Course Catalog

At Ace Makerspace we are always evolving our class and workshop offerings. Our focus is on inclusion, practicality, and fun. While some classes are evergreen and can always be found on our calendars, others are hosted by request. Information on how to request a class is in the class descriptions.

*All minors need to be accompanied by an adult student or participant. Please refer to our guest policy for more information. 

We offer three main types of education.

Access-based classes and workshops are designed to deliver the information you need to access tools and use the space effectively. This type of class is the path to tool certification.
Exposure-based classes and workshops are designed to provide a mentored experience while using tools at various skill levels. They are project-based or technique-focused offerings.
Experience-based classes and workshops are designed to provide folks with an immersive build experience. They are longer offerings and often span multiple days.

3D Printing

3D Printing Night and Certification

Bring your projects and designs to troubleshoot and show n’ tell with folks who are also on 3D printing adventures. This hands-on workshop covers a wide range of learning opportunities including certification training, overview of how 3D printers work, finding and designing objects to print (STL files), and an opportunity… Read more

Class Type:
Exposure
Class Level:
All
Class Length:
2 Hours
Age:
10+
Prerequisites:
None
Certification:
3D Printing Certification available
Cost:
$8 Suggested Donation

Art

ink on wood orange poppies

Alcohol Ink Paintings on Wood

Create vivid, amazing art with alcohol-based inks on laser-etched wood panels! We post the designs for laser-etched panels ahead of time so you can select the one you like best. Adult coloring book…but wood. Read more

Class Type:
Exposure
Class Level:
Beginner
Class Length:
2 Hours
Age:
18+
Prerequisites:
None
Cost:
$8 Suggested Donation/No one turned away for lack of funds

Cement Casting

Explore a variety of cement casting, sealing, and decorating techniques using quick-dry cement. Gain familiarity working with different kinds of molds, including how to make your own, as you create a unique set of coasters and a planter. Read more

Class Type:
Exposure
Class Level:
Beginner
Class Length:
4 Hours
Age:
14+
Prerequisites:
None
Cost:
$65
Cups of paint

Friday Night Art

Everyone’s got an inner artist, yes, everyone! Sit back, relax, bring a snack to share, as we explore a new project each month like pot painting, water coloring, zine making, and more. Read more

Class Type:
Exposure
Class Level:
Beginner
Class Length:
2 Hours
Age:
18+
Prerequisites:
None
Cost:
$8 suggested donation
laser cut leather

Leather and Lasers Art Workshop

Harness the power of lasers to cut patches, bracelets, earrings, cozies, or other neat items in a guided afternoon of laser art. Participants will select 3 items from pre-set options; cut their items on the laser cutter; and finally prepare them for finishing with hardware such as snaps, ear wires,… Read more

Class Type:
Exposure
Class Level:
Beginner
Class Length:
3.5 Hours
Age:
14+
Prerequisites:
None
Cost:
$55

UV Resin Jewelry

Make custom UV resin jewelry while exploring a variety of techniques, including casting, molds, and more. We provide a large selection of vibrant mica pigments, sparkly add-ins, foils, and flowers to work with. Hot tip, you can bring photos from home and/or other bric-a-brac to add even more personality to… Read more

Class Type:
Exposure
Class Level:
Beginner
Class Length:
2 Hours
Age:
14+
Prerequisites:
None
Cost:
$55

Electronics

Electronics Night

Join other Ace Members in our well-appointed electronics lab for a hosted, free-style night of electronics exploration and tinkering. Folks are invited to bring their own projects, work on repairs, or try out one of our fun project kits. We also often have themes or special guests, so come with… Read more

Class Type:
Exposure
Class Level:
All
Class Length:
2 Hours
Age:
10+
Prerequisites:
None
Cost:
$8 Suggested Donation

Tiny Brush Robot Workshop

Build a Tiny Brush Robot fit for battle while learning about basic electrical circuitry. Students will get hands-on experience working with resistors, batteries, LEDs, and motors. Once built, give your bot a hardcore name and put it in the ring for a Tiny Brush Robot race or battle. Read more

Class Type:
Exposure
Class Level:
All
Class Length:
2 Hours
Age:
8+
Prerequisites:
None
Cost:
$12

Laser

Design Fundamentals for Laser Cutting

Explore intermediate techniques for creating high-quality, laser-ready files. This course will cover the differences in burning raster vs. vector art, how to create .DXF and .SVG files, best practices for file prep, troubleshooting common issues, working with typography, and other great tips. Read more

Class Type:
Exposure
Class Level:
Intermediate
Class Length:
2 Hours
Age:
18+
Prerequisites:
Basic understanding of Adobe Illustrator
Cost:
$15

Laser Basics and Certification

Learn the basics of safe laser operation. This certification course combines a lecture with a hands-on demonstration. You will leave with your very own stylish laser-cut name tag and the knowledge you need to take your certification exam. Read more

Class Type:
Access
Class Level:
All
Class Length:
3 Hours
Age:
14+
Prerequisites:
None
Certification:
Preparation for Certification Knowledge Check Exam
Cost:
$55
Laser cutting paper, "HOLIDAYS"

Laser Cut Custom Holiday Cards

Customize and create wonderful seasonal cards in this 3-hour workshop. We will be using a variety of laser-friendly art papers to complete your cards. Once your cards are cut we have a full station set up for adding embellishments to your cards complete with art markers, and more. Read more

Class Type:
Exposure
Class Level:
Beginner
Class Length:
3 Hours
Age:
12+
Prerequisites:
None
Cost:
$25

Laser Cut Custom Holiday Ornaments

Customize festive, seasonal, laser cut ornaments made from gorgeous solid woods such as maple, cherry, or walnut from Ocooch Hardwoods. Personalize flat and 3D base designs for laser-cutting with names, dates, or other text/images. Once cut, add flare to your ornaments with glue, paint, dye, and even resin! Read more

Class Type:
Exposure
Class Level:
Beginner
Class Length:
4 Hours
Age:
12+
Prerequisites:
None
Cost:
$45

Laser Open Lab

Each open lab explores a central laser theme, but bring any questions you may have. Hosts will provide a theme-specific demonstration, answer questions, and provide technical help for folks who bring their own projects. Past topics have included “Focus on Focus,” “Acrylic Finesse,” “Fabric Fundamentals,” and “Settings from Scratch.” Let… Read more

Class Type:
Exposure
Class Level:
All
Class Length:
2 Hours
Age:
16+
Prerequisites:
None
Cost:
$8 Suggested Donation

Laser Practice Project Kits

Beginner friendly Laser Practice Project Kits are designed to help folks hone their skills after completing their Laser Certification. They also make cute gifts! Each kit comes with all the materials you need and step by step instructions you can follow at your own pace. Cork Coaster Kits  Slate Coaster… Read more

Metal

CNC Metal Mill Certification

Get hands-on experience while learning the fundamentals of running the Ace CNC Metal Mill. First, students get familiar with Fusion 360 Software* basics while practicing modeling and exporting tool-paths. Then, everyone will have the opportunity to mill an aluminum eyeball. At the end, everyone will have gone through most of… Read more

Class Type:
Access
Class Level:
Beginner
Class Length:
4
Age:
18+
Prerequisites:
None
Certification:
CNC Metal Mill
Cost:
$120

Metal Lathe Basics and Certification

Safety is so metal! Learn the core principals of safe metal lathe operation: securing and mounting techniques, how to approach your project from different faces/directions, and how to identify potential issues at various stages of the process. Read more

Class Type:
Access
Class Level:
Beginner
Class Length:
3 Hours
Age:
18+
Prerequisites:
None
Certification:
Metal Lathe
Cost:
$65

Metal Shop Basics and Certification

Get certified to use the heavy machinery in the metal shop including the drill press, vertical bandsaw, and horizontal bandsaw. Learn how to work with small benchtop tools such as shears, pop riveters, and grinders. We will also discuss differences in material hardness for commonly used metals and provide an… Read more

Class Type:
Access
Class Level:
Beginner
Class Length:
3 Hours
Age:
16+
Prerequisites:
None
Certification:
Drill Press, Horizontal Bandsaw, Vertical Bandsaw
Cost:
$55

Soft Skills

Anti-Racist Training for Makers: Maker Say What

Read more

Class Type:
Exposure Based
Class Level:
Beginner
Class Length:
1.5 Hours
Age:
18+
Prerequisites:
None
Cost:
TBD

Anti-Racist Training for Makers: Schema of Makers

Who defines what a “real” maker is? We will unpack different maker identities and their influence on how our makerspace community has evolved. This workshop will explore both what the identity of makers has been as well as explore what it could and should be. Read more

Class Type:
Exposure Based
Class Level:
Beginner
Class Length:
1.5 Hours
Age:
18+
Prerequisites:
None
Cost:
TBD

Anti-Racist Training for Makers: Taking Care of the New Maker

Getting started in a new space can be intimidating, especially when jargon is used as a shorthand to communicate intelligence and experience. When language is conflated with belonging, it can result in feelings of exclusion and alienation especially for newbies. Learn about how the language we use to communicate maker… Read more

Class Type:
Exposure Based
Class Level:
Beginner
Class Length:
1.5 Hours
Age:
18+
Prerequisites:
None
Cost:
TBD

Anti-Racist Training for Makers: You’re too comfortable, managing privilege

Read more

Class Type:
Exposure Based
Class Level:
Beginner
Class Length:
1.5 Hours
Age:
18+
Prerequisites:
None
Cost:
TBD

Boundaries for Better Living

Navigating boundaries can be tricky especially when sharing space, resources, and power with others. In this workshop, we will build boundary setting-skills, gain a greater understanding of different ways people express boundaries, and explore the cultural dynamics at play when we say “no” and hear “no.” Read more

Class Type:
Exposure
Class Level:
Beginner
Class Length:
2 Hours
Age:
18+
Prerequisites:
None
Cost:
TBD

De-escalation with Community Integrity

This workshop is dedicated to giving you the tools needed to de-escalate tension without giving up the integrity of your community agreements. When emotions are heightened, it can be difficult to manage the situation effectively and calmly. Build de-escalation skills as we examine our own reactions to conflict and gain… Read more

Class Type:
Exposure Based
Class Level:
Beginner
Class Length:
2 Hours
Age:
18+
Prerequisites:
None
Cost:
TBD

Micro-inclusions for Leaders

How can leaders create truly inclusive spaces? Start by learning how to practice positive accountability, cultural humility, and direct micro-inclusions in this workshop. Read more

Class Type:
Exposure Based
Class Level:
Beginner
Class Length:
2 Hours
Age:
18+
Prerequisites:
None
Cost:
TBD

Software

Ace Makerspace Wiki / Asana Training (virtual)

This event is for Ace Makerspace community members seeking to learn how to contribute to the Ace Makerspace Wiki, collaborate to create content, and engage in project management via Asana. Read more

Class Type:
Exposure
Class Level:
Beginner to Expert
Class Length:
1 Hours
Age:
18+
Prerequisites:
None
Cost:
Free

Design Fundamentals for Laser Cutting

Explore intermediate techniques for creating high-quality, laser-ready files. This course will cover the differences in burning raster vs. vector art, how to create .DXF and .SVG files, best practices for file prep, troubleshooting common issues, working with typography, and other great tips. Read more

Class Type:
Exposure
Class Level:
Intermediate
Class Length:
2 Hours
Age:
18+
Prerequisites:
Basic understanding of Adobe Illustrator
Cost:
$15

Fusion 360° Meetup

Join us for this casual gathering of people interested in Autodesk’s Fusion 360. Fusion is a full-featured CAD CAM software that’s cross-platform and useful on our Laser cutters, CNC’s, and 3D Printers, as well as just being a popular design tool. There are free versions too. Read more

Class Type:
Exposure
Class Level:
Beginner to Expert
Class Length:
2 Hours
Age:
16+ with adult
Prerequisites:
None
Cost:
Free

Textiles

Custom Messenger Bag Workshop

Design your own messenger bag from scratch. Students will design the bag, draft the pattern and construct their custom bags. Learn how to add the features you want like pockets, custom straps, and sections. We provide the hardware and know-how, students provide the fabric of their choice! The shopping list… Read more

Class Type:
Exposure
Class Level:
Intermediate
Class Length:
4 part class (Mix of Virtual and Live), 10 Hours Total
Age:
18+
Prerequisites:
None
Cost:
TBD
Pink plushy + PFAFF Machine

Heavy Duty Sewing Machine Basics and Certification

Level up your sewing abilities and learn how to operate the heady-duty walking foot machines at Ace safely. These machines effortlessly sew through leather, many layers of denim, faux fur, and outdoor nylon. Read more

Class Type:
Access
Class Level:
Intermediate Sewing
Class Length:
2 Hours
Age:
18+
Prerequisites:
Basic sewing machine competency and confidence
Certification:
Heavy Duty Sewing Machine
Cost:
$25

Ice Dying Workshop

Learn all about ice dying techniques as you use fiber-reactive dyes and ice to create watercolor-like designs on fabric or clothing at this super chill workshop! Read more

Class Type:
Exposure
Class Level:
Intermediate
Class Length:
4 Hours
Age:
16+
Prerequisites:
None
Cost:
$65
Teacher and student sewing

Learn to Sew

This immersive weeknight sewing workshop is perfect for beginners seeking basic hand and machine sewing skills. Participants will learn how to operate a sewing machine, gain hands-on experience, and go home with fantastic practice projects to continue honing their new skills. Read more

Class Type:
Exposure
Class Level:
Beginner
Class Length:
3 Hours
Age:
16+ with adult
Prerequisites:
None
Cost:
$45
Leather bag with rivets and leather working tools on a green cutting mat

No-Sew Leather Bag

Explore basic leather working techniques and gain hands-on experience with common leather working tools as you create a modern No-Sew Leather Bag! Read more

Class Type:
Exposure
Class Level:
Ambitious Beginner
Class Length:
4 Hours
Age:
16+
Prerequisites:
None
Cost:
$90

Nuno Silk Felting Workshop

Come learn how to felt wool to silk organza to create wall hangings, scarves, and/or wraps. Felt is extremely versatile and requires no special finishing so experiment, innovate, and explore different textures and patterns. Read more

Class Type:
Exposure
Class Level:
Beginner
Class Length:
3 Hours
Age:
12+
Prerequisites:
None
Cost:
$70

PJ Pants Workshop

Make a copy of your favorite pajama pants at this festive workshop. Great for beginner and experienced sewers alike, you will go home with a pair of PJ pants and the skills to make more for everyone in your crew! Read more

Class Type:
Exposure
Class Level:
Beginner
Class Length:
4 Hours
Age:
14+
Prerequisites:
None
Cost:
TBD
Teacher pointing at serged hem, serger

Serger Basics and Certification

Level up your sewing skills with this class on using a Serger (aka Overlock) sewing machine. This class covers all the basics of using this fun but complex sewing machine. Read more

Class Type:
Access
Class Level:
Intermediate
Class Length:
3 Hours
Age:
18+
Prerequisites:
Basic sewing machine competency and confidence
Certification:
Serger
Cost:
$40
Person sewing, snacks

Sewcial Night

Join fellow textiles enthusiasts for a night of creating in a social environment. The Ace Textiles program has a wide array of machines, tools, and supplies. Folks should expect to work independently; no instruction is provided at this event, though peer support often happens. Read more

Class Type:
Exposure
Class Level:
Beginner to Expert
Class Length:
3 Hours
Age:
16+
Prerequisites:
None
Cost:
$10 Suggested Donation/ No one turned away for lack of funds
happy sewers

Sewing 101 Bootcamp

This immersive sewing bootcamp is perfect for beginners seeking basic hand and machine sewing skills. Participants will learn how to operate a sewing machine and gain hands-on experience while completing fun projects. Read more

Class Type:
Exposure
Class Level:
Beginner
Class Length:
4 Hours
Age:
13+
Prerequisites:
None
Cost:
$55

Sewing and Textiles Open Studio

Join us for an evening devoted to all textile and sewing crafts. Bring your projects, your ideas, or get inspired here. This open lab is a great way to meet others, share skills, and of course, make cool stuff! Open labs are also a great opportunity to try out one… Read more

Class Type:
Exposure
Class Level:
All
Class Length:
2 Hours
Age:
15+
Prerequisites:
None
Cost:
$10 Suggested Donation/No one turned away for lack of funds

Shotgun Silkscreening

Go from sketch to shirt while learning about the screen printing process. In this class we will create digital designs, laser-cut mylar stencils, build screens, and finally print some awesome shirts! Students can choose from our eclectic stock of blanks or are welcome to bring their own garments. Read more

Class Type:
Exposure
Class Level:
Beginner
Class Length:
4 Hours
Age:
14+
Prerequisites:
None
Cost:
$65
Snap setter

Textile and Hardware Setting Basics

Grommets, rivets, and snaps can elevate any leather or textile project. In this hands-on certification course, learn all about how to choose the appropriate hardware for your project, use heavy setting hardware equipment correctly, and how to work with specialty dies. Folks will learn all this stuff while making several… Read more

Class Type:
Access
Class Level:
Beginner
Class Length:
1.5 Hours
Age:
16+
Prerequisites:
None
Certification:
Hardware Setting Equipment
Cost:
$15

Textiles Practice Project Kits

Beginner friendly Practice Project Kits are available for purchase in the Ace Coworking/Textiles Studio (Suite #206). Each kit comes with all the materials you need and links to step-by-step instructions you can follow at your own pace. Textiles Open Studio and Sewcial Night events are a great place to try… Read more

tote bag with plant, a really cute one

Tote Bag Workshop

Learn to sew while making your own fabulous box-bottom tote. This project-based workshop will walk participants through fundamental sewing techniques such as measuring and cutting, working with interfacing, and using a sewing machine. Leave with new skills, new friends, and a bag you can take anywhere! Read more

Class Type:
Exposure
Class Level:
Beginner
Class Length:
4 Hours
Age:
13+
Prerequisites:
None
Cost:
TBD

Visible Mending

Turn tears and stains into art while reviving your clothing and fabric goods. Learn techniques specific to your mending project and create your own “visible mending kit.” Read more

Class Type:
Exposure
Class Level:
Beginner to Expert
Class Length:
4 Hours
Age:
14+
Prerequisites:
None
Cost:
$35

Woodworking

Person demonstrating the panel saw.

Bandsaw, Drill Press, and Panel Saw Basics

Learn the core principles of using the Bandsaw, Drill Press, and Panel Saw in the shared Ace Workshop. With these essential woodworking tools, you’ll be able to cut curves, drill precision holes, and break down plywood sheets quickly and accurately! Read more

Class Type:
Access
Class Level:
Beginner to Expert
Class Length:
3 Hours
Age:
16+
Prerequisites:
Shop Basics and Certification
Cost:
$70

Jointer, Planer, and Tablesaw Basics

Learn the core principles of using the Jointer, Planer, and Tablesaw in the shared Ace Workshop. With these essential woodworking tools you’ll be able to prep clean edges, achieve smooth surfaces, and make precision cuts! Read more

Class Type:
Access
Class Level:
Beginner to Expert
Class Length:
3 Hours
Age:
16+
Prerequisites:
Shop Basics and Certification
Certification:
Jointer, Planer, and Tablesaw
Cost:
$65

Large CNC Router (Wood) Training and Certification

Explore the key principles of safe CNC Router operation in the Ace Shop. Learn about how the CNC works, changing bits, safe materials for cutting, securing your project, basic file setup, and best practices. Students will leave with the information they need to operate the machine and pass the certification… Read more

Class Type:
Access
Class Level:
Beginner to Expert
Class Length:
4 hours
Age:
18+
Prerequisites:
Ace Shop Basics
Certification:
CNC Router Certification (level 1)
Cost:
$85

Magnetic Knife Block

Create a great gift or piece for your home from Zebra, Mahogany, or Maple in this guided workshop. This is a great opportunity for beginners to gain experience using the drill press, palm routers, miter saw, and sanders while completing a super useful and polished kitchen accessory. Read more

Class Type:
Exposure
Class Level:
Beginner
Class Length:
4.5 Hours
Age:
16+
Prerequisites:
None
Cost:
$85

Multi-Wood Cutting Board

Combine a variety of woods in unique ways to craft your own multi-wood cutting board. In this two-part workshop participants will learn all about wood properties and get hands-on experience with a variety of workshop tools such as the drill press, bandsaw, miter saw, and a variety of sanding tools.… Read more

Class Type:
Experience
Class Level:
Beginner
Class Length:
2 Days, 6 Hours Total
Age:
14+
Prerequisites:
None
Cost:
$100

Reclaimed Wood Table Top

Use gorgeous reclaimed Peroba Rosa barn wood to create a small tabletop in this 2 part workshop. Day one, select your wood and put together the glue-up for your tabletop. Day two, sand, route, and trim your custom table top to size and explore a variety of finishing ideas. Read more

Class Type:
Experience
Class Level:
Beginner
Class Length:
2 Days, 6 Hours Total
Age:
16+
Prerequisites:
None
Cost:
TBD
Teacher and students in Ace Workshop

Shop Basics

Your Workshop experience at Ace Makerspace starts here! First, get up to speed on shop etiquette and learn the in’s and out’s of sharing tools and space at Ace Makerspace. All shop users are required to take this class to use the Ace Workshop and Metal Shops. Read more

Class Type:
Access
Class Level:
Beginner to Expert
Class Length:
1 hour
Age:
14+
Prerequisites:
None
Certification:
Ace Shop Basics (required to use the Ace Shops)
Cost:
$12.50

Solid Wood Cutting Board

Transform a piece of raw hardwood into a lovely finished cutting board in this great-for-beginners workshop! You will gain familiarity with a variety of woodworking tools as you cut, shape, sand, and finish your very own handcrafted cutting board. Read more

Class Type:
Exposure
Class Level:
Beginner
Class Length:
3 Hours
Age:
14+
Prerequisites:
None
Cost:
$55
dewalt planer

Tool Sharpening and Care

Explore the anatomy of a sharp tool edge, learn how to set up a grinding wheel, and practice honing a variety of workshop gouges and blades. Sharper tools are safer tools and learning how to properly care for them will give your woodworking game an edge. Read more

Class Type:
Access
Class Level:
Beginner
Class Length:
2 Hours
Age:
14+ with parent or guardian also taking the workshop
Prerequisites:
Shop Basics
Certification:
Tool Sharpening
Cost:
$70
nailgun

Tracksaw, Portaband, and Nail Gun Basics

Learn how to safely operate 3 specialty woodworking tools; Tracksaw, Portaband, and Nail Gun. These tools are great for a wide range of projects from a simple spice rack to a full-size dining table. All materials provided. Read more

Class Type:
Access
Class Level:
Beginner to Expert
Class Length:
3-Hours
Age:
16+
Certification:
Tracksaw, Portaband
Cost:
$45
Spinning wood, chisel

Wood Lathe Basics and Certification

Learn the basics of safe (wood) lathe operation in this certification workshop. You’ll learn how to secure wood and operate a lathe. You’ll learn about different lathe tools and how to work with lathe tools to shape wood. You’ll have an extended chance to use the lathe yourself under supervision. Read more

Class Type:
Access
Class Level:
Beginner to Expert
Class Length:
3 Hours
Age:
18+
Prerequisites:
Ace Shop Basics
Certification:
Wood Lathe
Cost:
$80

Woodworking Tools Maintenance Skills

Learn how to care for your favorite woodworking tools in the Ace Shop and become an even more knowledgeable tool user! Unpack Ace’s tool repair and maintenance policies, and then roll up your sleeves to learn how to inspect and perform maintenance on essential workshop equipment like the Table Saw… Read more

Class Type:
Access
Class Level:
Intermediate
Class Length:
1 Hours
Age:
18+
Prerequisites:
Shop Basics
Certification:
Maintenance Certification
Cost:
$18

ACE volunteer and contract instructors offer a lot of classes. Not all of them might be on the calendar. Both volunteers and contract teachers need a minimum number of students for a class or workshop to be sustainable. That is why most classes are scheduled based in interest.

If you are interested in a class (see list) that is not on the schedule there is a path to getting the class on the calendar – Do the logistics work. This is how:

  • Find at least 3 people including your self who want the class. (tips and ettiquet for posting on Slack)
  • Work among yourself to work out 3 dates all three of you can make.
  • Post on the relevant slack channel asking for an instructor! Include the dates you can all make.

While we cannot guarantee a listing as instructor availability is limited, it has the best way to influence what we work on.