The Makerspace
A Makerspace is a community center where tools are provided to design, engineer, fabricate and learn. All skill levels are welcome and it offers a safe do it yourself environment where failure is just another step in the learning process. Learning may be self-directed or instructor led, and Exploration Commons will provide the staff and guest instructors to assist with all learning styles.
Who may use the Makerspace
The Makerspace is for ages 8 – Adult. Children ages 8 – 11 may work with an equipment certified adult in the use of some machines in the space, but may not operate themselves. Children ages 12 – 15 may operate machinery with the assistance of an equipment certified adult. Persons aged 16 and older may operate any of the available equipment. An Exploration Commons/Library card is required to use makerspace equipment and all users must be certified to use select equipment.
Programs held in the Makerspace will be led by an instructor and may also have age restrictions depending on the equipment used or content of the program. An Exploration Commons/Library card is not required to attend programs.
Will there be a cost to use the Makerspace?
The use of the space is free. However, there will be a cost for some materials if required (filament, wood, acrylic, etc). There will also be programs where we need to charge to recoup expenses.
Hours and Staffing
The entire space will be open and staffed Monday - Thursday, 9 AM - 8 PM, Friday - Saturday, 9 AM - 5 PM.
Upcoming Classes and Programs
3D Printing Techniques: Making Articulated 3D Prints
Monday, April 20, 2026 - 5:00pm - 7:30pmAges: 14 - Adults, Adults
Class 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 basic 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.
Intro to Basic Sewing Skills (Skill Level 0)
Tuesday, April 21, 2026 - 10:00am - 12:30pmAges: 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.
Introduction to Onshape & 3D Printing
Wednesday, April 22, 2026 - 5:00pm - 7:00pmAges: 14 - Adults, Adults
Class 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.
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.
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.
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.