Featured Events

  • MX_P03: Plumbing for Your Home

    • 9 Dec 2023
    • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Road. Fairfax City, VA 22030 (Events Bay)
    • 7
    Register

    How To Become A Plumber - Explore The Trades

    Got a leak or a drip? Learn some plumbing basics for home repairs. We’ll learn about tools, plumbing fittings, and types of plumbing lines, as well as some troubleshooting. There will be hands-on practice
    learning to solder copper pipe, how to connect plastic pipe, and using solderless, quick connect parts to do your own repairs.

    Tools and materials are provided but you are welcome and encouraged to bring your own tools.

    Prerequisite: Age 16 or over

    Your instructor: Robin Renner and Bill St. Amant

    Robin Renner has 35 years experience as a carpenter, a contractor, and as a construction director for housing nonprofits. She has worked with hundreds of volunteers teaching and leading construction projects, everything from basic repairs to full whole house construction.  She has taught over 40 training classes ranging from drywall skills and general construction, to electrical and plumbing repairs, to healthy housing and safety.

    Bill St. Amant is a senior construction contractor and also teaches woodworking classes.

    Plumbing Tools Stock Photos, Pictures & Royalty-Free Images - iStock

     

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  • CS_P07: Epoxy Resin Light Art Sculpure (2-days)

    • 9 Dec 2023
    • 16 Dec 2023
    • 2 sessions
    • Nova Labs (The Studio), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
    • 5
    Register

    Learn to make custom resin light scupltures 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.

    All casting materials will be provided. 

    Prerequisites: None

    Safety and clothing: Materials used in this class will permanently stain clothing. Dress accordingly. 
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  • AC_P: The FUNdamental Tote - Winter/Christmas Theme

    • 9 Dec 2023
    • 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
    • *Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030 (Crafter's Cove)
    • 1
    Register


    Step into the holiday spirit while honing your sewing skills with The FUNdamental Tote, with a delightful winter/Christmas theme!  

    Perfect for beginners, this class guides you through crafting a stylish tote that embodies the festive season. With the approximate size of 12 inches in width, 9 inches in height, and a depth of 4 inches, your tote will not only embody practicality but also capture the essence of winter or the holiday season.

    Guided through step-by-step instructions, you’ll learn to create a classy tote with seasonal charm. You will master the creation of an internal zipper pocket and slip pocket, hardware attachment, durable straps, rivets for a professional finish, and the techniques of boxing corners and drop-in lining, you'll also incorporate elements that echo the winter wonderland or Christmas festivity.

    The FUNdamental Tote in its winter/Christmas theme becomes your canvas to blend essential sewing skills with a touch of seasonal joy. Whether you're new to bag making or looking to refine your expertise with a themed project, this class offers the ideal platform. Create a bag that not only showcases your growing sewing prowess but also radiates the warmth and cheer of the holiday season.

    All materials will be provided and you will receive a link for a digital copy of the pattern from the pattern designer JoLeeLee Creations, ensuring you have everything needed to create your themed tote and to make more totes in the future. You are welcome to bring your own sewing machine or use one available in Crafter’s Cove.


    Skill Level: Beginner

    Prerequisites: It's recommended that students have some experience using a sewing machine, as this class builds upon basic sewing skills with bagmaking specifics.

    Age requirement: 16+

    Instructor: Rebecca McCord

    Class must have 2 participants sign up to run. If this does not happen those who have paid will be issued a full refund.


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  • EV_P: Intro to 3D Modeling and Animation for Computer Generated Images (CGI)

    • 9 Dec 2023
    • 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
    • Nova Labs at 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030 (Classroom 1)
    • 7
    Register


    Introduction to the 3D modeling tool Blender 3D. Learn the basics of using Blender for basic modeling and animation. Learn to visually portray anything your imagination can dream up. Middle school students, teens, and adults are all welcome. Registration required.

    Bring your own computer with blender downloaded and installed, which will increase your hands-on is ideal. Having a three-button mouse (2 buttons and a scroll wheel) is also encouraged. We have a limited number of computers here.

    DOWNLOAD: https://www.blender.org/
    The software needed is Blender 3D, which is completely free. Blender runs on Windows, Mac, and Linux, so as long as you have a full operating system, it should work fine.

    3D computer graphics are used for creating animated films, visual effects, art, 3D

    Prerequisite: none

    Instuctor: William Harrison

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  • AC_P: Make a Shoulder Dragon

    • 9 Dec 2023
    • 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
    • Nova Labs3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
    • 0
    Registration is closed


    This class is for both adults and kids. Learn the skills needed to make and sew all sorts of stuffed toys. Stuffed animals are a perfect stocking stuff gift for the season.

    Already cut materials will be provided. Please make sure you sign up early enough to give the instructor time to prepare the materials. Dragons are made from fleece and felt and decorated with a variety of materials. Several colors will be available. 

    This activity is accessible to all ages, but the youngest children may need some adult help. Child may have adult attend for no additional cost per dragon.

    Maximum 6 dragon-making-persons. 

    Prerequisites: no previous sewing experience is needed

    Age requirement: 8+ or with an adult

    Instructor: Fabiana Cesa is a maker educator. She has taught for the Nova Labs MakerSchool for the past three years.

    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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  • Creative Takes on Soup (Foodie Event)

    • 9 Dec 2023
    • 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
    • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA
    Register


    Soup is so good! Perfect for the cooler weather!

    Judging starts at 6pm sharp!!

    Join Us for Creative Takes on Soup by the Food Smiths!

    Join us even if you can’t bring your own!

    Entry Categories are:

    • Cream-based or thick soups

    • Broth-based or thin soups

    • International soups

    • Dealer’s choice (save the chili for the Chili event)

    Optional- bring bread and butter, or croutons, to go with the soup.

    Bring soup in a crock pot, or bring a hot plate. We have limited ability to heat the soup!

    Make about 6-8 servings.


      Note: Current and former members, volunteers, donors, and their guests and family are welcome to attend. Unless you are bring a food item, in which case, come on over as our guest because we love foodies.

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

      • 10 Dec 2023
      • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
      • Nova Labs (Woodshop), 1930 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax VA
      • 2
      Register

      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.

      No experience is needed to take this class. We provide all the training, tools, and materials needed.

      This is a 2-day workshop.

      • Day 1 - Sunday, Dec 10th at 9:00 am
      • Day 2 - Sunday, Dec 17th at 9:00 am

      Prerequisite: None. Appropriate for ages 14+ 

      Instructor: Anjelika 

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    • TS_S: Stained Glass Ornament

      • 10 Dec 2023
      • 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
      • Nova Labs at 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030 (The Studio)
      • 0
      Registration is closed

      Techniques demonstrated for working with stained glass to make a custom holiday ornament. Students will go home with two stained glass ornaments.

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

      Sign-off: Stained glass

      Prerequisite: none

      Instuctor: Shane Smith and Enrique Granados

      This class will be canceled if there are less than 4 registrations within 48 hours of the start date.

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    • AC_P: Cookie Swap and Decorating

      • 10 Dec 2023
      • 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
      • *Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030 (Crafter's Cove)
      • 9
      Register


      Do you love cookies?? I mean who doesn't love cookies!!!  

      To participate in the swap.  Bring 3 dozen cookies  (3 different containers of one dozen each) and the recipe on a printed sheet of paper so people can photograph it.  You will "swap" pick from other peoples cookies and take home 3 dozen different cookies.  Please no store bought cookies.  

      Then stay and decorate sugar cookies with frosting and candies!  This is NOT a professional decorating class.   Just good old fashion fun of decorationg Holiday cookies. 

      Sugar cookies, frosting, candy decorations and apple cider provided.  

      Perquisites: none

      Instructor: Karen Long

      Children under the age of 13 must be accompied by a paying adult.

      Class must have 3 participants sign up to run. If this does not happen those who have paid will be issued a full refund. Class will be cancelled Thursday Dec 7th if at least 3 participants have not signed up.  

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    • EV_P: Hack Night! Learn to Pentest!

      • 12 Dec 2023
      • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
      • Nova Labs (Events Bay), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
      • 22
      Register

      Learn to Hack regardless of your skill level!

      Whether you're a veteran of offensive security or brand new, come join us for a night of fun and education! This is a Capture the Flag event with an expert in pentesting (hacking) present to guide you through regardless of your skill level. The target network contains 6 different hosts with a wide variety of challenging vulnerabilities to exploit. Show up, plug in, and get to hacking! If you get stuck, raise your hand and the instructor will help you through.

      Learn how to:

      • Enumerate a target network Identify vulnerable services 
      •  Use Metasploit and other tools to exploit the target Identify web application vulnerabilities like SSRF and RCE 
      •  Exploit cloud networks and gain access to account level privileges and more!

      Some experience using Windows and Linux systems required!

      To Bring: Bring your own laptop or use one of ours. No special software or specific operating system required.

      Instructor: Michael Butler is Vice President of Offensive Services and a senior penetration tester at UltraViolet Security where he leads, hacks, and develops red teaming tools. Michael has worked in the offensive security field for nearly 10 years which includes time working for the US Army, NSA, Cyber Command, and several commercial cyber security companies. Michael holds several awards and certifications (e.g. OSCP, CISSP, AWS-SCS, etc).

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    • WW_P: Wood Turning: Create a Penguin Army for Festive Decor

      • 12 Dec 2023
      • 7:00 PM - 9:30 PM
      • Nova Labs
      • 1
      Register

      Welcome to our enchanting woodturning class where craftsmanship meets the subarctic! In this lively session, you’ll dive into the world of wood turning to create not just penguin holiday decorations, but the beginnings of your very own penguin army. Whether you’re a seasoned artisan or just starting your turning journey, this class promises to ignite your creativity and woodworking skills.

      Prerequisite: Lathe sign-off required

      Materials: All necessary tools and materials will be provided for use throughout the class. We will start with a turning blank made of black walnut and maple, and turn it into chubby, adorable, but fearless penguins. 

      Instructor: Chris Sexton is an experienced woodworker and one of our woodshop stewards

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    • TS_P: Copper Snowflake Ornament

      • 12 Dec 2023
      • 7:00 PM - 9:30 PM
      • Nova Labs at 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030 (The Studio)
      • 2
      Register
      Learn to use some of the more advanced tools in the jewelry studio by making your own snowflake ornament out of copper.

      Techniques demonstrated include texturizing by hammer, rolling mill, and stamping; cutting shapes using the hydraulic press and guillotine shear; and creating a patina on copper. Students will go home with two snowflakes of their own design.

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

      Prerequisite: none

      Instuctor: Lauren Hillman

      This class will be canceled if there are less than 4 registrations within 48 hours of the start date.

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    • MW_S10: Hand Plasma Cutter Sign-off

      • 13 Dec 2023
      • 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
      • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA
      • 3
      Register
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    • LC_P: Holiday Laser Crafts with LightBurn

      • 13 Dec 2023
      • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
      • Nova Labs, Inc. 3850 Jermantown Road. Fairfax City, VA 22030 (Classroom 1)
      • 7
      Register

      Unwrap the Magic of LightBurn this Christmas!

      Step into a winter wonderland of creativity as we dive into LightBurn, the ultimate tool for crafting holiday magic. In just 2 festive hours, you'll craft merry shapes into laser cut mirrored acrylic ornaments. Get ready to light up the season with your own yuletide treasure!

      Highlights:

      Jolly Shape Crafting: Design with Delight - Learn to sculpt holiday-themed shapes with ease and joy.

      Yuletide Typography: Add Cheer with Festive Fonts - Infuse your designs with holiday spirit using custom text.

      ️ Frosty Outlines: Elevate Designs with Whimsical Borders - Discover the art of offset outlines for that extra sparkle.


      Who Should Attend: Festive crafters and merry makers eager to illuminate the holiday season with laser precision.


      Prerequisite: Laser 101 Tool Safety sign-off


      Note: Laptops with LightBurn installed will be available but feel free to bring your own for a more personalized experience Join us for a holly, jolly adventure in laser crafting! Enroll now and let's make this holiday season truly magical!

      Instructor: Enrique Granados

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    • EL_P01: Intro to Basic Electronic Circuits (Online)

      • 14 Dec 2023
      • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
      • Online event
      Register

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

      Hands-on learning with real components, breadboard, and testing equipment, makes great connections for using the Nova Labs Electronics Toolbench.

      Students are introduced to the basic electronics concepts using TinkerCAD's amazing electronics simulator. Build and experiment with electronic circuits in a visually accurate, functional simulator that is designed for easy use. No components to buy, no soldering. With TinkerCAD you can learn to work with a variety of components, breadboards, test instruments, sensors and there are even Arduinos and displays you can program (not covered in the basic class).

      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 before class.
      • TinkerCAD is a web based simulator, you do not have to download anything. You do have to make an account with login. After you are logged in, the circuits is below the 3D CAD.
      • 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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    • LC_P: LED Neon Sign

      • 16 Dec 2023
      • 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
      • Nova Labs at 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030 (Classroom 2)
      • 6
      Register