Woodworking Classes

Introduction to Woodworking

In this hands-on class, we’ll make something together to demonstrate the fundamentals of woodworking. We’ll teach you how to properly and safely use the machinery in the woodshop such as our table saw, band saw, jointer, planer, drill press, and stationary sander. You’ll get a chance to use each of these machines while gaining confidence and new skills. Even if you are already a woodworker, we will familiarize you with all aspects of our woodshop so you will know proper Makerspace procedures and etiquette about specific machine operations and limitations, dust collection, clean up, and tool locations. This class has a maximum size of 4 students and a minimum size of 2 students.

Wood Router Introduction

Learn more about using a router, one of the most versatile tools in the woodshop! This class will show you how to properly set up a router table for various cuts. We will also cover advanced uses of a router and applicable jigs to cut mortises, replicate curves, and mill out dados and rabbets. Using some of these techniques, we’ll go through the steps to give you hands-on practice with different router bits. You will leave this class with the knowledge to make smooth curved edges for plaques, picture frames, tables, and more! Prerequisite: Introduction to Woodworking or permission of instructor. This class has a maximum size of 4 students and a minimum size of 2 students.

Wood Lathe Introduction

In this two-hour class, you’ll learn the essentials of wood lathe operation and safety. You’ll learn how to set up the lathe for turning, the uses of various wood-turning chisels, and proper technique. You’ll also obtain supervised hands-on experience turning a practice spindle from raw stock. This class has a maximum size of 3 students and a minimum size of 2 students.

Sharpening Chisels for Woodturning

If you are using the wood lathe and doing a lot of woodturning, you’ll need to keep your chisels sharp. Rochester Makerspace has some great grinding jigs, and this class will show you how to use them to sharpen both gouges and flat-edge chisels. Got some dull tools? Bring ’em along! This training class has a minimum of 2 students and maximum of 6 students

Metalworking Classes

Introduction to Machine Tools

Here’s your chance to make something at the Rochester Makerspace and find out if machining metal interests you. During this class for beginners, you will create a metal car using a machine mill and lathe. Our expert instructor will handle the more technical aspects of the project so you can get as much hands-on experience as possible. Visit the links below to sign up for this class. This class has a maximum size of 4 students and a minimum size of 2 students.

Machining Metal with the Rockwell Lathe

This course follows the Introduction to Machine Tools class (above), and you need to have taken that class to enroll. This class is required if you want to use the Rockwell Lathe. The session will emphasize safety considerations, proper treatment of the equipment, and an overview of common lathe procedures. It is suggested that you read the Rockwell Lathe Manual in its entirety prior to your training and use it as an ongoing reference. This class has a maximum size of 2 students, and will only run if the class is full.

Introduction to the CNC Metal Milling Machine – Level I

In this advanced class, you will learn about computer-controlled machining on the CNC Mill. We will review safety considerations and the capabilities of the machine, such as RPM and travel limits. Start-up procedures will be covered, including homing the machine and clearing e-stops when necessary. Other topics include basic offsets, and an understanding of machine coordinates, work coordinates and tool length compensation. We will then perform some metal milling operations using pre-programmed g-code wizards for hole patterns and basic geometric cutouts. The prerequisite for this class is Introduction to Machine Tools. Some prior experience with CNC or CAD software is helpful but not necessary.

Introduction to the CNC Metal Milling Machine – Level II

In this second level advanced class, you will continue learning about computer-controlled machining on the CNC Mill. Topics will include posting code from Fusion 360 to USB & loading into control, thread-milling in mild steel, and 3D surfacing in steel. The prerequisite for this class is the CNC Metal Milling Machine Level I class. This class has a maximum size of 3 students and a minimum size of 2 students.

CNC Router Classes

Introduction to our CNC Routers

This 4-hour class provides an introduction to the new RMS AVID 2×2 and 4×4 CNC Routers. Instruction will focus on the setup and safe operation of the routers. The class will touch upon but does not include instruction on how to design or program toolpaths using CAD/CAM software. Upon completion of this class each student will be asked to demonstrate they understand the subject matter and repeat the steps taught in the class. Successful students will be entered into the Makerspace record of members certified to use the AVID 2×2 CNC Router. Attendees are strongly encouraged to review the RMS Router Training Manual in its entirety prior to the class, and study the additional information provided in manual’s links. This class has a limit of 2 students, and will not run unless the class is full.

Laser Classes

Introduction to Laser Cutting (Lightburn Software)

This class will teach you everything you need to get started cutting and engraving with the laser cutting machines using industry-standard Lightburn software. Safety considerations, approved materials, and step-by-step operating procedures will be covered. Students will learn proper material layout and speed/power settings to obtain clean cuts and engravings. The objective is to leave this training with a clear understanding of how to operate these machines on your own. To be certified to use the laser cutters, you can either take this class or schedule a one-on-one personal training session (see below), since both options cover similar fundamentals. This class has a maximum of 4 students and a minimum of 2 students.

Personal Laser Cutter / Engraver Training (RDWorks Software)

This self-scheduled session will teach you the basics you will need in order to use the laser cutting machines using RDWorks software. Prerequisites: Basic computer skills. The objective is to deliver more timely personalized training for our members. Since the instructor’s schedule is pretty flexible, please pick three dates/times that work for you (note: classes take 2.5 hours) and email them to Bob Walton, bob@bwalton.com, 585-236-5334. He will then pick one of your dates/times and email you back. The class will generally be one-on-one, with a maximum of 2 students.

3D Printing Classes

Introduction to 3D printing

Learn the basics of 3D printing! Our experts will show you how to transform a digital 3D object file (.stl) into a physical object, how to operate and maintain our FDM 3D printers, and which materials and processes to use for different types of projects. This class has a maximum of 3 students and a minimum of 2 students.

Introduction to SLA 3D Printing

Interested in high detail 3D printing? Sign up for this introductory course on Stereolithography (SLA) 3D printing! SLA 3D printing uses a laser to cure liquid resin into hardened plastic, resulting in a more detailed, smoother finish to 3D printed objects. This course will teach the basics of how SLA printing works. All are welcome to enroll, but to get the most from this class, participants should have prior experience with 3D printing. This class has a limit of 2 students, and will not run unless the class is full.

Stained Glass Classes

Introduction to Stained Glass

During this hands-on class you will make a small stained glass project to keep, and learn the fundamentals of creating a stained glass window of any size using the tools and equipment available at Makerspace. This class covers design, cutting glass, using a glass grinder, applying copper foil, soldering, various finishing methods, as well as proper safety and clean-up practices. All glass and tools are provided, but feel free to bring your own if you already have them. The goal of this class is to allow you to safely utilize the Makerspace stained glass area on your own! This class has a limit of 2 students, and will not run unless the class is full.

Electronics Classes

Introduction to Physical Computing with the Pi Pico and Python

Want to control blinky lights? Make things move? Entertain the cat? Wow the paparazzi at Comic-Con? This class is where you start. The Pi Pico is a microcontroller platform that supersedes the Arduino as an easy-to-learn, inexpensive, and powerful base for interacting with the physical world. The class will introduce you to working with the Pico via a series of hands-on examples and start you building your own electronic gadgets and gizmos

Introduction to Arduino

Arduino is a low-cost, open-source, circuit board which can be programmed to sense and control objects in the physical world.  By responding to sensors and inputs, the Arduino can interact with a wide variety of devices such as LEDs, motors and displays. Because of its flexibility and low cost, Arduino has become a popular choice for makers creating interactive hardware projects. It is easy and fun! This introductory class will teach you how to get started with Arduino to experiment with interactive electronics or create your dream project! Prerequisites: Basic computer skills. Visit the links below to sign up for this class. This class has a maximum of 4 students and a minimum of 2 students.

Introduction to Raspberry Pi

Raspberry Pi is a low-cost computer with built-in support for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, HDMI, and a camera as well as general purpose I/O to sense and control objects in the physical world. This introductory class will teach you how to get started with Raspberry Pi to experiment with interactive electronics or create your dream project! Prerequisites: Basic computer skills. Visit the links below to sign up for this class. This class has a maximum of 4 students and a minimum of 2 students.

Learn to Solder

Our learn-to-solder class includes everything you need for a head-start into the wondrous world of electronics and is appropriate for kids. The fun-to-assemble flashing European siren kit includes beginning electronic theory, parts identification including color code, soldering practice, and a soldering iron, solder, wire cutters, an industrial-grade circuit board, and all components. This 4-hour class includes a lot of activities that will help you start to learn about the world of electronics. This class makes a great prerequisite to our more advanced Arduino and Raspberry Pi classes.

Students will need to buy this kit and a soldering iron and bring them to class. It’s about $22 total. The required 9V battery will be supplied by Rochester MakerSpace. This class has a maximum of 5 students and a minimum of 2 students.

New! Printed Circuit Board Builds

Solder printed circuit board build kits designed by RMS members. In class, students will practice hand soldering and reflow soldering techniques under a stereo microscope to place through-hole and surface mount parts. Additionally, you can challenge yourself by studying board schematics to understand their operation.

Please choose one or more of the following kits: a stereo headphone amplifier; an electret/piezo microphone preamplifier; and/or a high brightness LED panel. This class has a maximum of 2 students.

Software Classes

Introduction to CAD

In this class you’ll learn the basics of computer-aided design (CAD) using OnShape. We will cover navigation of the software, 2D sketching tools and process, and then you’ll create a 3D design based on a provided sample object; including part creation, assembly, and animation. After the class, the instructor will be available to handle additional questions. Note: all students are asked to please come to class with a set-up OnShape account. Registration is free through OnShape.com and can be completed in 5 minutes from any computer, tablet, or smartphone. Please go to OnShape.com and create your own personal login and password to their free version prior to class. This class has a maximum of 4 students and a minimum of 2 students. .

Intermediate CAD with OnShape

In this class you’ll expand on the CAD skills learned in the introductory course to create robotic assemblies in CAD. Starting from familiar 2D sketches and 3D part modeling, you’ll learn how to simulate mechanical motion, how to build assemblies, create assembly drawings and generate a bill of materials. This course will prepare you for creating your own multi-part projects and communicating your designs to others. An onshape account and a working familiarity with OnShape is required. Prerequisites are the Introduction to CAD class or the OnShape tutorial “Introduction to Part Design” (https://learn.onshape.com/learn/learning-path/introduction-to-cad).

Business Classes

How to Start a Business

Have a great idea for a new product or service? Think it might bring you fame, glory, admiration…and oh yeah…a ton of money? Starting a new business is not quick or easy, but it is entirely doable. And every year, many thousands of people do just that: follow their dream to start a new business. This class outlines the things you need to think about when you decide to launch your dream. From basic things like choosing the type of legal entity you will be, to marketing, production and quality considerations, this three-hour class will cover the topics you should consider when making this important decision. This class has a maximum of 10 students and a minimum of 2 students.

How To Write (good Great!) Instructions

Instructions are everywhere. And not just those directions to assemble that entertainment center or electronic kit. Recipes are instructions. Party invites are instructions. How to get to that Airbnb are instructions. Your travel checklist is a set of instructions. Renovating your kitchen? Planning a garden? More instructions. And next year’s business plans are instructions. And the discussion about how to design, test and launch that new product are instructions. Along with the instructions for that new product itself. Unfortunately, many of these instructions are not very good. They’re incomplete, disordered, vague, misleading, badly written. Or totally incomprehensible. In the best case, bad instructions are just frustrating. They cost time, energy, and possibly money to sort out. In the worst case they are actually dangerous. Many people have been injured (or worse) by bad instructions. Writing good instructions is not that hard. There’s a simple, time-tested process for producing good, solid, readable, usable instructions. And this 2-3 hour class will take you through that process, one logical step at a time. And show you numerous examples of these steps. If you have instructions from products that you’ve bought, bring them to class and we’ll discuss them…particularly instructions that you found confusing. See you there!