Check Currents or the Calendar of Events site for more events.
Food Science in the Kitchen (Part 1): S'more Molecules
Exploration Commons
Friday, October 18, 2024 - 10:30am - 1:00pm
Ages: 12 - 18
More information
Participants will gain foundational knowledge, develop science skills, and explore careers, all in a familiar format – food. This four-part series covers food chemistry, tastes and textures, food production, and manufacturing, with lots of fun experiments along the way. Hands-on learning and product tastings are part of each STEAM-focused session. Part 1 will study chocolate crystallization through tempering chocolate for a candy bar and the effects of heat on sugar molecules by developing a formulation for marshmallows.
Exploration Commons
Friday, October 18, 2024 - 10:30am - 1:00pm
Ages: 12 - 18
More information
Participants will gain foundational knowledge, develop science skills, and explore careers, all in a familiar format – food. This four-part series covers food chemistry, tastes and textures, food production, and manufacturing, with lots of fun experiments along the way. Hands-on learning and product tastings are part of each STEAM-focused session. Part 1 will study chocolate crystallization through tempering chocolate for a candy bar and the effects of heat on sugar molecules by developing a formulation for marshmallows.
Intro to Laser Cutting
Exploration Commons
Saturday, October 19, 2024 - 2:00pm - 4:30pm
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.
Exploration Commons
Saturday, October 19, 2024 - 2:00pm - 4:30pm
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.
Baking Basics: Angel Food Cake
Exploration Commons
Monday, October 21, 2024 - 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Learn to bake a perfect angel food cake from scratch using six simple ingredients. Cakes will cool overnight and be ready for pickup the following day.
Exploration Commons
Monday, October 21, 2024 - 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Learn to bake a perfect angel food cake from scratch using six simple ingredients. Cakes will cool overnight and be ready for pickup the following day.
Roll for Initiative!: Engraved Leather Dice Trays
Exploration Commons
Monday, October 21, 2024 - 4:30pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Roll for initiative! In this Dungeons & Dragons-themed program, attendees will design custom artwork to be engraved on leather dice trays.
Exploration Commons
Monday, October 21, 2024 - 4:30pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Roll for initiative! In this Dungeons & Dragons-themed program, attendees will design custom artwork to be engraved on leather dice trays.
Adobe Illustrator: Beyond the Basics
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, October 22, 2024 - 1:30pm - 3:30pm
Ages: 12 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Join us for a comprehensive two-session Adobe Illustrator program where we further explore the software's capabilities and build on our existing knowledge. Because this class explores more advanced functionality, it is strongly recommended that participants take our Intro to Adobe Illustrator class or complete the following prerequisite videos before the class.
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, October 22, 2024 - 1:30pm - 3:30pm
Ages: 12 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Join us for a comprehensive two-session Adobe Illustrator program where we further explore the software's capabilities and build on our existing knowledge. Because this class explores more advanced functionality, it is strongly recommended that participants take our Intro to Adobe Illustrator class or complete the following prerequisite videos before the class.
Beginner Sewing Level 2: Intro to Garment Construction (Class 3)
Exploration Commons
Wednesday, October 23, 2024 - 9:30am - 12:30pm
Ages: 14 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
This series of sewing classes introduces new or less experienced sewists to beginner sewing information, resources, and hands-on experience.
Exploration Commons
Wednesday, October 23, 2024 - 9:30am - 12:30pm
Ages: 14 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
This series of sewing classes introduces new or less experienced sewists to beginner sewing information, resources, and hands-on experience.
Beginner Sewing Level 2: Intro to Garment Construction introduces the following information and skills:
- fabric types, terminology, and preparation for sewing
- interfacings types, uses, and application
- reading, customizing, and cutting from a commercial pattern
- constructing and finishing a simple garment
This is a series class; you need to register for the first class and attend all three classes.
- Class 1: Choosing, Purchasing, and Preparing Fabrics for Garment Sewing
- Class 2: Measuring the Body, Preparing the Pattern, and Cutting the Fabric
- Class 3: Sewing Slim Cut Lounge Pants
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
- understand the purpose of back-stitching
- 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, some materials, and a commercial sewing pattern will be provided
- Students will supply the appropriate fabric, elastic, and thread for their garment
- Appropriate amount of prewashed and dried fabric for your size*
- Appropriate width and amount of elastic for your size*
- Matching thread*
*Do not purchase fabric, elastic, or thread before the first class.
Creating Jewelry with Makerspace Technology
Exploration Commons
Wednesday, October 23, 2024 - 5:30pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Learn about the types of jewelry you can make with our makerspace technology. We will review the available equipment, selecting appropriate materials, and setting up design files for success. Using Adobe Illustrator and the Epilog Fusion Pro laser, participants will make either a pair of earrings or a necklace to take home. This is an introductory level program; no previous experience with design software or laser cutting (or certification) is required.
Exploration Commons
Wednesday, October 23, 2024 - 5:30pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Learn about the types of jewelry you can make with our makerspace technology. We will review the available equipment, selecting appropriate materials, and setting up design files for success. Using Adobe Illustrator and the Epilog Fusion Pro laser, participants will make either a pair of earrings or a necklace to take home. This is an introductory level program; no previous experience with design software or laser cutting (or certification) is required.
Creating Customized Chocolates: Day Two
Exploration Commons
Thursday, October 24, 2024 - 5:30pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Get festive for fall by learning to create customized chocolates in this two-session class! In session one, we'll create our designs in Fusion 360 and learn about the 3D printing process. In session two, we'll utilize our 3D prints and the makerspace's Vaquform machines to create custom molds. Then, we'll head to the teaching kitchen to learn how to mold chocolate and create our custom chocolates.
Exploration Commons
Thursday, October 24, 2024 - 5:30pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Get festive for fall by learning to create customized chocolates in this two-session class! In session one, we'll create our designs in Fusion 360 and learn about the 3D printing process. In session two, we'll utilize our 3D prints and the makerspace's Vaquform machines to create custom molds. Then, we'll head to the teaching kitchen to learn how to mold chocolate and create our custom chocolates.
Autumn Engraved Tumblers
Exploration Commons
Friday, October 25, 2024 - 1:30pm - 4:00pm
Ages: 13 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Time to celebrate the spooky season with a custom laser-engraved tumbler! No previous laser experience is required.
Exploration Commons
Friday, October 25, 2024 - 1:30pm - 4:00pm
Ages: 13 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Time to celebrate the spooky season with a custom laser-engraved tumbler! No previous laser experience is required.
Group Baking: Monster Rice Krispie Treats
Exploration Commons
Saturday, October 26, 2024 - 10:00am - 11:30am
Ages: 6 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Join the fun as we make Rice Krispie Treats from scratch and then create monsters on a stick! Registration is for one child, one adult, and up to two additional attendees. Please list the names of attendees and the ages of the children.
Exploration Commons
Saturday, October 26, 2024 - 10:00am - 11:30am
Ages: 6 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Join the fun as we make Rice Krispie Treats from scratch and then create monsters on a stick! Registration is for one child, one adult, and up to two additional attendees. Please list the names of attendees and the ages of the children.
Apple Cider Doughnuts & Coffee
Exploration Commons
Monday, October 28, 2024 - 10:30am - 12:30pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Join us for a hands-on baking class! We’ll make Baked Apple Cider Donuts and learn basic baking skills. Then, we'll enjoy our fresh donuts with a coffee tasting.
Exploration Commons
Monday, October 28, 2024 - 10:30am - 12:30pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Join us for a hands-on baking class! We’ll make Baked Apple Cider Donuts and learn basic baking skills. Then, we'll enjoy our fresh donuts with a coffee tasting.
Intro to Roland GS-24 Vinyl Cutter
Exploration Commons
Monday, October 28, 2024 - 5:00pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 12 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Come learn how to use the Roland GS-24 Vinyl Cutter, which can cut 24-inch wide rolls by however long you want! This machine is like the Cricut Maker but can create larger projects like window decals. Participants will learn how to operate the machine, what materials it accepts, and the software required to use it.
Exploration Commons
Monday, October 28, 2024 - 5:00pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 12 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Come learn how to use the Roland GS-24 Vinyl Cutter, which can cut 24-inch wide rolls by however long you want! This machine is like the Cricut Maker but can create larger projects like window decals. Participants will learn how to operate the machine, what materials it accepts, and the software required to use it.
Intro to Basic Sewing Skills (Skill Level 0)
Exploration Commons
Thursday, October 31, 2024 - 9:30am - 12:30pm
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.
Exploration Commons
Thursday, October 31, 2024 - 9:30am - 12:30pm
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.
Books and Bites: Cakesicles and Gothic Fiction
Exploration Commons
Thursday, October 31, 2024 - 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Create chocolate-encased cake pops in our spooky molds and snack on your treats while listening to gothic fiction book talks from Westminster librarians in our teaching kitchen! You'll be able to check out books at the end of class.
Exploration Commons
Thursday, October 31, 2024 - 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Create chocolate-encased cake pops in our spooky molds and snack on your treats while listening to gothic fiction book talks from Westminster librarians in our teaching kitchen! You'll be able to check out books at the end of class.
Ghostly Glow: 3D Printed Nightlights
Exploration Commons
Thursday, October 31, 2024 - 4:30pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Want to spice up your Halloween night decor? In this class, we will 3D model our own ghostly figures that can be rigged up to everyday electronics to create a one-of-a-kind spooky nightlight!
Exploration Commons
Thursday, October 31, 2024 - 4:30pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Want to spice up your Halloween night decor? In this class, we will 3D model our own ghostly figures that can be rigged up to everyday electronics to create a one-of-a-kind spooky nightlight!
Irish Soda Breads
Exploration Commons
Saturday, November 2, 2024 - 9:30am - 11:30am
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
We will explore the classic Irish soda bread recipes in this hands-on class.
Exploration Commons
Saturday, November 2, 2024 - 9:30am - 11:30am
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
We will explore the classic Irish soda bread recipes in this hands-on class.
Cooking for Wellness: Diabetes Awareness Month
Exploration Commons
Monday, November 4, 2024 - 1:30pm - 3:30pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
The holiday season involves cooking up our favorite dishes, but this can be difficult for those with blood sugar troubles. For Diabetes Awareness Month, we will make low-carb stuffing for the holidays and discuss basic nutrition with diabetes. This class is provided through The Partnership for a Healthier Carroll County and Carroll Hospital.
Exploration Commons
Monday, November 4, 2024 - 1:30pm - 3:30pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
The holiday season involves cooking up our favorite dishes, but this can be difficult for those with blood sugar troubles. For Diabetes Awareness Month, we will make low-carb stuffing for the holidays and discuss basic nutrition with diabetes. This class is provided through The Partnership for a Healthier Carroll County and Carroll Hospital.
Cooking Together: Empanadas
Exploration Commons
Monday, November 4, 2024 - 5:30pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 6 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Join us for a group cooking class with scratch empanadas. Each registration is for one group, totaling a maximum of four (a minimum of two to a group). This can include children and adults, but all children under age 16 must be accompanied by an adult in the group.
Exploration Commons
Monday, November 4, 2024 - 5:30pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 6 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Join us for a group cooking class with scratch empanadas. Each registration is for one group, totaling a maximum of four (a minimum of two to a group). This can include children and adults, but all children under age 16 must be accompanied by an adult in the group.
Sewing Skills: Sewing with Zippers
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, November 5, 2024 - 9:30am - 12:30pm
Ages: 14 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Learn how to insert zippers like a pro! This technique-based workshop will cover three types of zipper installations: regular, lapped, and invisible.
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, November 5, 2024 - 9:30am - 12:30pm
Ages: 14 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Learn how to insert zippers like a pro! This technique-based workshop will cover three types of zipper installations: regular, lapped, and invisible.
Class 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
- understand the purpose of back-stitching
Materials: A sewing machine and all necessary materials will be provided.
School's Out! Cooking Together: Soft Pretzels
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, November 5, 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.
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, November 5, 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.
DO NOT PUBLISH Laser Rotary Demo: Cutting & Engraving Round Objects
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, November 5, 2024 - 5:30pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 14 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Laser cutting or engraving of round objects like glasses, tumblers, tubes, and other cylindrical items is possible on both laser systems in the fabrication lab. This seminar will explore the rotary fixtures of each system, along with their use cases and design considerations. Prior laser certification and a working knowledge of Adobe Illustrator are required to attend. Participants are encouraged to bring a round object to cut or engrave.
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, November 5, 2024 - 5:30pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 14 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Laser cutting or engraving of round objects like glasses, tumblers, tubes, and other cylindrical items is possible on both laser systems in the fabrication lab. This seminar will explore the rotary fixtures of each system, along with their use cases and design considerations. Prior laser certification and a working knowledge of Adobe Illustrator are required to attend. Participants are encouraged to bring a round object to cut or engrave.
Let's Start a Podcast!
Exploration Commons
Wednesday, November 6, 2024 - 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Do you want to get into podcasting but don't know where to start? This is the class for you! We will cover the basics of the different recording software we offer and introduce the equipment we provide in the Audio/Video Lab.
Exploration Commons
Wednesday, November 6, 2024 - 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Do you want to get into podcasting but don't know where to start? This is the class for you! We will cover the basics of the different recording software we offer and introduce the equipment we provide in the Audio/Video Lab.
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.
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.
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.
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.
