Spark Makerspace

Students will be introduced to the basics of woodshop tool sharpening.
This
 class will introduce the basics of woodshop sharpening. The instructor 
will discuss methods and techniques and introduce students to both hand 
and power sharpening. Students will practice by bringing one of the 
Spark woodshop's dull chisels back to a razor-sharp cutting edge using 
both traditional hand stones and the powered wet grinder.
Spark Members will be certified to use the wet grinder during the class.
This
 class will focus on sharpening practices specific to woodworking tools 
such as chisels and plane irons. While many of the skills learned are 
also applicable to sharpening knives, the specific techniques of knife 
sharpening will not be covered by the instructor. Students may supply 
their own chisels, but corroded or damaged chisels may require methods 
outside the scope of the planned demonstration
Ages 18+
Thanks
 to the generous support of the Frank Loomis Palmer Fund, Bank of 
America, N.A., Trustee, the price of our certification classes has been 
greatly subsidized. Making them more affordable to our membership.
All materials included.
This class is made possible by the support of The Dime Bank Foundation and Charter Oak Federal Credit Union.
Get tickets today, sales end 5 days prior to class!
Class Fee is non-refundable. Please plan accordingly.

Local Event: Woodshop Tool Sharpening Workshop

New London County

New London

Connecticut

Woodshop Tool Sharpening Workshop

Students will be introduced to the basics of woodshop tool sharpening.
This
 class will introduce the basics of woodshop...

Learn woodworking skills and build an outdoor folding chair in a day!
No prior woodworking experience is required.
Build an outdoor folding chair in a day! Students will cut and drill parts to create a folding chair, commonly called a Kentucky Stick Chair. The chair, made out of cedar, is ideal for sitting on a porch or at the beach on a summer day. -Students will spend the day laying out, cutting, and drilling more than 40 parts to make the complete chair. The finished chairs will be taken home at the end of the day.
-Due to the use of cedar, a lung irritant, N95 masks will be required in the shop during the class. The class fee includes the cost of a mask, but students are encouraged to bring a well-fitted N95 mask or equivalent respirator.
This class is aimed at novice woodworkers.
18+
For Spark Members: After successful completion, members will be able to use the chop saw, drill press, and router table independently. Thanks to the generous support of the Frank Loomis Palmer Fund, Bank of America, N.A., Trustee, the price of our certification classes has been greatly subsidized. Making them more affordable to our membership.
All materials included.
This class is made possible by the support of The Dime Bank Foundation and Charter Oak Federal Credit Union.
Get tickets today, sales end 5 days prior to class!
Class Fee is non-refundable. Please plan accordingly.

Local Event: Woodshop Basics- Kentucky Stick Chair Class

Woodshop Basics- Kentucky Stick Chair Class

Learn woodworking skills and build an outdoor folding chair in a day!
No prior woodworking experience is required.
Build an...

"Hey, I've got a sewing machine... now what?" Bring your sewing machine to Spark and learn/explore its possibilities.
"Hey, I've got a sewing machine... now what?"
Bring your sewing machine to class.
This
 class is designed for folks who have a sewing machine, but lack the 
experience/confidence to use it as much as they want to.
Has your 
sewing machine been lurking at the back of the closet too long? Is it 
time to learn how to use it better? We will go step by step over the 
basics of thread, needles, stitch length, stitch width, straight stitch,
 zig-zag, blind hem, zippers – even making buttonholes!
You will 
create samples of all the stitches and the settings you used to make 
them – a handy reference for when you want to do that blind hem – "what 
was the stitch length, stitch width, and what foot did you use?" It will
 all be right there!
You will need a sewing machine in good working order – it turns on, the needle moves, etc. Questions? Email: fiberarts@sparkmakerspace.org
If you have the machine's manual, please bring it with you. Many manuals are available online to download!
Ages 16+
This is a one-session class taking place at 7 Union St., New London, CT 06320
Sign up today!
Get Tickets Today! Class Fee is non-refundable. Please plan accordingly.
This class is made possible by the support of The Dime Bank Foundation and Charter Oak Federal Credit Union.

Local Event: Learn Your Sewing Machine Class

Learn Your Sewing Machine Class

"Hey, I've got a sewing machine... now what?" Bring your sewing machine to Spark and learn/explore its possibilities.
"Hey,...

Take this beginner-level Stained Glass workshop and create a Beetle Bug Pot Hanger
In
 this beginner-level class,&nbsp; you will learn to cut glass, grind, foil, 
and solder to make two colorful beetles. These fun bugs measure approx. 
2.5 x 4" and are designed to hook over the edge of a pot or hang in a 
window. This makes a fun gift for indoor or outdoor decor.
Please
 be advised that sufficient hand strength and dexterity are required for
 scoring glass, as well as the ability to stand while working with 
tools.
All materials included.
Ages 16+
This class is made possible by the support of The Dime Bank Foundation.
Get tickets today, sales end 5 days prior to class!
Class Fee is non-refundable. Please plan accordingly.
Please note: class may be canceled if minimum enrollment is not met.

Local Event: Stained Glass Beetle Bug Pot Hanger

Stained Glass Beetle Bug Pot Hanger

Take this beginner-level Stained Glass workshop and create a Beetle Bug Pot Hanger
In
 this beginner-level class,  you will...

Attend this beginner-level stained-glass workshop and create a Moon Cat.
Attention
 cat lovers! Make a colorful stained glass crescent moon with a cat 
perched upon it. In this beginner-level workshop, you will learn the 
copper foil method of stained glass assembly, including glass cutting, 
grinding, foiling, and soldering. Participants will have a choice of 5 
colors of pre-cut kitties. You will also work with wire to add details 
(and tails!) Finished hanging piece is approx. 7” in diameter.
Please note:
 sufficient hand dexterity and the ability to stand while working with 
tools are required. There will be a class break; bringing a snack/lunch 
is encouraged.
.Ages 16+
All materials included.
This class is made possible by the support of The Dime Bank Foundation and Charter Oak Federal Credit Union.
Get tickets today, sales end 5 days prior to class!
Class Fee is non-refundable. Please plan accordingly.

Local Event: Moon Cat! Stained Glass Workshop (Beginner)

Moon Cat! Stained Glass Workshop (Beginner)

Attend this beginner-level stained-glass workshop and create a Moon Cat.
Attention
 cat lovers! Make a colorful stained glass...

Learn how to build a laminated wooden joiner's mallet with power tools. (Member Certification- miter saw, bandsaw, drill press)
No prior woodworking experience is required.
This
 class is aimed at the complete woodshop novice. Students will build a 
laminated wooden mallet using oak and epoxy. At the end of the class, 
students will take home their mallet. This class is aimed at the complete woodshop novice. Students will build a laminated wooden mallet using oak and epoxy. At the end of the class, students will take home their mallet. As part of the class, students will be signed off (certified) on the compound miter saw, the bandsaw, and the drill press. Students will also get an introduction to the router and table saw. 
Students will also get an introduction to the router and table saw.
Ages:18+
MEMBERS- Because of generous donations from the Frank Loomis Palmer Fund, Bank of America, N.A., Trustee, the price of our certification classes has been greatly subsidized. Making them more affordable to our membership.
All materials included.
This class is made possible by the support of The Dime Bank Foundation and Charter Oak Federal Credit Union.
Get tickets today; sales end 5 days before class!
Class
 Fee is non-refundable. Please plan accordingly. Please note that this 
class may not run if it does not meet the minimum enrollment.

Local Event: Woodshop 101- Make a Mallet

Woodshop 101- Make a Mallet

Learn how to build a laminated wooden joiner's mallet with power tools. (Member Certification- miter saw, bandsaw, drill...

Take this beginner-level stained-glass workshop, which is perfect for first-timers!
Make and take a beautiful “Heart String”! There is no glass cutting required and no experience needed in this beginner-level stained glass workshop. You
 will choose 3 stained glass hearts from a wide selection of colors and 
textures. You will learn to apply copper foil, solder, and patina, as 
well as simple wireworking skills to assemble and embellish your string 
of hearts into a lovely cascade for hanging. Approx. 12” long, it’s a 
perfect gift!
Please note: sufficient hand dexterity and the 
ability to stand while working with tools are required. There will be a 
class break; bringing a snack/lunch is encouraged. Closed-toed shoes 
must be worn. Sign up today! Get Tickets Today! Class Fee is non-refundable. Please plan accordingly.
.Ages 16+
All materials included.
This class is made possible by the support of The Dime Bank Foundation and Charter Oak Federal Credit Union.

Local Event: Heart Strings- Stained Glass Workshop (Beginner)

Heart Strings- Stained Glass Workshop (Beginner)

Take this beginner-level stained-glass workshop, which is perfect for first-timers!
Make and take a beautiful “Heart String”!...

Learn how to Screen Print at Spark in this 2-part beginner class!
This two-part class is Wednesday May 13th, 6-7:30pm, and Thursday May 14th, 6-8:30pm, at Spark Makerspace, 7 Union St., New London, CT.
Learn
 how to Screen Print at Spark! We'll take you through the whole process 
of creating a one-color print, and you'll take home prints of your own 
design! This class covers successful design elements, creating the 
screen using the photographic process, printing on fabric and paper, and
 how to reuse your silkscreen.
For Members, this class will certify you to use the screen-printing equipment independently.
This class is intended for students ages 14+.
All materials included. This class is made possible by the support of The Dime Bank Foundation and Charter Oak Federal Credit Union. 
Get tickets today; sales end 5 days before class! Class Fee is non-refundable. Please plan accordingly.

Local Event: Intro to Screen Printing (2-part) 5/13 & 5/14

Intro to Screen Printing (2-part) 5/13 & 5/14

Learn how to Screen Print at Spark in this 2-part beginner class!
This two-part class is Wednesday May 13th, 6-7:30pm, and...

A hands-on introduction to large-format film photography that invites you to try classic cameras and experiment.
Are you interested in analog photography?
Have
 you shot 35mm film? Want to slow down your creative image-making and 
play with something different? This is an introduction to larger format 
film and the cameras that support it. There are many cameras on the 
resale market, and there are inexpensive ways to make photographs with 
any of them.
In this hands-on class, you will be introduced to a 
variety of cameras and have the opportunity to photograph a still life 
with one.
The class leader, Whitey Morange–an artist who regularly uses these cameras–will develop the film for you.
You may scan it later or, if you have access to a darkroom, print it yourself.
This is not a technical class, but an opportunity to see and use old-school tech in the hope of making new art. 
All materials included.
This class is made possible by the support of The Dime Bank Foundation and Charter Oak Federal Credit Union.
Get tickets today, sales end 5 days prior to class!
Class Fee is non-refundable. Please plan accordingly.
Ages: 15+

Local Event: Intro to Large Format Photography

Intro to Large Format Photography

A hands-on introduction to large-format film photography that invites you to try classic cameras and experiment.
Are you...

Attend this beginner-level stained-glass workshop and create a stained-glass honeycomb.
Let’s
 make stained glass honeycombs! We'll create a sparkly suncatcher to 
hang in a window and celebrate our pollinators. Are you a first-timer? 
No worries! You will be taught to cut, grind, foil, and solder stained 
glass to create your piece. This half-day class is for beginners and 
experienced stained glass artists alike. Finished piece: 4” diameter.
Please note:&nbsp;sufficient
 hand dexterity and the ability to stand while working with tools are 
required. There will be a class break; bringing a snack/lunch is 
encouraged. Closed-toed shoes must be worn.
.Ages 16+
All materials included.
This class is made possible by the support of The Dime Bank Foundation and Charter Oak Federal Credit Union.
Get tickets today, sales end 5 days prior to class!
Class Fee is non-refundable. Please plan accordingly.

Local Event: Let’s Make Stained Glass Honeycombs!

Let’s Make Stained Glass Honeycombs!

Attend this beginner-level stained-glass workshop and create a stained-glass honeycomb.
Let’s
 make stained glass honeycombs!...

Create a single-color linocut and print it on cotton, linen, or denim. This is the perfect way to create a truly unique piece!
This beginner-friendly class is
 an introduction to the relief process, the technique used in the oldest
 forms of printmaking. We will explore types of carving blocks, inks, 
and papers, and you will learn how to transfer your design and carve and
 ink the block. You will then handprint your design on fabric. Bring two
 items of clothing with you to print. For best results, clothing should 
be made of cotton, denim, or linen.&nbsp;&nbsp;
Please read through the relief printing handout (found<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ZIdbivWF_zVy7_nQBSp9lS8wLMfvIbBH/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"> here</a>)
 before class. Several patterns will be available for you to choose 
from, or you can bring your own. Simple patterns with thicker lines and 
no fine details will allow you to focus on the fundamentals of 
printmaking and ensure that you have plenty of time to design and print 
your items.&nbsp;&nbsp;
All materials included.
Get your tickets today!
This class is made possible by the support of The Dime Bank Foundation and Charter Oak Federal Credit Union.
Ages: 15+
Please note that the class fee is non-refundable. Plan accordingly.

Local Event: Relief Printing on Fabric: Clothing

Relief Printing on Fabric: Clothing

Create a single-color linocut and print it on cotton, linen, or denim. This is the perfect way to create a truly unique...

Create
 and print a single-color linocut print of your own design! Features an 
introduction to the printing press (certification for members)
This beginner-friendly class is
 an introduction to the relief process, the technique used in the oldest
 forms of printmaking. By creating a single-color linocut print, you 
will learn the basics of relief printing. We will explore types of 
carving blocks, inks, and papers, and you will learn how to prepare your
 carving block, transfer your design, and carve and ink the block. You 
will make several prints, both by handprinting and using the printing 
press. (After this class, members will be certified to use the press for
 relief printing.)
Please read through the relief printing handout (found<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ZIdbivWF_zVy7_nQBSp9lS8wLMfvIbBH/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"> here</a>) before class, and bring a simple design no larger than 5x8 inches. A good beginner design has a bold image, thick lines, and no fine details.
 Keeping it simple will help you avoid frustration and allow you to 
focus on the fundamentals of printmaking. You can find some great ideas 
by searching for free black and white vector art. Several design options
 will also be available to choose from in class.
Certification for Members: Printing Press&nbsp;
Members who demonstrate proper use of the printing press can be certified for independent access to the tool.
Thanks to the generous support of the Frank Loomis Palmer Fund, Bank of America, N.A., Trustee, the price of our certification classes has been greatly subsidized. Making them more affordable to our membership.
All Materials included.
Get your tickets today!
Ages: 15+
Please note that the class fee is non-refundable. Plan accordingly.

Local Event: Relief Printing 101

Relief Printing 101

Create
 and print a single-color linocut print of your own design! Features an 
introduction to the printing press...

Make a bandsaw box in this two-part woodshop class at Spark. 2-Parts Tuesday, 6/23 &amp; 6/30, 4-8p.
Students
 will make a small box with a drawer out of a single piece of stock to 
be taken home at the end of the class. Students will be introduced to 
gluing techniques, several bandsaw techniques, and basic methods of 
finishing (shellac).
Students should expect to do a significant amount of hand sanding as part of the process.
Bandsaw certification is available for Spark members.
All materials included.
18+
This is a two-part class that meets Tuesday, 6/23 &amp; 6/30, 4-8p.
This class is made possible by the support of The Dime Bank Foundation and Charter Oak Federal Credit Union.
Get tickets today, sales end 5 days prior to class!
Class Fee is non-refundable. Please plan accordingly.
For
 Spark Members: This class will provide bandsaw tool certification for 
Spark Makerspace Members who demonstrate safe usage of the tool. Because
 of the generous support of the Frank Loomis Palmer Fund, Bank of 
America, N.A., Trustee, the price of our certification classes has been 
greatly subsidized. Making them more affordable to our membership.

Local Event: Bandsaw Boxes Woodshop Class 2-part Class (6/23 & 6/30)

Bandsaw Boxes Woodshop Class 2-part Class (6/23...

Make a bandsaw box in this two-part woodshop class at Spark. 2-Parts Tuesday, 6/23 & 6/30, 4-8p.
Students
 will make a small...

Bandsaw Boxes Woodshop Class 2-part Class (6/23 & 6/30)

Learn how to make your own cutting board in this 2-part class (Monday, 7/6 &amp; 7/13, 5:30-8:30 p.m.).
Beginner-Level Woodshop Class
Students will build a wooden cutting board. Students will start with mixed strips of wood and will glue, flatten, shape, groove, and finish the cutting board. This is a two-session class (7/6 &amp; 7/13), and at the end of the second class, students will take their project home.
This class will provide tool certification for Spark Makerspace Members who demonstrate safe usage of the tools. (chop saw, router, &amp; planer). Because of the generous support of the Frank Loomis Palmer Fund, Bank of America, N.A., Trustee, the price of our certification classes has been greatly subsidized. Making them more affordable to our membership.
Ages 18+
Sign Up Today!
Get Tickets Today! Class Fee is non-refundable. Please plan accordingly.

Local Event: Make a Cutting Board 2-Part Class (7/6 & 7/13)

Make a Cutting Board 2-Part Class (7/6 & 7/13)

Learn how to make your own cutting board in this 2-part class (Monday, 7/6 & 7/13, 5:30-8:30 p.m.).
Beginner-Level Woodshop...

Learn how to Screen Print at Spark in this 2-part beginner class!
This two-part class is Wednesday, July 8th, 6-7:30pm, and Thursday, July 9th, 6-8:30pm, at Spark Makerspace, 7 Union St., New London, CT.
Learn
 how to Screen Print at Spark! We'll take you through the whole process 
of creating a one-color print, and you'll take home prints of your own 
design! This class covers successful design elements, creating the 
screen using the photographic process, printing on fabric and paper, and
 how to reuse your silkscreen.
For Members, this class will certify you to use the screen-printing equipment independently.
This class is intended for students ages 14+.
All materials included. This class is made possible by the support of The Dime Bank Foundation and Charter Oak Federal Credit Union. 
Get tickets today; sales end 5 days before class! Class Fee is non-refundable. Please plan accordingly.

Local Event: Intro to Screen Printing (2-part) 7/8 & 7/9

Intro to Screen Printing (2-part) 7/8 & 7/9

Learn how to Screen Print at Spark in this 2-part beginner class!
This two-part class is Wednesday, July 8th, 6-7:30pm, and...

Learn how to create your own custom wooden picture frame! No prior woodworking experience is required.
Learn
 how to frame your fine art in a custom wooden frame. Students will 
start with a hardwood board and turn it into an 8 x 10 picture frame to 
take home.
Students will use the router table to create
 the frame profile, then use table saw jigs to create accurate miter 
joints. After gluing the frame, students will reinforce the frame 
corners, cut plexiglass and backer board, and finish sand the frame.
Students
 will take home all the supplies required to put a protective finish on 
the frame, install a picture, and hang the frame on the wall.
Spark Members: This class does not include any tool certifcations.
No prior woodworking experience is required.
18+
Please
 note that the class fee is non-refundable unless the minimum enrollment
 is not met. If this happens, you will be contacted 5 days ahead of 
time, refunded, and the class will be canceled.

Local Event: Woodshop Basics: Picture Frames

Woodshop Basics: Picture Frames

Learn how to create your own custom wooden picture frame! No prior woodworking experience is required.
Learn
 how to frame your...

7/13-7/17,
 1-4p Students ages 9–12 will build and decorate their own cardboard 
boats while learning basic design and maritime skills.
Set sail with creativity. New London Community Boatworks is partnering with Spark Makerspace for a fun, hands-on cardboard boat-building class for students ages 9-12.
In this class, young builders will
 create their own 2-foot-long cardboard boats while learning about 
reading plans, measurement, construction, and maritime traditions. After building, participants will paint and decorate their boats, bringing their imaginative designs to life.
We are also hoping to showcase the finished boats at the Connecticut Maritime History Festival on September 12th.
All materials are included.
Parents/guardians will be contacted by email before class to complete required paperwork.
This class is made possible by the support of The Dime Bank Foundation and Charter Oak Federal Credit Union.
Get tickets today. Class fee is non-refundable, so please plan accordingly.

Local Event: Summer Camp - Card Board Boat Build (9-12yr)

Summer Camp - Card Board Boat Build (9-12yr)

7/13-7/17,
 1-4p  Students ages 9–12 will build and decorate their own cardboard 
boats while learning basic design and...

Casey Moran

Chris Rhatigan 

Hartford Metropolitan Area

Waterford

Groton

Ledyard

Montville

Stonington-Mystic

The Lymes

Norwich

Washington County

Westerly

Rhode Island

Middlesex County

Essex-Chester-Deep River

Hopkinton

Experience an inspiring live performance titled 'To Move Mountains' featuring music from renowned composers like Gustav Holst...

Nearby Communities

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Posting Activity

Woodshop Tool Sharpening Workshop

APR

23

5:30 PM

Spark Makerspace, 7 Union St, New London, CT

Woodshop Basics- Kentucky Stick Chair Class

APR

25

9:00 AM

Spark Makerspace, 7 Union St, New London, CT

Learn Your Sewing Machine Class

APR

26

1:00 PM

Spark Makerspace, 7 Union St, New London, CT

Stained Glass Beetle Bug Pot Hanger

APR

29

10:00 AM

Spark Makerspace, 7 Union St, New London, CT

Moon Cat! Stained Glass Workshop (Beginner)

MAY

2

10:30 AM

Spark Makerspace, 7 Union St, New London, CT

Woodshop 101- Make a Mallet

MAY

3

9:00 AM

Spark Makerspace, 7 Union St, New London, CT

Heart Strings- Stained Glass Workshop (Beginner)

MAY

7

9:00 AM

Spark Makerspace, 7 Union St, New London, CT

Stained Glass Beetle Bug Pot Hanger

MAY

10

10:00 AM

Spark Makerspace, 7 Union St, New London, CT

Intro to Screen Printing (2-part) 5/13 & 5/14

MAY

13

6:00 PM

Spark Makerspace, 7 Union St, New London, CT

Intro to Large Format Photography

MAY

23

9:00 AM

Spark Makerspace, 7 Union St, New London, CT

Let’s Make Stained Glass Honeycombs!

MAY

23

10:00 AM

Spark Makerspace, 7 Union St, New London, CT

Relief Printing on Fabric: Clothing

MAY

23

1:00 PM

Spark Makerspace, 7 Union St, New London, CT

Relief Printing 101

JUN

7

1:00 PM

Spark Makerspace, 7 Union St, New London, CT

Bandsaw Boxes Woodshop Class 2-part Class (6/23 & 6/30)

JUN

23

4:00 PM

Spark Makerspace, 7 Union St, New London, CT

Make a Cutting Board 2-Part Class (7/6 & 7/13)

JUL

6

5:30 PM

Spark Makerspace, 7 Union St, New London, CT

Intro to Screen Printing (2-part) 7/8 & 7/9