Check Currents or the Calendar of Events site for more events.
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.
Exploration Commons
Thursday, May 15, 2025 - 9:30am - 12:30pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Get further acquainted with the sewing machine and basic tools of the trade. Learn how to work with different-weight fabrics and sew a boxed corner. Students will also learn about topstitching, reinforcement stitching, and how to use webbing to make bag handles. Apply these skills and more to make a lined canvas tote bag with coordinating handles.
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.
Exploration Commons
Thursday, May 15, 2025 - 10:30am - 12:30pm
Ages: 12 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Join guest presenter Wu Schafer as she shares information and recipes from Indonesia. In this hands-on class, we will prepare an Indonesian dessert dish, Martabak Manis, a stuffed pancake that is a decadent dessert and common street food.
Children ages 12 - 14 may register and attend ONLY if a supervising adult registers and attends with them. An adult can supervise a maximum of two children.
Exploration Commons
Thursday, May 15, 2025 - 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
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.
Exploration Commons
Friday, May 16, 2025 - 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Welcome to the world of 3D modeling and designing. In this introductory class, we will review the computer-aided design (CAD) software Autodesk Fusion by diving into the fundamentals and techniques for making a simple object.
Exploration Commons
Saturday, May 17, 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.
Exploration Commons
Saturday, May 17, 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 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.
Exploration Commons
Saturday, May 17, 2025 - 1:30pm - 3:15pm
Ages: 10 - 14
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.
Exploration Commons
Monday, May 19, 2025 - 4:00pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
This intermediate-level laser design class focuses on creating designs and navigating unique settings on pre-painted paper canvases.
The longer class time is necessary for this program due to the long print times on this material. Fusion Pro Laser Cutter Certification is required prior to attending this program.
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, May 20, 2025 - 5:30pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Have the makerspace programs sparked your creativity, but you're hesitant to jump into your own independent project? Ready to move beyond step-by-step projects and bring your ideas to life? Over the course of two months, you will design and fabricate a project with guided support from staff.
During the orientation session, we'll discuss project ideas, create goals, and set reasonable expectations for completion. You will work on this project on your own time and have access to up to two one-on-one sessions to review progress, discuss challenges, and get support for moving forward.
This session specifically focuses on projects using vinyl cutters, laser cutters, CNC machines, or 3D printers. Participants are responsible for providing or purchasing any materials needed for their project.
Special Note: All participants using the laser cutters or Iconic CNC machines for their projects must be certified before this program.
Exploration Commons
Wednesday, May 21, 2025 - 10:30am - 12:00pm
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.
Exploration Commons
Wednesday, May 21, 2025 - 5:30pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 13 - 18
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 practice basic knife skills and prepare a tasty California Roll Sushi Bowl.
Exploration Commons
Thursday, May 22, 2025 - 12:00pm - 1:30pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
In this class, we will review the basics of what to look out for in 3D models that you would like to have 3D printed. We will review several models using the 3D modeling software Tinkercad and the 3D printer software PrusaSlicer.
Exploration Commons
Thursday, May 22, 2025 - 4:30pm - 7:30pm
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
Exploration Commons
Thursday, May 22, 2025 - 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 6 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Each group will shape and bake a delicious Cinnamon Star Bread using pre-made dough. Registration is for a group of up to four attendees. Anyone under 15 must be accompanied by an adult. Please indicate the names and ages of the children when registering.
Exploration Commons
Saturday, May 24, 2025 - 1:30pm - 4:30pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Join us for a hybrid kitchen and makerspace class! We'll start in the kitchen, preparing a traditional Quiche Lorraine. While our quiches bake, we'll learn some of the basics of Adobe Illustrator as we create graphics to engrave on our pie pan lids. Then we'll return to the kitchen to pick up the quiche to take home!
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, May 27, 2025 - 5:00pm - 7:30pm
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.
Exploration Commons
Wednesday, May 28, 2025 - 9:30am - 11:00am
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Learn how to make delicious Oat Drop Scones in our kitchen. Enjoy them with homemade whipped cream, jam, and coffee or tea for a tasty brunch.
Exploration Commons
Wednesday, May 28, 2025 - 5:00pm - 7:30pm
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
Thursday, May 29, 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. Expand your sewing skills by adding a zipper to a small storage bag. You'll insert a zipper into a small cotton bag with lining and learn hand-sewing techniques.
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.
Exploration Commons
Thursday, May 29, 2025 - 10:30am - 12:00pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Learn to make a California Roll Sushi Bowl in this hands-on class! Practice essential knife skills while preparing fresh ingredients for this delicious and easy-to-assemble dish. Perfect for sushi lovers looking to build confidence in the kitchen.
Exploration Commons
Thursday, May 29, 2025 - 5:30pm - 7:30pm
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.
Exploration Commons
Saturday, May 31, 2025 - 10:00am - 12:00pm
Ages: 13 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Usher in the start of summer with a customized charcuterie board filled with healthy summer snacks! We will begin by creating a custom design and engraving it on our board. Then, we will head to the kitchen to fill our boards with breads, veggies, fruits, and other fun, healthy summer snacks.
If you have taken a charcuterie or snack board class at EC50 in the past, please do not register for this class. This class is intended for new patrons/registrants only.
Exploration Commons
Monday, June 2, 2025 - 1:30pm - 3:30pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
The kids are home, vacations to plan, family to host, the summer stress can take its toll. But did you know changes in your diet can change how you handle life’s stressors? Discuss the relationship of mental health and food with a registered dietitian while making an easy Mediterranean recipe. This class is provided by Carroll Hospital.
Exploration Commons
Monday, June 2, 2025 - 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Learn how to make chicken and dumpling soup from scratch. Attendees will be grouped into tables of 4 where they'll work together to make their quick dinner soup.
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, June 3, 2025 - 1:30pm - 3:30pm
Ages: 12 - 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!
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, June 3, 2025 - 5:00pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 12 - Adults, Adults
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.
