Upcoming Events
Check Currents publication (PDF) or the Calendar of Events site for more events.
Engraving Paper: Engraved Paper Gift Bags
Thursday, April 23, 2026 - 5:30pm - 7:30pmAges: 16 - Adults, Adults
Class registration and more information
Join us to give paper engraving a try! We'll review the basics of Adobe Illustrator and Epilog Dashboard, including important things to consider when engraving paper. Each participant will engrave one small craft paper gift bag on our lasers. Great practical practice to keep your laser skills fresh! Previous laser certification is required.
Inclusive Cooks: Tacos
Friday, April 24, 2026 - 10:00am - 12:00pmAges: 16 - Adults, Adults
Class registration and more information
In this hands-on cooking series for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and people without, we will prepare a tasty taco meal.
Custom Wine Glass and Tasting
Saturday, April 25, 2026 - 1:30pm - 4:00pmAges: Adults, 21 and older
Class registration and more information
On day one of this class, we will learn some of the basics of the laser's rotary tool to create a design and engrave it onto stemless wine glasses. On day two, we will do wine tasting in the kitchen! You must be 21 or older to attend; a government-issued photo ID is required. You must also be Laser Certified for this class.
Custom Wine Glass and Tasting
Monday, April 27, 2026 - 5:00pm - 7:30pmAges: Adults, 21 and older
Class registration and more information
On day one of this class, we will learn some of the basics of the laser's rotary tool to create a design and engrave it onto stemless wine glasses. On day two, we will do wine tasting in the kitchen! You must be 21 or older to attend; a government-issued photo ID is required.
Custom Wine Glass and Tasting
Tuesday, April 28, 2026 - 5:00pm - 7:30pmAges: Adults, 21 and older
Class registration and more information
On day one of this class, we will learn some of the basics of the laser's rotary tool to create a design and engrave it onto stemless wine glasses. On day two, we will do wine tasting in the kitchen! You must be 21 or older to attend; a government-issued photo ID is required.
Healthy & Fast Weeknight Dinner
Wednesday, April 29, 2026 - 1:30pm - 3:00pmAges: 15 - Adults, Adults
Class registration and more information
Discover an easy, high-protein meal, Fish en Papillote, that uses a simple cooking technique that keeps fish tender and flavorful. In this hands-on class, you'll create a light dinner that feels restaurant-worthy but fits into any busy weeknight.
Dinner's on Me: Tacos
Wednesday, April 29, 2026 - 5:30pm - 7:00pmAges: 13 - 18
Class registration and more information
Hey, teens, let's meet in the kitchen to prepare a new recipe that will impress your family and friends. Improve your independent cooking skills with hands-on experience in the kitchen. We will prepare a delicious taco dinner that is perfect for a busy weeknight meal.
Beginner Sewing Level 1: Sew a Reversible Drawstring Bag (Class 8)
Thursday, April 30, 2026 - 9:30am - 12:30pmAges: 16 - Adults, Adults
Class registration and more information
Get acquainted with the sewing machine and basic tools of the trade. Learn how to sew a channel onto a fully lined bag and insert drawstrings that will close the bag. Learn about using different fabric combinations to add visual interest and how to use 'boxed bottom' techniques to create a sturdy base.
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:
- basic 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.
Let's Start a Podcast!
Thursday, April 30, 2026 - 2:00pm - 3:30pmAges: 12 - Adults, Adults
Class registration and more information
Do you want to get into podcasting but don't know where to start? Then 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.
Yard Signs on the Roland GS-24 Vinyl Cutter
Friday, May 1, 2026 - 10:00am - 12:30pmAges: 12 - Adults, Adults
Class registration and more information
Discover how to use the Roland GS-24 Vinyl Cutter, a machine capable of cutting 24-inch-wide rolls. The cutter is perfect for creating large window decals, signage, and more. In this hands-on class, participants will design, cut, and apply vinyl to a yard sign, leaving with a finished piece to take home.
Cooking Basics: Pasta Making
Saturday, May 2, 2026 - 2:00pm - 3:30pmAges: 14 - Adults, Adults
Class registration and more information
Learn to make fresh pasta from scratch in this hands-on class! You'll mix, knead, roll, and cut dough while practicing making classic shapes like fettuccine.
Intermediate Laser Project: 3D Topographic Maps
Monday, May 4, 2026 - 1:00pm - 4:00pmAges: 16 - Adults, Adults
Class registration and more information
Learn how to use Adobe Illustrator and the Epilog Fusion Pro laser to create layered, 3D topographical map products. Participants will create a pre-determined example product to bring home. All participants must have previous Adobe Illustrator experience and Laser Certification.
Cooking for Wellness: Mediterranean Sardines on Avocado Toast
Monday, May 4, 2026 - 1:30pm - 3:30pmAges: 15 - Adults, Adults
Class registration and more information
If you think you don’t like sardines, this recipe may change your mind! Enjoy a recipe that makes an excellent breakfast, lunch, or snack and is packed with healthy fats. This recipe will be accompanied by a presentation on healthy fats by a registered dietitian. This class is provided through our partnership with Carroll Hospital.
Cook Together: May the 4th Be with You
Monday, May 4, 2026 - 5:00pm - 7:00pmAges: 6 - Adults, Adults
Class registration and more information
Come join us in celebrating May 4th in the teaching kitchen with some intergalactic fun! We will be making a variety of tasty space-themed snacks to celebrate the day.
This class is designed for groups of up to 3 participants and must include:
- At least one child aged 6–18
- At least one adult
- The remaining spot in the group may be filled by additional participants aged 6 or older or left unfilled.
Intro to Basic Sewing Skills (Skill Level 0)
Tuesday, May 5, 2026 - 9:30am - 12:00pmAges: 16 - Adults, Adults
Class 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.
Laser Skills: Print and Cut
Tuesday, May 5, 2026 - 1:00pm - 3:00pmAges: 16 - Adults, Adults
Class registration and more information
Learn how to print-and-cut with the Epilog Fusion Pro. We will explore how the Epilog's IRIS™ Camera Registration System works for extremely precise cutting and engraving. We will work in Adobe Illustrator to create a print-and-cut file that can be used with the Camera Registration System. Laser certification is required for all attendees. Familiarity with Adobe Illustrator is encouraged.
Intro to Adobe Illustrator
Tuesday, May 5, 2026 - 5:00pm - 7:00pmAges: 14 - Adults, Adults
Class registration and more information
Learn the basic features of Adobe Illustrator. Participants will have the opportunity to learn and explore the program through hands-on instruction. No experience is required.
Intro to CNC
Wednesday, May 6, 2026 - 1:00pm - 7:00pmAges: 12 - Adults, Adults
Class registration and more information
This one-day CNC certification class will introduce you to the design basics, machine use, and safety procedures for our new Makera Carvera desktop CNC machine. This class will cover project design utilizing Makera's congruent software, MakeraCAM, along with other compatible software available at Exploration Commons. There will be a break from 4 to 5 PM.
