Winter Projects Await: Upcoming Classes at CMS

Originally published at: https://claremontmakerspace.org/2025/01/27/winter-projects-await-upcoming-classes-at-cms/

Greetings Upper Valley Makers:

Warm Up Your Winter with Creativity at Claremont MakerSpace!

As the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop, it’s the perfect time to spark some creativity and learn something new! Whether you’re looking to stay productive during the colder months, try a new craft, or build skills for personal or professional growth, we’ve got classes to inspire and energize you. From welding to design, sewing to electronics, there’s something for everyone at Claremont MakerSpace including KIDS! Don’t let winter keep you in hibernation—join us and make this season your most creative yet!

For most classes and events, CMS MEMBERSHIP IS NOT REQUIRED. That said, members receive a discount on registration and there are some classes/events that are for members only (this will be clearly noted in the event description).

We are grateful for all of the public support that our 501(c)(3), non-profit organization receives. If you’d like to make a donation, please visit the Support Us page of our website.

Class policies (liability waiver, withdrawal, cancellation, etc.) can be found here.

Instructors: Interested in teaching a class at CMS? Please fill out our Class Proposal Form.

Tours: Want to see what the Claremont MakerSpace is all about?
Contact Us to schedule your tour where you can learn about all the awesome tools that the CMS offers access to, as well as how membership, classes, and studio spaces work.


Upcoming Events

Events that are currently open for registration.

Image for Sumi-e Japanese Ink Painting, Painting the Bamboo Forest

Sumi-e Japanese Ink Painting, Painting the Bamboo Forest

Jan. 28, 2025 6 p.m. — 8:30 p.m.

Sumi-e is the art of Japanese ink painting; a noble and time-honored pursuit of the Japanese scholar. We will cultivate a Zen state of mind by exploring aspects of the Japanese Tea Ceremony. We’ll look at images of Japanese Ink Paintings and learn the basic brush strokes used in this specific type of painting. These techniques can be applied to a variety of painting media. The art is in the touch of the brush stroke, quality of the line, appreciation of the natural world, and the beauty in asymmetry. All supplies are provided. We’ll create multiple paintings. Come to class dressed to paint.

 

About the Instructor(s): Allison Zito has been the shop lead in the Fibers Department at Claremont MakerSpace since 2018.  Allison majored in Fibers and received a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree from the University of the Arts. Her artwork has been exhibited in numerous museums including The Barnes Foundation in Philadelphia, The Berkshire Museum in Pittsfield, MA, The Delaware Art Museum, The Pennsylvania State Museum in Harrisburg, and The Philadelphia Museum of Art.  Allison has decades of teaching experience, having taught a variety of classes at The Philadelphia Museum of Art, at Harcum College in Bryn Mawr, PA, and at the University of Pennsylvania Morris Arboretum. She has taught Studio Art in the Upper Valley at AVA Gallery and Art Center, Craftstudies at Hanover League of New Hampshire Craftsmen, ArtisTree, and Claremont Maker Space with stunning results.  Allison Zito was awarded The Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award in 2018 for her work as an artist and art educator. In 2019 Allison was awarded an Artist in Residency at The Claremont Maker Space. There she created an art installation addressing the issue of Global Warming and she organized a symposium on site, to inspire positive action within the greater community. Allison created two local public art murals in 2021, one for The Sullivan County Conservation District in Unity and Allison created the Bee and the Monarch Medallions on the Lebanon Art Tunnel Way Pollinator Mural. Creating beautiful art in an effort to open a conversation that can inspire hope and action for a better world. This the cornerstone of Allison’s work as an artist and art educator. 

Class Fees: $65 for members/$75 for non-members

Materials Fee: $15 included in the class fee

Prerequisite(s): None

Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate

Age requirement: Adults only (18 years and older)

Register for this class now!


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Intro to MIG Welding

Jan. 30, 2025 5:30 p.m. — 8 p.m.

Thinking about trying out MIG welding? This is an introductory workshop in learning, safety, tools and techniques in MIG welding. No experience required.

 

Must provide your own safety glasses, leather work shoes and leather gloves. Helmets, jackets and materials will be provided. 

 

Students will:
. Learn about safety in the metal shop and welding studio
. Learn about MIG welding equipment and materials to be used
. Use the MIG welding equipment to spot weld, draw a bead and join two prices of metal

 

About the Instructors: Jo Ann Clifford is a Master Teacher and Metal Artist. She has been creating metal Art in her home studio and at The Claremont Maker Space for several years. She is a past Artist In Residence at CMS and has shown her work regionally. She loves to teach and inspire others to try something new in a fun and supportive environment.

Class Fees: $65 members, $75 non-members.

Materials Fee: $10 included in class fee

Prerequisite: none

Skill Level: beginner

Age Requirement: Adults only (18 years and above)

 

Register for this class now!


Image for Stick Welding for Beginners

Stick Welding for Beginners

Jan. 31, 2025 6 p.m. — 8 p.m.

Stick welding is the entry level technique to all other welding skills. Whether you’re a beginner, an artist looking for a different medium or just wanting to learn a new skill, this is the place to start!

You will learn the basics of welding safety, how to strike an arc, how to start making the bead on a flat piece of steel and how to continue to strike an arc and carry it to form the bead.

Students should bring to class: Safety glasses, leather boots, and leather gloves.

About the Instructor(s): Sheldon Heselton has an A.S. in Welding Technology from Manchester Community Technical College and he is a certified welding inspector through the American Welding Society. His experience is mostly in stick welding, but he can weld in multiple processes and he does ultrasonic weld testing and magnetic particle weld testing. Sheldon has worked on power plant construction sites, and also inspections for welded bridges and other components at welding shops.

 

Class Fees: $110 members / $120 non-members

Materials Fee: $10 included in the class fee

Prerequisite(s): none

Skill Level: beginner

Age requirement: Youth and Adult (15 years and older)

Register for this class now!


Image for Make a Foil Tile

Make a Foil Tile

Feb. 1, 2025 2 p.m. — 4 p.m.

Join us for hands-on class for adult beginners and children 8 and up. We will explore the technique of creating raised-design faux metal tiles which we will construct using aluminum foil and cardboard. Students will practice on ready-made tiles as well as design their own tile to take home. Children under 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian but kids ages 8 and up are welcome. This activity is very beginner friendly and a great holiday project.

About the Instructor(s): 

Jane Kolias was chosen as our fall 2024 Artist in Residence. Jane is a native New Hampshirite now residing in Vermont, and she has an extensive and lifelong association with both performing and visual arts. Her work in metalsmithing includes jewelry design, fabrication, and welding. “I’m honored to be the Artist in Residence this fall at CMS and excited about creating rustic
metal art to share with the community that is whimsical, imaginative and educational,” said Kolias. “I am grateful for the support of CMS and the generous sponsorship from Maine Oxy and the Northern Borders Regional Commission.”  Jane’s most recent endeavor, “METALSUM, Art Inspired by Nature and Imagined Through Found Objects ” was on exhibit at the NH Audubon’s McLane Center in Concord this past Summer. Curator Lauren Kramer described it as the most successful art exhibit held at that
venue.

Class Fees: Free for members (REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED), $10 for non-members (REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED)

Materials Fee: $0

Prerequisite(s): None

Skill Level: Beginner

Age requirement: Anyone ages 8 and up are welcome (under age 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian)

Register for this class now!


Image for Basic Sewing Class

Basic Sewing Class

Feb. 2, 2025 1 p.m. — 2:30 p.m.

Learn how to use the Singer Heavy Duty Sewing Machines we have at Claremont MakerSpace. Participants will learn the parts of the sewing machines, how to change needles and presser feet, wind a bobbin and thread the machine, how to get the right tension, trouble shoot problems, sew basic stitches and stretch stitches, and buttonholes. 

 

About the Instructor(s): Allison Zito has been the shop lead in the Fibers Department at Claremont MakerSpace since 2018.  Allison majored in Fibers and received a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree from the University of the Arts. Her artwork has been exhibited in numerous museums including The Barnes Foundation in Philadelphia, The Berkshire Museum in Pittsfield, MA, The Delaware Art Museum, The Pennsylvania State Museum in Harrisburg, and The Philadelphia Museum of Art.  Allison has decades of teaching experience, having taught a variety of classes at The Philadelphia Museum of Art, at Harcum College in Bryn Mawr, PA, and at the University of Pennsylvania Morris Arboretum. She has taught Studio Art in the Upper Valley at AVA Gallery and Art Center, Craftstudies at Hanover League of New Hampshire Craftsmen, ArtisTree, and Claremont Maker Space with stunning results.  Allison Zito was awarded The Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award in 2018 for her work as an artist and art educator. In 2019 Allison was awarded an Artist in Residency at The Claremont Maker Space. There she created an art installation addressing the issue of Global Warming and she organized a symposium on site, to inspire positive action within the greater community. Allison created two local public art murals in 2021, one for The Sullivan County Conservation District in Unity and Allison created the Bee and the Monarch Medallions on the Lebanon Art Tunnel Way Pollinator Mural. Creating beautiful art in an effort to open a conversation that can inspire hope and action for a better world. This the cornerstone of Allison’s work as an artist and art educator. 

Class Fees: $45 for members/$55 for non-members

Materials Fee: $0

Prerequisite(s): None

Skill Level: Beginners and those looking for a refresher

Age requirement: Youth and Adults (ages 15 and older)

Register for this class now!


Image for CAD Design in Autodesk Fusion 360

CAD Design in Autodesk Fusion 360

Feb. 6, 2025 4 p.m. — 6:30 p.m.

In this course you will learn how to navigate, create, and edit 2D and 3D models as well as bring your creations to life. This course will consist of the fundamentals through the intermediate steps and decision making that creates a strong design. We will also show how to use your models in the applications of CNC manufacturing or 3D printing. There is a lot to learn and this course will move fairly quickly to make sure we cover the content.

This class will be an all in one, you may need some practice after this class to refine your skills, and I am happy to do further classes with anyone would like further instruction once you have a project in mind. 

We recommend that you bring a computer AND a mouse that can run Autodesk Fusion 360, the specifications can be found on their website here:

https://www.autodesk.com/support/technical/article/caas/sfdcarticles/sfdcarticles/System-requirements-for-Autodesk-Fusion-360.html

About the Instructor(s): Joseph Sneed is our Machine Shop lead and a tool and die maker by trade. He has a strong background in manufacturing and industrial maintenance. He enjoys rock climbing and playing board games and card games.

Class Fees: $60 for members/$70 for nonmembers

Materials Fee: $0

Prerequisite(s): None

Skill Level: Familiarity using a computer and learning new software

Age requirement: Youth and adults ages 15 and up are welcome (minors need to be accompanied by a registered parent or legal guardian)

 

Class full but still interested? Or can’t make the dates above? Use the form below to let us know and we will reach out!

Class Interest and Waiting List

Register for this class now!


Image for New Year - New Skill: Make a Beautiful Cutting Board

New Year – New Skill: Make a Beautiful Cutting Board

Feb. 6, 2025 6 p.m. — Feb. 13, 2025 8:30 p.m.

Would you like to learn how to use basic shop machinery to make a lovely hardwood serving/cutting board?  Then this is the course for you.  Starting with raw lumber you will learn how to make a useful and beautiful piece that can serve you or a special friend for years to come.

You will learn about wood selection, milling it “foursquare”, and designing a layout.  Then you will practice gluing it up and sanding it (wet and dry) before applying mineral oil and beeswax. 

All tools, materials, and safety gear will be provided – though, students are welcome to bring their own tools and gear.

About the Instructor(s): Peter Gunn is a former teacher who loves working with wood from trees to the table.  A decade ago he began taking woodworking courses and has been practicing steadily ever since.  He loves working on the lathe and with the jointer and planer to reveal the beauty of wood and make useful things.  During the holidays in 2020, when Covid altered so much of our world, he began making cutting/serving boards to raise money for local food pantries. Over four years and three hundred boards later, he is excited to share his knowledge.  He hopes people will enjoy making something uniquely beautiful and growing their skills and self-confidence in the process.

 

***This class meets twice***

Thursday, February 6th, 2025 6pm-8:30pm

AND

Thursday, February 13th, 2025 6pm-8:30pm

 

Class Fees: $150 CMS members/ $170 non-members

Materials Fee: $50 included in class fee

Prerequisite(s): none

Skill Level: Beginner

Age requirement: Adults only (18 years and older)

Class full but still interested? Or can’t make the dates above? Use the form below to let us know and we will reach out!

Class Interest and Waiting List

Register for this class now!


Image for Stick Welding for Beginners

Stick Welding for Beginners

Feb. 7, 2025 6 p.m. — 8 p.m.

Stick welding is the entry level technique to all other welding skills. Whether you’re a beginner, an artist looking for a different medium or just wanting to learn a new skill, this is the place to start!

You will learn the basics of welding safety, how to strike an arc, how to start making the bead on a flat piece of steel and how to continue to strike an arc and carry it to form the bead.

Students should bring to class: Safety glasses, leather boots, and leather gloves.

About the Instructor(s): Sheldon Heselton has an A.S. in Welding Technology from Manchester Community Technical College and he is a certified welding inspector through the American Welding Society. His experience is mostly in stick welding, but he can weld in multiple processes and he does ultrasonic weld testing and magnetic particle weld testing. Sheldon has worked on power plant construction sites, and also inspections for welded bridges and other components at welding shops.

 

Class Fees: $110 members / $120 non-members

Materials Fee: $10 included in the class fee

Prerequisite(s): none

Skill Level: beginner

Age requirement: Youth and Adult (15 years and older)

Register for this class now!


Image for Make a Coptic Notebook

Make a Coptic Notebook

Feb. 8, 2025 2 p.m. — 5 p.m.

Learn the art of bookbinding! In this class you will learn the techniques and process of making a one-of-a-kind handmade coptic stitch notebook with a Claremont MakerSpace twist: We’ll start at the laser cutter where we’ll cut out wooden covers with custom designs. Then, we’ll learn about the Coptic binding method. This unique binding method is one of the oldest in human history, dating back as early as the second century. It allows the book to lay flat, making it great for sketchbooks. The final notebook measures 5.75” x 8.75” when done. Students are welcome to bring their own paper (you’ll need 50 sheets), otherwise paper will be provided.

This is a great class for a beginner or young person (with an adult partner) interested in laser cutters, books, or hand-sewing.

About the Instructor(s): Tiffany Vincent. Tiffany is one of Claremont MakerSpace’s Digital Fabrication Lab Shop Leads and is interested in all things making.

Class Fees: $40 for members. $60 for non-members.

Materials Fee: $10 (included in price)

Prerequisite(s): None

Skill Level: Any

Age requirement: Youth and adult (15 years and older). Under 15 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian partner

 

Register for this class now!


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Open Sew-In

Feb. 9, 2025 2 p.m. — 4:30 p.m.

Bring your sewing projects and supplies and have fun visiting with other Fiber Artists and Enthusiasts. Work on your projects in our roomy and comfortable sewing department. We have plenty of table space and 5 Singer heavy duty sewing machines, irons, ironing board, and a variety of sewing notions to use in the Fiber Arts Studio. Free for Members and $10 for Non Members.
All Levels are welcome. While assistance is available, participants interested in using the MakerSpace equipment should have a basic working knowledge.
 
Allison, our shop lead will be available to help with any questions you may have. Registration is required.
 
 

About the Instructor: Allison Zito received a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree from the University of the Arts. Her artwork has been exhibited in numerous museums including The Barnes Foundation in Philadelphia, The Berkshire Museum in Pittsfield
MA, The Delaware Art Museum, The Pennsylvania State Museum in Harrisburg, and The Philadelphia Museum of Art.  Allison has decades of teaching experience, having taught a variety of classes at The Philadelphia Museum of Art, at Harcum College in Bryn Mawr, PA, and at the University of Pennsylvania Morris Arboretum. She has taught Studio Art in the Upper Valley at AVA Gallery and Art Center, Craftstudies at Hanover League of New Hampshire Craftsmen, ArtisTree, and Claremont Maker Space with
stunning results.  Allison Zito was awarded The Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award in 2018 for her work as an artist and art educator. In 2019 Allison was awarded an Artist in Residency at The Claremont Maker Space. There she created an art installation addressing the issue of Global Warming and she organized a symposium on site, to inspire positive action within the greater community. Allison created two local public art murals in 2021, one for The Sullivan County Conservation District in Unity and Allison created the Bee and the Monarch Medallions on the Lebanon Art Tunnel Way Pollinator Mural. Making a statement and creating beautiful art as a way to open a conversation that leads to a better world, is the cornerstone of Allison’s
career as an artist and art educator.

Age requirement: Adults (18 and older)

Class Fees: Free for members and $10 for non-members.

Materials Fee: None

Register for this class now!


Image for Member Social - Craft Show Watch Party

Member Social – Craft Show Watch Party

Feb. 9, 2025 4 p.m. — 7 p.m.

**Crafting Show Watch Party for Non-Football Fans**

Registration is not required, feel free to drop in. Bring any craft or maker “works in process” or feel free to bring any finished pieces for show and tell!

Skip the football and join us for a fun and cozy Crafting Show Watch Party during the Super Bowl! Bring your favorite Super Bowl snack to share potluck-style or pack your own dinner if snacks aren’t your thing. Feel free to bring along a quiet crafting project to work on while we enjoy a lineup of inspiring and entertaining crafting shows together. This members-only event is the perfect chance to relax, create, and connect with fellow non-football fans—plus, members are welcome to bring a plus one!

Class full but still interested? Or can’t make the dates above? Use the form below to let us know and we will reach out!

Class Interest and Waiting List

Register for this class now!


Image for Learn How to use the Mid-Arm Quilting Machine

Learn How to use the Mid-Arm Quilting Machine

Feb. 11, 2025 6 p.m. — 8 p.m.

Intro to Mid Arm Quilting Machine is offered on Tuesday 21, 5:30 to 7:30 pm. It is designed for people looking to learn how to use our mid-arm quilting machine, a Brother Dream Quilter 15. It can be used to quilt all sizes, from baby quilt to king size. Premade clothing can also be fitted onto the frame for quilting! The cost of the class includes a one on one follow-up certification session. Members may use the machine on their own after passing the certification.

About the Instructor: 

Allison Zito has been the shop lead in the Fibers Department at Claremont MakerSpace since 2018.  Allison majored in Fibers and received a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree from the University of the Arts. Her artwork has been exhibited in numerous museums including The Barnes Foundation in Philadelphia, The Berkshire Museum in Pittsfield, MA, The Delaware Art Museum, The Pennsylvania State Museum in Harrisburg, and The Philadelphia Museum of Art.  Allison has decades of teaching experience, having taught a variety of classes at The Philadelphia Museum of Art, at Harcum College in Bryn Mawr, PA, and at the University of Pennsylvania Morris Arboretum. She has taught Studio Art in the Upper Valley at AVA Gallery and Art Center, Craftstudies at Hanover League of New Hampshire Craftsmen, ArtisTree, and Claremont Maker Space with stunning results.  Allison Zito was awarded The Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award in 2018 for her work as an artist and art educator. In 2019 Allison was awarded an Artist in Residency at The Claremont Maker Space. There she created an art installation addressing the issue of Global Warming and she organized a symposium on site, to inspire positive action within the greater community. Allison created two local public art murals in 2021, one for The Sullivan County Conservation District in Unity and Allison created the Bee and the Monarch Medallions on the Lebanon Art Tunnel Way Pollinator Mural. Creating beautiful art in an effort to open a conversation that can inspire hope and action for a better world. This the cornerstone of Allison’s work as an artist and art educator. 

 

Class Fees: $90/member $100/non-member

Materials Fee: $0

Age Requirement: Adults only (18 and older)

Skill Level: All levels

Prerequisites: none

Register for this class now!


Image for February Open Electronics Meetup

February Open Electronics Meetup

Feb. 11, 2025 6 p.m. — 9 p.m.

Bring your electronics projects and supplies and have fun visiting with other Electronics Enthusiasts. Work on your projects in our stocked Electronics and Digital Fabrication Lab. In addition to the MakerSpace’s soldering irons, diagnostic tools, and parts library, there will be some LED soldering kits and soldering irons available for purchase as well.
 
Hang out, finish your projects, think about future projects, and just enjoy being around other electronics enthusiasts.
 
Tiffany, the electronics shop lead, will be available to help you set up, find parts, and offer support.

Class Fees: Free for members and $5 for non-members.

Materials Fee: None (LED soldering kits and personal soldering irons are available onsite for purchase

Prerequisite(s): None

Skill Level: Any

Age requirement: Youth and adult (15 years and older). Under 15 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian partner.

Register for this class now!


Image for Make and Take a Charcuterie Board Using VCarve and the ShopBot

Make and Take a Charcuterie Board Using VCarve and the ShopBot

Feb. 13, 2025 6 p.m. — Feb. 27, 2025 8 p.m.

Learn how to use VCarve and the ShopBot to make your very own charcuterie board to bring home! This class spends a lot of time on learning the software required to use the CNC ShopBot. The charcuterie boards will be made using purple heart and curly maple and include two 4-ounce ramekins!

Back by popular demand!  We are planning a set of three training sessions for users to learn the VCarve software application and the ShopBot. The VCarve application by Vectric is used to design parts, which are cut by the Shopbot. The ShopBot is a computer-controlled router that can cut various materials with a high degree of precision. These three training sessions are intended to get you proficient in using these systems. After these sessions, the successful student will be well-prepared for certification on the ShopBot and will have created their own charcuterie board to take home!

*Note that final finishing of the board will need to be done at home after the class but Russ will provide all of the information about how to do that*

Please note: This class meets for three sessions on the following dates:

Thursday, February 13th 6:00 – 8:00 pm

Thursday, February 20th 6:00 – 8:00 pm

Thursday, February 27th 6:00 – 8:00 pm

  

Session 1, VCarve part 1:

The first session will introduce the user to 2D design using Vectric VCarve. We’ll start with a review of user interface and progress to using its CAD features draw parts we plan to make. The use of various drawing tools will be discussed in addition to managing and importing vector files. We will use these drawing tools in VCarve to design a charcuterie board. 

 

Session 2, VCarve part 2:

The second session will introduce the selection of router bits and how to control the chip load of the bit in the ShopBot. We will also review router bit management using the tool database. When our sign design is complete, we will discuss the CAM features in VCarve and construct tool paths. We will learn how to save and export these toolpaths for cutting the charcuterie board in the ShopBot.

 

Session 3, Using the ShopBot:

This session will start with a review of the safety features of the ShopBot. This will be followed by a discussion of the machine components, holding down the work piece and setting the X, Y and Z axis. Finally, we will discuss the workflow used to manage the created toolpaths and, finally, cut the charcuterie boards. We will also discuss options to apply a finish to the charcuterie boards.

 

About the Instructor(s): Russ Scaduto received his doctorate in biochemistry from Indiana University and then spent 34 years at the Penn State University College of Medicine where he conducted research and taught graduate and medical students.   Retirement in 2018 brought Russ to New Hampshire, where he joined the Claremont MakerSpace to further pursue his woodworking hobby.  Russ is a juried member of the League of New Hampshire Craftsmen.

Class Fees: $195 members/ $225 non-members

Materials Fee: $55 included in the class fee

Bring to class: A laptop computer would be helpful, but not essential.

Prerequisite(s): None

Skill Level: Beginner but some computer skills are recommended as the majority of the class is about learning the software

Age requirement: Adult (18 and up)

Class full but still interested? You can sign up to “audit” the class and NOT take home a board. Or can’t make the dates above? Use the form below to let us know and we will reach out!

Class Interest and Waiting List

Register for this class now!


Image for Saturday CMS Community Quilts

Saturday CMS Community Quilts

Feb. 15, 2025 2 p.m. — 6 p.m.

Helping hands needed to make warm, comforting quilts! Only basic skills needed. Do you know how to use a sewing machine, iron, or rotary cutter? This is not a quilting class, but we will guide you along through the whole process of making twin and crib size quilts for those in need in our area.

Our space is reserved from 2pm to 7pm, but please come when it is convenient for you, even if you can only spare an hour. 

Sponsorship: All materials are provided thanks to a generous donation from a local quilter. The Home Depot is supporting this program by providing storage containers to manage the quilting materials. Thank you to Mascoma Bank for sponsoring studio space for this project.

About the Instructor(s): Michelle Goldsmith has been sewing since she was eight and quilting since she was eighteen. She has experimented with many different sewing, quilting and mixed media techniques. Michelle has had many pieces of her work in shows and juried exhibits.

Class Fees: Free! Please volunteer your time to help this worthy cause.

Materials Fee: None

Prerequisite(s): Sewing experience helpful, but not necessary

Skill Level: All

Age requirement: Youth + Adult (15 years of age and older)

Register for this class now!


Image for CMS Amateur Radio Club (W1CMS) Monthly Meetup

CMS Amateur Radio Club (W1CMS) Monthly Meetup

Feb. 16, 2025 1 p.m. — 3 p.m.

The Claremont MakerSpace has an Amateur Radio club! Before makers, hackers, and DIY, there was Amateur Radio. 

Join us on February 16 at 1 p.m. for our monthly meeting (every third Sunday) You do not have to be a licensed ham to participate, just bring your curiosity and energy! Everyone is welcome! Each month, we feature a presenter (45 minutes to an hour), and after we adjourn to MakerSpace’s Digital Fabrication and Electronics Lab for open-time kit building, sharing, studying, and socializing.

This Month’s Presentation: Design of a Magnetic Loop Antenna
Bill French will discuss the design of a magnetic loop antenna. After his presentation, he will lead a DIY Workshop ($5 material fee) where we will construct a ladder line j-pole antenna.

Presented by:
Bill French has dedicated his life to electronics, communication, education, and community service. His journey began in high school with an interest in ham radio, though he only earned his Extra Class license in 2021, receiving the call sign AA1BF—’music to his ears’ in CW. Bill’s career includes service in the USAF as an Automatic Flight Control Systems Technician, earning BSEE and MSEE degrees, and three decades as a digital/computer engineer. Beyond his engineering career, Bill spent 27 years as a volunteer EMT with the Epsom Rescue Squad, serving from 1976 to 2003. After retiring in 2002, he became a professor at NHTI, teaching electronics and microprocessor courses for 16 years. Now retired, Bill is an active ham radio operator, Volunteer Examiner, and a builder of regenerative radios, QRP rigs, and microcontroller projects. His current pursuits also include 3D printing and fostering the art of CW communication.

What is Amateur Radio?

Amateur Radio (often called ham radio) is a popular hobby and service that brings people, electronics, and communication together. People use Amateur Radio to talk across town, around the world, or even into space, all without the Internet or cell phones. It’s fun, social, educational, and can be a lifeline during times of need.

How is Amateur Radio used?

Amateur Radio is used for a variety of recreational and service-related activities. Amateur Radio operators, also called “hams,” use Amateur Radio equipment to engage in two-way personal communications with other hams, as well as:

  • Aid communication during public events, such as parades and road races
  • Act as a vital communications link during emergencies and disasters
  • Advance their technical skills and build their own radio components (ever wanted to talk to an astronaut in orbit?)
  • Participate in competitive events and earn awards in contests

Who can become a ham?

Anyone of any age who is not a representative of a foreign government can be an Amateur Radio operator in the US. Before you can get on the air, you’ll need to be licensed and know the rules to operate legally. In the US there are three license classes — Technician, General, and Amateur Extra. The Claremont MakerSpace has resources and support available to help you learn and prepare to take your exam. 

You can learn more about amateur radio here: arrl.org/what-is-ham-radio

Register for this class now!


Image for Sunday CMS Community Quilts

Sunday CMS Community Quilts

Feb. 16, 2025 2 p.m. — 6 p.m.

Helping hands needed to make warm, comforting quilts! Only basic skills needed. Do you know how to use a sewing machine, iron, or rotary cutter? This is not a quilting class, but we will guide you along through the whole process of making twin and crib size quilts for those in need in our area.

Our space is reserved from 2pm to 7pm, but please come when it is convenient for you, even if you can only spare an hour. 

Sponsorship: All materials are provided thanks to a generous donation from a local quilter. The Home Depot is supporting this program by providing storage containers to manage the quilting materials. Thank you to Mascoma Bank for sponsoring studio space for this project.

About the Instructor(s): Michelle Goldsmith has been sewing since she was eight and quilting since she was eighteen. She has experimented with many different sewing, quilting and mixed media techniques. Michelle has had many pieces of her work in shows and juried exhibits.

Class Fees: Free! Please volunteer your time to help this worthy cause.

Materials Fee: None

Prerequisite(s): Sewing experience helpful, but not necessary

Skill Level: All

Age requirement: Youth + Adult (15 years of age and older)

Register for this class now!


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Serger 101

Feb. 16, 2025 3 p.m. — 6 p.m.

A serger, often referred to as an overlock, is a specialized sewing machine that finishes raw edges of fabric to prevent them from fraying. They’re commonly used to finish and reinforce seams, hem clothing, and more.

In this beginner-level workshop, users will learn how to safely operate the MakerSpace’s ELNA Pro 5 DC serger and there will be several other machines available to see and practice on. We’ll explore the factory presets and explore the basics, including threading, how the cutting blade works, and how to adjust the machine correctly. Come learn how to operate the serger and discover how you can put it to use for your next project!

Supplies and materials will be provided for the class.

Note: Participants of this workshop will have the opportunity to get certified to use the MakerSpace’s sergers on their own.

About the Instructor(s): Ann Campbell has been sewing since she was 6 years old. She made Barbie clothes! She has also been sewing with the Claremont MakerSpace since it opened. She’s had a few classes in sewing and was actually able to wear the results.

Class Fees: $10 Members/ $20 Non-members

Materials Fee: None. Plenty of scraps and fabric to practice with (or bring your own)

Prerequisite(s): none

Skill Level: Beginner

Age requirement: 13 and up (13 – 16 years-old need a parent partner)

 

Register for this class now!


Ongoing Events

These events are ongoing. Registration is currently closed, but these events may be offered again in the future.

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Build an End-Grain Cutting Board

Jan. 16, 2025 6 p.m. — Jan. 30, 2025 8:30 p.m.


Image for Make a Silver Pendant with a Bezel Set Stone

Make a Silver Pendant with a Bezel Set Stone

Jan. 20, 2025 6 p.m. — Jan. 27, 2025 8:30 p.m.


Happy Makin’!