3D printing turns a digital design into a real object, one thin layer at a time. Members can explore ready-made designs or learn to create their own, producing everything from organizers and models to replacement knobs, brackets and other hard-to-find parts. It is a practical way to solve everyday problems while learning about design, measurement, materials and how ideas move from the computer screen into the physical world.

Equipment Available:

• Brand new Bambu Labs X2D

Creative electronics is about using circuits, lights, sound, sensors and small computers to make something interactive or useful. Possible projects include LED artwork, electronic games, weather displays, alarms, musical devices, robots and custom gadgets. Beginners can start with simple circuits and gradually learn soldering, programming and troubleshooting, while experienced members can share ideas and collaborate on more advanced builds.

Equipment Available:

• Soldering station and tools

• Breadboard, Resistors, LEDs, wires, etc

• Various Arduino compatible boards
  
  

Before throwing something away, bring it in and see whether it can be repaired or given a new purpose. This theme can include diagnosing small appliances and electronics, replacing worn or broken parts, sharpening and maintaining tools, refinishing household items, and learning safe repair techniques. The goal is not only to save useful objects from the landfill, but also to help members understand how things work and become more confident tackling repairs at home.

Equipment Available:

• Sockets, screwdrivers and pliers

• Drill and driver

• 3D printer

• Soldering station

Do you have a small project that requires a specialized tool?  Instead of buying a new one to use only once, borrow it from our tool library.  We have a number of different tools available and are always looking for new ones to add.

Equipment Available:

• 0-8 AWG crimper and cutting tool

• 10-22 AWG crimper and stripping tool

• Suggest a tool for us to share

You do not need special skills or a finished project to take part. We have several family and beginner activities that can offer approachable ways to try simple robotics, beginner electronics and craft projects.  Our experienced members are happy to help mentor anyone interested in learning new things.

Equipment Available:

• Several introductory Arduino kits.

• BBC micro-bit kit

Sewing and mending can extend the life of clothing, household fabrics and outdoor gear while opening the door to creative new projects. Members might learn to repair a seam, replace a zipper, patch jeans, alter clothing, make a reusable bag or turn leftover fabric into something new. Both hand sewing and machine sewing can be explored, with projects suitable for complete beginners as well as experienced sewists.

Equipment Available:

• Sewing machine

Home automation projects combine simple sensors, controls and software to make a home more convenient, efficient or secure. Members might experiment with automated lighting, temperature or moisture monitoring, door and window sensors, energy tracking, or devices that work with systems such as Home Assistant. Projects can be as simple as turning on a light with a sensor or as ambitious as connecting several devices into a useful smart-home system.

Equipment Available:

• Soldering station

• Breadboards, LEDs, wires

• 3D printer

• ESP32/8266 boards