Nova Labs upcoming events

AC_O: Fabric, Craft, & Yarn Swap (13 Jun 2026)

Sat, 13 Jun 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Fabric and craft stash swapping is a great way to exchange materials with fellow makers and a fun opportunity to clear out fabric and yarn you no longer need. Come craft with us, chit-chat with other makers, and hunt for that perfect piece for your next project!

This is a casual, community freecycle-style event—not a one-for-one trade! Simply bring your unwanted fabric and craft supplies, browse what others have brought, and see if you find any "treasures."

How It Works:

Bring a box with your name on it containing craft supplies and clean, folded fabric.
Bringing materials to swap is encouraged but not required to attend.
Look through the available materials and take home anything that inspires you.
At the end of the swap, any unclaimed items must be taken home by their original owners.

Event Details:

Who: Everyone
Registration: Required so we can plan activities.
Where: Events Bay Community Space

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

CANCELED AC_P: Fabric Fundamentals Part 2 - Tools, Techniques, and Care NEW CLASS (13 Jun 2026)

Sat, 13 Jun 2026 17:30:00 GMT

You’ve learned to identify your fabrics—now let’s talk about how to work with them. This follow-up class dives into the practical side of fabric handling, giving you the knowledge and tools to approach various textiles with confidence.

We’ll cover everything from the cutting table to the finished project: choosing the right needles and thread for your fabric, understanding how your sewing machine’s settings will affect the fabric (or even which machine you use!), and selecting the presser feet that will make your work easier and cleaner. We’ll also explore cutting equipment and how different fabrics respond to different cutting tools and techniques, as well as pressing settings that protect delicate fibers while getting the job done.

We’ll close by taking the mystery out of care labels—learning to decode what they actually mean and how to wash, dry, and care for specific fiber types so your finished projects look great for years to come.

Perquisites: None
Cancellation Policy: 48 hours in advance

Age Requirement: 10+ (All minors must be accompanied by an adult guardian)

Sign off: None
Safety Dress Code: N/A

Meet your instructor: With nearly two decades as an educator under her belt, it's clear Danielle loves teaching. She's shared her expertise through workshops on everything from beginner sewing to operating specialty machines, pattern drafting, textile selection, and intricate embroidery techniques. But Danielle's true creative joy lies in bringing beloved Star Wars characters to life through meticulously crafted costumes. She's competed across the country, always challenging herself to top her previous creations, and invariably getting distracted by a new galactic passion project.

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

WW_P05: French-Style Rolling Pin with Celtic Knot Design (2 days) (15 Jun 2026)

Mon, 15 Jun 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

WW_P05: French-Style Rolling Pin with Celtic Knot Design (2 days) (16 Jun 2026)

Tue, 16 Jun 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

AC_P: Portrait Drawing (17 Jun 2026)

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Draw yourself or a loved one. We will be using charcoal to create striking hand-drawn portraits. paper and tools will be provided

All materials will be provided.

For ages 18+

Meet the Instructor

Kevin Jones

Kevin was born in Washington, D.C. and was raised in that metropolitan area. A fan of comic books and animation from a young age, he started drawing and creating early in life. He attended Virginia Commonwealth University, where he studied illustration. After some time working outside the field and creating in his free time, Kevin returned to school; first, NVCC for graphic design and, finally, attending George Mason University for fine art.

WW_P12: Beginners Pen Turning on the Lathe (18 Jun 2026)

Thu, 18 Jun 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

CS_S01: Bubble Free Casting - Pressure Pots and Vacuum Chamber Sign-off (20 Jun 2026)

Sat, 20 Jun 2026 14:00:00 GMT

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 is the composites steward, woodworker, chef instructor, bread-maker, and cosplay expert.

WW_P04: Basic Wood Bowl Turning on the Lathe (21 Jun 2026)

Sun, 21 Jun 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.

EL_P03: Intro to Sensors in Electronics Projects (Online) (24 Jun 2026)

Wed, 24 Jun 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: Hero Figure Drawing (24 Jun 2026)

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Learn how to draw dynamic figures in the classic comic style. We will be using graphite and ink to create work that will put you one step closer to the comics section.

All materials will be provided.

For ages 18+

Meet the Instructor

Kevin Jones

BL_S06: Bladesmithing - Stainless Steel Knife-Making (27 Jun 2026)

Sat, 27 Jun 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

BL_S06: Bladesmithing - Stainless Steel Knife-Making (28 Jun 2026)

Sun, 28 Jun 2026 04:00:00 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

AC_P: Carve, Ink, Print: Linoleum Block Printing Class (28 Jun 2026)

Sun, 28 Jun 2026 15:30:00 GMT

Discover the meditative rhythm of relief printmaking. In this beginner-friendly session for teens and adults, we explore the accessible world of linoleum carving—a softer, more forgiving alternative to traditional woodblock printing.

Our instructor will guide you through the essential foundations of the craft:

Design & Transfer: How to prep your image for carving.

The Printing Process: Mastering ink consistency and hand-burnishing.

We believe in removing barriers to entry. To ensure you can continue your practice at home, a complete starter kit is included in your class fee. Join us for a focused Sunday of slow-crafting and leave with a collection of handmade prints and the skills to make many more.

Safety & Tool Handling: Learning the different gauges and blades.

Age: Minors 12 and older may attend this event. However, the parent or legal guardian must also register as a student for minor under 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.

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.

AC_P: Purrfect Pet Portraits (28 Jun 2026)

Sun, 28 Jun 2026 17:00:00 GMT

In this class, you will learn techniques to depict your pet in an unforgettable keepsake. We will be using charcoal and graphite to create multiple pieces. Bring some clear pics of your pet, and we will make them the star of the show.

All materials will be provided.

For ages 18+

Meet the Instructor

Kevin Jones

MW_P02: Welded Octopus Sculpture (28 Jun 2026)

Sun, 28 Jun 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_P07:Intro to Sewing - Pajama Pants NEW CLASS (30 Jun 2026)

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 22:30:00 GMT

Comfortable, customizable, and completely wearable. Pajama pants are the perfect beginner garment project. In this hands-on class, go from a pile of fabric to a finished, wearable pair of pants in a single session. We'll walk through every step together: laying out and cutting your fabric, pinning and sewing the seams, finishing your hems, and inserting elastic into your waistband. Come learn the basics of garment construction and leave with comfy pants and the skills to sew more!

Prerequisites: Intro to Domestic Sewing Machine or equivalent. This class will not cover machine threading or set-up. No garment sewing experience necessary.
Age Requirement: 14+ (minors must be accompanied by adult guardian at all times)
Sign Off: None

Safety Dress Requirements: N/A
What to Bring: Glasses or eyewear needed for threading needles; woven fabric of your own choice (see size chart in registration - reach out with any questions) recommended: quilting cotton, broad cloth, flannel, calico. Avoid slippery fabrics like satin or charmeuse for this beginner project.

Meet your instructor

Danielle Priest

With nearly two decades as an educator under her belt, it's clear Danielle loves teaching. She's shared her expertise through workshops on everything from beginner sewing to operating specialty machines, pattern drafting, textile selection, and intricate embroidery techniques. But Danielle's true creative joy lies in bringing beloved Star Wars characters to life through meticulously crafted costumes. She's competed across the country, always challenging herself to top her previous creations. And just when you think she can't possibly cram more onto her list, she'll invariably get distracted by a new galactic passion project.

This class must have two students to run. If the class is cancelled due to lack of attendance you will be issued a full refund.

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.

AC_P03: Sewing Pattern Foundations - Draft a Circle Skirt NEW CLASS (1 Jul 2026)

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 22:30:00 GMT

A circle skirt is one of sewing's most graceful and flattering shapes. And it is great for summer - but also customizable to nearly every season and setting! In this class, you'll learn how circle skirts work from geometry and then use your own or someone else's measurements to draft a custom pattern in whatever length or fulness you desire. We'll discuss how different fabrics, fulness, and length affect the look and you will leave with a ready-to-cut pattern and the know-how to draft other variations any time you want - in any fabric, any length, any occasion. Note: this is a sewing pattern drafting class, not a sewing class where you create the garment.

Perquisites: Pattern Foundations - Understanding and Reading Patterns, or equivalent experience
Age requirement: 12+ (all minors must be accompanied by an adult guardian at all times)
Cancellation Policy: 48 hours in advance
Sign off: None
Safety Dress Code: N/A

Meet Your Instructor

Danielle Priest

This class must have three students to run. If the class is canceled due to lack of attendance you will be issued a full refund.

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.

AC_P06: Serger Scrunchies (8 Jul 2026)

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 22:30:00 GMT

Sergers are great for fast easy sewing projects. In this class, we will practice using an overlock or a narrow hem stitch to create cute, fun scrunchies or headbands that are great gifts or a just a fun way to put your hair up as warmer weather approaches!

Materials are included but students may bring their own if desired.

Sign off: none

Prerequisite: Basic sewing skills

Maximum participants: 5

Age requirement: 14+ (minors must be accompanied by guardian at all times)

Safety Dress Code: Reading glasses if needed

Meet your instructor: With nearly two decades as an educator under her belt, it's clear Danielle loves teaching. She's shared her expertise through workshops on everything from beginner sewing to operating specialty machines, pattern drafting, textile selection, and intricate embroidery techniques. But Danielle's true creative joy lies in bringing beloved Star Wars characters to life through meticulously crafted costumes. She's competed across the country, always challenging herself to top her previous creations. And just when you think she can't possibly cram more onto her list, she'll invariably get distracted by a new galactic passion project.

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

AC_P: Wig Styling for Cosplay and Costumes: Hands-on Workshop (18 Jul 2026)

Sat, 18 Jul 2026 16:00:00 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.

WW_P12: Turn a Custom Bottle Stopper (21 Jul 2026)

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 22:30:00 GMT

Turn a custom Bottle Stopper!

In this project we will discuss Bottle Stopper styles and kits, blank materials, designs and their finishes. After selecting your stopper style and blank you'll craft your stopper. You'll take home a one of a kind Bottle Stopper - Hand Crafted by YOU!

All equipment and materials provided to make 2 custom crafted Bottle Stoppers.

This is a guided limited tool use class, no prior experience or sign offs required. This will not provide lathe tool sign off status.

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

WW_P01: Long Grain Cutting Board (28 Jul 2026)

Tue, 28 Jul 2026 23:00:00 GMT

According to Seri Robinson, wood technology expert, wood has natural anti-microbial properties. These properties are interrupted by both glue and by wood finishes which can harbor bacteria over time. They believe that the best cutting board is a single unfinished piece of wood.

In this introductory technique-driven woodworking class students will make a one-piece long grain cutting board. Students will be introduced to the basics of reading wood grain as discussed by Wilbur Pan and Shannon Rogers among others. Wood processing techniques may including splitting, hewing, draw-knifing, ripping and planning. Students will practice cross cutting and using a shooting board. Surface treatments including sanding, scraping and planing will be discussed.

Materials are included. No sign-offs required.

Instructor: Bill St Amant

3d_P: Introduction to Onshape (8 Aug 2026)

Sat, 08 Aug 2026 15:00:00 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