$10 Weekly Drop-In Classes
Join us for Happy Hour!
We don't serve drinks, but we will be serving up knowledge on some of the most well-used tools in the makerspace. Happy Hour classes are designed especially for beginners to get hands on with equipment they've never used before. So whether you are a Member working toward a tool certification, or a newcomer trying out the makerspace for the first time, this program is for you!
Each week, we will return to the same project so that you can build familiarity and confidence with the tool (and decide if it's really for you). When you are ready to move on, you have options! Explore independently with a Membership, or pursue more advanced instruction through Mentor Hours (or both!).
Must be 14+.
Younger learners may be allowed to accompany a parent/guardian. Call ahead to inquire.
Cost: $10 for General Public. FREE for Members.
Thanks to the support of NIC Student Services Task Force, Happy Hour is also free for students at the following North Idaho Higher Education institutions: NIC, U of I, BSU, LCSC & ISU. Must have valid ID.
We don't serve drinks, but we will be serving up knowledge on some of the most well-used tools in the makerspace. Happy Hour classes are designed especially for beginners to get hands on with equipment they've never used before. So whether you are a Member working toward a tool certification, or a newcomer trying out the makerspace for the first time, this program is for you!
Each week, we will return to the same project so that you can build familiarity and confidence with the tool (and decide if it's really for you). When you are ready to move on, you have options! Explore independently with a Membership, or pursue more advanced instruction through Mentor Hours (or both!).
Must be 14+.
Younger learners may be allowed to accompany a parent/guardian. Call ahead to inquire.
Cost: $10 for General Public. FREE for Members.
Thanks to the support of NIC Student Services Task Force, Happy Hour is also free for students at the following North Idaho Higher Education institutions: NIC, U of I, BSU, LCSC & ISU. Must have valid ID.
FAQ - Click Here
Can I get certified to use a tool during Happy Hour?
Because it's a group setting, we won't generally issue tool certifications during Happy Hour. However, this program is a great way to build up your skills prior to getting certified on a tool. Our goal is that after attending a few times, you should be familiar enough with the tool to schedule a 15-minute certification appointment at your convenience and be on your way!
I was certified on [X machine] a long time ago, but I need a refresher. Should I go to Happy Hour?
Yes! In fact, we recommend it. If it's been a few months or years and you're looking to start up your membership again, Happy Hour is a great way to brush up on any details you may have forgotten, as well as to get up-to-date with our latest policies and procedures regarding that tool.
Can I just start (or reinstate) a membership when I show up for Happy Hour?
Absolutely -- with a couple of caveats. One, if you're planning on starting or renewing a membership, we recommend showing up 10-15 minutes early so that it doesn't cut into your class time. Two, you will still need to make an appointment to be certified, or "checked off," on a tool before you are able to use it independently. (That goes for all the machines in the makerspace.)
Can I do my own project on the laser / 3D printer / sticker printer instead of what the class is doing?
We have chosen the projects for these machines intentionally, both for their low material cost and ability to be accomplished by a beginner in the allotted time frame. Therefore participants will not be able to use the machines to manufacture other items during the Happy Hour program. However, you are more than welcome to seek advice regarding design, settings, materials etc. for projects you intend to manufacture outside the class, provided it does not take away from the experience of other participants. In fact, it's our hope that everyone attending Happy Hour eventually graduates to doing their own projects on their own time! Mad CADders, Open Weld & Open Woodshop are more open-ended; however keep in mind that the first hour of these programs is always dedicated to teaching the fundamentals.
Do I need to bring my own materials to Open Woodshop?
If you intend to make something, then yes, you should bring your own materials. If you're just looking to get the hang of using some tools, we have plenty of scrap wood you can chop up or put holes into. Technically you can make something with the scrap wood too, but your options may be limited.
How come you don't have a Happy Hour program for [X machine]?
In starting this program, we tried to pick tools and machines that both see a lot of use at the makerspace and that can be comfortably taught in a group setting. That being said, we'd love to hear your feedback! If there's a tool or process in the makerspace you'd like to see a similar style program for, send an email to [email protected] and let us know!
My child isn't 18, but they're really mature for their age. Can they attend?
Due to current occupancy restrictions, we are unable to make exceptions for attendees under 18. Please stay tuned for announcements about our fall youth programs, coming soon.
How will I know if a program gets cancelled?
In the event of a cancellation due to instructor absence, holiday, etc. we will post an announcement on this webpage as well as on social media. When in doubt, give us a call at (208) 929-4029.
Because it's a group setting, we won't generally issue tool certifications during Happy Hour. However, this program is a great way to build up your skills prior to getting certified on a tool. Our goal is that after attending a few times, you should be familiar enough with the tool to schedule a 15-minute certification appointment at your convenience and be on your way!
I was certified on [X machine] a long time ago, but I need a refresher. Should I go to Happy Hour?
Yes! In fact, we recommend it. If it's been a few months or years and you're looking to start up your membership again, Happy Hour is a great way to brush up on any details you may have forgotten, as well as to get up-to-date with our latest policies and procedures regarding that tool.
Can I just start (or reinstate) a membership when I show up for Happy Hour?
Absolutely -- with a couple of caveats. One, if you're planning on starting or renewing a membership, we recommend showing up 10-15 minutes early so that it doesn't cut into your class time. Two, you will still need to make an appointment to be certified, or "checked off," on a tool before you are able to use it independently. (That goes for all the machines in the makerspace.)
Can I do my own project on the laser / 3D printer / sticker printer instead of what the class is doing?
We have chosen the projects for these machines intentionally, both for their low material cost and ability to be accomplished by a beginner in the allotted time frame. Therefore participants will not be able to use the machines to manufacture other items during the Happy Hour program. However, you are more than welcome to seek advice regarding design, settings, materials etc. for projects you intend to manufacture outside the class, provided it does not take away from the experience of other participants. In fact, it's our hope that everyone attending Happy Hour eventually graduates to doing their own projects on their own time! Mad CADders, Open Weld & Open Woodshop are more open-ended; however keep in mind that the first hour of these programs is always dedicated to teaching the fundamentals.
Do I need to bring my own materials to Open Woodshop?
If you intend to make something, then yes, you should bring your own materials. If you're just looking to get the hang of using some tools, we have plenty of scrap wood you can chop up or put holes into. Technically you can make something with the scrap wood too, but your options may be limited.
How come you don't have a Happy Hour program for [X machine]?
In starting this program, we tried to pick tools and machines that both see a lot of use at the makerspace and that can be comfortably taught in a group setting. That being said, we'd love to hear your feedback! If there's a tool or process in the makerspace you'd like to see a similar style program for, send an email to [email protected] and let us know!
My child isn't 18, but they're really mature for their age. Can they attend?
Due to current occupancy restrictions, we are unable to make exceptions for attendees under 18. Please stay tuned for announcements about our fall youth programs, coming soon.
How will I know if a program gets cancelled?
In the event of a cancellation due to instructor absence, holiday, etc. we will post an announcement on this webpage as well as on social media. When in doubt, give us a call at (208) 929-4029.
Current Schedule (Summer '24)
Tuesdays 5-7pm
|
Wednesdays 6:30-8:30pm
|
Thursdays 5-7pm
|
