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GEMS Cohort 25

People at MakeHaven smiling and showing off projects they created, including a sewn item, a metal star, and wooden crafts, in a workshop setting

Introductory - No experience required
Age Requirement : 18+ Years of Age
Program

Instructor: Lauren Nwagboli


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Ready for a fantastic 10-week ride? GEMS is the ultimate guided exploration of the tools, technology, and skills available at MakeHaven. If you have ever felt intimidated by a big shop or didn’t know where to start, this is your map. Over ten weeks, you will join a small cohort of fellow makers to dive into Woodworking, Textiles, Digital Fabrication, and Metalworking. It is the quickest way to go from "I don't know how to use that" to "I made this."

What to Expect

This is not just a single class; it is a comprehensive program designed to build your confidence and your skill set. Each week, you will work with a dedicated coach to earn badges and complete hands-on projects. You will spend time in each major area of the shop, turning big goals into finished pieces and becoming part of a supportive community of creators.

Skills You’ll Acquire

  • Multi-Disciplinary Mastery: Gain a foundational understanding of wood, metal, textiles, and digital tools.
  • Badge Certification: Earn 12+ digital badges that certify your ability to use shop equipment safely.
  • Project Completion: Walk away with a portfolio-worthy project from each focus area.
  • Shop Independence: Learn how to navigate the makerspace and tackle your own independent builds.

What’s Provided

  • Guided instruction and coaching for the full 10-week duration.
  • Access to all necessary shop materials for program projects.
  • A supportive cohort of peers to learn alongside.

Who Should Attend

This program is perfect for new members or anyone who wants a structured, friendly way to master the makerspace. If you want to learn "a little bit of everything" and gain total shop access, this is for you. Ages 18+.

 

Ready to start your journey?

Learn more about the GEMS program and sign up for the next cohort here!

 

Prerequisites and Safety Information

Participants must be MakeHaven members to join. No prior experience with any tools is required!

 

When
Thursday May 7th, 2026 from  6:00 PM to  8:00 PM
Location
MakeHaven
770 Chapel Street
New Haven, CT 06510
United States
GEMS Fee
GEMS Registration $285.00
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Need Based Program Price Adjustment

MakeHaven offers a price reduction for individuals who are below a threshold income level.
You can apply at: Program Price Reduction Request.

Notices

Learn about our event policies, such as cancellations and inclement weather: Event Policies Page
Find the answers to the most commonly asked questions about workshops and events Event and Workshop FAQ.

 

Accessibility

Our facilities undergo periodic reviews to maximize ADA compliance. We offer accessible bathrooms, elevators, and wide walkways. In tool usage, we aim for universal access and work individually to adapt tools for safe usage as necessary. If you anticipate needing an adaptation to participate in this event or have further questions, please contact us at events@makehaven.org.