All of our classes are open to members only. Most of our classes, including all basic training classes, are free; some advanced classes have a fee to cover costs.
To register for a class, you’ll need the password that was included in the welcome document you received when you joined the Makerspace. If you’ve misplaced it, you can contact operations@rocmakers.org to obtain it.
If you cannot attend a class for any reason, please cancel your reservation as soon as possible using the link found in your confirmation email. That way the next person on the waiting list can be added to the class! If you need to cancel within 24 hours of the start of the class, please email the instructor to let them know (contact information found on the registration page for class, and in your registration email). If for some reason you cannot find the correct contact, notifying staff (operations@rocmakers.org) is a suitable alternative.
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.
Making a Bandsaw Box
The bandsaw is one of the most versatile of the tools in the workshop. In this course you will learn to safely use the bandsaw, to adjust it for proper performance in a variety of tasks and to learn to change the blade. You will make a simple bandsaw box. You may supply your own wood or use blocks we supply. (If you bring your own wood, please check with the instructor for details of what is acceptable.) You should have already taken the Introduction to Woodworking class. The class has a maximum size of 3 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.
Wood Lathe: 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
Wood Lathe: Twig Pots
Taking woodturning to the next level, this class will introduce you to the safe and proper method for mounting pieces on the 4-jaw chuck and drilling with the Jacobs chuck. Both are vital tools to help you get the most out of the wood lathe.
The class will focus on turning a twig pot…a simple project that incorporates several turning skills, a variety of chisels, and offers infinite possibilities. You should already have some experience with spindle turning on the lathe (a little practice beyond just having taken the Wood Lathe Introduction class). Materials are provided.
This class has a maximum size of 3 students and a minimum size of 2 students.
Introduction to Bowl Turning on the Wood Lathe
This class will introduce you to the basic principles behind safely turning a wooden bowl using gouges and traditional scrapers on the lathe. Materials are included with the class registration.
Topics will include selection and set up of blanks, grain direction, proper tool selection and grinds. We will also cover three different methods of safely mounting the blank on the lathe, the primary cuts used in bowl turning and why, tenon and recess shaping, plus
hollowing, sanding, and finishing.
Wood Lathe Introduction or equivalent experience is required to take this class. It will help if you have taken the Twig Pot Classes and/or have experience with the 4-jaw chuck as well. The class has a maximum size of 2 students.
*NEW* Introduction to Pen-Turning on the Wood Lathe
An introduction to turning pens on the lathe. We will review the basic components of making a pen then work through the process of cutting, gluing, turning, and assembling a wood Slimline style pen. A pen kit and blank are included with the fee and all tools and equipment are provided. You can also bring any tools of your own that would prefer to use.
Metalworking Classes
Introduction to Machine Tools
In this class you will learn the basic principles of machining metal using the tools and equipment in our machine shop. We will cover safety considerations and the material properties of different metals. You will get hands-on experience using a metal lathe and milling machine as a well as a variety of drilling and cutting tools. Proper clean-up and equipment care will also be covered. This class has a maximum size of 4 students and a minimum size of 2 students.
*NEW* Metal Shop Maintenance
Members must have taken the Introduction to Machine Tools class in order to register for Metal Shop Maintenance.
Come out to learn about the details of maintaining and repairing machine tools. This class will cover common procedures for all the major pieces of equipment in the metal shop, including:
-Bandsaw blade and sanding belt replacement
-Sharpening HSS tools on the grinder
-Sharpening drills with the drill doctor
-Changing chucks on the metal lathes
-Tramming the head on the Bridgeport
-Cleaning out the chip trays on the lathe and CNC
-Coolant and lubricant replacement
-Setting up indexable tooling on the lathes
-Cleaning up gummed-up or burnt-up tools
Machining Metal with the Rockwell Lathe
This course follows the Introduction to Machine Tools class, and you need to have taken that class to enroll. This class focuses on the Rockwell Engine 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 prior to your training and use it as an ongoing reference. In addition to the manual , please view the video on how the machine works: RocMakers Rockwell Lathe Instructional Video. This class has a maximum size of 2 students, and will only run if the class is full.
Introduction to the Tormach Metal CNC Machine
In this advanced class, you will learn about computer-controlled machining on the Tormach CNC Machine. Using G-Code generated from CAD/CAM software, the Tormach can perform a variety of operations to machine metal parts. 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 perform some basic metal milling operations using pre-programmed g-code wizards. The prerequisite for this class is Introduction to Machine Tools, and students should have some experience machining metal manually with a Bridgeport Mill or similar equipment. Some prior experience with CNC or CAD software is helpful but not necessary. This class has a maximum of three students, and a minimum of two students.
CNC Router Classes
Introduction to CNC Routers
This 4-hour class provides an introduction to the AVID 2×2 and 4×4 CNC Routers. Instruction will focus on the setup and safe operation of these machines. In addition to safety, topics such as securing workpieces, proper use of endmills and collets, and using Mach4 software will be touched upon. 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.
Note that CNC machines have a steep learning curve and take many hours to fully grasp. Students should expect that this class is only an introduction: Additional practice and ongoing self-guided learning will be part of the process if you want to utilize these machines independently.
Attendees are asked 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 maximum of 3 students.
*NEW* CNC Guided Projects
Need help with your CNC project? Want to use the CNC machines but have questions? This session is for you!
Our CNCs are intricate, professional-level machines. Misuse can easily damage the machines, or create a hazardous situation. It is every member’s responsibility to make sure they can safely and properly operate these machines before tackling a project on their own. This session allows members to bring in their projects and questions for hands-on experience with a qualified instructor.
The format of each session will be determined by the attendees. The instructor may assist with the completion of one or more projects, or review basic steps. Additional topics may be covered, such as how to properly secure your material, double-checking G-Code, or creating a spoilboard. The goal is to help you move forward on your CNC journey!
Introduction to CNC Routers is a prerequisite. This session has a maximum of 2 attendees. Those on the waiting list may come to watch and observe at the instructor’s discretion, space permitting. Please contact the instructor if you have questions.
Laser Classes
Introduction to Laser Cutting
This class will teach you everything you need to get started cutting and engraving with the laser cutting machines using 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. Students who have never used Lightburn software are encouraged to watch this video tutorial before attending class. This class has a maximum of 4 students and a minimum 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 maximum of 3 students and a minimum of 2 students.
Art and Crafts Classes
*NEW* Basket Weaving with English Ivy
Learn to hand-weave English Ivy vines into a functional and beautiful 6 inch frame basket, with no specialized tools! English Ivy is considered an invasive species in New York, and basket-weaving is a craft that encourages removal of these vines and repurposing them. In this class, students will use the vines to make their own woven basket. The basic hand weaving skills applied here are transferable to many styles of baskets, as well as weaving with other materials.
Intuitive Art
A creative arts session – a journey with texture, color. Class runs for 2 hours. All art supplies are included, 11″ x 14″ canvas included to take home. Please wear clothes that you are comfortable getting paint splattered. If you are interested in this class, please reach out to artsandcrafts@rocmakers.org. Classes will be scheduled when there is enough interest.
Sewing Classes
Introduction to Sewing
Learn to use a sewing machine or return to develop your skills through one of three customizable bag projects. Students will learn to thread and operate their sewing machine; measure, cut and iron fabric pieces; and construct their projects. For speed, a default configuration of each project will be prepared in advance, but students may choose to change the size, pocket arrangement and straps of each project to make a bag tailored to their needs. All project materials are provided, but students may bring their own if they want a specific color or pattern. Students may use our sewing machines or bring their own machines.
*NEW* Introduction to Crochet
In this class, we will learn the basic crochet techniques needed to make a square cotton dishcloth. We will go over how to properly hold a crochet hook and yarn, how to create and maintain proper yarn tension, chain stitch, single crochet stitch, and a simple border technique. We will also go over common crochet abbreviations, and how to read a crochet pattern. Participants will make a dishcloth to take home with them.
Introduction to Leather Working
In this two-hour class, you’ll learn the basics of leatherworking. You’ll learn about the essential tools and materials needed for a leather project and practice a host of skills hands-on by making a wallet out of high-quality Vegetable-tanned English bridal leather. Introduction to Laser Cutting preferred but not required. This class has a maximum size of 3 students.
*NEW* Sew to Give MEETUPS
(Learn to) Sew cat beds and catnip stuffed mouse toys for donation to local animal shelters. Sundays after the 2nd and 4th Saturday of every month. Beginners welcome. All materials provided and material donations welcome. Our stockpile is available at all times to pull fabric pieces and submit finished or partial items.
Please note: In place of a traditional class, registration is not required for our Sew to Give Meetups. Please contact our organizer if you have any questions prior to attending!
Stained Glass Classes
Introduction to Stained Glass
During this hands-on class you will make a small stained glass suncatcher to keep, and learn the fundamentals of creating stained glass windows 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 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!
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. An Arduino is ideal for simple repetitive tasks, such as turning on or off lights, opening doors, or reading a sensor. 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. A Raspberry Pi is ideal for more complex tasks such as controlling a robot or other device, or a project that requires an internet connection. 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.
Note: After enrolling, all students must order 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.
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 piece of furniture. Recipes, garden layouts, party invites, travel checklists, how to get to that Airbnb, and even business plans are all instructions. That new product you are making requires instructions. Unfortunately, many of these instructions are not very good, or could even be dangerous. Writing good instructions is not that hard. There’s a simple, time-tested process for producing readable, usable instructions. This class will take you through that process, one logical step at a time. 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!
General Classes
Introduction to Plumbing Basics
In this class students will learn the fundamentals of how their home plumbing system works, as well as build the hands-on skills and know-how to tackle several of the most common repairs themselves. Content covered in this class includes basic plumbing safety, types of plumbing systems, and how to identify and use important and commonly used plumbing tools, as well as how to handle repairs such as leaking faucets, running toilets, and clearing water water lines. This class has a maximum of 4 students.