MakerspaceCT upcoming events

Women's Woodworking Workshop Series (Monday, August 17, 2026)

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 22:00:00 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.

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.

3D Printing Certification (Members Only) (Tuesday, August 18, 2026)

Tue, 18 Aug 2026 22:00:00 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.

Intro to MIG Welding with Mark (Saturday, August 22, 2026)

Sat, 22 Aug 2026 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

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.

Women's Woodworking Workshop Series (Monday, August 24, 2026)

Mon, 24 Aug 2026 22:00:00 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.

Women's Woodworking Workshop Series (Monday, August 31, 2026)

Mon, 31 Aug 2026 22:00:00 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.

Women's OPEN HOURS Wood Shop (Wednesday, September 02, 2026)

Wed, 02 Sep 2026 22:00:00 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 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.

TIG Welding Basics with Mark (Saturday, September 12, 2026)

Sat, 12 Sep 2026 13:00:00 GMT

Age: 18+

Prerequisites: N/A

Credentials: TIG Welding Safety

Take the safety class to get access to the equipment of the TIG welding equipment of MakerspaceCT! TIG welding uses tungsten, inert gas and weld rods to produce precise and attractive welds in steel and aluminum. Get started with the TIG welder, 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 TIG welding
LOTS of hands-on practice

Dress Code: Wear natural fiber clothing, long pants, closed toed shoes (leather or natural fiber). No synthetic fabrics of any kind. Please don't wear loose fitting clothing that could get caught in machinery. Long hair must be tied back. MakerspaceCT provides welding jackets, gloves, masks and helmets with eye protection. Participants are welcome to bring their own PPE.

Materials Included: A variety of metals to experiment on, as well as all machines, consumables, safety equipment, and accessories.

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

Mon, 14 Sep 2026 22:00:00 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.

Women's Woodworking Workshop Series (Monday, September 14, 2026)

Mon, 14 Sep 2026 22:00:00 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.

Women's Woodworking Workshop Series (Wednesday, September 16, 2026)

Wed, 16 Sep 2026 22:00:00 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, September 19, 2026)

Sat, 19 Sep 2026 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.

Women's Woodworking Workshop Series (Monday, September 21, 2026)

Mon, 21 Sep 2026 22:00:00 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.

Women's Woodworking Workshop Series (Wednesday, September 23, 2026)

Wed, 23 Sep 2026 22:00:00 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, September 26, 2026)

Sat, 26 Sep 2026 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.

Introduction to Blacksmithing with Mike (Monday, September 28, 2026)

Mon, 28 Sep 2026 22:00:00 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 Woodworking Workshop Series (Monday, September 28, 2026)

Mon, 28 Sep 2026 22:00:00 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.

Women's Woodworking Workshop Series (Wednesday, September 30, 2026)

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 22:00:00 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.

TIG Welding Basics with Mark (Saturday, October 03, 2026)

Sat, 03 Oct 2026 13:00:00 GMT

Age: 18+

Prerequisites: N/A

Credentials: TIG Welding Safety

The course content includes:

Proper attire and safety
Basics of welding
Purpose of TIG 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.

Women's Woodworking Workshop Series (Monday, October 05, 2026)

Mon, 05 Oct 2026 22:00:00 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.

Women's Woodworking Workshop Series (Wednesday, October 14, 2026)

Wed, 14 Oct 2026 22:00:00 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, October 17, 2026)

Sat, 17 Oct 2026 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.

Women's Woodworking Workshop Series (Monday, October 19, 2026)

Mon, 19 Oct 2026 22:00:00 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.

Women's Woodworking Workshop Series (Wednesday, October 21, 2026)

Wed, 21 Oct 2026 22:00:00 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, October 24, 2026)

Sat, 24 Oct 2026 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.

Women's Woodworking Workshop Series (Monday, October 26, 2026)

Mon, 26 Oct 2026 22:00:00 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.

Women's Woodworking Workshop Series (Wednesday, October 28, 2026)

Wed, 28 Oct 2026 22:00:00 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.