New Workshops: CNC Weekend, Sunday Woodshop Fundamentals, and the 3018 Make & Take!

We're launching new workshops, and we hear it’s going to be 97 degrees this week!

A woodworking track covers NINE different power tools.

A weekend intensive workshop of FOUR CNC tools.

A make & take CNC class! Okay not new, but bringing a build buddy for free is now official!

A selection of activities specifically for groups!

Beat the coming 97° heat this summer! Join us in our shared air-conditioned space for workshops and enjoy the cool comfort with fellow makers.

Thank you for being a part of our community of making!


sewing maintenance with Barbara 6/22

Learn to maintain your sewing machine by cleaning and oiling and troubleshooting minor problems. Class will be hands-on, attendees should bring a working sewing machine and everything needed to run it (power cord, bobbin, etc).

Register Today


Woodworking Sundays with Ella 7/14 - 8/4

Join Ella in a four-part, hands-on series designed to safely introduce you to the most popular tools in our wood shop.

Whether you're a beginner eager to learn new skills or an experienced woodworker seeking access to these tools, this series offers something for everyone.

Limited to just four participants, this series ensures personalized attention and hands-on learning.

Register Today


Maker Works CNC Weekend 7/20 & 7/21!

Join the instructors of Maker Works for this two-day workshop, where you will learn the basics of running four different CNC machines.

This weekend is an incredible opportunity to learn the basics of design (CAD), converting designs to machine code (CAM), and operating the machines.

You'll join a small cohort learning to safely operate the Epilog Laser Engraver, CNC Plasma Cutter, ShopBot CNC router, and Tormach CNC Mill.

Sign up using the code 'CNC49BLOG' to bring the price down to $450, valid until 7/1/2024!

Register Today


Bring a Buddy Free to Build a CNC 7/28

Join Maker Works' instructor Leena for a full day guided build of your own personal 3018 CNC Router. This is a lightweight router that's great for cutting and engraving wood and plastic.

It's a great tool for light duty work, and a fantastic introduction to the world of CNC. We'll walk you through the wiring, mechanics, and software from start to finish, and you get to take home your own CNC Router!

Feel free to bring a build buddy, but register soon — just four spots! Use the code 'CNC49BLOG' to bring the price down to $450 until 7/1/2024.

Register Today


Group Activities!

Maker Works offers a variety of unique Make & Take activities for groups. Whether you'd like to introduce a group to Household Tools, host a company CNC Plasma Cutter, bring a scout troop to make Bird Houses or laser Engrave Glasses, we've got it!

Discover the options!


Member Project: Ted's Welded Masonry Nails Sculptures

Ted Zellers retired a few years ago from an impressive career in environmental health sciences. Instead of relaxing, he quickly completed a couple of courses at [the amazing] WCC welding program before taking the MIG/TIG welding checkout class at Maker Works.

Ted was hoping to turn some scrap/scavenged metal into art, we'd say he has succeeded in spades (and has already made a couple of sales).

Above is a shot of a sculpture made from washers, railroad anchors, and a bird's egg. Below are two sculptures Ted welded together using just masonry nails. Beautiful!


June Classes and Beyond

Classes are posted on the website through July! Ready to learn? No membership required!

  1. Choose your class and sign up today.

  2. Don't see a date that works for you? Use the 'Request a Class' button to let us know your availability and we'll match you up with an instructor!


We need your support!

Maker Works has an annual budget close to $400,000, of which about 85% is covered by class attendees, membership dues, and studio space rentals.

This past week we've been highlighting the City of Ann Arbor's Zero Waste efforts. The city is doing a fantastic job engaging individuals and businesses to reduce waste, you can help us continue to do our part of providing shared access to resources.

  1. Take a class or start a membership!

  2. Make a contribution today!

  3. Share this newsletter with someone you know.

New sponsorship opportunities to support the shop are coming soon, let me know if you'd like to be first to know!

Thank you!

- Josh Williams