Lightbulb logo
  • Slide3092
  • Slide3090
  • Slide3091
  • Slide3093
  • Slide3094

Upcoming Events

Check Currents or the Calendar of Events site for more events.

program233969
Beginner Sewing Level 2: Intro to Garment Construction
Exploration Commons
Thursday, April 24, 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.

program236205
Tea Tasting with the Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled
Online
Thursday, April 24, 2025 - 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Ages: Adults
More information
Sponsored by the Friends of the Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled, Carroll County Public Library, and Tea and Whimsey, this virtual tea-tasting workshop will introduce you to several new teas while exploring their history and flavor profiles!  

The library will mail you three teas to taste for this workshop. You will need the following on hand to get the full benefit of the workshop:

  • Tea provided by the library
  • Hot water to steep the tea
  • Tasting cups

Register for free at https://marylandlibraries.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_R9fCdlUqTlaWVPK4ayCLUQ.

program231711
Cricut Design with Heat Transfer Vinyl
Exploration Commons
Friday, April 25, 2025 - 10:00am - 11:30am
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
We will practice creating digital designs in Adobe Illustrator to be used for the Cricut Maker. In this class, we'll specifically work with heat transfer vinyl and create a small potholder project to put our skills to use!

program234138
Intro to Laser Cutting
Exploration Commons
Monday, April 28, 2025 - 10:00am - 12:30pm
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.

program234937
Intro to CNC Routing
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, April 29, 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.

program233970
Beginner Sewing Level 2: Intro to Garment Construction
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, April 29, 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.

program235790
Lunch Meal Prep: Soba Noodles with Shrimp and Ginger Dressing
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, April 29, 2025 - 5:30pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
This hands-on class will teach you how to prepare perfectly cooked soba noodles, shrimp, and a zesty ginger dressing for a delicious, make-ahead lunch. Participants will make enough to eat in class and a portion to bring home for tomorrow's lunch. 

program236184
Embroidery Machine: In-the-Hoop Projects
Exploration Commons
Wednesday, April 30, 2025 - 5:30pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Check out the in-the-hoop projects you can do on the Bernina 535 Embroidery Machine. In this demo class, learn how you can use the embroidery machine to make bookmarks, gift tags, greeting cards, zipper bags, stuffed toys, photo frames, and more. We will review the different in-the-hoop projects available in our OESD design collection, discuss where to find additional files, and walk through an in-the-hoop project.

program233974
Beginner Sewing Level 1: Make a Thread Catcher (Class 1)
Exploration Commons
Thursday, May 1, 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 about various fabric stabilizers and how to sew different stitches, including sewing in a straight line. Apply these techniques to make a small fabric basket to catch loose threads. 

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 might benefit most from following the Class 1, 2, and 3 sequence.

program240447
Kentucky Hot Browns
Exploration Commons
Thursday, May 1, 2025 - 1:30pm - 3:30pm
Ages: 14 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
The Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwich is a meal-worthy dish that's over-the-top delicious! Make open-faced sandwiches with thick slices of roasted turkey and fresh tomatoes on top of a thick piece of toasted bread, all smothered in a rich, cheesy Mornay sauce, broiled, and topped with crispy bacon. We'll also make a mock mint julep to celebrate the famous horse race.

program235768
Laser Engraved Personal Recipe Card and Box
Exploration Commons
Thursday, May 1, 2025 - 5:00pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Create a kitchen keepsake by turning a handwritten recipe into an engraved wooden recipe card! We'll learn some of the basics of Adobe Illustrator as we create a custom recipe box label and utilize scanning to bring our handwritten recipes into a digital, engravable format. Previous laser design experience is helpful but not required. This class does not result in independent laser cutter use certification.

program236084
Design and Engrave: Gift Box
Exploration Commons
Friday, May 2, 2025 - 11:00am - 1:00pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Customize your own gift box design on our Epilog Fusion Pro Engraver. Participants will create their own designs using images and text in Adobe Illustrator. You will leave with a beautifully engraved gift box, perfect for any occasion. No previous experience is necessary, and laser certification is not required.

This will be a two-part project. Part 2 will be in the EC Teaching Kitchen to fill your gift box with Peanut Butter Fudge and Pecan Brittle.

program236079
Custom Engraved Leatherette Journals
Exploration Commons
Saturday, May 3, 2025 - 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
In this beginner-friendly class, we will utilize our laser engravers to mark a custom design of your own onto a custom leatherette journal! Color variations of the journals are highly limited and will be given out on a first come, first served basis. 

The longer class time is necessary for this program to give ample time for design alterations and customization. 

program234773
Cooking for Wellness: Turkey Tacos
Exploration Commons
Monday, May 5, 2025 - 1:30pm - 3:30pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with a heart-healthy taco recipe that utilizes ingredients native to Mexico. This will be followed by a presentation on heart health and stroke awareness with a registered dietitian and registered nurse. This class is provided through The Partnership for a Healthier Carroll County and Carroll Hospital.

program233918
Intro to Adobe Photoshop
Exploration Commons
Monday, May 5, 2025 - 5:30pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 12 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Learn the basic features of Adobe Photoshop. Participants will have the opportunity to learn and explore the program through hands-on instruction. No experience is required!

program233982
Sewing Skills: Fabric Cutting
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, May 6, 2025 - 10:00am - 12:00pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Learn to use traditional and updated techniques and tools for preparing and cutting fabric. You will leave with the confidence to use a rotary cutter and mat as well as traditional cutting tools. This is a beginner-friendly class; no sewing experience is required.

program235872
Knife Skills Practice: Mediterranean Chickpea and Feta Salad
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, May 6, 2025 - 1:00pm - 2:30pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Sharpen your knife skills! In this hands-on class, participants will make a Mediterranean Chickpea Salad with Feta Cheese to take home while practicing cutting techniques learned in our Basic Knife Skills class. 

program234143
Introduction to Onshape and 3D Printing
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, May 6, 2025 - 5:30pm - 7:30pm
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 key chain.

program234025
Laser Cutting Refresher
Exploration Commons
Wednesday, May 7, 2025 - 10:00am - 11:30am
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 Laser Certification is required.

program236085
Make and Enjoy: Gift Box
Exploration Commons
Wednesday, May 7, 2025 - 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Customize your own gift box design on our Epilog Fusion Pro Engraver. Participants will create their own designs using images and text in Adobe Illustrator. You will leave with a beautifully engraved gift box, perfect for any occasion. No previous experience is necessary, and laser certification is not required.

This will be a two-part project. Part 2 will be in the EC Teaching Kitchen to fill your gift box with Peanut Butter Fudge and Pecan Brittle.

program234099
Design a Book Nook
Exploration Commons
Thursday, May 8, 2025 - 10:00am - 12:00pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Book nooks are fantastical small-scale dioramas that people tuck into their bookshelves for added whimsy. In this class, we will use Adobe Illustrator to create files of the nook space itself, the hidden slot for lights, and tiny additions (fences, shelves, etc) to add to the nook. We will then use the laser cutter to cut all of our pieces. You will take these home to assemble, paint, and complete your nook for your own shelves!

program233978
Beginner Sewing Level 3: Garment Sewing, Set-In Sleeves
Exploration Commons
Thursday, May 8, 2025 - 4:30pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Properly fitting and sewing in sleeves is a challenge for beginning sewists. Learn the necessary steps to sew set-in sleeves without puckers. You will practice these skills by inserting sleeves into a 1/2-scale woven bodice sample.

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 the fitted waistband
program240446
Kentucky Hot Browns
Exploration Commons
Thursday, May 8, 2025 - 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 14 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
The Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwich is a meal-worthy dish that's over-the-top delicious! Make open-faced sandwiches with thick slices of roasted turkey and fresh tomatoes on top of a thick piece of toasted bread, all smothered in a rich, cheesy Mornay sauce, broiled, and topped with crispy bacon. We'll also make a mock mint julep to celebrate the famous horse race.

program233756
Inclusive Cooks: Pan-Seared Pork Chops
Exploration Commons
Friday, May 9, 2025 - 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 Pan-Seared Pork Chops with a simple pan sauce, mashed potatoes, and roasted broccoli. 

program236357
VCarve: Creating a Simple CNC Project
Exploration Commons
Saturday, May 10, 2025 - 10:00am - 12:00pm
Ages: 12 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Join us for a hands-on session where we create and engrave a simple wood project on Exploration Commons' Iconic CNC Router. Previous basic computer experience is required. No experience with the CNC Router or design software is needed. 

This class does not result in independent CNC use certification.

program234144
Blender Basics
Exploration Commons
Monday, May 12, 2025 - 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Learn some of the basics of Blender, an open-source 3D modeling software. Participants will walk through the user interface and controls while making a small project.

program245970
AAPI Celebration: Scallion Pancakes with Jen Yang
Exploration Commons
Monday, May 12, 2025 - 5:30pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 14 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Join us to celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month (AAPI) with Jennifer Yang of Covalent Spirits. Jen will teach her 'taste of home' recipe for making scallion pancakes. Attendees will make their own scallion pancakes while hearing about Jen's childhood memories around cooking, food, and more!

program235728
Making for Seniors: Laser Engrave a Simple Anodized Aluminum Project
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, May 13, 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 anodized aluminum 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.

program233980
Beginner Sewing Level 3: Garment Sewing, Introduction to Jacket Collars & Lapels
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, May 13, 2025 - 4:30pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Learn about the three main types of lapels and how to sew the most common type, a notched lapel. You will practice these skills by inserting sleeves into a 1/2-scale woven bodice sample. The lapel is the collar of a coat or jacket. 

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

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 the fitted waistband
program235866
Practice Your Piping Skills!
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, May 13, 2025 - 5:30pm - 7:15pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
In this class, we will first practice different piping designs on paper. Then, you will use those skills to decorate an 8"x8" single-layer cake with colorful designs, which you can take home.

program234912
Intro to Laser Cutting
Exploration Commons
Wednesday, May 14, 2025 - 4:00pm - 6:30pm
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.

Featured