Free Screen Print Shop Night

Our FREE monthly screen printing activity, open to the public. Stop by the A2 Printshop and pull some free prints! Each month we will have a quick and easy printing activity arranged by one of our skilled instructors and available to the public. If you're interested in getting into printmaking or you’ve been printing for years, come by and discover what our shop has to offer.

Artisans Asylum

Free Circuit Hacking Night!

Drop by to see what electronics can do for you... think of it as office hours for electronics. And you will see what an oscilloscope does. Drop by to see what electronics can do for you, learn to solder, get help fixing broken stuff, get help with your project, blinky LEDs, sensors, DMM/Multimeters, motors, sparks, Arduino stuff, cables, wires, parts, how to read schematics, how to make circuit boards, etc!! Keep learning after any electronics class you've taken - think of it as office hours for electronics. And you will see what an oscilloscope does. No need to reserve a ticket just drop by, but if you do we can make a plan to help you. T﻿his event occurs every Wednesday.

Figure Drawing

Join us for our weekly evening of figure drawing with a live nude model at Artisans Asylum. Class Description This is a weekly open studio class where people of all artistic levels are invited to explore the human form through drawing and painting from a live nude model. It's a great way to sharpen up skills that have become rusty during the pandemic or to practice something new. The instructor is there to offer advice or to give more detailed instructions if you want them. Each session starts out with fast "gesture" poses up to the first break, and then the poses get longer so you can focus on the details. In the middle of the session we practice some right brain exercises. There is no set progression from one class to the next. You can jump in any time. Instructor - Jim Bredt Jim Bredt has been an amateur cartoonist for over 40 years and has been teaching figure drawing at Artisan's Asylum for about 2 years. He uses a set of exercises to access the brain's graphically potent right hemisphere. The goal is to maintain a relaxed, social atmosphere where the students are comfortable to achieve their full potential. Learning Objectives<ul><li>Steady improvement in drawing skills.</li><li>Improved perception of light and the 3-dimensional world.</li><li>Easier access to the right-brain mode for drawing.</li></ul>SPOTS ARE LIMITED! Secure your spot on the Eventbrite link attached to this listing!

Free Sewical Club!

Join us for an evening of socialization and skill share at our monthly open-to-the-public Sewcial Club Night! The Fiber Arts Shop presents "Sewcial Club" a new way to work on your fiber art projects and meet new friends! Stuck on your crochet project? Dropped a stitch on your knitting? Need a body double to get through that mending pile? Longing to put your phone on do-not-disturb while you try out the floor loom? Seeking a big table (that isn't the floor) to cut out your next sewing project? Craving an antidote to doomscrolling on a Wednesday evening? Tackle all of this and more at our relaxed co-working session, once per month during "Sewcial Club"&nbsp;-- bring your projects, meet new friends, explore all that our fiber shop has to offer, leave refreshed and inspired! The fine print: -We are a robust fiber art based studio located within the community workshops at Artisans Asylum (A2), Boston, MA -No previous experience is required to attend or participate -Skill swapping is encouraged, but not required -Socialization encouraged, but not required (feel free to wear your earplugs/headphones while you work) -Event is FREE and open to the public (suggested donation $5) -Sewcial Club is always on the 2nd Wednesday of the month -Visit our mini Fiber Arts Shop Website for more information and to subscribe for updates&nbsp;<a href="https://bio.site/A2_fiberarts">here!</a>

Free Fiber Arts Shop Night

Join us for an evening of creativity and connection at our monthly open-to-the-public Fiber Arts Shop Night! The fine print: -Typically we have a visiting artist do a live demo on their craft, attendees get to learn something new, and everyone gets to leave with a sample of what they learned. -Shop Night is always on the 3rd Wednesday of the month and the theme is always a little different! -No previous experience is required to attend or participate -Materials will be provided -Event is FREE and open to the public -Visit our mini Fiber Arts Shop Website for more information and to subscribe for updates <a href="https://bio.site/A2_fiberarts">here!</a> SPOTS ARE LIMITED! Secure your spot on the Eventbrite link attached to this listing!

Hands On Basic Electronics

Are you interested in learning to work with electronics but don't know where to start? This class is for you! Multisession Duration:&nbsp;8 hrs completed over 4 days.&nbsp;By purchasing a ticket, you are committing to attend all meetings included in the multisession. Scroll down to reference the Agenda page to indicate which ticket to purchase for that session! Class Description Have you been interested in learning to work with electronics but haven’t known where to start? This class is for you! It will be a hands-on, practical crash course that will give you the skills to do simple electronic projects. You will walk away knowing the basics of circuit theory, how to prototype circuits on a breadboard, how to troubleshoot them, and how to solder them together. The class consists of four two-hour classes. In each class, we will complete at least one project, and you’ll go home with some fun things you have created. Students who want more time at Artisan's Asylum to work on their projects can attend Artisans Asylum’s weekly Circuit Hacking Night on Wednesday Nights. The materials fee for this class is $30.&nbsp;This is separate from the ticket price and is to reimburse the instructor for any tools or materials used in this class. This will be paid once, directly to the instructor at the start of the first class meeting. This instructor accepts Venmo. Learning Objectives<ul><li>Learn an overview of electronic terminology - and build some stuff!</li><li>Learn how to make use of the E&amp;R shop.</li><li>Learn how to use a multimeter to measure voltage, current, and resistance.</li><li>How to use a multimeter (DMM) to help solve your circuit problems.</li><li>How to test and debug a circuit.</li><li>What components look like and why we use them.</li><li>Learn fundamental concepts pertaining to electricity and electrical components.</li><li>Leave with basic skills that will enable you to take on independent projects.</li><li>You’ll build and take home your own blinky light circuit, Drawdio noisemaker, Joule Thief battery vampire.</li><li>Learn how to read basic schematics, proper use of a multimeter and oscilloscope, and various electron wrangling skills.</li></ul>Instructors - Mike Beach and Andrew Anselmo Mike Beach is an Electrical Engineer, Asylum member since 2012, has taught and co-taught several courses, cares more about how the electrons are feeling than programming, really likes learning about and using all kinds of sensors, and just can’t stop showing how to use that oscilloscope to help you debug (just ask Kevin), and is an active participant and mentor at the Circuit Hacking night held at the Asylum every Wednesday. In addition to his regular engineering work, Andrew Anselmo also volunteers as a shop lead and instructor at Artisan's Asylum in the Electronics and Robotics Shop. Integrating controls, sensors, actuators, and associated hardware is incredibly fun and always interesting. He also helps artists with kinetic art and sculpture projects and has taught them a few tricks for keeping their projects documented and easy to work on. He does a bit of origami and has been a street performer and instructor for many years. He’s designed a few novel and original origami models and made classic moving (kinetic) origami pieces out of metal. Origami is generally considered an art, but there is quite a bit of mathematics behind it. Target Audience Electronics beginners and folks who are curious about Artisans Asylum's Electronics &amp; Robotics Shop. Students who are 12 years or older. All students under 18 must be accompanied by and under the direct supervision of a responsible adult. Your Ticket Includes<ul><li>Working with the following electronic components: Small breadboard, 2N3904 NPN transistor, Various Ohm ¼ W resistor, 3x LEDs of random colors, blue, red, green, or yellow, one white LED (with clear lens), Momentary push button switch, small diodes, Small potentiometer, 100uF capacitor, DC motor with brushes, Bundle of breadboard wires, AA battery holder with wires, 2x AA battery, Fresh 9V battery and holder, Velleman Flashing LED kit, MK102</li><li>All the parts to build a Drawdio (based on a ‘555 timer, small speaker, a pencil, etc)</li><li>Access to A2's E&amp;R shop and tools for the duration of the session.</li></ul>Class Policies Learn more about our class and ticket cancelation policies<a href="https://artisans.spaces.nexudus.com/faq/1414732680/cancellations-and-class-policies">&nbsp;Here</a>. Please email education@artisansasylum.com with any questions. *Sales end 24 hours before the start of the class to allow the instructor and staff time to prep. SPOTS ARE LIMITED! Secure your spot on the Eventbrite link attached to this listing!&nbsp;

Introduction to Screen Printing

This class introduces the screen printing process from start to finish, and includes tool testing to use our shop at your own discretion. Class Description This class is for anyone who wants to learn how to use the Artisans Asylum Screen Printing Shop. No prior experience necessary. This class is designed to teach the crucial beginning steps of the screen printing process and give you the skills necessary to use the screen printing shop at your own discretion. It is an entry point for those new to screen printing, or anyone with prior experience who wants to learn the procedures in place in our shop. The materials fee for this class is $10. This is separate from the ticket price and is to reimburse the instructor for any tools or materials used in this class. This will be paid once, directly to the instructor at the start of the first class meeting. This instructor accepts Venmo. Learning Objectives<ul><li>Each student will complete the entire screen printing process at least once.</li><li>Introduce the Artisans Asylum Screen Printing Shop to all skill levels and review proper practice regarding maintenance and operation of the Print Shop equipment.</li><li>Learn to use the shop in a way that preserves all tools and equipment.</li><li>Instruction on use of screen printing equipment including emulsion spreading station, spray booth/sink, power washer, light exposure unit, dryer box, flash cure unit, print pulling stations and more.</li><li>Practice of basic screen printing process including printing transparencies, spreading emulsion on screen, “burning” screen in exposure unit, rinsing screen in spray booth, and pulling prints to create the final image.</li><li>Students will practice pulling prints with screens they prepare in class themselves.</li><li>Additionally, a professional print set up will be available in class for students to practice pulling prints and learn how to recreate this set up on their own.</li><li>Introduce the instructor as a point of contact for future questions and resources regarding the screen printing process, shop, and practices.</li><li>Build a community of collaborative screen printers working together to further everyone's understanding of all things screen printing!</li></ul>Instructor - Jarrod Pek @jarrodpek Jarrod studied traditional printmaking at RIT while completing a BFA Sculpture in 2003. In the 20 years that followed, Jarrod has been a professional flute maker, glass blower, welder, wood worker, bicycle mechanic and screen printer. In 2022, he founded Jarrod Pek LLC, a screen printing focused, decorative art business which operates out of his studio space at Artisans Asylum. Jarrod is experienced at designing training programs and wants to support anyone interested in learning the vast possibilities screen printing has to offer. He is currently the Screen Printing Shop Lead at Artisans Asylum. As someone who lives to make things, Jarrod approaches all projects with an awareness of “beginner’s mind.” We are all teachers, we are all students, all at the same time. Target Audience Students of all ages and skill levels! Students under 18 should be accompanied by an adult who has also bought a ticket. Your Ticket Includes<ul><li>At least one small, coated screen per student.</li><li>Printed transparencies with multiple designs to choose from.</li><li>Ink and paper for students to pull prints.</li><li>Chemicals for ink and emulsion stripping.</li><li>A practice print pulling set-up using my own screens.</li><li>Access to A2's Screen Printing Shop and tools for the duration of the session.</li></ul>Class Policies Learn more about our class and ticket cancelation policies<a href="https://artisans.spaces.nexudus.com/faq/1414732680/cancellations-and-class-policies"> Here</a>. Please email education@artisansasylum.com with any questions. *Sales end 24 hours before the start of the class to allow the instructor and staff time to prep. SPOTS ARE LIMITED! Secure your spot on the Eventbrite link attached to this listing!&nbsp;

Photo 101: Understanding Manual Camera Settings

This hands-on workshop will introduce participants to manual camera settings: aperture, shutter speed, and ISO. Class Description This hands-on workshop will introduce participants to manual camera settings: aperture, shutter speed, and ISO. Attendees will learn how each setting affects exposure and image quality, empowering them to take creative control over their photography. Whether you're using a DSLR, mirrorless camera, or just want to finally understand what all those buttons do, this class will help you build a solid foundation while encouraging you to develop your own creative style. No experience required, just curiosity and a willingness to experiment! There is no materials fee for this class. *This class includes Tool Testing on the following tools: Sony A7 Cameras available in the photo studio If you are in need of any disability accommodations, please contact education@artisansasylum.com. Learning Objectives<ul><li>Manual camera settings and how they work together.</li><li>Skills to use a DSLR or mirrorless camera with Manual settings.</li><li>What the settings mean and how each one interacts with each other.</li><li>Set camera settings manually to access more creative and professional camera techniques.</li><li>Students will be able to apply their knowledge to any DSLR or Mirrorless camera.</li></ul>Instructor - Amber Halt (@amberhaltphotography) Amber Halt is a commercial photographer with a degree in Commercial Photography and a passion for helping people feel comfortable behind the camera. Over the years, they have photographed everything from public art installations for projects like the Boston Public Art Triennial to products and branding content for local small businesses. When not working with clients, she is usually creating my own artwork and photography, some of which you can find for sale at local shops like The Emporium. They love exploring the creative side of photography just as much as the technical side, and believe great photos come from understanding both. Your Ticket Includes<ul><li>Tool testing</li><li>Access to A2's Design and Photography Shop and tools for the duration of the session.</li></ul>Class Policies Attire: Attendants should wear close-toed slip-resistant shoes (steel-toe work boots are ideal), long pants, and no loose-fitting clothing that could possibly get caught in machinery. Make sure to wear only natural fibers (i.e., cotton, wool, linen, etc) and bring reading glasses if needed for detailed work. Learn more about our class and ticket cancelation policies <a href="https://static1.squarespace.com/static/691b3ca4097f1656ccd69e28/t/6a47cbd7bc73862e8c3f9f90/1783090135045/Class+Policies.pdf">here</a>. Please email education@artisansasylum.com with any questions. *Sales end 24 hours before the start of the class to allow the instructor and staff time to prep. SPOTS ARE LIMITED! Secure your spot on the Eventbrite link attached to this listing!&nbsp;

Bowl Turning

Bowls are great projects for beginners and experienced woodworkers. Learn the basic skills needed to turn a bowl and turn on your own. Multisession Duration: 5 hrs completed over 2 days. By purchasing a ticket, you are committing to attend all meetings included in the multisession. Scroll down to reference the Agenda page to indicate which ticket to purchase for that session! Class Description Prequisite: Wood Lathe 101 or successful tool test; please email education@artisasnasylum.com if you are unsure if this class is for you. This class is intended for those with experience on a wood lathe and want to learn how to turn a bowl. This class covers face turning, which has important differences to spindle turning. Students will learn how to bring larger pieces to round and the basics of hollowing vessels (of which bowls are one type). The materials fee for this class is $40. This is separate from the ticket price and is to reimburse the instructor for any tools or materials used in this class. This will be paid once, directly to the instructor at the start of the first class meeting. This instructor accepts Venmo. Learning Objectives<ul><li>Mount a blank to the lathe</li><li>Bring the blank to a round shape and shape the outside of the bowl</li><li>Hollow out the interior</li><li>How to put a finish on the bowl</li></ul>Instructor - Salvatore Mancini Salvatore Mancini is a custom fabricator producing custom furniture and interior designs. He works primarily in wood using traditional techniques as well as digital fabrication. He got his start creating sets for theater productions and was inspired to pursue woodworking after restoring a wooden view camera. Target Audience Students must be able to stand at the lathe for roughly 3 hours. Students should bring their own hearing protective equipment. Students who are 16 years or older. All students under 18 must be accompanied by and under the direct supervision of a responsible adult. Your Ticket Includes<ul><li>Hardwood Bowl Blanks</li><li>Access to A2's woodshop and tools for the durration of the session.</li></ul>Class Policies Attire: Students should wear shop-appropriate clothes – closed-toe shoes, no dangly jewelry or straps, and long hair should be tied back. Students should plan to bring their own Hearing Protective Equipment; protective eyewear is available for those who do not have their own Learn more about our class and ticket cancelation policies<a href="https://artisans.spaces.nexudus.com/faq/1414732680/cancellations-and-class-policies"> Here</a>. Please email education@artisansasylum.com with any questions. *Sales end 24 hours before the start of the class to allow the instructor and staff time to prep. SPOTS ARE LIMITED! Secure your spot on the Eventbrite link attached to this listing!&nbsp;

Wood Shop 101

In this class, beginners will learn how to use power and hand tools to complete their projects safely and be introduced to the Wood Shop. Multisession Duration:&nbsp;5 hrs completed over 2 days.&nbsp;By purchasing a ticket, you are committing to attend all meetings included in the multisession. Scroll down to reference the Agenda page to indicate which ticket to purchase for that session! Class Description This is an introductory course in woodshop machinery. Beginners will learn how to safely use power and hand tools to complete their projects. Participants will learn how to choose fasteners, select appropriate wood, and cut and shape it to suit their needs. The materials fee for this class is $25.&nbsp;This is separate from the ticket price and is to reimburse the instructor for any tools or materials used in this class. This will be paid once, directly to the instructor at the start of the first class meeting. This instructor accepts Venmo. *This class includes Tool Testing on the following tools: Stationary Sanders: Oscillating Spindle Sander, Disk Sander, Long Edge Belt Sander, Drum Sander, Miter Saw, Panel Saw, Circular Saw, Jig Saw, Biscuit Joiner, Drill Presses, and scroll saw. Learning Objectives<ul><li>Selecting wood for a project</li><li>Understanding the materials</li><li>Choosing fasteners</li><li>Drilling holes</li><li>Cutting wood</li><li>Shaping and sanding</li><li>Dust collection duties and shop etiquette</li></ul>Instructor - Salvatore Mancini Salvatore Mancini is a custom fabricator producing custom furniture and interior designs. He works primarily in wood using traditional techniques as well as digital fabrication. He got his start creating sets for theater productions and was inspired to pursue woodworking after restoring a wooden view camera. Target Audience Wood Shop beginners and folks who are curious about Artisans Asylum's Wood Shop. Students who are 16 years or older. All students under 18 must be accompanied by and under the direct supervision of a responsible adult. Your Ticket Includes<ul><li>Wood, fastenders and glue.</li><li>Access to A2's woodshop and tools.</li></ul>Class Policies Learn more about our class and ticket cancelation policies&nbsp;<a href="https://artisans.spaces.nexudus.com/faq/1414732680/cancellations-and-class-policies">Here</a>. Please email education@artisansasylum.com with any questions. *Sales end 24 hours before the start of the class to allow the instructor and staff time to prep. SPOTS ARE LIMITED! Secure your spot on the Eventbrite link attached to this listing!&nbsp;

Intro to Kintsugi (Japanese pottery repair)

Unleash your creativity and learn the art of Kintsugi, the ancient Japanese pottery repair technique, in our hands-on workshop. Class Description Kintsugi is the Japanese tradition of pottery repair. In this art, broken pieces are reassembled, and cracks are highlighted rather than hidden. When joined with the traditional urushi lacquer, repairs can take weeks or even months as each curing step can require 2-7 days in the muro (a humid curing box). In this class, we will use a quick-cure epoxy, allowing you to go home at the end of the day with a final piece. This is a nice way to get started since urushi lacquer is so time-intensive - and slightly hazardous! The materials fee for this class is $20.&nbsp;This is separate from the ticket price and is to reimburse the instructor for any tools or materials used in this class. This will be paid once, directly to the instructor at the start of the first class meeting. This instructor accepts Venmo, Cash or Checks. Learning Objectives<ul><li>Learn about traditional Kintsugi and how urushi lacquer and the muro curing boxes were used.</li><li>Repair a piece of broken pottery using Epoxy and liquid gold leaf.</li></ul>Instructor -&nbsp;Quantum Wei&nbsp;@kintsugi.boston Quantum first started practicing Kintsugi in 2021 when he wanted to fix a broken souvenir plate (two pieces, epoxy + liquid gold leaf). Since then, he has ventured deeper into the art by working on more complex breaks and utilizing traditional materials (urushi lacquer), and constructing a muro (wooden curing box). During his latest trip to Japan, he took a workshop with kintsugi master&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kintugi.com/">David Pike</a>. For more, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kintsugi.boston/">kinstugi.boston</a>. Target Audience All ages are welcome! All students under 18 must be accompanied by and under the direct supervision of a responsible adult. Your Ticket Includes<ul><li>Epoxy, liquid gold leaf, painter's tape, sandpaper, rubber bands, etc.</li><li>Access to A2's Flex Space and tools for the duration of the session.</li></ul>Class Policies Attire:&nbsp;Attendants should wear close-toed slip-resistant shoes (steel-toe work boots are ideal), long pants, and no loose-fitting clothing that could possibly get caught in machinery. Make sure to wear only natural fibers (i.e., cotton, wool, linen, etc) and bring reading glasses if needed for detailed work. Learn more about our class and ticket cancelation policies<a href="https://artisans.spaces.nexudus.com/faq/1414732680/cancellations-and-class-policies">&nbsp;Here</a>. Please email education@artisansasylum.com with any questions. *Sales end 24 hours before the start of the class to allow the instructor and staff time to prep. SPOTS ARE LIMITED! Secure your spot on the Eventbrite link attached to this listing!&nbsp;

Intro to Welding - MIG, TIG, & Stick

In this class, students will be introduced to the theory and practice of joining metals and making stuff. Class Description What is welding… and how do you do it? Are you curious about welding but not sure which process is right for you? In this class, students will be introduced to the theory and practice of joining metals and making stuff! We’ll explain and demonstrate the three common welding processes (MIG, TIG, and stick welding) and provide guidance on the pros and cons for various projects/applications. We’ll spend time talking through the nuts and bolts of welding safety, the necessary equipment, equipment setup, and the actual skilled practice of welding. Class time will be a combination of primarily classroom-based discussion/demonstration followed by a hands-on opportunity to run some beads and melt some metal. We’ll demonstrate and talk about stick welding during the classroom portion of the class, but the practical portion will primarily be an opportunity to try out MIG and TIG. *Class environment: All people are welcome in this class, and an active effort will be made to be inclusive to all people. This class will not tolerate sexism, ableism, racism, homophobia, or transphobia. Welding is for everyone. The materials fee for this class is $25.&nbsp;This is separate from the ticket price and is to reimburse the instructor for any tools or materials used in this class. This will be paid once, directly to the instructor at the start of the first class meeting. This instructor accepts Venmo. Learning Objectives<ul><li>Be introduced to the theory and practice of joining metals by welding</li><li>Understand the similarities and differences between the main processes (MIG, TIG, stick) by which metals are welded</li><li>Understand the purpose, function, and setup of welding equipment (including welding machines themselves, safety equipment such as the welding hood, etc.)</li><li>Have an opportunity to get behind the hood, strike an arc, and run some practice beads</li><li>Gain a fundamental understanding of welding that will help a student choose the right next steps and/or classes to take in their welding and metal fabrication pursuits</li></ul>Instructor - Doug Cochrane (He/Him) Doug has been welding for over a decade, working professionally as a welder/fabricator for the past eight years. He has welded everything from chain link fence gates and steel table bases to complex sanitary-grade brewery equipment such as tanks, skids, pumps, flow plates, and many thousands of feet of process piping. He’s held a 6G certification to AWS 18.1 / testing performed to AWS B2.1. and has passed numerous welding tests for work in the food &amp; beverage and aerospace industries. Doug finds the combination of art and science in metalworking fascinating and enjoys learning something new from every job, project, or even conversation. Doug has benefited greatly from some incredible guidance and knowledge from friends and mentors in the welding trade and is excited about opportunities to share and learn with students in the metal shop at Artisans. Target Audience Welding beginners, people looking to polish their skills and folks who are curious about Artisans Asylum's Metal Shop. Students who are 16 years or older. All students under 18 must be accompanied by and under the direct supervision of a responsible adult. Your Ticket Includes<ul><li>Demonstration materials, consumables, and welding coupons.</li><li>Necessary safety equipment such as safety glasses, gloves, welding hoods, and jackets.</li><li>Access to A2's Metal Shop and tools for the duration of the session.</li></ul>Class Policies Attire:&nbsp;Please arrive dressed for work in welding-appropriate attire: this includes closed-toed leather shoes (preferably steel-toe work boots) and natural fiber clothing (cotton, wool, denim, etc.) that completely covers your arms and legs. Welding will require seeing details up close, so bring reading glasses if you wear them. Avoid&nbsp;any clothing made of synthetic materials such as nylon, spandex, polyester, etc. Please don’t wear overly loose clothing or dangling jewelry, and be ready to tie back long hair. Learn more about our class and ticket cancelation policies<a href="https://artisans.spaces.nexudus.com/faq/1414732680/cancellations-and-class-policies">&nbsp;Here</a>. Please email education@artisansasylum.com with any questions. *Sales end 24 hours before the start of the class to allow the instructor and staff time to prep. SPOTS ARE LIMITED! Secure your spot on the Eventbrite link attached to this listing!&nbsp;

Iterations: Wax Sculpture for Bronze Casting

Design, create, and iterate on a theme of your choice to produce a miniature bronze sculpture. Learn to design, sculpt and cast! Multisession Duration: 12 hrs completed over 4 days. By purchasing a ticket, you are committing to attend all meetings included in the multisession. Scroll down to reference the Agenda page to indicate which ticket to purchase for that session! Class Description Join us for a special bronze lost-wax casting course which encourages you to engage with and iterate on the creation process, from concept through forming and casting a small (2 x 3 inch) bronze sculpture or sculptural jewelry item. Over 3 weeks and 4 evening class sessions, each student will identify a concept, form, or theme they wish to iterate on. Students will explore their choice by designing and sculpting several iterations via additive (shaping soft wax) and subtractive (carving hard wax) sculpture methods. In addition to instruction students will discuss and provide mutual constructive feedback as designs evolve. Students are strongly encouraged to work on their concepts and wax models in between class sessions. This course will culminate in investing and lost-wax casting each student’s selected final piece in ancient bronze. Preparation to take the Artisans Asylum Casting Shop Tool Tests for:<ul><li>The Electromelt, Investment (Lost-Wax) Casting process</li></ul>The materials fee for this class is $30. This is separate from the ticket price and is to reimburse the instructor for any tools or materials used in this class. This will be paid once, directly to the instructor at the start of the first class meeting. This instructor accepts Venmo or Cash. Learning Objectives Students will explore three dimensional design and sculpting in wax both during class and between classes. Please note the dates and class cadence carefully and plan to attend all 4 class meetings. Class day 1: shaping additive sculpture with soft wax Class day 2: carving subtractive sculpture in hard wax Class day 3: selecting final piece, sprueing and investing Class day 4: bronze casting, removing sprues, basic finishing<ul><li>Intro to the Artisans Asylum Casting Shop</li><li>Discussions of 3-dimensional design and sculpture</li><li>Use of the Electromelt to melt and pour molten metal</li><li>Lost-wax investment casting</li><li>Cutting off sprues and buttons</li><li>Basic overview of how to sand and file cast items</li><li>Safety skills for all of the above</li><li>How to leave the shop in ready to use condition</li><li>Take aways a small bronze sculptural item created during class, plus design, sculpting, and casting skills and notes</li></ul>Instructor - Jules H @julesgyre Jules first learned casting from a jewelry perspective and is currently interested in many types of metal sculpture and jewelry. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Interdisciplinary Creative Studies &amp; Fine Arts. A proud generalist with a professional background in non-profits, at Artisans Asylum she serves as a casting shop tool tester, instructor, and a member of the Gallery A2 panel. She loves cats, coffee, fostering creativity and building community. Target Audience All students must be 18 years or older. No prior experience is necessary, yet there is still plenty to explore for students who do have casting shop, jewelry, or design experience. This class is suitable for total beginners, those looking for a refresher, and those seeking to become familiar with the Artisans Casting Shop. Your Ticket Includes<ul><li>All consumable casting materials, including metal for casting and casting media.</li><li>The casting shop also provides the use of relevant tools and equipment including: wax and casting tools, Electromelt, safety leather aprons, gloves, safety glasses, N95 masks, and other tools.</li><li>Access to A2's Casting Shop and tools for the duration of the session.</li></ul>Class Policies Attire: Attendants should wear close-toed slip-resistant shoes (steel-toe work boots are ideal), long pants, and no loose-fitting clothing that could possibly get caught in machinery. Make sure to wear only natural fibers (i.e., cotton, wool, linen, etc) and bring reading glasses if needed for detailed work. Learn more about our class and ticket cancelation policies<a href="https://artisans.spaces.nexudus.com/faq/1414732680/cancellations-and-class-policies"> Here</a>. Please email education@artisansasylum.com with any questions. *Sales end 24 hours before the start of the class to allow the instructor and staff time to prep. SPOTS ARE LIMITED! Secure your spot on the Eventbrite link attached to this listing!&nbsp;

Jewelry 101

Join us for a two-session hands-on Jewelry 101 class to earn basic metalsmithing techniques and create your own brass and copper ring! Multisession Duration:&nbsp;7 hrs completed over 2 days.&nbsp;By purchasing a ticket, you are committing to attend all meetings included in the multisession. Scroll down to reference the Agenda page to indicate which ticket to purchase for that session! Class Description In this 2-session Jewelry 101 class, you will be introduced to the basic techniques of metalsmithing. No prior experience is necessary, and by the end of the class, you will come away with fundamental jewelry-making skills AND a copper and brass ring you’ve created yourself. Through the process of creating a ring, you will learn to use essential hand tools, such as a jeweler’s saw, files, hammers, and the rolling mill, disc cutter, and metal shear. We’ll learn how to safely use the flex shaft, when and how to use different types of jewelers’ pliers, and practice basic soldering techniques. Finally, you’ll gain experience polishing your finished ring on the rotary polishing machine. This class is excellent preparation for successfully passing the free Tool Test, which is required (along with an Artisans Asylum membership) to work independently in our Jewelry Shop. Please plan on attending both nights of this class – if you miss one, you will not be able to complete your project, nor will you be fully prepared to pass the Tool Test to use the shop independently, if that is your goal. The materials fee for this class is $20.&nbsp;This is separate from the ticket price and is to reimburse the instructor for any tools or materials used in this class. This will be paid once, directly to the instructor at the start of the first class meeting. This instructor accepts cash only. Learning Objectives<ul><li>Students will come away with a familiarity of fundamental jewelry-making skills: sawing, filing, annealing, soldering, polishing, hammering, using the rolling mill, disc cutter, and metal shear, and safe tool handling and operation.</li><li>Students complete a textured copper and brass ring.</li></ul>Instructor - Laurie Lynn Berezin&nbsp;@beryllinajewelry Laurie Lynn Berezin studied the traditional craft of jewelry fabrication at Boston’s renowned North Bennet Street School and is the Jewelry Shop Lead, a teacher, and a member at the Artisans Asylum non-profit makerspace. Laurie is a seasoned educator, teaching jewelry-making classes, workshops, private lessons, and corporate retreats for novice and experienced metalsmiths alike. She also handcrafts original and custom jewelry for her business Beryllina using recycled sterling silver, gold, and platinum, and ethically-mined American gemstones. Laurie creates pieces that showcase the natural beauty of the stones, including crystals that she digs from the earth herself. Target Audience Jewelry beginner and/or folks interested in Artisans Asylum's Jewelry Shop. Students must be 16 years old or older. All students under 18 must be accompanied by and under the direct supervision of a responsible adult. Your Ticket Includes<ul><li>Metals and consumables such as saw blades, drill bits, solder, etc.</li><li>Access to A2's Jewelry Shop and tools for the duration of the session.</li></ul>Class Policies Attire:&nbsp;Students must wear closed-toe shoes and tie back long hair. We have some aprons available, or you may bring your own. A sketchbook for notes is useful. Bring eyeglasses if you need optical assistance to see tiny things well. Learn more about our class and ticket cancellation policies<a href="https://artisans.spaces.nexudus.com/faq/1414732680/cancellations-and-class-policies">&nbsp;Here</a>. Please email education@artisansasylum.com with any questions. *Sales end 24 hours before the start of the class to allow the instructor and staff time to prep. SPOTS ARE LIMITED! Secure your spot on the Eventbrite link attached to this listing!&nbsp;

Rough to Smooth: Using the Miter Saw, Bandsaw, Jointer, Planer and Sanders

This class teaches students the safe operation and maintenance of using the Miter Saw, Bandsaw, Jointer, Planer, and Sanders. Multisession Duration:&nbsp;5 hrs completed over 2 days.&nbsp;By purchasing a ticket, you are committing to attend all meetings included in the multisession. Scroll down to reference the Agenda page to indicate which ticket to purchase for that session! Class Description After selecting and purchasing unmilled lumber, the next step in any woodworking project is flattening and straightening the stock. Not that long ago, this work had to be done by hand. Fortunately, there are four tools specifically designed to take rough-sawn lumber and machine it into boards that are straight, flat, and true! The miter saw, bandsaw, jointer, and planer form a workflow that any woodworker interested in working with solid wood should know. Then, the final step in your project might include sanding the final shape on a disk sander, or spindle sander. This class teaches students the safe operation and maintenance of these, including the techniques for using them to dimension rough stock, shape it, and smooth the final shape. Students will get checked out on the use of these tools at the end of the course, demonstrating that they are prepared to use these tools unsupervised as members at Artisan's Asylum or in their own shops. The materials fee for this class is $35.&nbsp;This is separate from the ticket price and is to reimburse the instructor for any tools or materials used in this class. This will be paid once, directly to the instructor at the start of the first class meeting. This instructor accepts Cash, Checks or Venmo. *This class includes Tool Testing on the following tools: Miter Saw, Bandsaw, Jointer, Planer, and Sanders. Available Accommodations:&nbsp;Students with special needs, including hearing, vision, or motor impairments should notify education@artisansasylum.com advance to ensure that appropriate accommodations can be made available. Learning Objectives Students will gain an understanding of the material they will be using in the wood shop, referred to as lumber, stock, or just plain wood. They will know about the structure of a tree, how trees are sawn into lumber, and how lumber is graded, sized, dried, and sold. They will be able to identify grain direction on the faces and edges of boards. Students will gain the skills necessary to process rough or unmilled material into boards that are straight, flat, and true using the Asylum's compound sliding miter saw, Powermatic band saws, 16-inch Powermatic jointer, 22-inch Powermatic planer, Powermatic belt, and disk sanders, and the Jet oscillating spindle sander. Students will learn important safety precautions when using powerful and potentially dangerous machines, including principles of operation, routine maintenance and adjustment, and special techniques for dimensioning multiple boards for a project. Skills include:<ul><li>Bandsaw: setting upper and lower guide bearings, setting upper and lower thrust bearings, adjusting blade tension, adjusting blade tracking, adjusting and using the fence. How to rip long boards. How to cut curves. How to resaw boards into thin slices.</li><li>Miter Saw: changing the blade, adjusting blade angle and miter angle, making 90-degree cuts and cuts of other angles, safe holding techniques, safe saw technique. How to cut rough lumber into shorter lengths before milling.</li><li>Jointer: adjusting the infeed table, adjusting the fence. Determining grain direction. Use push paddles to push material through the knives. Planing the face of a board, planning the edge of a board to ensure squareness.</li><li>Planer: how the planer feeds material, how to adjust the depth of cut, how to determine the proper orientation of a board to feed. Determining the starting depth of the cut. How to plane multiple boards to the same thickness. How the plane thin boards.</li><li>Disc Sander: how to change the sanding disc, proper feed of material, sanding an angle, sanding a convex surface.</li><li>Oscillating Sander: sanding concave surfaces, changing the sanding drum.</li><li>Belt Sander: how to change the sanding belt, adjust belt tension, adjust table height, and proper feed technique. (not currently op) - trained later point</li><li>All: proper dust collection methods and emptying dust collection barrels.</li></ul>By the end of the class’s check-out session, students will be fully tested out and ready to use these tools without supervision as members at Artisan's Asylum or in their own shops! Instructor -&nbsp;James Fluevog James Fluevog is a wood shop user and tool tester. He has been involved with the A2 wood shop for about three years and has taught a variety of classes, including a tool chest class. He has made several projects, including a sewing cabinet, a motorcycle-style rocking horse, cutting boards, and gift boxes. He is a chef professionally and has been cooking for over 30 years. James got into woodworking as a way to create gifts that would have lasting memories. Target Audience Wood workers of all skill levels and/or folks wanting to get tool tested at Artisans Asylum. Students must be 16 years old or older. All students under 18 must be accompanied by and under the direct supervision of a responsible adult. Your Ticket Includes<ul><li>Rough lumber, usually Poplar, for milling</li><li>Pieces of hardwood plywood for cutting curves.</li><li>Eye protection</li><li>Access to A2's Wood Shop and tools for the duration of the session.</li></ul>Class Policies Attire:&nbsp;Students should come dressed in appropriate attire closed toed shoes (leather steel-toed boots are best), have long hair tied back, no loose-fitting clothes, and should expect to remove rings and dangling jewelry. Students should bring a pencil and, if they choose, personal safety equipment, such as hearing protection and a dust mask. Eye protection will be provided Learn more about our class and ticket cancelation policies<a href="https://artisans.spaces.nexudus.com/faq/1414732680/cancellations-and-class-policies">&nbsp;Here</a>. Please email education@artisansasylum.com with any questions. *Sales end 24 hours before the start of the class to allow the instructor and staff time to prep. SPOTS ARE LIMITED! Secure your spot on the Eventbrite link attached to this listing!&nbsp;

S22: conversations

Wondering what to do in Boston? Places to eat? Free activities? Good for a group? Date night spot? Girls night out? The best things to do? Ask Joyraft!

Best places to go in Boston? Things to do? Places to eat?

Questions & answers about things to do in Boston

Recs 💬

Community recs 💬

S4: top picks

The most fun, cool and unique things to do in Boston. Can’t miss events, shows and experiences. Concerts, restaurants, bars, free things in Boston and beyond.

The most fun and cool events happening around Boston

Hot and new things to do in Boston

Hot & new

Hot & new 🔥

S11: happening this weekend

What to do in Boston this weekend? From festivals, concerts, performances, free events, screenings and more, Joyraft has the best things to do in Boston.

25+ things to do in Boston/Cambridge/Somerville this weekend

Things to do in Boston this weekend

This wknd

This weekend for you

S21: roundups

Our top picks: outdoor dining, free events, spring festivals, best bars, upcoming concerts, museum parties - the latest in and around Boston.  Slug: joyraft-top-picks-best-things-to-do-boston-ma

Top picks of the best things to do in and around Boston

Joyraft picks: Boston’s best things to do

Roundups ⭐️

Curated by Joyraft ⭐️

S28: calendar experiences

This week in Boston

This week in Boston 📆

This week 📆

S20: c+d experiences

Discover new, unique events and experiences happening in and around Boston. Perfect for date night, good for a group or with a friend. Be the first to know.

The newest events happening in and around Boston

The newest events on Joyraft

Just added

Just added to Joyraft

S16: editor picks

The most unique and can’t miss things coming up in Boston / Cambridge / Somerville and beyond. Festivals, food, drinks, fairs, concerts, art and free activities.

Unique and Can’t Miss Things to Do in Boston

Can’t-miss things to do in Boston 🚨

Can't-miss things to do 🚨

S2 (A): top experiences

The most popular things to do on Joyraft. Concerts, restaurants, bars, events, parties, openings, kid friendly, date ideas, free things in Boston and beyond.

Top 20 things to do in Boston

Top 20: Joyraft’s most popular

Top 20

Top 20 on Joyraft

S3 (A): trending experiences

Discover can’t miss events and things to do in Boston. The most fun, unique and cool events coming to the Boston area this spring and summer.

The hottest events happening in Boston

Trending events on Joyraft

Trending 📈

S19: interest based

Kid-friendly events in Boston

S18: interest based

Where to eat and drink in Boston? Joyraft has Boston’s newest bars, restaurants and specials. Drinks and pre fixe dinner menus. Cambridge & Somerville too.

Where

artisansasylum

Experiences