Discover the intricate balance of skill and artistry in jewelry smithing. Instructed by Elaine Lamson, Mixxer Community Makerspace's Executive Director, this course offers a captivating introduction to the world of metalworking and jewelry design. No prior experience is necessary!

Over the two-day session, you'll gain hands-on experience with various jewelry-making techniques. Learn how to safely use tools like hammers, anvils and various metal cutting instruments to shape and manipulate copper, a versatile and forgiving metal. A central focus will be on safely annealing, where you’ll explore working with both butane and propane torches to soften and prepare metal, allowing for easier manipulation and final forming.

Beyond technical proficiency, this course will ignite your creativity. Elaine will guide you through the process of jewelry making. You'll learn how to incorporate various techniques that will give you several finished pieces to take home!

This course is the perfect opportunity to spark your imagination and forge your own artistic path.

All tools and materials will be provided, and lunch will be included.

Date/Time: January 2 - 3, 9AM to 3PM

Instructor: Elaine Lamson 

Instructor Bio: Elaine Lamson is the Executive Director of Mixxer Community Makerspace, where she brings a unique blend of creative and community-driven leadership. Originally from Massachusetts, Elaine joined Mixxer in 2019 and quickly became an integral part of the Triad’s vibrant creative community. Elaine’s dedication to inclusive and innovative arts education recently earned her the 2024-25 Award for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in Teaching from the North Carolina Art Education Association’s. She was also the 2023-24 Wake Forest School of Divinity/Gilead Compass Artist in Residence and served on the Artist Thrive National Summit’s Steering Committee in 2024. Her superpower is identifying and celebrating in people's talents and strengths.

Age Range: This course is for Makers in 6th - 12th grade

Discover the art of sustainable fashion and learn how to upcycle existing garments into unique and stylish pieces. This two-day, 12-hour course will teach you the techniques of deconstruction, reconstruction, and alteration to create one-of-a-kind clothing items.

You'll learn to:

Deconstruct garments into usable materials

Design and pattern-making techniques

Sewing and stitching techniques

Textile manipulation and embellishment

Upcycling techniques like refashioning and repurposing

By the end of the course, you'll have the skills to transform old clothes into new, stylish pieces, reducing waste and expressing your individuality through sustainable fashion.All tools and materials will be provided, and lunch will be included.

Date/Time: January 2 - 3, 9AM to 3PM

Instructor: June Jones, Mixxer Sewing Team Lead

Instructor Bio: MIXXER's own June Jones has been sharing her expertise and knowledge to members and offering a friendly hand in all their sewing projects. June has been sewing for as long as she can remember. Having had an established career as an electronics technician and running a business focused on sewing machine repairs, June can skillfully assess your project and give you guidance to help you achieve your vision.

Age Range: This course is for Makers in 6th-12 grade