Nova Labs upcoming events

TS_P09: Make a Custom Leather Bag from Scratch (15 Aug 2026)

Sat, 15 Aug 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

AC_P: Fabric Dyeing - Ice & Tie Dye Techniques NEW CLASS (15 Aug 2026)

Sat, 15 Aug 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Ready to transform a plain white tee into a vibrant masterpiece? Join me for a hands-on dive into the colorful world of tie dye! This class goes beyond the basics to explore everything from classic tying techniques to the fascinating techniques of Ice Dyeing.

Whether you’re looking to master the perfect water-to-dye ratio for maximum "color punch" or curious about how to handle synthetic fibers, this class has you covered. We’ll settle the age-old debate: Which came first, the ice or the dye? and set you up for success with tips for both indoor and outdoor setups.

What You’ll Learn:

Precision Tying: Folds and swirls that create stunning patterns.
The Chemistry of Color: Dye brands, ratios, and pre/post-wash secrets.
Advanced Techniques: Ice dyeing, synthetic dyes, and development timing.

The Hands-On Experience: After the classroom session, we’re heading outside! You’ll fold and tie a pre-washed 100% cotton t-shirt and set it up in a dye bucket using the Ice Dye method.

Note on Pickup: To ensure the brightest results, shirts need a 48-hour "dwell time." The instructor will handle the final rinse, and your finished creation will be ready for pickup in the Member Exchange two days later.

Each Student Receives:

100% cotton t-shirt (provided in your specified size).
A comprehensive slide deck for future DIY projects.
A healthy dose of whimsy!

Come ready to get creative and leave the mess to us!

Perquisites: None
Cancellation Policy: 48 hours in advance
Sign off: None

Age Requirement: 10+ (minors must be accompanied by adult guardian at all times)

Dress Code: Comfortable clothes that don't mind stains

Meet Your Instructor: With over a decade of sewing experience in various methods under her belt and a professional background in technical writing, Kelsey makes even the most complex projects feel like a breeze. She believes learning should be a blast, so expect her classes to be packed with high energy and engaging activities. While she’s a jack-of-all-trades in the makerspace, Kelsey’s true happy place is in the world of textiles. Whether she’s diving into intricate machine embroidery or tackling a new sewing challenge, her mission is to make every stitch fun, fresh, and totally fabulous!

IC_P: Design Business Cards and Advertisements on Canva (18 Aug 2026)

Tue, 18 Aug 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Looking to enhance your business cards and promotional materials but not sure where to start? Want to learn the basics of Canva? This hands-on workshop will guide you through the fundamental principles of design while using Canva to create standout promotional materials. Suitable for ages 16+.

Note: Participants must create a Canva account before attending the workshop. Minors must have access to an account and parental permission to use the software prior to attending.

Business of Making Series: This series is designed for makers, artists, and creative entrepreneurs who are interested in taking the first steps to building a business. This season kicks off with seven workshops led by practicing artist and small business owner, Lee Sowell of Lee Strawberry.

Tuesdays 7-9pm

August 4th - Time and Project Management for Artists

August 11th - Intro to Digital Art with Procreate

August 18th - Design Business Cards and Advertisements on Canva

August 25th - Setting up an Online Store

September 1 - Build and Engage a Following on Instagram

September 8 - Showcasing Your Work Online

September 15 - Selling at Conventions, Artist Alleys, and Fairs

Meet the Instructor: Lee, owner of Lee Strawberry, LLC, is a northern VA based artist who has had multiple years experience running a creative business. They have used a diverse set of avenues - online content creation, selling at conventions, and working with clients, to find creativity and enjoyment both as an artist and entrepreneur.

WW_P14: Hand Tool Basics (22 Aug 2026)

Sat, 22 Aug 2026 13:00:00 GMT

If you’ve been looking for a “hand tool class” this is the one for you. I’m bringing all the skills I’ve learned from Rowden Atelier to Nova Labs. The focus will be on both how to set up and use tools properly to shape wood, and the precision that goes along with creating any piece you want to make.

Learn the basics of hand tool woodworking in this hands-on class. This class is perfect for beginners who want to learn essential woodworking skills, or those who are experienced novice woodworkers that want to improve their skills.

This class will be a one day intensive.

Class Overview:

Introduction to hand tools and their uses, flattening, squaring, and prepping materials.
Proper tool handling techniques using chisels and planes.
Learning how to work with wood grain direction
Sawing and cutting techniques
Shaping wood
Basic joinery techniques

Instructor: Anjelika

PC_P01: Mold-making and Plastic Casting 101 (22 Aug 2026)

Sat, 22 Aug 2026 15:00:00 GMT

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.

AC_P: Carve, Ink, Print: Linoleum Block Printing Class (23 Aug 2026)

Sun, 23 Aug 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_S08: Serger Sign-off and Intro to Sergers (25 Aug 2026)

Tue, 25 Aug 2026 22:30:00 GMT

Take your sewing to the next level and get signed off with this introductory class for the serger/overlock machine. Sergers look intimidating with multiple threads and moving knives but a little guidance and practice is all you need to create quick, clean, professional finishes on your sewing projects.

This class will focus on the safe operation, threading, and basic functions of the serger. You will practice a 4-thread overlock stitch, a 3-thread overlock, and a 3-thread rolled hem. As you do so you will create your own physical reference sample book as you learn to understand settings and troubleshoot, leaving you with an invaluable resource when you come back to machine with a future project. If you would like to bring a serger from home, please ensure that it has been serviced and that you bring a copy of the operating manual.

Sign off: All domestic serger/overlock machines
Prerequisite: Basic sewing skills, domestic machine experience recommended
Age requirement: 16+ (minors must be accompanied by adult guardian)
Dress Code: Eyewear for detail work 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 invariably getting 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. 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.

IC_P: Setting up an Online Store (25 Aug 2026)

Tue, 25 Aug 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Ready to launch your online store? This workshop will guide you through the essential steps to get started. You'll learn how to research and choose the right e-commerce platform for your needs, as well as understand the basic components required to build a functional and appealing website. Perfect for entrepreneurs looking to expand their business online. Suitable for ages 18+.

Tuesdays 7-9pm

August 4th - Time and Project Management for Artists

August 11th - Intro to Digital Art with Procreate

August 18th - Design Business Cards and Advertisements on Canva

August 25th - Setting up an Online Store

September 1 - Build and Engage a Following on Instagram

September 8 - Showcasing Your Work Online

September 15 - Selling at Conventions, Artist Alleys, and Fairs

EL_P: Arduino and Ultrasonic Distance Sensor (25 Aug 2026)

Tue, 25 Aug 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Learn the basics of electronics and sensors by building a distance-measuring project using the HC-SR04 ultrasonic sensor and Arduino Uno. You’ll learn how the sensor works (using sound waves like bats and dolphins), how to wire it correctly, and how to write simple Arduino code to read distances and trigger a buzzer.

What you’ll do:

Connect the HC-SR04, buzzer, and breadboard to an Arduino Uno
Write and run Arduino code to measure distance and detect objects
Build a small interactive project that responds to nearby objects
Your laptop (with enough space to install Arduino IDE)
Arduino Uno Rev3
Ultrasonic sensor (HC-SR04 )
Active buzzer (5V )
Breadboard (100×160 mm)
Jumper wires

What to bring: Your laptop (with enough space to install Arduino IDE)

Materials provided (or you can buy your own):

Arduino Uno Rev3
Ultrasonic sensor (HC-SR04 )
Active buzzer (5V )
Breadboard (100×160 mm)
Jumper wires

Instructor: Shirly Lee

AC_P: Fabric Fundamentals - Choosing, Working with, and Caring for Textiles NEW CLASS (26 Aug 2026)

Wed, 26 Aug 2026 22:30:00 GMT

Have you ever felt overwhelmed standing in front of a wall of fabric, unsure where to even begin? Or picked up two different tops when shopping for clothing and wondered what the difference rayon vs polyester could make? Do you want to know why people are willing to pay the extra cost for a suit made from 100% wool? This class is here to help. Come demystify the world of textiles and build the foundational knowledge you need to make confident choices for your next sewing project or expanding your wardrobe.

We’ll explore common fabric types by fiber content and construction—from cotton to polyester, silk to rayon, wovens to knits—and learn to identify differences in weight, drape, and stretch as we touch all the things. Weather permitting, we’ll even head outside for a fiber burn test to see fabric identification in action. You’ll discover which fabrics work best for different types of projects, how to recognize them, and where to find them.

Once we have covered how to identify your fabrics, we will then discuss how to work with them by diving into the practical side of fabric handling, giving you the knowledge and tools to approach various textiles with confidence. From the cutting table to the finished project, we will talk about how different fabrics respond to various cutting tools and techniques, 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 look at pressing settings that protect delicate fibers while getting the job done. Finally we'll examine care labels to decode what they actually mean and how to wash, dry, and care for specific fiber types so whether you purchase or sewing your own garments, you will know how to care for specific fiber types to ensure your garments look great in the years to come.

Perquisites: None but this class is designed to compliment Intro to Domestic Sewing Machines and Understanding and Reading Patterns
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

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

EL_P02: Intro to Microcontroller Programming with the Arduino (Online) (26 Aug 2026)

Wed, 26 Aug 2026 23:00:00 GMT

*** 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.

AC_P: Jean Editing NEW CLASS (27 Aug 2026)

Thu, 27 Aug 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

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

BL_S06: Bladesmithing - Stainless Steel Knife-Making (29 Aug 2026)

Sat, 29 Aug 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 (30 Aug 2026)

Sun, 30 Aug 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

WW_P04: Basic Wood Bowl Turning on the Lathe (30 Aug 2026)

Sun, 30 Aug 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_P12: Beginners Pen Turning on the Lathe (1 Sep 2026)

Tue, 01 Sep 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

IC_P: Build and Engage a Following on Instagram (1 Sep 2026)

Tue, 01 Sep 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Unlock the potential of Instagram to build your brand’s credibility and reach new customers. In this workshop, you'll learn effective strategies to engage your current audience and grow your following, all while making the process enjoyable. Perfect for creative entrepreneurs and small business owners looking to enhance their social media presence. Suitable for ages 18+.

Note: It is highly recommended that participants have an existing Instagram account prior to attending the workshop.

Tuesdays 7-9pm

August 4th - Time and Project Management for Artists

August 11th - Intro to Digital Art with Procreate

August 18th - Design Business Cards and Advertisements on Canva

August 25th - Setting up and Online Store

September 1 - Build and Engage a Following on Instagram

September 8 - Showcasing Your Work Online

September 15 - Selling at Conventions, Artist Alleys, and Fairs

IC_P: Showcasing Your Work Online (8 Sep 2026)

Tue, 08 Sep 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Learn how to create a simple and effective online presence to showcase your work, whether you're a maker, artist, or creative entrepreneur. This workshop will introduce you to Carrd.co, a quick and easy platform for building your online showcase. You’ll learn how to set up a site that highlights your work and prepares you for future opportunities. This session is perfect for those who don’t yet have an online presence or want a straightforward way to present their work. Suitable for ages 16+.

Note: Participants must create a Carrd.co account before attending the workshop. Minors must have access to an account and parental permission to use the software prior to attending

Tuesdays 7-9pm

August 4th - Time and Project Management for Artists

August 11th - Intro to Digital Art with Procreate

August 18th - Design Business Cards and Advertisements on Canva

August 25th - Setting up an Online Store

September 1 - Build and Engage a Following on Instagram

September 8 - Showcasing Your Work Online

September 15 - Selling at Conventions, Artist Alleys, and Fairs

WW_P08: Make a Stool (12 Sep 2026)

Sat, 12 Sep 2026 12:30:00 GMT

Instructor: Bill

Make a stool: this introductory class will teach you how to make a basic stool -- drilling and reaming slanted tapered holes in the seat; shaping the legs, leveling the feet -- all good things to know if you ever want to make a chair from a tree. No previous woodworking experience required; work can be done with machine tools or hand tools. 3 student limit -- all net proceeds donated to Fusion Partnership to support A Workshop of Our Own -- a Baltimore-based community workshop for women and non-binary people.

Prerequisite: None

IC_P: Selling at Conventions, Artist Alleys, and Fairs (15 Sep 2026)

Tue, 15 Sep 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Are you ready to sell your products in person? Selling at events is a fantastic way to engage with a new audience and get your creations into customers' hands. In this workshop, you’ll learn the ins and outs of running a table, from finding the right event for your work to making your first sale. This workshop is designed for adults (18+).

Tuesdays 7-9pm

August 4th - Time and Project Management for Artists

August 11th - Intro to Digital Art with Procreate

August 18th - Design Business Cards and Advertisements on Canva

August 25th - Setting up an Online Store

September 1 - Build and Engage a Following on Instagram

September 8 - Showcasing Your Work Online

September 15 - Selling at Conventions, Artist Alleys, and Fairs