This fall The Factory will host numerous training workshops at Willis Library and Discovery Park to help you get familiar with the great tools available for use.

Register for a workshop now!

November

Science & Virtual Reality: Nanome - Join our knowledge specialist to experience a virtual reality environment for working with the periodic table and building molecules in a VR environment. 

Getting to Know Illustrator - Adobe Illustrator is a program used by both artists and graphic designers to create vector images. These images will then be used for company logos, promotional use, or even personal work in print and digital form. Meet a knowledge specialist to learn Adobe Illustrator tools and how to utilize them to get your design to match your vision.

Getting Started with Sewing - Join our knowledge specialist every 1st and 3rd Friday of the month to learn, exchange ideas, and discuss sewing. The knowledge specialist will go over safety, basic use training, advanced sewing techniques, sewing accessories, and machine features.

Getting Started with Crochet - Join our knowledge specialist to learn a base stitch.  The knowledge specialist will also go over safety and basic use training, as well as more advanced crochet techniques.

Getting to Know SolidWorks - Join our knowledge specialist for an in-depth session on learning the functions of SolidWorks. SolidWorks is software that incorporates CAD programs to help with the design of three-dimensional figures. The computer-aided design allows for the creation of some of the most complex and intricate projects in many areas of creative design. Use this software to design a piece for your prototype or to create the project itself and 3D print it. This program also allows you to create 2D drawings that you can automatically update on-the-fly when you change your 3D model.

Getting to Know Arduino - Join our knowledge specialist for an overview of Arduino. In this session, there will be an introduction to microcontrollers, the OS for Arduino, and some essential work.

Getting Started with CNC Milling- Join a Factory knowledge specialist to learn the basics and explore the CNC mills Carvey and Othermill, which are desktop 3-axis CNC milling machines.

Getting Started with Graphic Design - In this workshop, we will cover the base theory for graphic design and visual communication. In this session, the Knowledge Specialist will go over Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign and demonstrate how to achieve the style and look you want to communicate effectively to your target audience.

Getting to Know Power Tools - Join our knowledge specialist on the 2nd and 4th Friday of the month to learn, exchange ideas, and discuss power tools. The knowledge specialist will be covering general safety and training, as well as answer any questions about the tools available from The Factory.

Getting Started with 3D Design in Blender - Blender is a 3D modeling software application. In this session, a knowledge specialist will help you become familiar with the tools in Blender to make your designs come to life.

Getting to Know 3D Modeling/Scanning - Join a Factory knowledge specialist to learn, explore, and share knowledge about 3D modeling and 3D scanning using tools such as TinkerCAD and the Digitizer 3D scanner. TinkerCAD is a free online 3D modeling software to help individuals of all levels of experience begin learning to design in 3D.

Getting to Know Raspberry Pi - Join our knowledge specialist for an overview of Raspberry Pi. In this session, there will be an introduction to microcontrollers, the OS for Raspi, and some essential work using a Pi.

Getting to Know TinkerCAD - Join a Factory knowledge specialist to learn, explore, and share knowledge about 3D modeling using TinkerCAD. TinkerCAD is a free online 3D modeling software to help individuals of all levels learn to design in 3D.

Getting Started with Knitting - Join our knowledge specialist to learn the basics of knitting. In this session, a knowledge specialist will demonstrate how to start a knitting project and discuss knitting options including materials, needle sizes, and more!

Introduction to Soldering - In this workshop, we will cover important safety awareness when using solder and soldering tools. Then join us in building a kit to teach the foundation for through-hole soldering techniques. After you have successfully assembled the kit, you will have a better knowledge of through-hole soldering and the tools, methods, and terminology for soldering.

Getting Started with Birdbrain Robotics - Join our knowledge specialist and take a look at Hummingbird Robotics from Birdbrain Technologies.

Getting Started with DSLR Cameras - Join our knowledge specialist to learn the plethora of features for a DSLR camera. Bring your own to learn some options to help you get the best image and impact you want.

Unreal Game Engine for Virtual Reality - Learn how to use various tools within the Unreal game engine to create and sculpt virtual reality environments and designs for game development.

Cricut Paper Shadow Box Design - Join our knowledge specialist and utilize the Cricut Explore Air to build a cardstock shadow box. The base design will be cut and ready to assemble, however, you can add your personal touch with the final layer. Learn to use the Cricut design space to achieve the cut you want. This shadowbox can be backlit, like one example you will see in the session. Come have fun and take home a cardstock shadowbox!

Embroidery by Design - Join our knowledge specialist to exchange ideas, discuss, and learn about the Janome Embroidery machine. During this session, you can learn the basics of embroidery safety and set up, as well as delve into special considerations for custom designs.

Getting Started with Adobe Premiere - Join our knowledge specialist for an introductory session on video editing with Adobe Premiere.

Getting Started with Vacuum Forming - Join our knowledge specialist for an overview of safety, design, and use of the Centroform Tabletop Vacuum Forming machine.

Getting Started with 3D Modeling - Join our knowledge specialist for a look into the design for print best practices. In this session, the knowledge specialist will highlight resources to help you design a 3D file to maximize how the printers print and achieve your desired final piece.

September

October

Please fill out this form if you would like to suggest a workshop or meetup for The Factory to consider. We will be in touch soon to discuss the details of your submission.