Workshop Catalog

Workshop Highlights:

Hands-On Magic: Dive into the world of steel manipulation, where you'll cut, twist, taper, bend, and even perform a bit of steel wizardry to create your own masterpiece. Choose between crafting a wizard wand or a BBQ fork of your design.

Steel Whisperer Expertise: Our instructor will reveal the mesmerizing science behind induction heating while guiding you through the art of steel manipulation. It's a workshop that's as educational as it is enchanting!

What to Expect:

In this hands-on class, Akeera will guide you through the step-by-step process of crafting your very own cutting board. Learn the essential skills of woodworking as you gain hands-on experience with a planer, table saw, chop saw, and sander. Discover the art of finishing as you apply mineral oil to bring out the natural beauty of your creation.

Workshop Highlights:

What to Expect:
Join us for a comprehensive training session where you'll learn how to create pens from start to finish. Over the course of the workshop, you'll have the opportunity to make 3 custom pens—perfect for yourself, family, or friends. Using a specialist pen lathe that is both safe and easy to operate, you'll be guided through the entire process without needing any prior woodworking experience.

What to Expect:
Join us for a comprehensive training session where you'll learn how to create pens from start to finish. Over the course of three hours, you'll have the opportunity to make up to five pens—perfect for yourself, family, or friends. Using a specialist pen lathe that is both safe and easy to operate, you'll be guided through the entire process without needing any prior woodworking experience.

What to Expect:

In this comprehensive class, participants will learn to operate the Bridgeport Mill while gaining hands-on experience through a guided project. Topics covered include identifying the locations and functions of safety mechanisms, efficient installation and removal of cutting tools, proper clamping procedures, startup and speed selection sequences, accurate squaring of the machine’s vise, and referencing the Machinists Handbook for tool selection, cutting speeds, and feeds.

Workshop Highlights:

What to Expect:
Explore the fundamentals of stained glass using the "Tiffany" method. Learn to design, cut, grind, foil, and solder glass pieces into a cohesive panel. Receive expert guidance and demonstrations throughout the entire process.

Skills You'll Acquire:
Master the art of precision cutting and grinding glass. 
Gain proficiency in foiling and soldering techniques.
Understand design principles specific to stained glass.

What to Expect

Expect a supportive, beginner-friendly class with demonstrations, guided practice, and plenty of time to ask questions. The instructor will walk you through threading a machine, winding a bobbin, switching stitches, adjusting tension, and sewing your first seams. You’ll also learn hand-stitching basics and apply your new skills immediately through simple, practical projects. All tools and fabric will be provided, though you’re welcome to bring your own fabric if you’d like the instructor to evaluate its suitability.

What to Expect:

Embark on an in-depth exploration of the Tormach PCNC 440 Metal Mill, where comprehensive instruction awaits on CNC milling basics, encompassing safety protocols and machine maintenance. Engage in hands-on experiences covering tool handling, work origins, and G-Code programming, providing valuable insights and skills. Seize practical application opportunities through test cuts and material demonstrations, immersing yourself in a dynamic learning environment.

Skills You'll Acquire:

An FCC Amateur Radio Licensing exam session will be held at MakeHaven by the MakeHaven Underground Radio Group. 

ALL 3 levels of FCC licensing exam will be offered: Technician, General and Amateur Extra. Applicants should have studied the ARRL Licensing Manual and/or other training materials for the level of exam they wish to take and should bring all required materials.

What to bring:

Bring your drivers license or other legal photo ID.

Bring your FRN number.

What to Expect: 
• A step-by-step demonstration of the screen creation process, including design preparation and screen coating.
• Hands-on practice screen printing using pre-made screens and vibrant inks.
• The opportunity to print your own designs onto fabric or paper.

Skills You’ll Acquire: 
• Screen Printing Basics: Learn the essentials of screen preparation and printing.
• Printing Techniques: Develop skills for even ink application and clean design transfer.

What to Expect

Expect an informal, come-as-you-are sewing space with Gayle, our quilting instructor, there for guidance, troubleshooting, and technique support. Participants may use this time to continue blocks started in the Traditional Piecing class, begin new projects, or bring in pieces they’ve been wanting to finish. This is not a structured lesson; rather, it’s an opportunity for focused work time with an experienced quilter nearby to help as needed.

Skills You’ll Acquire

What to Expect

Students will start by selecting from a variety of donated fabric scraps and learn how to cut, arrange, and piece them together to create a unique quilt top. Once the quilt top is completed, you’ll discover how to layer it with batting and a backing fabric, and join these layers through basic quilting techniques. By the end of the class, you’ll leave with a completed quilt and a new understanding of sustainable crafting!

Skills You’ll Acquire

• Basic sewing techniques for piecing a quilt top

What to Expect: Over three sessions, you'll dive into various styles of handmade bookmaking, from crafting folders to assembling journals and hardcover books. You'll learn practical skills like measuring, folding, cutting, sewing, and gluing, and have the chance to create your own bookmaking tools using non-traditional materials.

Skills You'll Acquire:

What to Expect:

This workshop focuses on the essentials of creating a 3D parametric model using SOLIDWORKS. Guided by engaging lectures and demonstrations, participants will delve into hands-on tutorials, culminating in the creation and 3D printing of individual part files. The practical, step-by-step approach ensures a comprehensive understanding of SOLIDWORKS fundamentals.

What to Expect

Each week builds on the last as you work through the full knife-making process:

Each participant can choose from various styles of earring and necklace bases to customize and will have the opportunity to choose from a diverse selection of leaves, dried flowers, decorations, and colors to make their jewelry truly unique. Create personalized wearable masterpieces as you design with paper butterflies, foil, crushed glass, acorns, real leaves, birch pieces, resin leaves, and any personal items you bring along. Once adorned, delve into the world of resin mixing and pouring under Audra's expert guidance, creating glossy, one-of-a-kind jewelry.

What to Expect

In this class, students will learn how to harness black and white ink to create fluid, organic forms that are not only visually striking but also deeply personal. Jordan will guide you through the process of translating complex aspects of identity into abstract line designs, teaching you to capture the essence of fluidity and motion on the page.

Skills You’ll Acquire

• Mastery of black and white ink techniques for abstract drawing

• Understanding how to translate personal identity into visual art

What to Expect:

• Craft a matching earring + necklace set
• Pick from a beautiful spread of nature-inspired materials and colors
• Learn how to mix and pour resin like a pro (without the mess or stress)

Skills You’ll Walk Away With:

What to Expect

This standalone skill class meets on Sunday, July 5, from 1–4pm. This class combines demonstration and guided practice. Participants will follow instructor demonstrations and step-by-step guidance while working with prepared paper patterns. Emphasis will be placed on accuracy, fabric placement, and clean results.

What to Expect

• Learn measuring, cutting, and assembling wood to craft a quality frame.

• Get hands-on experience using tools like the miter saw and clamps in a friendly, approachable setting.

• Practice sanding and finishing techniques to give your frame a polished, custom look.
 

This workshop is designed for beginners and DIY enthusiasts looking for a rewarding project.
 

Skills You’ll Acquire

What to Expect

We’ll start by taking apart a desktop tower, identifying components like the power supply, motherboard, and storage drives, and walking through safe troubleshooting practices. Then we’ll move on to laptops, where things get a bit more compact and delicate. Everyone will get hands-on time working on either a desktop or laptop, with guidance throughout.

Join us at MakeHaven for a fun and informative session, and leave with the confidence to continue sewing on your own!

What to Expect

• An introduction to the history and basics of sewing

• Hands-on practice with operating a sewing machine

• Guidance on identifying fabrics and cutting techniques

• Instruction in essential hand stitching methods

• Starting a simple sewing project to apply your new skills

Skills You’ll Acquire

• Basic sewing machine operation

What to Expect:
In this beginner-friendly class, you'll receive hands-on guidance through the essential techniques of sewing. From winding a bobbin to threading and safely operating a sewing machine, you'll learn the foundational skills needed to start your sewing journey. The workshop will also cover basic machine stitches, providing a solid base for future projects.

What to Expect:
Participants will engage in practical demonstrations and hands-on exercises, gaining proficiency in using the extruder tool and exploring its diverse applications. Through step-by-step guidance, attendees will learn how to create cups, mugs, and vases using both extruded and slab-formed components. Expect an immersive experience that encourages experimentation and fosters creativity in clay. There will also be an hour break for lunch. You're welcome to bring food or take advantage of the many options in the neighborhood. 

What to Expect

Participants will get familiar with MakeHaven’s die press cutter and explore collage techniques to create unique greeting cards and envelopes. You’ll work with a curated collection of upcycled materials—but you’re also welcome to bring your own stash of interesting papers to personalize your designs. Each participant will leave with a finished set of ten handmade cards and envelopes, ready to mail, gift, or keep.

Skills You’ll Acquire

What to Expect

This is a hands-on, machine-focused class led by Sean, drawing on real-world experience with a variety of 3D printers. We’ll walk through the major components of a printer, how they interact, and what’s happening at each stage of a print. Participants will observe printers in operation, practice common setup and adjustment tasks, and work through typical problems that come up during printing. The focus is on understanding what the printer is doing and why, so troubleshooting feels logical instead of frustrating.

What to Expect

This standalone skill class meets on Sunday, March 8, from 1–4pm. Gayle, our instructor, will guide you through each step of traditional applique design using demonstrations, guided instruction, and hands-on practice. Fabrics will be available to use, or you can bring your own quilting cotton.

What to Expect

This class is ideal for new riders who want to feel more confident before every ride. You’ll get familiar with your bike’s key components and learn how to assess, adjust, and maintain them. Hands-on practice includes fixing a flat, cleaning your drivetrain, and doing quick adjustments on brakes and shifting. You’ll leave with a working toolkit checklist, a personalized maintenance routine, and the skills to stay safe and self-sufficient on the road.

What to Expect

In this workshop, you’ll start with pre-sized lumber and learn how to measure, cut, drill, and assemble your own wooden carrier. Instructors will guide you through safe tool use (like the miter saw and drill press) and show you how to add finishing touches like sanding and optional stain or oil. You’ll leave with a complete six-slot bottle caddy and the skills to make more.

Skills You’ll Acquire

• Measuring and marking for accurate cuts

• Safe operation of the miter saw and drill press

What to Expect

Across four sessions, students will gain confidence in each step of the stuffed animal-making process, with guided instruction and hands-on practice. You’ll start with basic stitches and appliqué, move into embroidery and shaping, and finish with details like horns, fingers, or facial features. By the end, you’ll have the skills to confidently tackle any stuffed animal pattern you pick up.

Skills You’ll Learn

What to Expect:

This workshop invites participants to unleash their creativity by designing and crafting a personalized lantern. Bring your own design or create one on the spot; either way, you'll discover the magic of using a laser cutter to precision-cut your lantern's intricate patterns. As the finishing touch, you'll delve into the world of basic wiring to illuminate your lantern, creating a captivating masterpiece that reflects your unique design sensibilities.

What to Expect

Expect demonstrations and guided work time: you’ll fold and hand-sew signatures (page inserts), plan and assemble a Kraft-Tex cover, add optional pockets, and attach your chosen closure. The instructor will offer step-by-step support so you can complete a working refillable notebook during the session.

Skills You’ll Acquire

• How to hand-sew signatures (page inserts) using standard paper

• Planning and constructing a Kraft-Tex cover that mimics leather

What to Expect

This standalone skill class meets on Sunday, April 5, from 1–4pm. This class focuses on guided practice using curved piecing templates provided by the instructor. You’ll learn how to prepare fabric, align curved edges, and stitch them together cleanly, with demonstrations and plenty of time for hands-on sewing. The instructor will share tips and tricks for easing curves, managing fabric stretch, and improving accuracy, while offering individual support throughout the session.

What to Expect

Students will be guided through the techniques of Senegalese hair styling, learning how to create and decorate these traditional looks. You’ll also be introduced to basic Senegalese vocabulary related to hair and styling, helping you connect more deeply with the culture. Each session will highlight the significance of these hair rituals and how they reflect the values and traditions of Senegalese communities.

Skills You’ll Acquire

• Techniques for traditional Senegalese hair styling and decoration

What to Expect

• Activities to spark creativity and help you begin the process of writing poetry or prose.

• Guided discussions on translating personal stories and emotions into impactful writing.

• Insights into using language effectively to create vivid imagery and emotional resonance.

• A supportive space to explore your voice and connect with others through shared experiences.

Skills You’ll Acquire

• Strategies for finding and developing your unique writing voice.

***This workshop happens over two consecutive Sundays: September 21st & 28th***

What to Expect

Students will learn how to take a finished quilt and add the final, polished edge: the binding. You’ll explore different methods of binding—both by machine and hand—and practice trimming, attaching, and finishing techniques to ensure your quilt has a clean, professional look.

What to Expect

This standalone skill class meets on Sunday, June 7th, from 1–4pm. This class combines demonstration and guided practice. Participants will learn multiple Flying Geese methods, then apply them directly while receiving individualized support. Design and fabric placement will be discussed alongside technical construction.

What to Expect

Enjoy an engaging session led by Amy Demers, founder of the CT Foraging Club. The class includes lecture-style teaching with visual examples and discussion, plus time for Q&A. You’ll walk away with the knowledge and confidence to begin safely identifying mushrooms that are fruiting in our region this season. A cup of chaga tea is included with your ticket.

Skills You’ll Acquire

What to Expect

Expect an interactive session focused on the art of botanical decoupage. The instructor will demonstrate how to layer and apply delicate dried florals before participants dive into personalizing their own glassware. You will spend the session experimenting with textures and floral compositions to transform a simple vase into a glowing piece of art. All tools and materials are provided, and you’ll leave with a finished custom creation.

Skills You’ll Acquire

What to Expect

Expect guided instruction with demonstrations followed by hands-on practice. The instructor will walk through each HST method step by step, sharing tips for trimming, aligning, and maintaining consistent sizing. Participants will have time to play with layout and design options before assembling blocks.

What to Expect:
In this class, you'll learn how to cover a glass ornament with polymer clay canes, thread tassels to add a decorative touch, and make a coordinating hook to match your ornament. While your creations bake, instructor Nancy will demonstrate the process of making polymer clay canes, providing you with tips and tricks to enhance your skills.

What to Expect:

Get ready to dive into the world of wax art! You’ll master the basics of painting with colored wax and discover pro tips for manipulating this unconventional medium. By the end of the session, you’ll leave with two beautifully decorated candles to brighten your home or give as thoughtful, handmade gifts.

Skills You’ll Learn:

• Painting techniques with colored wax
• Creative tips for achieving unique designs

What’s Provided:

What to Expect

This standalone skill class meets on Sunday, August 2, from 1–4pm. This class combines demonstration and guided practice. This class focuses on experimentation and creative confidence. The instructor will offer prompts and guidance while encouraging participants to trust their instincts and explore new approaches to piecing.

What to Expect:
- Detailed guidance on mosaic design principles and techniques.
- Hands-on practice in mixing mortar, cutting glass, and embedding tiles.
- Expert tips on grouting to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your coaster(s).

What to Expect

This class is split over two consecutive Wednesdays, April 8 and April 15, from 6:30pm to 8:30pm. Expect a technical, instructor-led environment that combines demonstrations with immediate hands-on experimentation. The instructor will guide the group through software setup and basic circuit building, allowing participants to practice reading inputs like buttons and potentiometers while controlling outputs. Participants should bring their own laptop with the Arduino software pre-installed to maximize class time.

What to Expect:

This workshop invites participants to unleash their creativity by designing and crafting a personalized lantern. Bring your own design or create one on the spot; either way, you'll discover the magic of using a laser cutter to precision-cut your lantern's intricate patterns. As the finishing touch, you'll delve into the world of basic wiring to illuminate your lantern, creating a captivating masterpiece that reflects your unique design sensibilities.

What to Expect:
Explore the fundamentals of stained glass using the "Tiffany" method. Learn to design, cut, grind, foil, and solder glass pieces into a cohesive panel. Receive expert guidance and demonstrations throughout the entire process.

Skills You'll Acquire:
Master the art of precision cutting and grinding glass. 
Gain proficiency in foiling and soldering techniques.
Understand design principles specific to stained glass.

Join Audra of Motherhood Creations for a captivating workshop where you'll learn to craft custom  nightlights using the enchanting art of resin.

What to Expect:

Crafting unique resin nightlights that illuminate any space with style.
Exploring a wide selection of decorative elements to personalize your nightlights.
Learning the art of resin mixing and pouring to achieve a flawless finish.

What to Expect

This standalone skill class meets on Sunday, September 6, from 1–4pm. This class combines demonstration and guided practice. The instructor will demonstrate layering, basting, and quilting techniques suitable for home machines. Participants will discuss design choices and practice stitching methods that add texture and structure.

What to Expect:

• Craft a matching set of heart-themed earrings and a pendant using resin and personalized decorations.

• Choose from an array of dried flowers, leaves, glitter, foil, and other embellishments to create a truly unique design.

• Learn the step-by-step process of mixing and pouring resin for a professional, glossy finish.

Skills You’ll Acquire:

What to Expect

In the first session, students will dive into key principles of modern quilt design and practice constructing blocks using techniques like asymmetry, minimalism, and bold color placement. You’ll work hands-on with a sewing machine and learn how to design blocks that pop, using both guided patterns and improvisational methods.

Join Audra of Motherhood Creations for an engaging workshop where you'll explore the art of resin to craft a stunning charcuterie board. 
This is a sip n create event, so feel free to BYOW (bring your own wine)!

What to Expect:

- Crafting a resin charcuterie board using personalized design elements.
- Choosing from a diverse selection of materials to customize your board.
- Learning the precise techniques of resin mixing and pouring for optimal results.

What to Expect

• Decorating a wood-framed tray (approx. 6″×12″) with resin accents
• Choosing from a variety of pigments, glitters, and inclusions to create your own design
• Learning the fundamentals of safe resin mixing, pouring, and finishing
• Step-by-step instruction in a supportive and beginner-friendly environment

Skills You’ll Acquire

What to Expect

On the first day (November 8th), participants will shape their clay pieces using slab techniques and pressed floral textures. Linnie will guide you through how to handle clay, attach elements with slip, and support your forms as they dry. After the pieces are fired, you’ll return on November 16 to glaze your creations using hand-applied techniques. Finished work will be ready for pickup after the final firing.

What to Expect:
In this course, you'll dive into the core fundamentals of Python, covering essential topics like data types, functions, file handling, and data structures. The course is designed to be interactive and fun, with a hands-on project where you'll build a touch-activated stopwatch using a microcontroller.

What to Expect

This standalone skill class meets on Sunday, December 6, from 1–4pm. This class combines demonstration and guided practice. The instructor will demonstrate various binding methods and hand-finishing techniques to secure quilt edges. Participants will spend the session applying these methods to their own work or practice materials.

What to Expect

This standalone skill class meets on Sunday, November 1, from 1–4pm. This class combines demonstration and guided practice. The instructor will demonstrate techniques for cutting, arranging, and piecing heavy fabrics into cohesive designs. Participants will practice stitching through multiple layers of denim to complete at least one finished block.

Join Audra of Motherhood Creations for an engaging workshop where you'll explore the art of resin to craft a stunning and craft stunning winter ornaments. 

 What to Expect:

What to Expect

What to Expect

This standalone skill class meets on Sunday, January 4, from 1–4pm. Gayle, our instructor, will guide you through each step of traditional piecing using demonstrations, guided instruction, and hands-on practice. Fabrics will be available to use, or you can bring your own quilting cotton.

What to Expect

This standalone skill class meets on Sunday, February 8th, from 1–4pm. Gayle, our instructor, will guide you through each step of foundation paper piecing using demonstrations, guided instruction, and hands-on practice. Fabrics will be available to use, or you can bring your own quilting cotton.

What to Expect

The session begins with a safety overview and introduction to the tools and materials. You’ll work through each stage of spoon carving—from rough shaping with carving tools to smoothing and finishing with sandpaper and food-safe oil. Instruction includes both demonstrations and plenty of hands-on time, with guidance throughout. Optional shop tools like sanders or buffers may be used during finishing. Everyone will leave with a completed wooden spoon and the knowledge to carve more on their own.

What to Expect