Archives: Activities

  • Make a laser cut box

    Make a laser cut box

    Make a custom wooden box using the online box generator Boxes.py.

    Learn how to:

    • create the cut file
    • send instructions to the laser
    • assemble the box

     

     

  • Introduction to the Cricut cutter

    Introduction to the Cricut cutter

    Learn to use Cricut Design Space and the Cricut cutter to make a heat transfer or adhesive decal. Students will also learn how to apply their decals to a shirt, mug or other item.

  • zippers

    zippers

    Learn about different types of zippers and how to sew them into your clothes, bags or cushions.

    This is a technique class – students will practice on scrap fabrics

  • Tinkercad II

    Tinkercad II

    Add to your Tinkercad skills by using the ruler and workplane tools. With these extra features you will be able to create complex models for 3D printing

  • Soap making

    Soap making

    Workshop: Introduction to cold process artisanal soap making

    This 2-hour workshop aims to teach you how to make artisanal soap by cold saponification, using rigorous information in a fun and accessible context. This workshop is recommended for people aged 16 and over, because of the handling of sodium hydroxide (lye).

    In this workshop, you'll learn how to make artisanal soaps, understand the ingredients and components of soaps, and master the safety concepts involved in handling sodium hydroxide. You'll be able to choose the colour and scent of your soaps to personalize to your taste and make 10 x 120g soaps (a retail value of $90). 

    You'll leave with a document containing the steps to follow and the recipe used during the workshop, as well as some resources for formulation calculators and resources for buying the materials needed to make soap.

    For the soap-making workshop, you'll need to wear a long-sleeved shirt, and we'll provide goggles, gloves and everything else!

  • Pen turning

    Pen turning

    Learn to turn a pen on the lathe under the guidance of expert pen makers Louis Laplume and/or Dominic Trottier

    Find the beauty hiding inside a block of wood. Learn how to prepare the wood for working it on the lathe then use the roughing gouge and skew to shape the pieces while they turn on the lathe. Sand and finish they pieces to reveal the grain of the wood, then assemble your pen.

    Participants aged 12-14 must be accompanied by a parent or other responsible adult

    Safety glasses are provided. It is mandatory to wear safety glasses, tie back long hair, wear closed shoes and remove ties, lanyards and jewelry while working in the woodshop.

  • Machine tool use and safety

    Machine tool use and safety

    Learn safe use of machine tools while making a desk caddy. 

    Learn correct set up and use the band saw, miter saw, drill press and sander

    Use all four machine tools to create a wood desk caddy

  • Machine sewing basics

    Machine sewing basics

    Learn how to make a simple garment using a sewing machine in this 5-week course.

    This class is for novice sewers. We will teach you how to make shorts or pajama pants (with pockets!!!)

    Class 1: Introduction to the sewing machine. Learn how to thread the machine, how to set up the machine to sew straight and zig-zag stitches, and how to control the machine going straight, and making curves and sharp corners.

    Class 2: Fabric theory. Learn about different types of fabric and concepts like grain and nap. Learn how to cut fabric using sewing scissors and a rotary cutter.

    Classes 3-5: Complete your first project. Learn how to sew and finish seams, measure and sew hems and create an elastic waistband.

  • Sewing drop-ins

    Sewing drop-ins

    Drop in with your unfinished projects or your clothes to repair or alter. Our sewing instructors will guide you every step of the way!

    We have all the equipment you will need – sewing machines, scissors, thread, and more!

  • Pattern of the month meet-up

    Pattern of the month meet-up

    Free for our members!

    Fabzone is pleased to present the pattern of the month club. A volunteer run project where we offer you patterns, templates and techniques so you can add your flair to the project.

    We hope to create a community of curious and creative people that will initiate a wave of new ideas and perspectives.

    Come join us at 7:30pm on the first Thursday of the month when we introduce the pattern and discuss fabrics, tweeks, and techniques to make it your own. A handout will be provided on this date, while patterns and instructions will be available at FabZone.

    Technique demos may be offered during the month, but we encourage members to swap ideas in our Discord chat, or during Fabzone open workshop hours.

    All you need to bring is yourself!