MakerspaceCT upcoming events

Intro to MIG Welding with Mark (Saturday, November 14, 2026)

Sat, 14 Nov 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Cost: Members $155/Non-members $179

Age: 18+

Prerequisites: N/A

Credentials: MIG Welding Safety

Recommended Follow up Classes: TIG Welding, Plasma Cutter

Get a step-by-step intro into fusing metals with MIG and stick welders. Learn the basics of operation and some tips and tricks that will give you the best results. This is an essential skill for the budding maker.

The course content includes:

Proper attire and safety
Basics of welding
Purpose of MIG welding
LOTS of hands-on practice

Prior to the Class: Upon registration, you will be sent a prerequisite assignment to be completed online before attending the in-person workshop. All participants are requested to complete this assignment to prepare for the class.

Materials Included: A variety of metals to experiment on, as well as all machines, consumables, safety equipment, and accessories. Participants are welcome to bring their own supplies!

PLEASE NOTE! Welding is close, detailed work. If you need corrective lenses to see close objects, such as reading glasses or bifocals, please bring them.

Wood Shop Safety Certification with Matt (Monday, November 16, 2026)

Mon, 16 Nov 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Detailed overview of safety policies and procedures for the Wood Shop. Safety Certifications at MakerspaceCT are designed to ensure that you know the basics to work safely within the shop of your choice. These classes are a mixture of classroom instruction and hands-on learning. Please register in advance for Safety Certifications at the links below and be sure to dress appropriately when you come to class.

NOTE: you must be a member in good standing to take Safety Certification classes.

All people are welcome in this class and an active effort will be made to be inclusive to all people. This class will not tolerate sexism, ableism, racism, homophobia, or transphobia. MakerspaceCT is for everyone.

Introduction to Blacksmithing with Mike (Monday, November 16, 2026)

Mon, 16 Nov 2026 23:00:00 GMT

This intro workshop is a great way to begin to learn the ancient art and science of the blacksmith. Mike will walk you through four of the basic skills of forging: drawing, upsetting, twisting, and punching which can be combined to create thousands of simple blacksmithing projects. You will then heat and hit some steel! Introductory projects will include a bottle opener or a pair of tongs.

Introduction to Blacksmithing with Mike
One Session: 2.5 Hours
Prerequisite: NONE

Course Objectives:

Demonstrate a thorough understanding of the safety procedures of the forge area.
Understand the function, purpose, and proper use of the tools of the forge area.
Develop a baseline confidence using the tools and the basic techniques of forging.

Outcomes:

General understanding of forge safety and basic techniques, 1 x
Take home project: completed bottle opener or pair of tongs

All safety equipment and materials are provided!

No experience required. Please note that MakerspaceCT's Metal Shop is an 18+ space.

Laser Basics with Erik (Tuesday, November 17, 2026)

Tue, 17 Nov 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Cost: Members $65/Non-members $89

Age: 18+

Prerequisites: N/A

Credentials: Laser Cutter Safety

Recommended Follow Up Classes: Inkscape for CNC, Plasma Cutter, Intro to Wood Shop

Laser engraving is a fun and interesting skill that can range from an enjoyable hobby to a lucrative business opportunity. Engraving can be used to personalize everyday objects, such as coasters, keychains, and barware. Lasers can even cut materials with details that are impossible for other tools! This is the perfect launching point into larger CNC operations, such as the plasma cutter or the techno router table. This is the perfect course for dipping your toes into the world of CNC machines!

The course content includes:

Startup Procedure
Overview of what CAD is
Overview of what CAM is
Quick overview of what gcode is
How the laser cutter functions
How to prep a file for the laser cutter
Cutting versus engraving and vector versus raster
What materials can be cut
Tolerances
Kerf of the cut
Power and Speeds calculations
Troubleshooting
Where to source materials

Materials Included: A variety of acrylic, plywood, and paper to experiment on, as well as all machines, consumables, and accessories. Participants are welcome to bring their own supplies to cut! Be aware that several types of plastics are not safe to cut on the laser, so ensure that you know exactly what material you are bringing.

Machine Shop Safety Certification with Greg (Members Only) (Thursday, November 19, 2026)

Thu, 19 Nov 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Detailed overview of safety policies and procedures for the Machine Shop. Safety Certifications at MakerspaceCT are designed to ensure that you know the basics to work safely within the shop of your choice. These classes are a mixture of classroom instruction and hands-on learning. Please register in advance for Safety Certifications at the links below and be sure to dress appropriately when you come to class.

This safety class covers the lathe and bridgeport in the Machine Shop. A separate training for the Haas is required for those interested in CNC Milling. This training DOES NOT cover any machines in the Metal Fabrication Shop.

This machine shop program at MakerspaceCT is currently limited to no more than three (3) participants at a time.

NOTE: You must be a member in good standing to take Safety Certification classes.

Women's Woodworking Workshop Series 2 (Monday, November 30, 2026)

Mon, 30 Nov 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Women’s Woodworking Series Part Two: Bookshelf Build

About the Class
Build your own solid pine bookshelf in this hands-on, three-session workshop, the second part of the Women’s Woodworking Series. Starting with rough-sawn white pine, students learn to mill, cut, join, and assemble a freestanding shelving unit, and get to know several shop machines not used in Part One.

Prerequisite
Completion of Women’s Woodworking Series Part One is required to register for this class.

Session 1: Milling and Cutting Stock
Students learn how to turn rough lumber into square, accurately sized parts.

Topics

Orientation and demos on the planer, jointer, table saw, and table saw crosscut sled
Jointing and planing rough boards flat and square
Ripping boards to width on the table saw
Crosscutting parts to length with the crosscut sled
Planing shelves to final thickness

Hands-On Project
Students mill their rough-cut pine and cut all sides and shelves to size.

Session 2: Joinery and Assembly
Students cut the joints that hold the shelves in place and assemble the unit.

Topics

Cutting rabbets with a dado stack on the table saw
Optional bandsaw work to cut custom leg profiles
Dry-fitting and checking for level with a speed square and level
Gluing, drilling and countersinking, screwing, and covering screws with dowel plugs

Hands-On Project
Students cut their rabbets, dry-fit the sides and shelves, then glue and fasten the shelving unit together.

Session 3: Top, Shaping, and Finishing
Students complete the shelving unit and prepare it for use at home.

Topics

Router table demo and use of a roundover bit
Attaching the top with glue, countersunk screws, and dowel plugs
Sanding for a smooth finish
Choosing a stain or varnish to protect the piece from chips and scratches

Hands-On Project
Students round over and attach the top, then sand their finished bookshelf, leaving with a completed piece ready to finish at home.

Course Outcomes
Students gain:

Confidence using the jointer, planer, table saw, dado stack, crosscut sled, and router table
Understanding of how to mill rough lumber into square, accurate parts
Experience with rabbet joinery and screw-and-dowel assembly
A finished pine bookshelf they built from rough stock

Provided
All materials including white pine, poplar dowels, wood screws, and glue, plus tools, safety equipment, and instruction.

What to Bring
Closed-toe shoes and hair tied back. All other gear will be provided.

3D Printing Certification (Members Only) (Tuesday, December 01, 2026)

Tue, 01 Dec 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Prerequisites: Members Only

Credentials: 3D Printing Certification

Learn to print successfully more often! 3D printing or "Additive Manufacturing," is useful for hobbyists and professionals alike. Learn to slice a 3D file using a slicer/CAM software and put the code onto a printer to create incredible designs.

The course content includes:

Best practices for slicing
Where to find models for printing
Overview of what can and cannot be printed on our machines
Policies for machine use
Basic troubleshooting

This program allows for one hour of instruction and one hour of printing and troubleshooting with the 3D Printers.

Materials Included: We have a variety colors and brands of PLA/PLA+ plastic and our computers are equipped with software such as UltiMaker Cura and PrusaSlicer. You're welcome to bring a laptop, or bring your own PLA/PLA+. For this basics class, do not bring other filament types, as this class does not cover alternate styles of filament plastics.

Women's Woodworking Workshop Series 2 (Wednesday, December 02, 2026)

Wed, 02 Dec 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Women’s Woodworking Series Part Two: Bookshelf Build

Prerequisite
Completion of Women’s Woodworking Series Part One is required to register for this class.

Session 1: Milling and Cutting Stock
Students learn how to turn rough lumber into square, accurately sized parts.

Topics

Orientation and demos on the planer, jointer, table saw, and table saw crosscut sled
Jointing and planing rough boards flat and square
Ripping boards to width on the table saw
Crosscutting parts to length with the crosscut sled
Planing shelves to final thickness

Hands-On Project
Students mill their rough-cut pine and cut all sides and shelves to size.

Session 2: Joinery and Assembly
Students cut the joints that hold the shelves in place and assemble the unit.

Topics

Cutting rabbets with a dado stack on the table saw
Optional bandsaw work to cut custom leg profiles
Dry-fitting and checking for level with a speed square and level
Gluing, drilling and countersinking, screwing, and covering screws with dowel plugs

Hands-On Project
Students cut their rabbets, dry-fit the sides and shelves, then glue and fasten the shelving unit together.

Session 3: Top, Shaping, and Finishing
Students complete the shelving unit and prepare it for use at home.

Topics

Router table demo and use of a roundover bit
Attaching the top with glue, countersunk screws, and dowel plugs
Sanding for a smooth finish
Choosing a stain or varnish to protect the piece from chips and scratches

Hands-On Project
Students round over and attach the top, then sand their finished bookshelf, leaving with a completed piece ready to finish at home.

Course Outcomes
Students gain:

Confidence using the jointer, planer, table saw, dado stack, crosscut sled, and router table
Understanding of how to mill rough lumber into square, accurate parts
Experience with rabbet joinery and screw-and-dowel assembly
A finished pine bookshelf they built from rough stock

Provided
All materials including white pine, poplar dowels, wood screws, and glue, plus tools, safety equipment, and instruction.

What to Bring
Closed-toe shoes and hair tied back. All other gear will be provided.

Intro to MIG Welding with Mark (Saturday, December 05, 2026)

Sat, 05 Dec 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Cost: Members $155/Non-members $179

Age: 18+

Prerequisites: N/A

Credentials: MIG Welding Safety

Recommended Follow up Classes: TIG Welding, Plasma Cutter

The course content includes:

Proper attire and safety
Basics of welding
Purpose of MIG welding
LOTS of hands-on practice

Materials Included: A variety of metals to experiment on, as well as all machines, consumables, safety equipment, and accessories. Participants are welcome to bring their own supplies!

PLEASE NOTE! Welding is close, detailed work. If you need corrective lenses to see close objects, such as reading glasses or bifocals, please bring them.

Women's Woodworking Workshop Series 2 (Monday, December 07, 2026)

Mon, 07 Dec 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Women’s Woodworking Series Part Two: Bookshelf Build

Prerequisite
Completion of Women’s Woodworking Series Part One is required to register for this class.

Session 1: Milling and Cutting Stock
Students learn how to turn rough lumber into square, accurately sized parts.

Topics

Orientation and demos on the planer, jointer, table saw, and table saw crosscut sled
Jointing and planing rough boards flat and square
Ripping boards to width on the table saw
Crosscutting parts to length with the crosscut sled
Planing shelves to final thickness

Hands-On Project
Students mill their rough-cut pine and cut all sides and shelves to size.

Session 2: Joinery and Assembly
Students cut the joints that hold the shelves in place and assemble the unit.

Topics

Cutting rabbets with a dado stack on the table saw
Optional bandsaw work to cut custom leg profiles
Dry-fitting and checking for level with a speed square and level
Gluing, drilling and countersinking, screwing, and covering screws with dowel plugs

Hands-On Project
Students cut their rabbets, dry-fit the sides and shelves, then glue and fasten the shelving unit together.

Session 3: Top, Shaping, and Finishing
Students complete the shelving unit and prepare it for use at home.

Topics

Router table demo and use of a roundover bit
Attaching the top with glue, countersunk screws, and dowel plugs
Sanding for a smooth finish
Choosing a stain or varnish to protect the piece from chips and scratches

Hands-On Project
Students round over and attach the top, then sand their finished bookshelf, leaving with a completed piece ready to finish at home.

Course Outcomes
Students gain:

Confidence using the jointer, planer, table saw, dado stack, crosscut sled, and router table
Understanding of how to mill rough lumber into square, accurate parts
Experience with rabbet joinery and screw-and-dowel assembly
A finished pine bookshelf they built from rough stock

Provided
All materials including white pine, poplar dowels, wood screws, and glue, plus tools, safety equipment, and instruction.

What to Bring
Closed-toe shoes and hair tied back. All other gear will be provided.

Laser Basics with Erik (Tuesday, December 08, 2026)

Tue, 08 Dec 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Cost: Members $65/Non-members $89

Age: 18+

Prerequisites: N/A

Credentials: Laser Cutter Safety

Recommended Follow Up Classes: Inkscape for CNC, Plasma Cutter, Intro to Wood Shop

The course content includes:

Startup Procedure
Overview of what CAD is
Overview of what CAM is
Quick overview of what gcode is
How the laser cutter functions
How to prep a file for the laser cutter
Cutting versus engraving and vector versus raster
What materials can be cut
Tolerances
Kerf of the cut
Power and Speeds calculations
Troubleshooting
Where to source materials

Gundam Build Club (Gunpla Meetup) (Sunday, December 13, 2026)

Sun, 13 Dec 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Join us for a laid-back, drop-in model-building session, held the second Sunday of every month. Gunpla (short for "Gundam plastic model") is the hobby of building plastic model kits based on robots from the Gundam anime series. Most kits snap together with no glue required, ranging from simple beginner builds to detailed kits people paint and customize. Come work on your own kit at your own pace and meet other builders.

When: Second Sunday of each month, 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Where: MakerspaceCT, 960 Main St, Hartford, CT 06103

Who's it for: All skill levels welcome, from first-time builders to experienced modelers.

What to bring: Your own kit and your own tools. Storage space is available on-site for regulars.

Cost: Free, drop-in, no membership required.

Women’s Utensil Workshop (Monday, December 14, 2026)

Mon, 14 Dec 2026 21:30:00 GMT

Kitchen Utensil Workshop

About the Class

Design and make your own hardwood kitchen utensil in this hands-on, single-session workshop. You’ll start from a solid hardwood block, sketch an original design, cut it into a three-dimensional shape on the bandsaw, and sand it to a smooth, polished finish. No experience required. It makes a great handmade gift for the holidays.

Session: Design, Cut, and Sand

Topics

Bandsaw safety demo
Sketching a kitchen utensil of your own design
Cutting a block on one axis, then rotating and re-taping it to safely cut a complex 3D shape
Shaping and smoothing with the spindle sander and disc and belt sanders
Final polishing with a handheld orbital sander
Optional drill press use for a hanging hole

Hands-On Project
Students sketch, cut, shape, and sand their own design, leaving with a finished kitchen utensil and blueprints to make more at home.

Course Outcomes
Students gain:

Confidence using the bandsaw, including safe compound cuts
Experience with the spindle, disc, belt, and orbital sanders
Understanding of how to turn a 2D sketch into a 3D wooden object
A handmade kitchen utensil of their own design, plus blueprints for future builds

Provided
All materials including a hardwood blank (options include sapele, maple, oak, and cherry), tape, sanding supplies, tools, safety equipment, and instruction.

What to Bring
Closed-toe shoes and hair tied back. All other gear will be provided.

Introduction to Blacksmithing with Mike (Monday, December 14, 2026)

Mon, 14 Dec 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Introduction to Blacksmithing with Mike
One Session: 2.5 Hours
Prerequisite: NONE

Course Objectives:

Demonstrate a thorough understanding of the safety procedures of the forge area.
Understand the function, purpose, and proper use of the tools of the forge area.
Develop a baseline confidence using the tools and the basic techniques of forging.

Outcomes:

General understanding of forge safety and basic techniques, 1 x
Take home project: completed bottle opener or pair of tongs

All safety equipment and materials are provided!

No experience required. Please note that MakerspaceCT's Metal Shop is an 18+ space.

Women's OPEN HOURS Wood Shop (Monday, December 14, 2026)

Mon, 14 Dec 2026 23:30:00 GMT

Women’s OPEN HOURS Wood Shop

Women’s Open Wood Shop Hours provide a dedicated, women-centered space for current members and certified drop-in participants to build, practice, and gain confidence in the woodshop.

These sessions are designed for individuals who have already completed the Wood Shop Safety Certification and are looking for supported shop time. A trained staff member will be on hand throughout the session to assist with tool use, answer questions, provide light guidance on projects, and help reinforce safe practices. This is not a structured class, but rather supervised open build time.

The goal of Women’s Open Wood Shop Hours is to increase access, confidence, and skill development in a supportive environment where participants can work independently while still having technical support available when needed.

Participation is open to:

Members in good standing who have completed Wood Shop Safety Certification
Non-members who have completed the Women's Woodworking Workshop Series or the Women’s Wood Shop Safety Certification and register through the drop-in option

All participants must follow MakerspaceCT safety policies and shop guidelines. A respectful, inclusive environment is expected at all times.

Intro to Onshape: Get Started with 3D Modeling (Tuesday, December 15, 2026)

Tue, 15 Dec 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Are you ready to bring your ideas to life with cutting-edge design tools? Join our Intro to Onshape Class at MakerspaceCT and dive into the exciting world of Computer-Aided Design (CAD). Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to refresh your skills, this class is perfect for you!

This class is designed as an introductory session, providing a foundational understanding of Onshape. It is not a comprehensive course but rather a stepping stone to get you started. Participants will gain basic skills in sketching, 3D modeling, and exporting designs for use with other MakerspaceCT tools and equipment, equipping them with the essential knowledge to explore further on their own or in more advanced classes. This session aims to ignite your interest and confidence in CAD, paving the way for deeper learning and more complex projects in the future.

Onshape is a powerful, cloud-based Computer-Aided Design (CAD) platform that enables users to create, edit, and share 3D models collaboratively in real-time. With professional-grade features accessible from any device, Onshape revolutionizes the way designers and engineers work together. Onshape offers free accounts, as well as paid accounts, details of which will be covered in the class.

What You’ll Learn:

Setting up an account
Getting Started: Navigate the Onshape interface with ease.
Basic Sketching: Create precise 2D sketches.
3D Modeling: Transform your sketches into 3D models.
Exporting STLs for 3D printing
Exporting DXFs for laser cutting, plasma CNC cutting, etc

Machine Shop Safety Certification with Greg (Members Only) (Thursday, December 17, 2026)

Thu, 17 Dec 2026 23:00:00 GMT

This machine shop program at MakerspaceCT is currently limited to no more than three (3) participants at a time.

NOTE: You must be a member in good standing to take Safety Certification classes.

Kitchen Utensil Workshop (Monday, December 21, 2026)

Mon, 21 Dec 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Kitchen Utensil Workshop

About the Class

Session: Design, Cut, and Sand

Topics

Bandsaw safety demo
Sketching a kitchen utensil of your own design
Cutting a block on one axis, then rotating and re-taping it to safely cut a complex 3D shape
Shaping and smoothing with the spindle sander and disc and belt sanders
Final polishing with a handheld orbital sander
Optional drill press use for a hanging hole

Hands-On Project
Students sketch, cut, shape, and sand their own design, leaving with a finished kitchen utensil and blueprints to make more at home.

Course Outcomes
Students gain:

Confidence using the bandsaw, including safe compound cuts
Experience with the spindle, disc, belt, and orbital sanders
Understanding of how to turn a 2D sketch into a 3D wooden object
A handmade kitchen utensil of their own design, plus blueprints for future builds

Provided
All materials including a hardwood blank (options include sapele, maple, oak, and cherry), tape, sanding supplies, tools, safety equipment, and instruction.

What to Bring
Closed-toe shoes and hair tied back. All other gear will be provided.

3D Printing Certification (Members Only) (Tuesday, January 05, 2027)

Tue, 05 Jan 2027 23:00:00 GMT

Prerequisites: Members Only

Credentials: 3D Printing Certification

The course content includes:

Best practices for slicing
Where to find models for printing
Overview of what can and cannot be printed on our machines
Policies for machine use
Basic troubleshooting

This program allows for one hour of instruction and one hour of printing and troubleshooting with the 3D Printers.

Gundam Build Club (Gunpla Meetup) (Sunday, January 10, 2027)

Sun, 10 Jan 2027 17:00:00 GMT

When: Second Sunday of each month, 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Where: MakerspaceCT, 960 Main St, Hartford, CT 06103

Who's it for: All skill levels welcome, from first-time builders to experienced modelers.

What to bring: Your own kit and your own tools. Storage space is available on-site for regulars.

Cost: Free, drop-in, no membership required.

Women's Woodworking Workshop Series (Monday, January 11, 2027)

Mon, 11 Jan 2027 23:00:00 GMT

Women’s Woodworking: Introductory Skills Workshop

About the Class
Join us for a women-centered woodworking workshop that introduces core shop skills in a supportive, encouraging environment. You’ll learn the basics of tool safety, measurement, cutting, sanding, and project assembly while working on a guided project designed for beginners. This class is for adults 18+ only.

Session 1: Intro to Joinery and Tool Confidence

Students are introduced to foundational joinery techniques and shop navigation.

Topics
• Wood grain basics and why certain joints fail
• Non-hardware joinery methods
• Instructor demonstrations: dado and lap joints on the bandsaw and table saw
• Measurement, layout, and planning

Hands-On Project
Students practice creating joints, then build a small glued-and-doweled project using 2x4 material.

Session 2: Making a Bandsaw Box

Students begin an intermediate project that introduces milling, shaping, and more intricate cuts.

Topics
• Selecting appropriate hardwood
• Instructor demonstrations: safe and accurate use of the planer and table saw for material prep
• Using the bandsaw with jigs and fences
• Cutting the outer form and internal drawer cavity

Hands-On Project
Students prep their wood block and begin shaping the box components.

Session 3: Assembly and Finishing

Students complete and refine their bandsaw box.

Topics
• Gluing, shaping, and sanding workflows
• Wax and finish application
• Review of key techniques and next-step skills

Hands-On Project
Final assembly, sanding, and finishing of the completed bandsaw box.

Course Outcomes

Students gain:
• Practical joinery knowledge
• Exposure to planer and table saw operation through instructor demonstrations
• Greater bandsaw confidence and accuracy
• Two hands-on projects showcasing both beginner and intermediate woodworking skills
• A supportive, women-centered environment designed to build confidence and independence in the woodshop

Provided
Tools, materials, safety equipment, and instruction.

What to Bring
Closed-toe shoes and hair tied back. All other gear will be provided.

Laser Basics with Erik (Tuesday, January 12, 2027)

Tue, 12 Jan 2027 23:00:00 GMT

Cost: Members $65/Non-members $89

Age: 18+

Prerequisites: N/A

Credentials: Laser Cutter Safety

Recommended Follow Up Classes: Inkscape for CNC, Plasma Cutter, Intro to Wood Shop

The course content includes:

Startup Procedure
Overview of what CAD is
Overview of what CAM is
Quick overview of what gcode is
How the laser cutter functions
How to prep a file for the laser cutter
Cutting versus engraving and vector versus raster
What materials can be cut
Tolerances
Kerf of the cut
Power and Speeds calculations
Troubleshooting
Where to source materials

Women's Woodworking Workshop Series 2 (Wednesday, January 13, 2027)

Wed, 13 Jan 2027 23:00:00 GMT

Women’s Woodworking Series Part Two: Bookshelf Build

Prerequisite
Completion of Women’s Woodworking Series Part One is required to register for this class.

Session 1: Milling and Cutting Stock
Students learn how to turn rough lumber into square, accurately sized parts.

Topics

Orientation and demos on the planer, jointer, table saw, and table saw crosscut sled
Jointing and planing rough boards flat and square
Ripping boards to width on the table saw
Crosscutting parts to length with the crosscut sled
Planing shelves to final thickness

Hands-On Project
Students mill their rough-cut pine and cut all sides and shelves to size.

Session 2: Joinery and Assembly
Students cut the joints that hold the shelves in place and assemble the unit.

Topics

Cutting rabbets with a dado stack on the table saw
Optional bandsaw work to cut custom leg profiles
Dry-fitting and checking for level with a speed square and level
Gluing, drilling and countersinking, screwing, and covering screws with dowel plugs

Hands-On Project
Students cut their rabbets, dry-fit the sides and shelves, then glue and fasten the shelving unit together.

Session 3: Top, Shaping, and Finishing
Students complete the shelving unit and prepare it for use at home.

Topics

Router table demo and use of a roundover bit
Attaching the top with glue, countersunk screws, and dowel plugs
Sanding for a smooth finish
Choosing a stain or varnish to protect the piece from chips and scratches

Hands-On Project
Students round over and attach the top, then sand their finished bookshelf, leaving with a completed piece ready to finish at home.

Course Outcomes
Students gain:

Confidence using the jointer, planer, table saw, dado stack, crosscut sled, and router table
Understanding of how to mill rough lumber into square, accurate parts
Experience with rabbet joinery and screw-and-dowel assembly
A finished pine bookshelf they built from rough stock

Provided
All materials including white pine, poplar dowels, wood screws, and glue, plus tools, safety equipment, and instruction.

What to Bring
Closed-toe shoes and hair tied back. All other gear will be provided.

Intro to Onshape: Get Started with 3D Modeling (Tuesday, January 19, 2027)

Tue, 19 Jan 2027 23:00:00 GMT

What You’ll Learn:

Setting up an account
Getting Started: Navigate the Onshape interface with ease.
Basic Sketching: Create precise 2D sketches.
3D Modeling: Transform your sketches into 3D models.
Exporting STLs for 3D printing
Exporting DXFs for laser cutting, plasma CNC cutting, etc

Women's Woodworking Workshop Series 2 (Wednesday, January 20, 2027)

Wed, 20 Jan 2027 23:00:00 GMT

Women’s Woodworking Series Part Two: Bookshelf Build

Prerequisite
Completion of Women’s Woodworking Series Part One is required to register for this class.

Session 1: Milling and Cutting Stock
Students learn how to turn rough lumber into square, accurately sized parts.

Topics

Orientation and demos on the planer, jointer, table saw, and table saw crosscut sled
Jointing and planing rough boards flat and square
Ripping boards to width on the table saw
Crosscutting parts to length with the crosscut sled
Planing shelves to final thickness

Hands-On Project
Students mill their rough-cut pine and cut all sides and shelves to size.

Session 2: Joinery and Assembly
Students cut the joints that hold the shelves in place and assemble the unit.

Topics

Cutting rabbets with a dado stack on the table saw
Optional bandsaw work to cut custom leg profiles
Dry-fitting and checking for level with a speed square and level
Gluing, drilling and countersinking, screwing, and covering screws with dowel plugs

Hands-On Project
Students cut their rabbets, dry-fit the sides and shelves, then glue and fasten the shelving unit together.

Session 3: Top, Shaping, and Finishing
Students complete the shelving unit and prepare it for use at home.

Topics

Router table demo and use of a roundover bit
Attaching the top with glue, countersunk screws, and dowel plugs
Sanding for a smooth finish
Choosing a stain or varnish to protect the piece from chips and scratches

Hands-On Project
Students round over and attach the top, then sand their finished bookshelf, leaving with a completed piece ready to finish at home.

Course Outcomes
Students gain:

Confidence using the jointer, planer, table saw, dado stack, crosscut sled, and router table
Understanding of how to mill rough lumber into square, accurate parts
Experience with rabbet joinery and screw-and-dowel assembly
A finished pine bookshelf they built from rough stock

Provided
All materials including white pine, poplar dowels, wood screws, and glue, plus tools, safety equipment, and instruction.

What to Bring
Closed-toe shoes and hair tied back. All other gear will be provided.

Women's Woodworking Workshop Series (Monday, January 25, 2027)

Mon, 25 Jan 2027 23:00:00 GMT

Women’s Woodworking: Introductory Skills Workshop

Session 1: Intro to Joinery and Tool Confidence

Students are introduced to foundational joinery techniques and shop navigation.

Hands-On Project
Students practice creating joints, then build a small glued-and-doweled project using 2x4 material.

Session 2: Making a Bandsaw Box

Students begin an intermediate project that introduces milling, shaping, and more intricate cuts.

Hands-On Project
Students prep their wood block and begin shaping the box components.

Session 3: Assembly and Finishing

Students complete and refine their bandsaw box.

Topics
• Gluing, shaping, and sanding workflows
• Wax and finish application
• Review of key techniques and next-step skills

Hands-On Project
Final assembly, sanding, and finishing of the completed bandsaw box.

Course Outcomes

Provided
Tools, materials, safety equipment, and instruction.

What to Bring
Closed-toe shoes and hair tied back. All other gear will be provided.

3D Printing Certification (Members Only) (Tuesday, January 26, 2027)

Tue, 26 Jan 2027 23:00:00 GMT

Prerequisites: Members Only

Credentials: 3D Printing Certification

The course content includes:

Best practices for slicing
Where to find models for printing
Overview of what can and cannot be printed on our machines
Policies for machine use
Basic troubleshooting

This program allows for one hour of instruction and one hour of printing and troubleshooting with the 3D Printers.

Women's Woodworking Workshop Series 2 (Wednesday, January 27, 2027)

Wed, 27 Jan 2027 23:00:00 GMT

Women’s Woodworking Series Part Two: Bookshelf Build

Prerequisite
Completion of Women’s Woodworking Series Part One is required to register for this class.

Session 1: Milling and Cutting Stock
Students learn how to turn rough lumber into square, accurately sized parts.

Topics

Orientation and demos on the planer, jointer, table saw, and table saw crosscut sled
Jointing and planing rough boards flat and square
Ripping boards to width on the table saw
Crosscutting parts to length with the crosscut sled
Planing shelves to final thickness

Hands-On Project
Students mill their rough-cut pine and cut all sides and shelves to size.

Session 2: Joinery and Assembly
Students cut the joints that hold the shelves in place and assemble the unit.

Topics

Cutting rabbets with a dado stack on the table saw
Optional bandsaw work to cut custom leg profiles
Dry-fitting and checking for level with a speed square and level
Gluing, drilling and countersinking, screwing, and covering screws with dowel plugs

Hands-On Project
Students cut their rabbets, dry-fit the sides and shelves, then glue and fasten the shelving unit together.

Session 3: Top, Shaping, and Finishing
Students complete the shelving unit and prepare it for use at home.

Topics

Router table demo and use of a roundover bit
Attaching the top with glue, countersunk screws, and dowel plugs
Sanding for a smooth finish
Choosing a stain or varnish to protect the piece from chips and scratches

Hands-On Project
Students round over and attach the top, then sand their finished bookshelf, leaving with a completed piece ready to finish at home.

Course Outcomes
Students gain:

Confidence using the jointer, planer, table saw, dado stack, crosscut sled, and router table
Understanding of how to mill rough lumber into square, accurate parts
Experience with rabbet joinery and screw-and-dowel assembly
A finished pine bookshelf they built from rough stock

Provided
All materials including white pine, poplar dowels, wood screws, and glue, plus tools, safety equipment, and instruction.

What to Bring
Closed-toe shoes and hair tied back. All other gear will be provided.

Women's Woodworking Workshop Series (Monday, February 01, 2027)

Mon, 01 Feb 2027 23:00:00 GMT

Women’s Woodworking: Introductory Skills Workshop

Session 1: Intro to Joinery and Tool Confidence

Students are introduced to foundational joinery techniques and shop navigation.

Hands-On Project
Students practice creating joints, then build a small glued-and-doweled project using 2x4 material.

Session 2: Making a Bandsaw Box

Students begin an intermediate project that introduces milling, shaping, and more intricate cuts.

Hands-On Project
Students prep their wood block and begin shaping the box components.

Session 3: Assembly and Finishing

Students complete and refine their bandsaw box.

Topics
• Gluing, shaping, and sanding workflows
• Wax and finish application
• Review of key techniques and next-step skills

Hands-On Project
Final assembly, sanding, and finishing of the completed bandsaw box.

Course Outcomes

Provided
Tools, materials, safety equipment, and instruction.

What to Bring
Closed-toe shoes and hair tied back. All other gear will be provided.

Intro to MIG Welding with Mark (Saturday, February 06, 2027)

Sat, 06 Feb 2027 14:00:00 GMT

Cost: Members $155/Non-members $179

Age: 18+

Prerequisites: N/A

Credentials: MIG Welding Safety

Recommended Follow up Classes: TIG Welding, Plasma Cutter

The course content includes:

Proper attire and safety
Basics of welding
Purpose of MIG welding
LOTS of hands-on practice

Materials Included: A variety of metals to experiment on, as well as all machines, consumables, safety equipment, and accessories. Participants are welcome to bring their own supplies!

PLEASE NOTE! Welding is close, detailed work. If you need corrective lenses to see close objects, such as reading glasses or bifocals, please bring them.

Intro to MIG Welding with Mark (Saturday, February 13, 2027)

Sat, 13 Feb 2027 14:00:00 GMT

Cost: Members $155/Non-members $179

Age: 18+

Prerequisites: N/A

Credentials: MIG Welding Safety

Recommended Follow up Classes: TIG Welding, Plasma Cutter

The course content includes:

Proper attire and safety
Basics of welding
Purpose of MIG welding
LOTS of hands-on practice

Materials Included: A variety of metals to experiment on, as well as all machines, consumables, safety equipment, and accessories. Participants are welcome to bring their own supplies!

PLEASE NOTE! Welding is close, detailed work. If you need corrective lenses to see close objects, such as reading glasses or bifocals, please bring them.

Gundam Build Club (Gunpla Meetup) (Sunday, February 14, 2027)

Sun, 14 Feb 2027 17:00:00 GMT

When: Second Sunday of each month, 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Where: MakerspaceCT, 960 Main St, Hartford, CT 06103

Who's it for: All skill levels welcome, from first-time builders to experienced modelers.

What to bring: Your own kit and your own tools. Storage space is available on-site for regulars.

Cost: Free, drop-in, no membership required.

Intro to MIG Welding with Mark (Saturday, February 27, 2027)

Sat, 27 Feb 2027 14:00:00 GMT

Cost: Members $155/Non-members $179

Age: 18+

Prerequisites: N/A

Credentials: MIG Welding Safety

Recommended Follow up Classes: TIG Welding, Plasma Cutter

The course content includes:

Proper attire and safety
Basics of welding
Purpose of MIG welding
LOTS of hands-on practice

Materials Included: A variety of metals to experiment on, as well as all machines, consumables, safety equipment, and accessories. Participants are welcome to bring their own supplies!

PLEASE NOTE! Welding is close, detailed work. If you need corrective lenses to see close objects, such as reading glasses or bifocals, please bring them.

Intro to MIG Welding with Mark (Saturday, March 06, 2027)

Sat, 06 Mar 2027 14:00:00 GMT

Cost: Members $155/Non-members $179

Age: 18+

Prerequisites: N/A

Credentials: MIG Welding Safety

Recommended Follow up Classes: TIG Welding, Plasma Cutter

The course content includes:

Proper attire and safety
Basics of welding
Purpose of MIG welding
LOTS of hands-on practice

Materials Included: A variety of metals to experiment on, as well as all machines, consumables, safety equipment, and accessories. Participants are welcome to bring their own supplies!

PLEASE NOTE! Welding is close, detailed work. If you need corrective lenses to see close objects, such as reading glasses or bifocals, please bring them.

Gundam Build Club (Gunpla Meetup) (Sunday, March 14, 2027)

Sun, 14 Mar 2027 16:00:00 GMT

When: Second Sunday of each month, 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Where: MakerspaceCT, 960 Main St, Hartford, CT 06103

Who's it for: All skill levels welcome, from first-time builders to experienced modelers.

What to bring: Your own kit and your own tools. Storage space is available on-site for regulars.

Cost: Free, drop-in, no membership required.

Intro to MIG Welding with Mark (Saturday, March 20, 2027)

Sat, 20 Mar 2027 13:00:00 GMT

Cost: Members $155/Non-members $179

Age: 18+

Prerequisites: N/A

Credentials: MIG Welding Safety

Recommended Follow up Classes: TIG Welding, Plasma Cutter

The course content includes:

Proper attire and safety
Basics of welding
Purpose of MIG welding
LOTS of hands-on practice

Materials Included: A variety of metals to experiment on, as well as all machines, consumables, safety equipment, and accessories. Participants are welcome to bring their own supplies!

PLEASE NOTE! Welding is close, detailed work. If you need corrective lenses to see close objects, such as reading glasses or bifocals, please bring them.

Gundam Build Club (Gunpla Meetup) (Sunday, April 11, 2027)

Sun, 11 Apr 2027 16:00:00 GMT

When: Second Sunday of each month, 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Where: MakerspaceCT, 960 Main St, Hartford, CT 06103

Who's it for: All skill levels welcome, from first-time builders to experienced modelers.

What to bring: Your own kit and your own tools. Storage space is available on-site for regulars.

Cost: Free, drop-in, no membership required.