Upcoming Events

Intro to Adobe Illustrator
Exploration Commons
Wednesday, April 2, 2025 - 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
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.

Beginner Sewing Level 3: Garment Sewing, Creating a Trouser Fly and Working with a Fitted Waistband
Exploration Commons
Thursday, April 3, 2025 - 9:30am - 12:30pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Learn to sew a sample version of the trouser fly and the difference between a fitted waistband and a straight waistband before completing a pair of trousers. 

Class Prerequisites and Required Skills

• Exploration Commons' Sewing Machine Certification
• thread a sewing machine, wind a bobbin, and troubleshoot tension issues
• sew straight and curved seams while maintaining consistent seam allowance
• know how to read and work with a pattern and cut fabric with care and accuracy
• have a basic understanding of different fabric types and have sewn with a few different types
• have experience sewing a regular zipper

Required Materials

• A sewing machine and materials will be provided

About Beginner Sewing Level 3: Intro to Garment Sewing

This set of classes introduces new or less experienced sewists to beginner sewing information and resources along with hands-on experiences.

This series introduces the following information and skills:

• insert a set-in sleeve
• sewing a collar with a lapel
• sewing a trouser fly
• sewing a fitted waistband

Baking Techniques Two-Day Class: Croissants
Exploration Commons
Thursday, April 3, 2025 - 10:00am - 1:00pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
On day one, participants will learn the basics of dough lamination. On day two, they will bake croissants and pain au chocolat. 

Intro to 3D Printing and Design with Tinkercad
Exploration Commons
Thursday, April 3, 2025 - 5:30pm - 7:30pm
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!

Baking Techniques Two-Day Class: Croissants
Exploration Commons
Friday, April 4, 2025 - 10:00am - 1:00pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
On day one, participants will learn the basics of dough lamination. On day two, they will bake croissants and pain au chocolat. 

Pavlovas
Exploration Commons
Saturday, April 5, 2025 - 10:30am - 2:30pm
Ages: 14 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Named after the Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova, this dessert takes patience but results in a treat with a meringue base, Chantilly cream layer, and berries on top. We will begin the recipe from 10:30 - 11:30 AM and then have a 1.5-hour lunch break. We will return to complete the recipe from 1 - 2:30 PM. 

Cooking for Wellness: Lazy Veggie Sauce
Exploration Commons
Monday, April 7, 2025 - 1:30pm - 3:30pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Meal planning can be challenging for many, and knowing what to do with the leftover veggies at the end of the week can be tricky. We will learn a recipe that uses leftover veggies and the produce that might turn. This recipe will use all those veggies in a nutrition-dense sauce while re-setting your fridge for the next week. We will enjoy our creation while we discuss meal planning and grocery shopping. This class is provided through The Partnership for a Healthier Carroll County and Carroll Hospital.

Adobe Illustrator: Beyond the Basics
Exploration Commons
Monday, April 7, 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.

• Get to Know Illustrator
• Create and Edit Shapes
• Transform and Edit Artwork

Making for Seniors: Introduction to Podcasting
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, April 8, 2025 - 10:00am - 12:00pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Learning new technology should be fun, not intimidating! Join us for a walk-through of our podcasting equipment and software to get you started using our Audio/Video Lab! 

Mastering Marinades: ONE Day Class
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, April 8, 2025 - 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
RESCHEDULED: Discover how a simple marinade can enhance the flavor of your meals. This ONE-DAY class will focus on marinade basics, the ingredients and processes for various proteins and vegetables, and then showcase the marinated foods using a variety of recipes and cooking methods. Recipes include Balsamic Soy Flank Steak, Tandoori Chicken Thighs, Margarita Grilled Shrimp and Chicken Skewers, and Rosemary Honey Cara Cara Oranges. If you were registered for the March 6 class, please contact Exploration Commons to transfer your registration by March 27.

Adobe Illustrator: Beyond the Basics
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, April 8, 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.

• Get to Know Illustrator
• Create and Edit Shapes
• Transform and Edit Artwork

Almond Cookie Day
Exploration Commons
Wednesday, April 9, 2025 - 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Join us for a fun and hands-on almond cookie class in celebration of Almond Cookie Day! Whether you're a baking beginner or a seasoned pro, this class will guide you through the process. Come ready to bake and taste your own batch of almond goodness!

Introduction to Onshape and 3D Printing
Exploration Commons
Thursday, April 10, 2025 - 10:00am - 12:00pm
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.

Beginner Sewing Level 2: Intro to Garment Construction
Exploration Commons
Thursday, April 10, 2025 - 4:30pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 16 - 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
• Interfacing 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.

• Class 1: Choosing, Purchasing, and Preparing Fabrics for Garment Sewing
• Class 2: Measuring the Body, Preparing the Pattern and Fabric, and Cutting the Fabric
• Class 3: Sewing Your Slim Cut Lounge Pants

Series Prerequisites and Required Skills:

• Exploration Commons' 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.

Pairs Cooking: Cioppino (Italian-American Seafood Stew)
Exploration Commons
Thursday, April 10, 2025 - 5:15pm - 7:00pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Make a pot of Cioppino, a hearty Italian-American stew made with a medley of fresh seafood and fish in a rich broth of tomato and wine. Registration is for TWO attendees.  

Laser Engraved Wood Mini Barn Quilts
Exploration Commons
Friday, April 11, 2025 - 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.

Open Sewing Studio (Bring Your Own Sewing Machine)
Exploration Commons
Saturday, April 12, 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. 

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, please register for the other version of 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.

Open Sewing Studio (Reserve a Sewing Machine)
Exploration Commons
Saturday, April 12, 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. 

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

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.

Intro to Laser Cutting
Exploration Commons
Saturday, April 12, 2025 - 1:00pm - 3:30pm
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.

Edge-Lit Acrylic Signs: Easter Edition
Exploration Commons
Monday, April 14, 2025 - 10:00am - 12:00pm
Ages: 12 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
We're taking a twist on everyone's favorite edge-lit signs class! Choose from a selection of Easter-themed cutout designs for your acrylic sign. These bright and colorful projects are a way to display a message or add flare to your room, desk, or workspace. In this program, you’ll laser engrave Easter-themed artwork of your choice onto a piece of clear acrylic and light it up with a provided multi-color LED light stand.

Cooking Together: Empanadas
Exploration Commons
Monday, April 14, 2025 - 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 8 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Join us in our teaching kitchen to make scratch beef empanadas. Each registration is for one group of up to 4 attendees. List the names and ages of all attendees (3 in addition to the registrant) in your group, ages 8 and up. 

Gourmet Deviled Eggs
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, April 15, 2025 - 10:00am - 11:30am
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Unscramble the art of the perfect deviled egg and learn how to add a few twists to spice up this season’s favorite appetizer! We'll walk you through step-by-step instructions on creating five different types of deviled eggs. Explore new fillings and toppings that will wow your family and friends! 

Intro to Basic Sewing Skills (Skill Level 0)
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, April 15, 2025 - 10:00am - 12:00pm
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.

Dinner for Friends
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, April 15, 2025 - 5:30pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Learn how to make a simple, but delicious, vegetarian meal for your friends! We’ll make an appetizer, a dinner salad, and dessert. This class is ideal for beginning cooks! 

Gourmet Deviled Eggs
Exploration Commons
Wednesday, April 16, 2025 - 1:30pm - 3:00pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Unscramble the art of the perfect deviled egg and learn how to add a few twists to spice up this season’s favorite appetizer! We'll walk you through step-by-step instructions on creating five different types of deviled eggs. Explore new fillings and toppings that will wow your family and friends! 

Design an Augmented Reality Project with CoSpaces
Exploration Commons
Wednesday, April 16, 2025 - 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 12 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Augmented reality allows us to combine digital elements with real-world objects. Join us to learn how to create and code a simple augmented reality scavenger hunt. Using CoSpaces Edu, we will walk through a facilitated project build you can share with family and friends. 

Laser Cutting Refresher
Exploration Commons
Thursday, April 17, 2025 - 5:00pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 12 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
If it's been a while since you passed your Exploration Commons laser certification and you could use a refresher on the process, this class is for you! Get a reintroduction to the basics of using our Epilog Fusion Pro and Edge lasers.  

This class is for customers who have already been certified for Exploration Commons independent laser use. This class does not result in independent laser cutter use certification.

Previous Exploration Commons Laser Certification is required.

Kids Cook: Easy Spring Oreo Truffles
Exploration Commons
Friday, April 18, 2025 - 10:00am - 11:00am
Ages: 8 - 12
Registration and more information
Kids will make easy Oreo truffles in three simple steps. They'll mix ingredients, chill, then dip in spring-colored coatings and add some decorative touches! Note: this recipe contains dairy.

Pairs Cooking: Tiramisu
Exploration Commons
Monday, April 21, 2025 - 11:00am - 12:30pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Learn what makes tiramisu an irresistible classic! Participants will learn what tiramisu is and create their very own to take home to share. Registration is one group of two participants. Each pair will make one tiramisu to take home and share.

Intermediate Laser Cutting: Photoshop for Laser Engraving
Exploration Commons
Monday, April 21, 2025 - 5:30pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 12 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
In this class we will focus on editing photos in Adobe Photoshop to get the best results with our Fusion Pro and Fusion Edge laser engravers. 

Laser Certification is required prior to attending this program.

Intro to CNC Routing
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, April 22, 2025 - 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Ages: 12 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
This two-part program will introduce you to design basics, machine use, and safety procedures for our Iconic i2015 CNC Router. Session one will focus on project design and the VCarve software. Session two covers machine use, including hands-on time with the CNC machine.

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

At the instructor's discretion, customers who successfully complete both sessions of 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.

Advanced Laser Cutting: Cardstock, Cardboard, and Fabric
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, April 22, 2025 - 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
This class will discuss using cardstock, cardboard, and fabric with the laser cutters here at Exploration Commons. We will go over how to cut and engrave each material safely and provide helpful tips. Exploration Commons Laser certification is required prior to attending this program.