TOURS
Tours
** Note: due to Covid-19, attendees are asked to adhere to our social distancing and hygiene protocol. **
In-person tours of Seattle Makers are free and open to the public. You’ll get to the see the classroom, shared working spaces, various machines (including laser cutters, 3D printers, CNC mill), and much more. We’ll go over how memberships work, and take time to answer questions. Register below – you don’t need to bring your ticket to the tour.
What to bring: Your curiosity and questions.
Schedule: Every Saturday, 10-11am. Tours last between 30-60 minutes.
New Member Orientation
** Note: due to Covid-19, some of these events will be held in person (with social distancing and hygiene protocol) and some will be virtual. **
Come get oriented to our space. We will have an in-depth tour of the makerspace and give you information about how to access the building. We’ll share information about the Maketeer program and other ways for members to get involved. We will also talk about our values, Holacracy, and the community we are creating. Open to members and maketeers only.
Schedule: Most Saturdays, 11:30am-12:30pm.
LASER CUTTING
Laser cutter certification
This course is the certification to be able to use the laser cutters at Seattle Makers to make your own projects. Open to members of Seattle Makers and non-members; members can enroll for a discounted rate. For more information about the laser cutters and the other tools/equipment in our workshop, go here.
Equipment and Software: Software you’ll learn is Lightburn. Equipment you’ll learn is Black Cat Labs 90Watt CO2 laser with 2’x3′ bed
Skills: You’ll learn how to set up vector files in Lightburn, our laser cutter software. You’ll also learn about capabilities of the laser (including rotary).
What you’ll be able to to do by the end of the certification: You’ll be able to cut objects from 1/8″ and 1/4″ wood, paper, acrylic, EVA foam, and some types of fabric.
Schedule: Every 4 weeks on Tuesdays 5:30pm-7:30pm and every 4 weeks on Saturdays 11:30am – 1:30pm
Laser Rotary Night
Etch your beverage containers with our 90-watt laser cutters and the rotary tool! This event is open to members and nonmembers. The event is free to RSVP. You only pay for the items and services you choose at the event.
What we provide: We will set up the rotary tool, set up your design, and guide you through your custom etching project while you watch online. We will be using Lightburn laser cutter software (which reads both .svg and .ai Adobe Illustrator files).
What to bring: Your ideas!
Schedule: Variable
3D PRINTING
3D printer certification
This course is the certification to be able to use the 3D printers at Seattle Makers to make your own projects. Open to members of Seattle Makers and non-members; members can enroll for a discounted rate. For more information about the 3D printers and the other tools/equipment in our workshop, go here.
Equipment and Software: Learn the basics of Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) on our Prusa I3+ 3D Printers.
Skills: This class will cover the printing with PLA and discuss other types of materials that can be printed. We’ll also touch on designing for 3D printing.
What you’ll be able to to do by the end of the certification: You will learn how to take a 3D model file (downloaded or modeled by a CAD program) and use Simplify 3D software to slice it into layers for a 3D printer to print. You’ll also leave with resources to find and print amazing 3D projects.
Schedule: Every other Saturday, 2pm – 3:30pm
3D Printer Meetup
** Note: this event will be held in person at Seattle Makers.**
Are you brand new to 3d Printing? Is troubleshooting your printer keeping you from enjoying your hobby? Attend this in-person event where you can ask for help with your specific print and talk all things 3D printing with other enthusiasts.
Who is welcome: all 3D printer owners, ages 14 and up; members and non-members of Seattle Makers
What you’ll need: Nothing required. Bring your 3D printer if you’d like.
What you’ll learn: how to troubleshoot your specific 3D printer issues, and create an approach to solve issues in a logical manner while maintaining sanity.
Cost: Donations welcome.
Schedule: Last Friday of the month 5pm – 7pm.
SLA printer certification
Coming soon
CNC MILLING & WOODWORKING
CNC Design 101: Intro to VCarve
** Note: This course will be taught virtually in our online classroom.**
In this class, you will learn the fundamentals of VCarve Pro. You’ll learn how to create paths (and holes and letters and pockets) that can be sent to robots to cut into wood (including our wood CNC mill). We’ll teach you about the different cutting bits that are used, what you’ll need to consider in designing your cuts, and the settings you’ll use for different types of bits and material.
This class is a pre-requisite for the CNC mill machine certification. At the completion of this online VCarve course, you can schedule a one-on-one CNC mill machine certification with your instructor that will take place physically at the makerspace at a time that works for you. The machine certification is priced separately: $100 for members, $150 for non-members.
Equipment and Software: Vectric VCarve Pro
Skills: This class will cover the basics of importing files, and creating CNC programs using VCarve Pro
What you’ll be able to to do by the end of the certification: You’ll leave with resources to design your own unique 3d products.
What we provide: Tuition includes client copy of program VCarve: Makerspace edition
What to bring: A PC with Windows or Linux, with the VCarve Pro trial downloaded. We recommend using a mouse (not trackpad) for designing. We will provide a laptop and mouse if you don’t bring your own (Mac users are welcome – you can do much of your initial design on a Mac and then use VCarve on the shared laptop PCs to complete your project.)
Schedule: Every other Thursday, 6pm-8pm
CNC mill certification
** Note: This course will be taught one-on-one at the makerspace by appointment only, scheduled on completion of the Intro to VCarve course.**
This course will teach you how to use the CNC mill at Seattle Makers to cut your designs from wood or plastic. This course builds on the CNC Design 101: Intro to VCarve course. Open to members of Seattle Makers and non-members. Members can enroll for a discounted rate: $100 for members, $150 for non-members. For more information about the CNC mill and the other tools/equipment in our workshop, go here.
Prerequisite: You will need to attend CNC Design 101: Intro to VCarve as a prerequisite for this machine certification (exceptions can be made if you are generating g-code with another software for use on our CNC. Contact Jeremy for approval).
Equipment and Software: 30″x30″ Shapeoko CNC Router with Dewalt 1.25hp router DWP611. CAM software is CNC JS, a free browser based software that can be found here.
Skills: This class will cover the basics of generating g-code for the CNC, setting up material, bit selection, and using the machine software to cut or engrave various material. The skills learned here are easily transferable to larger or smaller CNC machines, including our metal mill and PCB “woodpecker” mill.
What you’ll be able to to do by the end of the certification: You’ll be able to set up your material, router bit, clamps, and dust collection. Upload g-code, home the machine, set up your start point and z height, and run your cut. You’ll learn how to stop the machine and all fire safety precautions.
Schedule: Contact us to pick a time that works for you.
Woodshop 101: Intro to Table Tools
** Note: this event will be held in person at the makerspace. Read our Covid-19 requirements for attendees here.
Interested in getting started into woodworking? Out of the shop for a while and need a refresher? Join us for Woodshop I and learn how and when to use the main stations in the shop, (Band Saw, Miter Saw, Belt Sander, and Drill Press), and get comfortable designing and building projects in wood.
In this class, you will learn:
- Proper safety etiquette in the woodshop (ear & eye protection, tying back loose clothing, keeping stations clean, etc.)
- Safe and correct operation of the 4 main woodshop stations (Band Saw, Miter Saw, Belt Sander & Drill Press)
- When to use each station (Miter saw for cross-cuts, drill press for through holes, belt sander for rounding edges, etc.)
- Basics of planning & executing a project (measure twice, cut once, etc.)
At the end of class, you will be comfortable using all these tools in the shop!
Whom it’s for: Anyone aged 11+ (youth 11-17 must have a guardian present). No prior experience necessary, although previous experience with shop stations is always a plus. This class will be primarily aimed at beginners looking to get comfortable around shop tools/stations. The secondary focus will be on those who want/need a refresher course. This is the certification course to use these tools in the Seattle Makers woodshop.
What we’ll provide: Use of the woodshop stations and equipment, safety equipment (eyes & ears), and stock wood for your class project.
What to have ready for class: A can-do attitude!
- Personal safety equipment (safety glasses & earplugs) are encouraged. Seattle Makers will provide this if you don’t have them.
- Masks required due to COVID-19 protocol
- Dress accordingly for work in a woodshop, i.e. long hair/beards tied back, close-toed shoes, long pants, and clothes that you will not mind getting dirty or scratched.
- Please refrain from wearing loose clothing, especially around the torso and arms, and accessories if possible (rings, bracelets, long necklaces, etc.)
- Exceptions made due to religious or cultural practices.
Please sign up at least 24 hours in advance. To check availability within 24 hours of this event’s start time, call 833-2-MAKE-IT.
Schedule: Every other Wednesday, 5:00pm – 7:30pm
Table Saw Certification
** Note: this event will be held in person at the makerspace. Read our Covid-19 requirements for attendees here.
Are you interested in learning to use the SawStop table saw? Join us for this certification class!
During this certification, folks will learn to use the table saw safely. There will be some initial instruction followed by hands-on experience making cuts on the table saw. Bring your questions! We will have time for questions about your specific projects at the end of the course.
Whom it’s for: Anyone 13 y/o and up with guardian
Equipment: SawStop 10″ Contractor Saw
What to bring: Closed toe shoes and pants.
Prerequisites: none
Please sign up at least 24 hours in advance. To check availability within 24 hours of this event’s start time, call 833-2-MAKE-IT.
Learn more about memberships at Seattle Makers.
Schedule: Sundays, 12:00pm – 1:00pm
SEWING & CRAFTS
Sewing 101
** Note: this event will be held in person at the makerspace. Read our Covid-19 requirements for attendees here.
This is a bi-weekly sewing class with the project changing based on community interest. This week’s project will be: Ugly Animal Heads
Curious about sewing but have found the task daunting? This class will demystify the sewing machine and set you up for sewing success!
You will learn the components of a sewing machine, terminology, operating a sewing machine, threading a machine, bobbin winding, stitch variations, seam types, materials, and planning for sewing projects
Your instructor will go over the sewing machine components before guiding you through machine operation. You will first learn how to manually use a sewing machine, then turn the power on and learn the foot pedal as well as stitch and seam types. You will practice sewing in class and then sew a small project yourselves using the skills you’ve learned.
What you get to take home: Your custom made Ugly Animal Head
Whom it’s for: Anyone aged 11+ (youth 11-16 must have a guardian present). No experience necessary. New sewers welcome!
What we’ll provide: Sewing machines, thread, scissors, and materials (incl. Fabric, elastic, etc.)
What to bring: A can-do attitude!
Schedule: Every other Thursday, 5:30 pm
Leather Stitching
** Note: this event will be held in person at the makerspace. Read our Covid-19 requirements for attendees here.
This is a bi-weekly sewing class with the project changing based on community interest.
Curious about traditional methods of sewing and leatherwork? Join us for Leather Stitching! You’ll learn how to prepare thread for stitching, needle threading, saddle stitching technique and the tools of the trade. In this beginner’s introduction, we will first talk about how to safely use tools and approach the craft of leatherworking. Next we’ll go over the uses of saddle stitching and discuss tools and techniques used to prepare the leather for stitching. I’ll show you examples of saddle stitched items as well as a number of unique tools and supplies you’ll find in a leatherworker’s toolkit. Before beginning to craft, the group will do a small stretching exercise to prepare our hands, arms and fingers for the work ahead. While the techniques aren’t particularly strenuous, your muscles will appreciate the warm up! The making aspect of the class will focus on practicing the saddle stitching technique as we make a leather key fob.
Pre-requisites: None. No experience necessary.
What you get to take home: Your freshly stitched key fob!
Whom it’s for: 16 y/o +
What we’ll provide: All materials and tools.
What to bring: water, mask, warm clothing (chilly in winter), enthusiasm to learn!
Instructor: Rachel, RAYS Design
Sew a Fanny Pack
** Note: this event will be held in person at the makerspace. Read our Covid-19 requirements for attendees here.
Are you interested in sewing things for yourself? Join us for a custom fanny pack workshop! You’ll learn how to sew a fanny pack including how to attach a zipper and change presser feet. For this workshop, all the pattern pieces will be pre cut (yay!). You’ll choose your own fabric colors and materials colors, gather hardware and assemble the strap. I’ll talk a bit about the pack’s overall design and pattern before guiding attendees step-by-step through the sewing process.
Pre-requisites: Sewing 101 or equivalent comfort with sewing machines.
What you get to take home: Your fanny pack hot off the machine!
Whom it’s for: 11 y/o + with guardian
What we’ll provide: All materials and tools.
What to bring: water, mask, warm clothing (chilly in winter), enthusiasm to learn!
Instructor: Rachel, RAYS Design
Hemming Workshop
** Note: this event will be held in person at the makerspace. Read our Covid-19 requirements for attendees here.
Are you tired of rolling up your jeans, or worse not wearing them because they’re too long? Join us for a hemming workshop and get those pants ready to wear! During this skill building workshop, the instructor will demonstrate how to measure, cut, pin and sew a hem using the sewing machine arm. After going over the basics, the instructor will move about assisting and guiding students as needed. By the end of this event attendees will have learned how to hem casual pants on their own.
Note: We will focus on hemming woven fabrics e.g. denims, linen, cotton. Unlike knit fabrics, woven material typically doesn’t stretch (although some may have a spandex blend which is fine). Not sure what material your pants are? Email a picture of your pants to rachel@seattlemakers.org and we’ll help you figure it out!
What you get to take home: Your freshly hemmed items!
Prerequisites: Sewing 101 or equivalent sewing knowledge. Email rachel@seattlemakers.org with credentials of sewing machine understanding (e.g. a certificate or examples of things you’ve sewn).
What we’ll provide: Thread, machines and supplies.
What to bring: Bring your jeans/ casual pants/ shorts that you’d like to hem! You’re welcome to bring as many pairs as you’d like though you may not have time to finish all of them during the workshop.
Whom it’s for: 16 years old accompanied by guardian
This event requires that you wear a mask regardless of vaccine status.
This event is open to both member and nonmembers of Seattle Makers. Interested in having access to the makerspace as well as discounts on classes? Join us by becoming a member of Seattle Makers!
Schedule: TBA.
Sewing from Pattern
NOTE: This is a 2-day course.
PART 1/2 = Friday August 20th, 4pm – 7pm
PART 2/2 = Friday August 27th, 4pm – 7pm
Would you like to make your own clothes? The Sewing from Pattern class is a great place to start! In this 2-day course we will learn to read and sew from fashion patterns.
First, the instructor will explain how to read and understand patterns, transferring patterns, techniques for cutting and tips for making clothes. Once attendees are oriented, we will sew a project together using a provided pattern. The first day of class will mostly cover techniques and preparation and the second day will be spent working and sewing.
What you get to take home: Pajama pants you’ll make in class!
Whom it’s for: Anyone aged 11+ (youth 11-16 must have a guardian present) with basic sewing experience.
Pre-requisites: Sewing 101 or equivalent sewing knowledge. Email credentials to rachel@seattlemakers.org
What we’ll provide: Sewing machines, thread, scissors, fashion pattern and materials.
What to bring: A can-do attitude! Optional: 2 yards of woven material you’d like to use to make your pajama pants.
Please sign up at least 24 hours in advance. To check availability within 24 hours of this event’s start time, call 833-2-MAKE-IT.
Schedule: Next 2-Day Course: TBA
Industrial Sewing Machine Certification
Ready to tackle sewing projects at the top level? Join us for our Industrial Sewing Certification!
This course is the certification to use the industrial sewing machines at Seattle Makers. We have a Juki DDL-5550N machine for medium weight fabrics as well as a Thor 1341 with a free arm for heavy weight materials and leather.
In this course, we’ll go over set-up and operations of our industrial sewing machines. You will learn how to wind the bobbin, thread the machine, change presser feet and operate safely. Please note, this course requires previous sewing machine experience.
What you’ll be able to to do by the end of the certification: You’ll leave knowing how to safely set up and operate industrial sewing machines!
Industrial Sewing Machines: Juki DDL-5550N and Thor 1341
Pre-requisites: Sewing 101 or proof of equivalent sewing machine knowledge
Minimum Age: 11 y/o with guardian
Instructor: Rachel Segrest, RAYS Design
Schedule: Every other Thursday, 3:30pm – 5:00pm
ELECTRONICS
Soldering 101
** Note: this event will be held in person at the makerspace. Read our Covid-19 requirements for attendees here.
Ready to assemble circuits and join wires? Learn fundamental soldering skills to start tackling all your electronics projects in the Soldering 101 class. Everyone is welcome to this beginner class!
In this class, you will learn about the process of soldering, how to set up and use a soldering iron and other tools to assemble simple electronics. During class, you will have the opportunity to practice soldering skills on a project that you will get to take home. One sample class project is a small FM radio, but may be subject to change.
Seattle Makers will provide all of the necessary tools and materials, including the soldering iron, solder, and project kit. You do not need to bring anything, however you are welcome to bring your own tools or soldering projects if you have any.
Whom it’s for: Anyone aged 8+ (youth 8-16 must have a guardian present). No prior experience necessary.
Please sign up at least 24 hours in advance. To check availability within 24 hours of this event’s start time, call 833-2-MAKE-IT.
Schedule: Every other Monday, 5:30pm – 7:00pm
Arduino Meetup
Coming soon.
Raspberry Pi meetup
Coming soon.
MISCELLANEOUS
VanLife Meetup
Are you a vanlife enthusiast who loves vehicle modification and learning from others in the community? Whether you’re a full timer, weekender or curious to learn more about the art of van and car camping we would love to see you at the next Seattle Vanlife Meetup! Join us for an evening of community cultivation and share ideas about how to live your best vanlife.
Have you made some progress on an amazing one-of-a-kind build for your van? We wanna see it! Got questions or ideas you’re hoping to share and bounce off others in the group? We wanna hear it! This meetup is all about you, your projects, your hopes and your dreams for the next phase of your vanlife.
Who is welcome: All ages 8 and up (members and non-members of Seattle Makers) are welcome to join in this monthly event, no matter where you’re calling in from! We look forward to hearing your questions, seeing your projects and basking in your enthusiasm.
Schedule: The 2nd Thursday of every month, 7-9pm