Upcoming Workshops (On-Site)

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• Metal Shop Safety Certification with Peter (Members Only)

  • When
    Friday, October 02, 2026
  •  
    5:30 PM - 9:00 PM
  • Location
    Metal Fab Shop, MakerspaceCT, 36 Talcott Street, Hartford, CT 06103
  • Spaces left
    0

  Join waitlist

  Detailed overview of safety policies and procedures for the Metal Fabrication 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. 

  Machines covered include: bandsaw, jump shear, finger brake, sheet metal notcher, drill press, grinding station, disk sander and more.

  Please note: The Machine Shop, Welding, CNC Plasma and Blacksmithing are covered in separate trainings. 

  This session may end earlier or later than planned based on the number of students and level of training needed.

  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.

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• TIG Welding Basics with Mark

  • When
    Saturday, October 03, 2026
  •  
    9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
  • Location
    36 Talcott Street, Hartford, CT
  • Spaces left
    0

  Join waitlist

  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

  
  

  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.

  
  

  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. 

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• Women's Woodworking Workshop Series

  • Start
    Monday, October 05, 2026
  •  
  • End
    Monday, October 26, 2026
  •  
  • Schedule
    3 sessions
  • Location
    36 Talcott Street, Hartford, CT 06103
  • Spaces left
    0

  Join waitlist

  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.

  
  

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• Wood Shop Safety Certification with Matt

  • When
    Wednesday, October 07, 2026
  •  
    6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
  • Location
    Wood Shop, MakerspaceCT, 36 Talcott Street, Hartford, CT 06103
  • Spaces left
    0

  Registration is closed

  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.

  
  

  
  

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• Gundam Build Club (Gunpla Meetup)

  • When
    Sunday, October 11, 2026
  •  
    12:00 PM - 5:00 PM
  • Location
    MakerspaceCT, 36 Talcott Street, Hartford, CT 06106
  • Spaces left
    19

  Register

  Join us for a laid-back, drop-in model-building session. 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: Sunday, 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.

  Capacity: Limited to 20 builders per session.

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

  Show details
• Metal Shop Safety Certification with Peter (Members Only)

  • When
    Friday, October 16, 2026
  •  
    5:30 PM - 9:00 PM
  • Location
    Metal Fab Shop, MakerspaceCT, 36 Talcott Street, Hartford, CT 06103
  • Spaces left
    2

  Register

  Detailed overview of safety policies and procedures for the Metal Fabrication 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. 

  Machines covered include: bandsaw, jump shear, finger brake, sheet metal notcher, drill press, grinding station, disk sander and more.

  Please note: The Machine Shop, Welding, CNC Plasma and Blacksmithing are covered in separate trainings. 

  This session may end earlier or later than planned based on the number of students and level of training needed.

  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.

  Show details
• Intro to MIG Welding with Mark

  • When
    Saturday, October 17, 2026
  •  
    9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
  • Location
    36 Talcott Street, Hartford CT 06103
  • Spaces left
    1

  Register

  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.

  
  

  
  

  Show details
• Intro to MIG Welding with Mark

  • When
    Saturday, October 24, 2026
  •  
    9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
  • Location
    36 Talcott Street, Hartford CT 06103
  • Spaces left
    2

  Register

  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.

  
  

  
  

  Show details
• Introduction to Blacksmithing with Mike

  • When
    Monday, October 26, 2026
  •  
    6:00 PM - 8:30 PM
  • Location
    Metal Fab Shop, MakerspaceCT, 36 Talcott Street, Hartford
  • Spaces left
    2

  Register

  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.

  Show details
• Wood Shop Safety Certification with Matt

  • When
    Monday, November 02, 2026
  •  
    6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
  • Location
    Wood Shop, MakerspaceCT, 36 Talcott Street, Hartford, CT 06103
  • Spaces left
    3

  Register

  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.

  
  

  
  

  Show details
• Hardwood Cutting Board Workshop (Two Sessions)

  • Start
    Wednesday, November 04, 2026
  •  
  • End
    Wednesday, November 11, 2026
  •  
  • Schedule
    2 sessions
  • Location
    36 Talcott Street, Hartford, CT 06103
  • Spaces left
    2

  Register

  Hardwood Cutting Board Workshop

  About the Class
  Design and build your own custom hardwood cutting board in this hands-on, two-session workshop. Working with cherry, walnut, and maple, students will learn essential woodworking skills while creating a durable, food-safe board from raw stock to finished product.

  Session 1: Material Prep and Glue-Up
  Students learn how to safely prepare and assemble their cutting board components.

  Topics
  • Understanding hardwood selection and grain direction
  • Designing a striped cutting board layout
  • Table saw safety and rip cutting techniques
  • Miter saw use for accurate crosscuts
  • Glue-up process and proper clamping methods

  Hands-On Project
  Students cut their hardwood boards to size, arrange their design, and glue and clamp their cutting board blank.

  Session 2: Milling, Shaping, and Finishing
  Students refine and complete their cutting boards using shop equipment and finishing techniques.

  Topics
  • Planer use to flatten and smooth glued panels
  • Router table techniques for edge profiling
  • Sanding progression for a smooth finish
  • Applying food-safe oil and beeswax finish

  Hands-On Project
  Students plane, shape, sand, and finish their cutting board, leaving with a completed piece ready for use.

  Course Outcomes
  Students gain:
  • Confidence using core woodworking machines including table saw, miter saw, and planer
  • Understanding of wood movement, grain, and glue-up techniques
  • Experience with sanding and finishing workflows
  • A finished hardwood cutting board they designed and built

  Provided
  All materials including cherry, walnut, and maple hardwood, glue, finishing supplies, tools, safety equipment, and instruction.

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

  
  

  Show details
• Wood Shop Safety Certification with Matt

  • When
    Monday, November 16, 2026
  •  
    6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
  • Location
    Wood Shop, MakerspaceCT, 36 Talcott Street, Hartford, CT 06103
  • Spaces left
    4

  Register

  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.

  
  

  
  

  Show details
• Introduction to Blacksmithing with Mike

  • When
    Monday, November 16, 2026
  •  
    6:00 PM - 8:30 PM
  • Location
    Metal Fab Shop, MakerspaceCT, 36 Talcott Street, Hartford
  • Spaces left
    1

  Register

  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.

  Show details
• Introduction to Blacksmithing with Mike

  • When
    Monday, December 14, 2026
  •  
    6:00 PM - 8:30 PM
  • Location
    Metal Fab Shop, MakerspaceCT, 36 Talcott Street, Hartford
  • Spaces left
    3

  Register

  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.

  Show details