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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.

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This Month's Featured events

  • WW_P12: Beginners Pen Turning on the Lathe

    • 13 Oct 2026
    • 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Nova Labs (Woodshop), 3850 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, 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

    Show details

  • AC_P: Make Great Big Paper Wigs

    • 15 Oct 2026
    • 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA (Studio)
    • 11
    Register


    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.

    Show details

  • LC_P: Halloween Special! Trick-or-Treat Box

    • 15 Oct 2026
    • 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Nova Labs, Inc. 3850 Jermantown Road. Fairfax City, VA 22030 (Classroom 1)
    • 13
    Register

    Build your own trick-or-treat box for Halloween!
    New this year and offered during the month of October only.

    In this hands-on class, students make a laser engraved halloween keepsake box. The lid is cut in two halves that slide open in opposite directions: one reads TRICK, the other reads TREAT.  The box is a great way to hand out candy on Halloween: prefill both compartments with a few pieces, and let trick-or-treaters slide open whichever side they pick.
    Students will watch a demo of the laser cutter run a box start to finish, then hand-fill the engraved artwork with paint before assembling their own box. No laser experience needed — everything is pre-cut and ready to build.

    The example box is approximately 6" × 3" × 3", made from pre-finished black plywood with a smooth acrylic surface. Each student will leave with a finished, functional box ready to use for Halloween! This class is family friendly, so sign up with your kids and get them into making.

    Materials provided.
    Prerequisite: None
    Sign Off: None

    Instructor: Stephanie Chen

    Show details

  • TS_P02: Texturing, Cutting and Stamping Spooky Jewelry

    • 17 Oct 2026
    • 12:00 AM - 4:00 PM
    • Nova Labs (The Studio), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax VA
    • 6
    Register

    Get ready for Halloween, and learn some new tools in the jewelry studio while you’re at it!

    Use the rolling mill to add patterns to your metal, cut and form with the hydraulic press, and clean up the edges with the cutest little belt sander attachment for the flexshaft. Learn what silhouette dies and pancake dies do with a demo and some hands-on practice. We’ll even be pulling out the stamps to add spiders and bats and jack-o-lanterns to your pieces.

    This will level up your jewelry making skills in a big way, and you’ll walk out with some awesome jewelry for the best season of the year!

    All materials provided. 

    Prerequisites: None

    Instructor: Margie Foster

    Show details

  • 3d_P: Beyond the Sketch: Designing Multi-Part Assemblies and Hinges in Onshape

    • 17 Oct 2026
    • 11:00 AM - 1:30 PM
    • Nova Labs, Inc., Classroom 2, 3850 Jermantown Road. Fairfax City, VA 22030
    • 5
    Register

    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.

    Show details

  • AC_P: Sashiko 1 Indigo & Ivory Beginner Moyozashi Experience

    • 18 Oct 2026
    • 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM
    • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA (Classroom 1)
    • 10
    Register


    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

    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.

    Show details

  • TS_P03: Forge Your Own Fancy Fidget: Make a Custom Spinner Ring

    • 18 Oct 2026
    • 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • Nova Labs (The Studio), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax VA
    • 4
    Register
    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.
    Show details

  • AC_P: Jean Editing

    • 22 Oct 2026
    • 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
    • *Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
    • 5
    Register


    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.


    Show details

  • MW_P01: Metal Lathe Threading

    • 22 Oct 2026
    • 6:30 PM - 10:00 PM
    • Nova Labs, Inc. (Metalshop) 3850 Jermantown Road. Fairfax City, VA 22030
    • 3
    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, is an experience metalworker who has been teaching with us for over 3 years
    Email: george.clessas@nova-labs.org
    Show details

  • BL_S06: Bladesmithing - Stainless Steel Knife-Making

    • 24 Oct 2026
    • 25 Oct 2026
    • 2 sessions
    • Nova Labs, Blacksmith Shop, 3850 Jermantown Road Fairfax, VA 22030
    • 1
    Register



    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

    Show details

  • TS_P09: Leather Construction 101 - Tooled Pocket Knife Sheath Workshop

    • 24 Oct 2026
    • 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
    • Nova Labs (The Studio), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax VA
    • 1
    Register

    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

    Show details

  • TS_P09: Make a Custom Leather Bag from Scratch

    • 25 Oct 2026
    • 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
    • Nova Labs (The Studio), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax VA
    • 2
    Register


    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

    Show details

  • WW_P04: Basic Wood Bowl Turning on the Lathe

    • 25 Oct 2026
    • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Nova Labs (Woodshop), 3850 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.

    Show details

  • WW_P05: French-Style Rolling Pin with Celtic Knot Design (2 days)

    • 26 Oct 2026
    • 27 Oct 2026
    • 2 sessions
    • Nova Labs (Woodshop), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax VA
    • 1
    Register

    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 

    Show details

  • 3D_S04: 3d Scanner 101 Sign-off

    • 26 Oct 2026
    • 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.

      Show details

    • EL_P04: Intro to LEDs, RGBs, and NEOPIXELS - Online

      • 28 Oct 2026
      • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
      • Online event
      • 5
      Register

      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.

      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.

      Show details

    • Nova Labs Monster Bash Halloween Party

      • 31 Oct 2026
      • 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
      • Nova Labs (Orange Bay), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA
      Register

      Halloween is the penultimate 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!

      Show details

    • Nova Labs Pre-Holiday Tour

      • 7 Nov 2026
      • 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
      • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax VA
      Register



      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.

      Show details

    • WW_P01: Live Edge White Oak Charcuterie Board

      • 7 Nov 2026
      • 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM
      • Nova Labs (Mixed Media Shop), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax VA
      • 8
      Register
      Create your own one-of-a-kind live edge white oak charcuterie board!

      In this hands-on woodworking class, students will choose from a selection of unique live edge white oak blanks, each varying in shape, size, grain pattern, and natural character. Some pieces may feature distinctive spalting or other unique figure.

      Students will design their own handle, then shape, smooth, and sand their selected piece while preserving the natural live edge. We will use the bandsaw, drill press, and sanders.

      The example board is approximately 22" × 9" × 1/2" and finished with tung oil, but dimensions will vary depending on the wood selected. No two boards will be alike, and each student will leave with a functional, unique serving board.

      Materials provided.
      Prerequisite: None
      Sign Off: None
      Show details

    • 3d_P: Introduction to Onshape

      • 7 Nov 2026
      • 11:00 AM - 1:30 PM
      • Nova Labs, Inc., Classroom 1, 3850 Jermantown Road. Fairfax City, VA 22030
      • 3
      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

      Show details

    • CC_O: FANUC Robotics Office Hours

      • 7 Nov 2026
      • 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
      • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA
      • 8
      Register

      Come learn from Seed Technologies Co-Founder and Entrepreneur in Residence, Camille Jones. During her open office hours, you can observe her at work and ask questions as she develops MORPH-AI advanced robotic coating and precision spray technologies using Physical AI that targets aerospace and defense manufacturing and sustainment.

      You can read more about Seed Technologies and the EIR Program here. 

      Show details

    • AC_P: Candle Making – Fall Edition (NEW CLASS)

      • 8 Nov 2026
      • 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
      • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA (Studio)
      • 12
      Register


      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.

      Show details

    • WW_P01: Live Edge White Oak Charcuterie Board

      • 19 Nov 2026
      • 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM
      • Nova Labs (Woodshop), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax VA
      • 8
      Register
      Create your own one-of-a-kind live edge white oak charcuterie board!

      In this hands-on woodworking class, students will choose from a selection of unique live edge white oak blanks, each varying in shape, size, grain pattern, and natural character. Some pieces may feature distinctive spalting or other unique figure.

      Students will design their own handle, then shape, smooth, and sand their selected piece while preserving the natural live edge. We will use the bandsaw, drill press, and sanders.

      The example board is approximately 22" × 9" × 1/2" and finished with tung oil, but dimensions will vary depending on the wood selected. No two boards will be alike, and each student will leave with a functional, unique serving board.

      Materials provided.
      Prerequisite: None
      Sign Off: None
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    • WW_P07: Make your own Chopsticks

      • 22 Nov 2026
      • 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
      • Nova Labs (Woodshop), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax VA
      • 5
      Register
      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.


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

      • 28 Nov 2026
      • 29 Nov 2026
      • 2 sessions
      • Nova Labs (Woodshop), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax VA
      • 7
      Register

      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 

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    • TS_P02: Hammered Holidays: Impress Your Friends and Family with Metal-Stamped Ornaments

      • 1 Dec 2026
      • 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
      • Nova Labs (The Studio), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
      • 7
      Register
      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

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    • TS_S02: Stained Glass Sign-off - Christmas Ornaments

      • 6 Dec 2026
      • 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
      • Nova Labs at 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030 (The Studio)
      • 6
      Register
      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.

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    • Holiday Maker Market and Artisan Fair

      • 12 Dec 2026
      • 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
      • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA
      Register


      Discover a wide variety of handmade gifts perfect for spreading holiday cheer. From one-of-a-kind home decor, wood-turned bowls, crafts, cooking accessories, toys, and chainmail dragons. You'll find something special for everyone on your list.

      Visit our vendor page at market.nova-labs.org for a preview. 

      Don't miss out on this opportunity to support local artisans and find one-of-a-kind gifts. Mark your calendars and join us at Nova Labs for the Holiday Maker Market!

      Entry is free and you do not need to register. However, you must sign up here to be eligible for our door prizes. We'll be selecting names from this list at random and emailing the winners after the event.

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