-Making (25 Oct 2026)

Sun, 25 Oct 2026 13:00:00 GMT

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

TS_P09: Make a Custom Leather Bag from Scratch (25 Oct 2026)

Sun, 25 Oct 2026 13:00:00 GMT

Learn leather tools and techniques while you craft a leather bag of your own! All tools and materials are provided, no experience required

Age: Recommended for ages 17 and up.

Prerequisites: None

Instructor: Hunter

WW_P04: Basic Wood Bowl Turning on the Lathe - HELD FOR WAITLIST TIL 9/25 (25 Oct 2026)

Sun, 25 Oct 2026 13:00:00 GMT

Your instructor for this class is Steven.

If the door is locked, come to the side door at the woodshop.

In this class, we'll explore design concepts and techniques needed to transform a piece of wood into an attractive and functional bowl. Process fundamentals will include:
- design fundamentals
- wood selection
- options for workpiece holding
- shaping the exterior and interior
- sanding, finishing, decoration

Prerequisite :
– WW Lathe Safety & Tool Sign Off
– Recent turning experience (attendance at a WW/Lathe Open Office Hour is strongly recommended)

Mandatory Safety Dress Code: Closed-toed shoes, short sleeves, no loose clothing, and hair tied back. Must wear a mask at all times. Optional: Hearing protection, particle filter, or dust mask.

WW_P05: French-Style Rolling Pin with Celtic Knot Design (2 days) (26 Oct 2026)

Mon, 26 Oct 2026 22:00:00 GMT

IMPORTANT: This is a 2 day class

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 - will focus on design, materials, jigs, finishes, cutting and the glue up of your rolling pen.
Day 2 - will focus allowing students to turn the rolling pin on the lathe, sand and finish the rolling pen.

Prerequisite: None.

Instructor: Steven

3D_S04: 3d Scanner 101 Sign-off (26 Oct 2026)

Mon, 26 Oct 2026 23:00:00 GMT

3D Scanning Yellow Tool Curriculum

The class covers the basics of 3D scanning as well as a hands-on demonstration with one of the 3D Scanners. Upon completion of the class you will be signed off to use any of the NovaLabs Yellow 3D Scanners on-site at NovaLabs.

Overview

Types of 3D Scanners
Intro to 3D Scanning
Intro to post processing
Hands on Demo with one of the NovaLabs 3D Scanners

More information can be found at https://www.notion.so/novalabs/3D-Scanning-0fdc94c7f01e4e149bc4f886cc6c23fa

Prerequisites: None

Sign Off: [3D] HP 3D Scanner

Instructor: Brian

Instructor Bio: Brian is a co-Steward in 3D printing and likes to think of himself as a friend to many shops, other shops are silent on if the feeling is mutual. In the real world he is a software architect so he tries to avoid architecting software at the labs and focus more on things that get hot, spin quickly and/or make a lot of noise. He takes photos and enjoys making and consuming food and beer.

Please arrive at this safety class on time. If you arrive more than 15 minutes late, you may not be able to take the class and there will not be a refund or rescheduling.

WW_P05: French-Style Rolling Pin with Celtic Knot Design (2 days) (27 Oct 2026)

Tue, 27 Oct 2026 22:00:00 GMT

IMPORTANT: This is a 2 day class

This is a 2-day workshop.

Day 1 - will focus on design, materials, jigs, finishes, cutting and the glue up of your rolling pen.
Day 2 - will focus allowing students to turn the rolling pin on the lathe, sand and finish the rolling pen.

Prerequisite: None.

Instructor: Steven

EL_P04: Intro to LEDs, RGBs, and NEOPIXELS - Online (28 Oct 2026)

Wed, 28 Oct 2026 23:00:00 GMT

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.

***Your instructor, Nick Carter, is donating all proceeds for this class to Nova Labs. You may contact him at nick.carter@nova-labs.org.

Nova Labs Monster Bash Halloween Party (31 Oct 2026)

Sat, 31 Oct 2026 22:00:00 GMT

Halloween is the quintessential MAKER holiday each year. It's made for makers! Our Nova Labs Monster Mash Halloween Party is a second chance to wear those incredible costumes you've been crafting all season. We’ll have swamp punch, spooky games, great company, and of course lots of food.

We’ll have swamp punch, spooky games, great company, and of course lots of food. Be sure to register your guests, including kids so we get a good headcount!

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

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

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

Nova Labs Pre-Holiday Tour (7 Nov 2026)

Sat, 07 Nov 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Ever wondered what goes on inside Nova Labs?

Discover what happens Inside Northern Virginia's premiere makerspace when our makers are prepping their holiday gifts. The Pre-Holiday Tour is part of our Discovery series that allows you to experience Northern Virginia's largest nonprofit makerspace - firsthand.

During your guided tour, you'll:

Meet makers, artists, engineers, entrepreneurs, and hobbyists
See members creating amazing projects in real time
Explore 20,000 square feet of workshops and fabrication equipment
Learn about programs for youth, robotics, workforce development, entrepreneurs, and lifelong learners
Find out how you can become part of the Nova Labs community

Whether you're looking for a new hobby, a place to build your next invention, or simply curious about what happens inside a makerspace, our Pre-Holiday Tour is the perfect introduction.

Saturday, November 7th
Five guided tours available throughout the day starting at 10AM. We will conduct a tour at the top of every hour with the last one leaving at 2PM.

Advance registration is required. Families are welcome, and all tours are designed with visitor safety in mind.

3d_P: Introduction to Onshape (7 Nov 2026)

Sat, 07 Nov 2026 16:00:00 GMT

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

AC_P: Candle Making – Fall Edition (NEW CLASS) (8 Nov 2026)

Sun, 08 Nov 2026 19:00:00 GMT

Celebrate the season with a cozy, hands-on candle-making project! In this fall-themed class, you’ll create and customize your own autumn candle from start to finish.

Choose from three seasonal fragrances — Pumpkin Spice, Crisp Apple Orchard, or Flannel & Cedar — then personalize your candle with a selection of fall-inspired details. Pick a laser-etched wooden lid design and finish your candle by decorating the jar with stickers, candle labels, ribbons, and other autumn accents.

This is a project-based class, rather than an introduction to the fundamentals of candle making. We’ll guide you through the process of assembling and pouring your candle while focusing on creativity, customization, and creating a finished piece you’ll be excited to take home.

All materials are provided, and no previous candle-making experience is required. Extra candles can be purchased for $15 each at the beginning of class.

Warm refreshments of hot apple cider and hot chocolate will be available.

Come enjoy a relaxed fall workshop and leave with a handmade candle that is uniquely yours — perfect for adding a little autumn warmth to your home or giving as a seasonal gift

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.

WW_P07: Make your own Chopsticks (22 Nov 2026)

Sun, 22 Nov 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Did you know that the woodshop is home to a chopstick maker? Learn about that other cool chopstick facts in this fun hands-on class. You will select from a variety of woods and see how to turn boards into mighty little utensils by using the table saw, bandsaw, and a specialized hand plane.

Prerequisite: A fairly decent sense of humor is required but no tool sign off will be needed.

WW_P01: Long Grain Cutting Board Workshop (2 days) (28 Nov 2026)

Sat, 28 Nov 2026 14:00:00 GMT

IMPORTANT: This is a 2 day class

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.

Prerequisite: None. Appropriate for ages 14+

Instructor: Anjelika

WW_P01: Long Grain Cutting Board Workshop (2 days) (29 Nov 2026)

Sun, 29 Nov 2026 14:00:00 GMT

IMPORTANT: This is a 2 day class

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.

Prerequisite: None. Appropriate for ages 14+

Instructor: Anjelika

TS_P02: Hammered Holidays: Impress Your Friends and Family with Metal-Stamped Ornaments (1 Dec 2026)

Tue, 01 Dec 2026 23:30:00 GMT

Create a strikingly cool gift for your holiday celebrations by using metal stamping and hammering techniques on aluminum. Price includes instruction and three ornaments. Shapes vary, but expect snowflakes, trees, and stars!

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

Prerequisite: none

Instructor: Lauren Hillman

TS_S02: Stained Glass Sign-off - Christmas Ornaments (6 Dec 2026)

Sun, 06 Dec 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Come get signed off on stained glass and make some fun ornaments for the Christmas season. Each student will leave with two ornaments--one for you and one as a gift! Samples shown here -- exact ornaments may differ

Sign-off: Stained glass

Prerequisite: none

Age: ages 12-15 parent must also be a paid student; ages 16-17 parent must remain in lab.

Instructor: Caitlin Forrest has been a stained glass artist for over 15 years and loves creating nature-inspired pieces.