Upcoming Events

3D Design Skills: Sketching
Exploration Commons
Wednesday, November 6, 2024 - 5:30pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Ready to take your 3D design skills to the next level? In this comprehensive, hands-on session in Onshape, a powerful cloud-based computer-aided design (CAD) platform, we will explore the sketch tools available for creating the foundations of our 3D designs.

Advanced Laser Cutting: Precision Techniques
Exploration Commons
Thursday, November 7, 2024 - 10:00am - 12:00pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
We will discuss precision techniques to improve your laser project outcomes. Topics will include centering-point alignment, printed registration marks, using jigs or templates, and the importance of maintaining a settings notebook. Exploration Commons Laser certification is required prior to attending this program. This class is appropriate for individuals who have made their own projects on the laser. 

Festive Fall Charcuterie Board for Two: Day One
Exploration Commons
Thursday, November 7, 2024 - 5:30pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Step up your fall snacking game with this two-session hybrid makerspace/teaching kitchen class! On day one, we'll use design software and our Fusion Pro laser cutter to make a custom fall-themed or winter-themed charcuterie board. Head to the kitchen on day two to learn how to arrange your charcuterie board artfully. One registration covers two people working collaboratively to design and arrange a single charcuterie board.

Ultimate Holiday Mocktails
Exploration Commons
Friday, November 8, 2024 - 1:00pm - 2:30pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Add some new alcohol-free drink options to your next holiday gathering!

Onshape: Beyond the Basics
Exploration Commons
Saturday, November 9, 2024 - 2:00pm - 4:30pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Ready to take your 3D design skills to the next level? In this project-based session in Onshape, a powerful cloud-based computer-aided design (CAD) platform, we will dive further into fundamental 3D modeling techniques for creating functional designs.

Previous Onshape experience is strongly recommended.

Making for Seniors: Create a Simple Cork Laser Engraving Project
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, November 12, 2024 - 10:00am - 12:00pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Learning new technology should be fun, not intimidating! Join us for a basic hands-on session where we'll create a laser engraved cork project and watch your project being made on our Fusion Pro laser cutter. Previous basic computer experience is required. No previous experience with laser cutting or design software is needed. This class does not result in independent laser use certification.

Cricut: Create a Multi-Colored Project with Vinyl
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, November 12, 2024 - 5:00pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 12 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
In this class, participants will learn how to use Cricut Design Space and a Cricut machine to create and assemble a multi-colored vinyl sticker. All materials will be supplied, and no previous Cricut experience is required.

Irish Soda Breads
Exploration Commons
Wednesday, November 13, 2024 - 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
We will explore the classic Irish soda bread recipes in this hands-on class.

VCarve: Create a Marble Maze with the CNC
Exploration Commons
Thursday, November 14, 2024 - 9:30am - 11:30am
Ages: 12 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Join us for a hands-on session where we create a marble maze on Exploration Commons' Iconic CNC router. Previous basic computer experience is required, but no experience with the CNC router or design software is needed.

This class does not result in independent CNC use certification. 

Intro to Basic Sewing Skills (Skill Level 0)
Exploration Commons
Thursday, November 14, 2024 - 5:00pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 14 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Learn the basics to feel comfortable using a sewing machine. This introductory-level class includes the EC sewing machine certification necessary for many other classes and/or independent sewing machine use in the makerspace.

If you've never touched a sewing machine or a sewing needle, or if it's been years since you've sewed, and you need a refresher on the basics, then this class is for you.

Prerequisite: None

Materials: A sewing machine and all necessary materials will be provided.

Festive Fall Charcuterie Board for Two: Day Two
Exploration Commons
Thursday, November 14, 2024 - 5:30pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Step up your fall snacking game with this two-session hybrid makerspace/teaching kitchen class! On day one, we'll use design software and our Fusion Pro laser cutter to make a custom fall-themed or winter-themed charcuterie board. Head to the kitchen on day two to learn how to arrange your charcuterie board artfully. One registration covers two people working collaboratively to design and arrange a single charcuterie board.

Intro to CNC Routing
Exploration Commons
Friday, November 15, 2024 - 10:00am - 4:00pm
Ages: 12 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
This one-day CNC certification class will introduce you to the design basics, machine use, and safety procedures for our Iconic i2015 CNC Router. We will focus on project design and the VCarve software in the morning session. We will cover machine use in the afternoon, including hands-on time with the CNC machine. There will be a break from 12 - 1 PM between the morning and afternoon sessions.

All program registrants must complete the prerequisite online Iconic CNC Machine Use and Safety Training before attending this program.

At the instructor's discretion, customers who successfully complete this program will be certified to use Exploration Commons' CNC machine. Customers aged 12 to 15 who complete their certification are required to have a certified adult with them to use the CNC router independently.

 

Open Sewing Studio
Exploration Commons
Saturday, November 16, 2024 - 9:30am - 12:30pm
Ages: 14 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Open Sewing Studio is an opportunity to enjoy freestyle sewing with other sewists. Come in and work on your current sewing project in the company of others. A volunteer will be available to answer questions or provide feedback during this program. 

Sewing machines are only available for those certified for independent use. You may bring your own sewing machine to this class; you must have working knowledge of how to operate your machine.

Note: This is not an instructional class; no materials will be provided.

Cooking Together: Soft Pretzels
Exploration Commons
Saturday, November 16, 2024 - 1:00pm - 3:15pm
Ages: 6 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Join us for a hands-on baking class! We’ll learn how to make delicious soft pretzels and a honey mustard dipping sauce to go with them. One registration per group, up to four participants. For groups with children ages six and up, children must be accompanied by an adult. 

Intro to Laser Cutting
Exploration Commons
Monday, November 18, 2024 - 5:00pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 12 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
This beginner-level laser cutter class will walk you through design basics, machine use, and safety procedures. At the instructor's discretion, customers who successfully complete this program will be certified to use the Exploration Commons' Fusion Pro and Fusion Edge laser cutters.

Customers aged 12 to 15 who complete their certification are required to have a certified adult with them to use the laser independently.

Draft - Hold program slot for Josiah's replacement
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, November 19, 2024 - 9:30am - 12:00pm
Ages: 12 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Welcome to the exciting world of 3D design and modeling! In this comprehensive, hands-on session in Onshape, a powerful cloud-based computer-aided design (CAD) platform, we will dive into the fundamental concepts and practical techniques needed to design for 3D printing.

Sewing: Embroidery Machine Basics
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, November 19, 2024 - 5:00pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Get familiar with embroidery machines and the tools and materials you need to create a successful project. Through both lecture and demonstration, learn about Exploration Commons' Bernina 535E Embroidery Machine, types of hoops and stabilizers, and use of embroidery motifs. Attendees may schedule an appointment to complete the Embroidery Machine Independent Certification after completing this class. 

Bake-Along: Classic Pumpkin Roll
Exploration Commons
Wednesday, November 20, 2024 - 10:00am - 12:00pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
This hands-on bake-along class teaches how to make a classic pumpkin roll with cream cheese filling. Participants will take home their delicious dessert to eat or freeze for Thanksgiving. CCPL's Westminster Branch staff member, Tina Mawhinney, and the Exploration Commons Teaching Kitchen will be demonstrating.

Bake-Along: Classic Pumpkin Roll
Exploration Commons
Thursday, November 21, 2024 - 10:00am - 12:00pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
This hands-on bake-along class teaches how to make a classic pumpkin roll with cream cheese filling. Participants will take home their delicious dessert to eat or freeze for Thanksgiving. CCPL's Westminster Branch staff member, Tina Mawhinney, and the Exploration Commons Teaching Kitchen will be demonstrating.

Getting Started with Unity's Create with Code
Exploration Commons
Thursday, November 21, 2024 - 5:30pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 12 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Start your Unity and C# journey with Unity's Create with Code. This class will begin with a review of the course. Then, you will dive into Unit 1 and create a driving simulator by importing assets, simulating gravity, mapping player controls, and more.

While this class only covers Unit 1, participants will be shown how to continue the course independently.

Inclusive Cooks: Glazed Salmon with Veggie Rice
Exploration Commons
Friday, November 22, 2024 - 10:00am - 12:00pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
In this hands-on cooking series for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and people without, we will prepare Baked Salmon with Soy Glaze and a savory veggie and brown rice side dish. 

Laser Engraved Wood Mini Barn Quilts
Exploration Commons
Saturday, November 23, 2024 - 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Color mapping allows you to specify laser settings based on designated colors within your laser cutting design. Learn the basics of color mapping while creating a simple geometric wood barn quilt design. Previous laser design experience is helpful but not required. This class does not result in independent laser cutter use certification.

Intro to Laser Cutting
Exploration Commons
Monday, November 25, 2024 - 5:00pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 12 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
This beginner-level laser cutter class will walk you through design basics, machine use, and safety procedures. At the instructor's discretion, customers who successfully complete this program will be certified to use the Exploration Commons' Fusion Pro and Fusion Edge laser cutters.

Customers aged 12 to 15 who complete their certification are required to have a certified adult with them to use the laser independently.

Sewing Skills: Using Templates
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, November 26, 2024 - 9:30am - 12:30pm
Ages: 14 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Learn how templates can increase sewing speed and accuracy. In this class, we will make a 12" x 18" reversible placemat with mitered corners. 

Series Prerequisites and Required Skills:

• Intro to Basic Sewing Skills and/or have EC sewing machine certification
• can thread a sewing machine and wind a bobbin
• can sew items together with different seam allowances
• have previously sewn items equivalent to the projects in the Beginner Sewing Level 1 classes: small fabric container, lined canvas tote with webbing handles, lined pouch with zipper

Required Materials:

• A sewing machine will be provided
• Students will supply the appropriate fabric, elastic, and thread for their garment
• Fabric 45" wide piece of 100% cotton lightweight home decor fabric, pre-washed and dried
  • 1/2 yard of main fabric
  • 3/4 yard of contrasting fabric for the back and border
• Matching thread

Holiday Take and Bake
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, November 26, 2024 - 10:00am - 12:00pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Get a head start on your Thanksgiving dinner! We do the shopping, and you do the prep. You'll leave with three ready-to-cook-at-home dishes:  Bourbon or Maple Sweet Potatoes, Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pancetta, PA Dutch Potato Bread Filling, and a side of Zesty Cranberry Sauce. Each dish will serve eight to ten people.  

Note: Registration for all three sessions of this program will open on Tuesday, November 12 at 9 AM.

Holiday Take and Bake
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, November 26, 2024 - 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Get a head start on your Thanksgiving dinner! We do the shopping, and you do the prep. You'll leave with three ready-to-cook-at-home dishes:  Bourbon or Maple Sweet Potatoes, Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pancetta, PA Dutch Potato Bread Filling, and a side of Zesty Cranberry Sauce. Each dish will serve eight to ten people.  

Note: Registration for all three sessions of this program will open on Tuesday, November 12 at 9 AM.