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CODES AND RESTRICTIONS: Some events have restrictions and codes and will give a warning.

Restriction: This means the event is restricted to only allow certain groups such as members or specific groups. Be sure you are logged in using your member account. Member applicants may be excluded from some sign off classes with a long waitlist.

Codes: This means the member waitlist is still being processed. Hover over the Resources menu to view the waitlist process. Check back in 24 hours to see if seats are open. Contact support@nova-labs.org if the code is not released within 24 hours.

This page shows featured events only. View all events

This Month's Featured events

  • IC_P: Taming Chaos: Making Your Space Work for Your Brain

    • 9 Oct 2025
    • 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
    • Nova Labs (Classroom 1), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax VA
    • 11
    Register

    Struggling to stay organized at home—especially when your brain is already juggling too much? Folks who are autistic, have ADHD, or are struggling with anxiety and/or depression often fall into this category. This workshop offers insight and practical tools for reclaiming your space and getting it to work with your brain, not against it.

    A professional organizer with 8 years of experience begins the session with a short talk on how mental health and executive function difficulties affect personal organization. Then, watch a live demo as a messy desk is transformed using everyday items—showcasing simple, realistic strategies you can use at home right away.

    Prerequisite: An interest in learning about the mental and emotional connections to personal organization difficulty, plus an interest in developing the skills to organize a desk.

    Age: While the instructor can adapt instruction to any audience, it will be best if audience members can listen quietly during instruction.

    Meet the Instructor: 

    Crystal Thurber is the Owner, Founder, and Solutions Finder of Compassionate Decluttering, LLC. Since 2017, she has been applying her Master’s in Special Education, love of brain research, and mental health advocacy to her work. She specializes in clients with executive functioning difficulties, mental health concerns, and/or mental and physical disabilities. She loves teaching clients individualized skills so that they hopefully never need another professional organizer. She is NOT naturally organized, but her years of learning the hard way is your gain!

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  • AC_P01: Inkscape for Crafters Demonstration

    • 11 Oct 2025
    • 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
    • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
    • 6
    Register

    Did you know that Crafter uses CNC machines too? The Craft Shop contains several embroidery machines, an industrial vinyl cutter, Silhouette (paper, vinyl, fabric) cutters, and an Eggbot art robot, all using CNC technology. Using Inkscape, I will demonstrate how to create a vector from an image that can be made into stickers, stencils, masks for screen printing, designs for t-shirts, decorated eggs, applique, and embroidered patches.

    This is an Inkscape demonstration only, no hands-on.

    Prerequisites: none

    Instructor: Kathy McCabe is an advanced seamstress, crafter who uses CAD, laser cutter, and many other tools in her work. She also teaches the Industrial Sewing machine class.

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  • AC_P: Intro to Wigs Workshop

    • 12 Oct 2025
    • 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM
    • *Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
    • 1
    Register


    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.

    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.


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  • TS_P: Make your own Leather Wallet

    • 16 Oct 2025
    • 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Nova Labs, (The Studio), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
    • 3
    Register
    Learn leather working basics and craft a leather snap card wallet! Discover cutting, stitching, and finishing techniques in this hands-on class.

    Craft your own leather wallet from scratch!

    Dive into the world of leatherworking by crafting a sleek, minimalist snap card holder wallet. You'll get to master essential skills including cutting, assembling, gluing, hand stitching, and finishing your leather wallet. And best of all, you'll walk away with a stylish, everyday wallet and hands-on experience.

    No experience is required. Perfect for beginners eager to explore leathercraft! Participants must be at least 15 years old (those under 18 must be accompanied by an adult).

    So how will the class work?

    We'll dive into a little about leather and its characteristics before we dive into getting our hands working! You'll get to glue, assemble, cut, and finish your wallet.

    Prerequisite: Age 18+

    Darsh Khanna is the instructor for this class and the founder of DAK Leather. He is a Product Designer by day and a passionate hobbyist by night, exploring everything from woodworking to leatherworking.

    In 2021, seeking a standout groomsmen gift, Darsh discovered leatherworking through countless YouTube videos. This rabbit hole of YouTube videos sparked the creation of DAK Leather. Now, Darsh designs and crafts a diverse range of leather goods and has shared his love for the craft through classes like this one. The biggest joy is seeing the excitement in class when participants are shocked by the leather good they created!

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  • Nova Labs Open House

    • 18 Oct 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
    • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA
    Register


    Come join the Nova Labs community in sharing the maker spirit with our friends and neighbors!

    We will be hosting tours and demonstrations throughout the day, across all of our shops. You’ll see many of our tools in action, from the CNC router to the jewelry bench, blacksmithing forges, woodworking tools, and so much more. Learn about our 3D printers, laser cutters, and see what our Robotics teams are up to! And best of all, it’s a great day to meet our vibrant community of Makers.

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  • WW_P12: Beginners Pen Turning on the Lathe

    • 19 Oct 2025
    • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Nova Labs (Woodshop), 1930 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax VA
    • 1
    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. Important: You must be a members 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. Must wear a mask at all times. Optional: Hearing protection, particle filter, or dust mask.

    Show details

  • 3D_S04: 3d Scanner 101 Sign-off

    • 20 Oct 2025
    • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Nova Labs-Classroom 2, 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 0
    Registration is closed


      

    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.

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    • AC_P: Scissor Sharpening Workshop

      • 21 Oct 2025
      • 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
      • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
      • 4
      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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    • AC_S: Hem Your Own Pants & Blind Stitch Machine Sign-Off

      • 23 Oct 2025
      • 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
      • Nova Labs (Crafters Shop), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
      • 0
      Registration is closed



      Chandler Mark 60- heavy Duty Blind Stitch Tag # 4321

      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, and an "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 

      Danielle has been an educator for nearly 20 years, working with students privately and in classroom settings. Over the past 5 years, she has primarily instructed classes in beginning sewing, operating specialty machines, embroidery, and clothing/costume construction. Her favorite thing to make is Star Wars costumes, which have won awards at contests around the country.

      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.

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    • LC_P: Laser Cutter - Advanced Techniques

      • 23 Oct 2025
      • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
      • Nova Labs, Inc. 3850 Jermantown Road. Fairfax City, VA 22030 (Classroom 3)
      • 5
      Register

      Advance your skills with the Nova Lab's totally awesome 100-watt CO2 laser cutters! This class focuses on additional techniques and software used for the laser cutter. To familiarize you with the entire workflow, you will be taken step-by-step through the process of how to define basic shapes in Inkscape and then send them to the Laser Cutter. Other topics like the differences between materials (woods, plastics, more exotic materials) and the Rotational Tool attachment (used for etching cylindrical objects) will also be discussed. Demo class.

      We'll discuss:
      -Vector graphics concepts such as stroke and color and using them to program the laser.
      -Software Packages: LightBurn & Inkscape, and how they are used in the laser cutter workflow.
      -How to determine proper speed/power settings.

      -Different material to encrave/cut, including Exotic materials.

      Note: Some exposure to vector graphics program will be helpful to get the maximum benefit from the class but is not mandatory. A laptop loaded with LightBurn (https://lightburnsoftware.com) & Inkscape (it’s free, http://inkscape.org) would be ideal for maximum benefit from the class but is also not mandatory.

      Prerequisites: None

      Instructor: Steve Sheets

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

      • 23 Oct 2025
      • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
      • Online event
      • 6
      Register


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

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

      Note: The 4 classes in our basic electronics series (EL_P01, P02, P03, and P04) along with a successfully mentored project earns the Nova Labs Basic Electronics Microcertification.

      Prerequisites: None. *This is an adult class, but beginners of all ages are welcome.

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

      Before Class Sign up for a free TinkerCAD account before class so that you can take full advantage and follow along on your screen.

      • TinkerCAD is a web based simulator. You do not have to download anything. You do have to make an account with a login.
      • Register for an account: Go to web page www.tinkercad.com
      • Log into TinkerCAD; it will help if you have also accessed TinkerCAD Circuits (below the “3D Designs” option) and looked at the interface.

      Zoom Link: Available upon registration only. The link is also sent in 2 reminder emails. Email us at support@nova-labs.org if you do not receive it within 15 minutes of registration. Contact us at least 1 day before the class if you did not receive the 3 emails.

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

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    • WW_P04: Basic Wood Bowl Turning on the Lathe

      • 25 Oct 2025
      • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
      • Nova Labs (Woodshop), 1930 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax VA
      • 3
      Register


      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.

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

      • 25 Oct 2025
      • 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
      • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA (The Studio)
      • 5
      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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    • CS_P: Epoxy Resin Light Art Sculpture (2-days)

      • 25 Oct 2025
      • 1 Nov 2025
      • 2 sessions
      • Nova Labs (The Studio), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
      • 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: Turn your Photos into Vector Drawings for Use with CNC Tools - Hands-on

      • 26 Oct 2025
      • 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM
      • Nova Labs (Classroom 1), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
      • 4
      Register

      Would you like to create a vector drawing of your pet? Pets make a great digital practice project so you can learn hands-on to create images for use with our many CNC machines. Create great art projects suitable for use as gifts, decor or selling using any CNC tool.

      This class is hands-on. Suitable for beginners or those wanting to create their own digital drawing for the CNC tools they are sign-off on. Each person will guided through how to digitize a personal photo you bring.

      Creating line art from photos is surprisingly easy. With free software like Inkscape, you can turn your favorite pet pix into versatile artwork with dozens of uses. Embroider them onto shirts or hats. Laser engrave them onto wine glasses, accent lamps, ornaments, or display pieces. The sublimation printer, CNC carving, stained glass, inlaid cutting boards - these adorable drawings can be used in almost any shop at Nova Labs.

      To Bring: Laptop with mouse and Inkscape v1.4 installed. Digital photo of pet you'd like to draw. (You don't have to have a pet! This is great for gifts!) Half or three quarters profile (see above) is best for beginners. Drawing tablet optional.

      Prerequisites: None

      Instructor: Steve Fritzinger is the composites steward, woodworker, chef instructor, bread-maker, and cosplay expert. He uses Inkscape and the CNC in his cosplay props and costumes as well as his woodshop projects.

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    • LC_P: Laser Cutting - Exotic Materials - Metal

      • 5 Nov 2025
      • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
      • Nova Labs, Inc. 3850 Jermantown Road. Fairfax City, VA 22030 (Classroom 1)
      • 4
      Register

      Come join us for another class in our series on Exotic Materials & Techniques for the Laser Cutter/Engraver! This is Lecture & Hands On class.

      This session explores the most “forbidden” of laser materials: Metals.

      In the past, our 100W CO₂ lasers were thought too weak to cut or engrave metal—but that’s not entirely true anymore. With the right knowledge, metals can be marked or engraved using several different approaches.

      We’ll discuss and demonstrate three techniques:

      • Engraving vinyl-covered metal flasks
      • Using laser marking ink on metal plates
      • Directly engraving anodized aluminum

      Materials are not covered in the price of the class, but will be available at cost. This should include anodized aluminum blanks (name tags and plate) and vinyl hip flask (they make great holiday presents). Various examples of Laser Ink will be shown, but not available during the class.

      Bring your own art files if you wish to engrave on one of the projects. It is highly recommended to bring only vector artwork.

      Prerequisites: None

      Instructor: Steve Sheets

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    • AC_P: Holiday Sergers Rolled Hem Edition

      • 6 Nov 2025
      • 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
      • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030 (Classroom 1)
      • 4
      Register

      Picture: BERNINA 800DL Sergers are for more than seams! Prepare for the holidays and learn one of the most versatile stitches at the same time! Rolled hems create a beautiful finish on any number of projects from sheer fabric on garments to cloth napkins and tablecloths to scarfs. In this class you will learn how to thread and set up the serger to produce a 3 thread rolled hem. To practice, you can choose to create a set of 4 small cloth napkins and/or a "wrap scarf" that can be used to wrap a gift and then be worn as a scarf afterward. Materials are included.

      Sign off: none

      Prerequisite: Basic sewing skills highly recommended

      Maximum participants: 5

      Age requirement: 14+

      Safety Dress Code: Reading glasses if needed

      Instructor: Danielle has been an educator for over a decade, working with student privately and in classroom settings. More recently, she has primarily instructed classes in basic sewing, operating speciality machines, embroidery, and clothing/costume instruction. She is an award winning cosplayer and her favorite thing to create is Star Wars costumes. 

      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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    • AC_P: Holiday Sergers Bag and Pouch Edition

      • 13 Nov 2025
      • 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
      • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030 (Classroom 1)
      • 5
      Register

      Picture: BERNINA 800DL Sergers are great for fast easy sewing projects. Prepare for the holidays and learn 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, as well as review inserting a zipper with a domestic machine and a zipper foot. To practice, you can choose to create a zippered pouch and/or a decorative petal drawstring pouch. 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.

      Sign off: none

      Prerequisite: Basic sewing skills highly recommended

      Maximum participants: 5

      Age requirement: 14+

      Safety Dress Code: Reading glasses if needed

      Instructor: Danielle has been an educator for over a decade, working with student privately and in classroom settings. More recently, she has primarily instructed classes in basic sewing, operating speciality machines, embroidery, and clothing/costume instruction. She is an award winning cosplayer and her favorite thing to create is Star Wars costumes. 

      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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    • 3d_P: Introduction to Onshape

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


      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

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    • AC_P04: History of Tea, or Knowing the Difference Between Teas

      • 16 Nov 2025
      • 2:30 PM - 4:30 PM
      • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA (Classroom 1)
      • 11
      Register

      History of Tea, or Knowing the Difference Between Teas. The History of Tea is the history of civilization, both Asian and European. For example, do you know the difference between Japanese Green Tea and Chinese Green Tea?

      And which one is historically more accurate? Most people know of the Tea Wars between Britain and China, but do you know the impact of the Mogal Invasion had on Tea? How about the fact that even today, Tea is the most counterfeited trade product in the world. It is that important.And what about the differences between teas? Would you like to know about Green Tea, Black Tea, White Tea & Oolong Tea? And what in the world is Red Tea?

      For those who never tried Tea, this is a great way to try out different types. For those who already love Tea, come learn more. For a coffee drinker, come over to the other side, and try the most popular drink in the world. And for anyone who loves history, please join us and have fun!

      Several different types of Tea will be shared! All tea provided.

      Remember, Tea (and tea classes) make a great holiday gift for the holidays!

      Instructor: Steve Sheets

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    • MW_P01: Metal Lathe Threading

      • 20 Nov 2025
      • 6:30 PM - 10:00 PM
      • Nova Labs, Inc. (Metalshop) 3850 Jermantown Road. Fairfax City, VA 22030
      • 2
      Register

      It's reckoned that the Greeks invented the screw back in the 5th century BC. By the 1st century BC, the Greeks and Romans were using screw presses to press clothes, olives and wine. The first nuts and bolts appeared in the middle 1400’s. They were hand made and not interchangeable. Joseph Whitworth In England proposed a standard screw resulting in the Whitworth Screw thread in 1841. In Philadelphia in 1864 William Sellers proposed a standard American V thread. Near the end of the second world war (78 years later) the Sellers thread became the "US Standard”.

      The screw cutting engine lathe is the oldest and most important of machine tools. The first screw cutting lathes were made in the US in the early 1800’s and allowed the making of locomotives, electric motors and automobiles which drove the industrial revolution. The metal lathe with a lead screw is used to cut threads. Also the metal lathe makes it easier to cut threads using taps and dies.

      In this class we will review the different types of screws. We will use taps, dies and the lathe to single point turn V threads.

      Prerequisite: Metal lathe sign-off

      Instructor: George Clessas

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    Email: support@nova-labs.org

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