Check Currents or the Calendar of Events site for more events.
3D Printing Techniques: Making Articulated 3D Prints
Exploration Commons
Monday, June 9, 2025 - 5:30pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 14 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
This class will cover the concepts and techniques for creating a basic articulated 3D print. This design allows for your model to have moveable parts, such as the body of a snake or the arm of an octopus. It is recommended to have a base understanding of how to use the 3D design software TinkerCAD or to have taken our Intro to 3D Printing with TinkerCAD class prior to attending this program.
Exploration Commons
Monday, June 9, 2025 - 5:30pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 14 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
This class will cover the concepts and techniques for creating a basic articulated 3D print. This design allows for your model to have moveable parts, such as the body of a snake or the arm of an octopus. It is recommended to have a base understanding of how to use the 3D design software TinkerCAD or to have taken our Intro to 3D Printing with TinkerCAD class prior to attending this program.
Making for Seniors: Engrave a Simple Laserable Leatherette Project
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, June 10, 2025 - 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 use Adobe Illustrator to create a simple project to be engraved on a laserable leatherette pen 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.
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, June 10, 2025 - 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 use Adobe Illustrator to create a simple project to be engraved on a laserable leatherette pen 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.
Fish Tacos
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, June 10, 2025 - 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
In this hands-on class, participants will make flavorful fish tacos with fresh ingredients, paired with homemade flour tortillas.
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, June 10, 2025 - 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
In this hands-on class, participants will make flavorful fish tacos with fresh ingredients, paired with homemade flour tortillas.
Wok Cooking Basics
Exploration Commons
Wednesday, June 11, 2025 - 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
In this hands-on class, gain an introductory understanding of wok cooking and learn how to prepare your recipe for the best results. We will prepare a plant-based recipe to practice the new cooking skill.
Class format: Class capacity is 10 people. Registrants will cook with one other attendee in this class to prepare a dish to share.
Exploration Commons
Wednesday, June 11, 2025 - 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
In this hands-on class, gain an introductory understanding of wok cooking and learn how to prepare your recipe for the best results. We will prepare a plant-based recipe to practice the new cooking skill.
Class format: Class capacity is 10 people. Registrants will cook with one other attendee in this class to prepare a dish to share.
Roll for Initiative!: Engraved Leather Dice Trays
Exploration Commons
Thursday, June 12, 2025 - 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. Do note that the longer class time is to help give additional time to create and refine your artwork for your project. You may bring custom images with you, preferably on a thumb drive, if you already have an idea in mind.
Exploration Commons
Thursday, June 12, 2025 - 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. Do note that the longer class time is to help give additional time to create and refine your artwork for your project. You may bring custom images with you, preferably on a thumb drive, if you already have an idea in mind.
Kids Bake: Hamburger Cupcakes
Exploration Commons
Monday, June 16, 2025 - 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Ages: 8 - 12
Registration and more information
Participants will make "hamburger" cupcakes and learn basic baking skills.
Exploration Commons
Monday, June 16, 2025 - 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Ages: 8 - 12
Registration and more information
Participants will make "hamburger" cupcakes and learn basic baking skills.
3D Design Skills: Sketching
Exploration Commons
Monday, June 16, 2025 - 5:30pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 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 further into the sketch tools and their functions.
Exploration Commons
Monday, June 16, 2025 - 5:30pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 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 further into the sketch tools and their functions.
Dubai Chocolate Bars
Exploration Commons
Monday, June 16, 2025 - 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Attendees will be paired together to make a batch of the viral Dubai Chocolate Bars. These chocolate bars are filled with a mixture of crispy kataifi, pistachio cream, and tahini.
Exploration Commons
Monday, June 16, 2025 - 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Attendees will be paired together to make a batch of the viral Dubai Chocolate Bars. These chocolate bars are filled with a mixture of crispy kataifi, pistachio cream, and tahini.
Beginner Sewing Level 1: Sew a Bucket Bag (Class 5)
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, June 17, 2025 - 9:30am - 12:30pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Get acquainted with the sewing machine and basic tools of the trade. Learn to sew a sturdy bucket bag with a round base. Sew and finish the bag with an incorporated shoulder strap.
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, June 17, 2025 - 9:30am - 12:30pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Get acquainted with the sewing machine and basic tools of the trade. Learn to sew a sturdy bucket bag with a round base. Sew and finish the bag with an incorporated shoulder strap.
Class Prerequisites: Exploration Commons' Sewing Machine Certification
Required Materials: A sewing machine and all materials will be provided.
About Beginner Sewing Level 1: these classes introduce new or less experienced sewists to beginning sewing information and resources with hands-on practice.
Beginner Sewing Level 1 classes introduce and practice the following skills:
- basis sewing tools
- cutting, measuring, and marking fabric
- pressing with an iron
- basting and sewing
You can take Level 1 classes in any order, but beginners will benefit most by taking the first three classes, Class 1, 2, and 3, in sequence.
Cheesesteaks and Cheesecakes
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, June 17, 2025 - 11:00am - 12:30pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Meet Carroll County Public Library's Director Andrea Berstler who will be guest presenting alongside CCPL Board Member Dave O'Callaghan in this cheesy double header: old-fashioned Philly cheesesteaks and individual size cheesecakes for dessert.
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, June 17, 2025 - 11:00am - 12:30pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Meet Carroll County Public Library's Director Andrea Berstler who will be guest presenting alongside CCPL Board Member Dave O'Callaghan in this cheesy double header: old-fashioned Philly cheesesteaks and individual size cheesecakes for dessert.
Learn to Solder: 2 Day Class
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, June 17, 2025 - 4:30pm - 6:00pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Soldering is fun and fundamental to a wide assortment of maker electronic projects and modern technology. From simple light-up LEDs to complex robots, solder is the glue that holds the technological world together. Join us for two hands-on projects where you will assemble and solder your very own simple circuit the first day and then a random dice roller circuit the second day.
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, June 17, 2025 - 4:30pm - 6:00pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Soldering is fun and fundamental to a wide assortment of maker electronic projects and modern technology. From simple light-up LEDs to complex robots, solder is the glue that holds the technological world together. Join us for two hands-on projects where you will assemble and solder your very own simple circuit the first day and then a random dice roller circuit the second day.
What Can I Make?: 3D Printing
Exploration Commons
Wednesday, June 18, 2025 - 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Are you looking to get started in 3D printing? This class will review the basics of the process, software, and machinery we have available in our makerspace.
Exploration Commons
Wednesday, June 18, 2025 - 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Are you looking to get started in 3D printing? This class will review the basics of the process, software, and machinery we have available in our makerspace.
Learn to Solder: 2 Day Class
Exploration Commons
Wednesday, June 18, 2025 - 4:30pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Soldering is fun and fundamental to a wide assortment of maker electronic projects and modern technology. From simple light-up LEDs to complex robots, solder is the glue that holds the technological world together. Join us for two hands-on projects where you will assemble and solder your very own simple circuit the first day and then a random dice roller circuit the second day.
Exploration Commons
Wednesday, June 18, 2025 - 4:30pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Soldering is fun and fundamental to a wide assortment of maker electronic projects and modern technology. From simple light-up LEDs to complex robots, solder is the glue that holds the technological world together. Join us for two hands-on projects where you will assemble and solder your very own simple circuit the first day and then a random dice roller circuit the second day.
Teens Cook: Basic Italian Red Sauce
Exploration Commons
Friday, June 20, 2025 - 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Ages: 13 - 18
Registration and more information
Learn how to make a basic red sauce with fresh (or canned) tomatoes to serve over pasta. Our friends from Ötzi Mediterranean Market & Eatery in Eldersburg have provided us with an authentic family recipe for an easy tomato sauce you can serve over pasta for a quick meal or side dish.
Exploration Commons
Friday, June 20, 2025 - 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Ages: 13 - 18
Registration and more information
Learn how to make a basic red sauce with fresh (or canned) tomatoes to serve over pasta. Our friends from Ötzi Mediterranean Market & Eatery in Eldersburg have provided us with an authentic family recipe for an easy tomato sauce you can serve over pasta for a quick meal or side dish.
Open Sewing Studio (Bring Your Own Sewing Machine)
Exploration Commons
Saturday, June 21, 2025 - 10:00am - 2:00pm
Ages: 16 - 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 sewing projects in the company of others. A volunteer will be available to answer questions or provide feedback during this program. All skill levels are welcome. You must bring your own sewing supplies and tools.
Exploration Commons
Saturday, June 21, 2025 - 10:00am - 2:00pm
Ages: 16 - 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 sewing projects in the company of others. A volunteer will be available to answer questions or provide feedback during this program. All skill levels are welcome. You must bring your own sewing supplies and tools.
Note: This is not an instructional class; no materials will be provided.
This registration is for individuals bringing their own sewing machine. You must have a working knowledge of how to thread and operate your machine to register.
If you want to reserve a sewing machine for use, please register for the other version of this program.
Open Sewing Studio (Reserve a Sewing Machine)
Exploration Commons
Saturday, June 21, 2025 - 10:00am - 2:00pm
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 sewing projects in the company of others. A volunteer will be available to answer questions or provide feedback during this program. All skill levels are welcome. You must bring your own sewing supplies and tools.
Exploration Commons
Saturday, June 21, 2025 - 10:00am - 2:00pm
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 sewing projects in the company of others. A volunteer will be available to answer questions or provide feedback during this program. All skill levels are welcome. You must bring your own sewing supplies and tools.
Note: This is not an instructional class; no materials will be provided.
This registration will reserve a sewing machine for use. You must be certified for independent use to register for this program.
If you want to bring your own sewing machine, please register for the other version of this program.
Intro to Laser Cutting
Exploration Commons
Saturday, June 21, 2025 - 1:30pm - 4:00pm
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, June 21, 2025 - 1:30pm - 4:00pm
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.
Making for Theatre: Creating Props with Electronics
Exploration Commons
Monday, June 23, 2025 - 1:00pm - 3:30pm
Ages: 12 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Are you interested in designing props for theatre? Join this two-day program, where you'll combine 3D printing and LEDs to create an interactive, illuminated prop!
Exploration Commons
Monday, June 23, 2025 - 1:00pm - 3:30pm
Ages: 12 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Are you interested in designing props for theatre? Join this two-day program, where you'll combine 3D printing and LEDs to create an interactive, illuminated prop!
Day One: Plan and design your prop using 3D modeling and 3D printing techniques.
Day Two: Integrate electronics and LEDs to bring your prop to life.
This hands-on program is perfect for anyone curious about merging technology and creativity in theatre.
Adobe Illustrator: Beyond the Basics
Exploration Commons
Monday, June 23, 2025 - 5:30pm - 7:30pm
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
Monday, June 23, 2025 - 5:30pm - 7:30pm
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.
Intro to 3D Printing and Design with TinkerCAD
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, June 24, 2025 - 1:30pm - 3:30pm
Ages: 12 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Learn the basics of using TinkerCAD to design for 3D printing! We'll walk through basic 3D design using TinkerCAD software and create a simple project to be 3D printed. No previous design experience is necessary!
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, June 24, 2025 - 1:30pm - 3:30pm
Ages: 12 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Learn the basics of using TinkerCAD to design for 3D printing! We'll walk through basic 3D design using TinkerCAD software and create a simple project to be 3D printed. No previous design experience is necessary!
Adobe Illustrator: Beyond the Basics
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, June 24, 2025 - 5:30pm - 7:30pm
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, June 24, 2025 - 5:30pm - 7:30pm
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.
Introduction to Onshape & 3D Printing
Exploration Commons
Wednesday, June 25, 2025 - 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Welcome to the world of 3D modeling, design, and 3D printing. In this introductory class, we will review the computer-aided design (CAD) software Onshape by diving into the fundamentals and techniques to make a 3D-printed keychain.
Exploration Commons
Wednesday, June 25, 2025 - 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Welcome to the world of 3D modeling, design, and 3D printing. In this introductory class, we will review the computer-aided design (CAD) software Onshape by diving into the fundamentals and techniques to make a 3D-printed keychain.
Creating Jewelry with Makerspace Technology
Exploration Commons
Wednesday, June 25, 2025 - 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, June 25, 2025 - 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.
Intro to Basic Sewing Skills (Skill Level 0)
Exploration Commons
Thursday, June 26, 2025 - 10:00am - 12:30pm
Ages: 16 - 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, June 26, 2025 - 10:00am - 12:30pm
Ages: 16 - 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.
Baking Basics: Fresh Fruit Tarts
Exploration Commons
Thursday, June 26, 2025 - 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
In this class, we will make sweet and tender Pâte Sucrée Tart Shells and rich Vanilla Pastry Cream, then top them off with beautiful fruit patterns.
Exploration Commons
Thursday, June 26, 2025 - 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
In this class, we will make sweet and tender Pâte Sucrée Tart Shells and rich Vanilla Pastry Cream, then top them off with beautiful fruit patterns.
Custom Engraved Leatherette Business Card Holder with Adobe Illustrator
Exploration Commons
Friday, June 27, 2025 - 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Step up your business card game with a custom engraved leatherette business card holder. We'll learn to use Adobe Illustrator to create a simple design with text and graphics and then watch as your design is engraved using one of our Epilog lasers. Previous laser design experience is helpful, but not required. This class does not result in independent laser cutter use certification.
Exploration Commons
Friday, June 27, 2025 - 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Step up your business card game with a custom engraved leatherette business card holder. We'll learn to use Adobe Illustrator to create a simple design with text and graphics and then watch as your design is engraved using one of our Epilog lasers. Previous laser design experience is helpful, but not required. This class does not result in independent laser cutter use certification.
First Timers Baking Basics: Fresh Fruit Tarts
Exploration Commons
Saturday, June 28, 2025 - 10:00am - 12:00pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
In this class, we will make sweet and tender Pâte Sucrée Tart Shells and rich Vanilla Pastry Cream, then top them off with beautiful fruit patterns.
Exploration Commons
Saturday, June 28, 2025 - 10:00am - 12:00pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
In this class, we will make sweet and tender Pâte Sucrée Tart Shells and rich Vanilla Pastry Cream, then top them off with beautiful fruit patterns.
Registration for this class is for first-time Teaching Kitchen program attendees. Please do not register for this program if you have previously taken one of our kitchen programs.
Foundation Paper Piecing Basics
Exploration Commons
Saturday, June 28, 2025 - 11:00am - 1:00pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Color your world with a beautiful Foundation Paper Piecing (FPP) flying geese bookmark. We will cover the basics and best practices of the FPP technique. This class is recommended for confident beginners who have experience using a sewing machine and sewing tools. Materials will be provided, but if you'd like a special color scheme or motif, please bring various 2.5" quilting cotton squares.
Exploration Commons
Saturday, June 28, 2025 - 11:00am - 1:00pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Color your world with a beautiful Foundation Paper Piecing (FPP) flying geese bookmark. We will cover the basics and best practices of the FPP technique. This class is recommended for confident beginners who have experience using a sewing machine and sewing tools. Materials will be provided, but if you'd like a special color scheme or motif, please bring various 2.5" quilting cotton squares.
Attendees must be certified on the use of Exploration Commons sewing machines to participate.
Making for Theatre: Creating Props with Electronics
Exploration Commons
Monday, June 30, 2025 - 1:00pm - 3:30pm
Ages: 12 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Are you interested in designing props for theatre? Join this two-day program, where you'll combine 3D printing and LEDs to create an interactive, illuminated prop!
Exploration Commons
Monday, June 30, 2025 - 1:00pm - 3:30pm
Ages: 12 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Are you interested in designing props for theatre? Join this two-day program, where you'll combine 3D printing and LEDs to create an interactive, illuminated prop!
Day One: Plan and design your prop using 3D modeling and 3D printing techniques.
Day Two: Integrate electronics and LEDs to bring your prop to life.
This hands-on program is perfect for anyone curious about merging technology and creativity in theatre.
