Spring Maker Series: Artisan workshops in Philadelphia open to the public

Learn, Create, and Build with Expert Guidance

Spring is here, and so is a fresh lineup of hands-on class series in our Maker Series! Whether you’re looking to refine your skills, try something new, or finally tackle that dream project, we’ve got something for you. This quarter, we’re bringing back some crowd favorites and introducing new opportunities to craft, shape, and build under the guidance of experienced instructors.

NextFab’s Maker Series is a two-month program that gives you up to 5 classes, unlimited shop access, and a cohort to learn alongside. This Maker Series opened for registration on March 5th. Check out our Public Offerings or become a member here.

What Public Workshops are Coming Up this Spring?

Design, Draft, and Sew Custom Work Pants

Perfectly fitting, functional work pants don’t just exist in stores—you can make them yourself! This class series will guide you through drafting a custom pattern, selecting materials, and sewing a pair of durable, personalized work pants from start to finish.

This hands-on, five-session course spans five weeks. This series teaches the fundamentals of pattern drafting and industrial sewing, guiding you through the creation of your own custom-fit work pants. You’ll gain essential skills applicable to a wide range of garments, leaving with a unique, easily replicable pair of pants. Utilize professional equipment, including our industrial straight stitch machine, serger, bartack, and a historic keyhole buttonhole machine. Previous sewing experience is required, and familiarity with commercial patterns is highly recommended. Students will bring their own fabric; other supplies are provided.

Class Schedule:

📅 April 27th (4:30-7:30 PM): Sewing Studio Orientation & Sloper Creation – Get comfortable in our studio while crafting your own pants sloper, the foundation for future designs.
📅 May 4th (4:30-7:30 PM): Pattern Drafting Basics – Learn essential drafting techniques, key measurements, and pattern adjustments.
📅 May 11th (4:30-7:30 PM): Fly Construction – Master both button and zipper fly closures for a professional finish.
📅 May 18th (4:30-7:30 PM): Pocket Design and Construction – Explore pocket styles and seamlessly integrate them into your pants.
📅 May 25th (4:30-7:30 PM): Work Pant Construction, Waistbands, and Finishing Touches – Finalize your pants with expert guidance on waistbands and finishing techniques.

Some homework will be required to complete the project, and you’ll have access to the Textiles Studio outside of class as part of your included two-month membership. Need extra support? Our studio team is available most days of the week.

📌 Prerequisites: This class is for intermediate to advanced sewers who have worked with commercial patterns before. Beginners motivated to practice can also join. Want sewing training before the course? Email info@nextfab.com for details.

ENROLL HERE.

Lost Wax Casting for Jewelry Design

Explore the ancient art of lost wax casting and transform your ideas into one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces. Learn carving techniques, mold preparation, and metal casting to create your own original designs in metal.

In this course, you’ll transform wax models into stunning metal jewelry components. This hands-on series covers the entire process—from carving intricate designs in wax to casting them in molten metal. You’ll master essential carving tools, explore creative casting techniques, and gain a deep understanding of each step. By the end, you’ll have beautifully finished jewelry components ready to wear or refine further. Plus, you’ll learn how to create reusable silicone molds, making it easy to replicate your designs. Unlock new possibilities in jewelry making with this immersive experience!

THIS COURSE IS CURRENTLY FULL. In the meantime, join in on Support Hours offered weekly on Wednesdays in the Jewelry Studio with Caroline Gore.

Custom Jewelry: Silversmithing Stacking Rings with Stone Settings

Stackable rings are a timeless accessory, and now you can craft your own! In this immersive six-week series, you’ll craft your own custom stacking rings, complete with stone settings. Start by selecting materials and refining essential jewelry bench skills, gaining hands-on experience with tools like the jeweler’s saw, flex shaft rotary tool, stamps, and files. Build confidence with torchwork as you learn to solder and anneal metal, then progress to bezel and tube stone-setting techniques. Along the way, you’ll create a bangle, multiple sterling silver rings, and a beautifully set stone ring. This series is perfect for beginners eager to explore the craft and experienced jewelers looking to expand their skills in torchwork and stone-setting. Walk away with stunning handmade pieces and the knowledge to design your next sparkling creation!

Class Schedule:

📅 May 3rd (12:00 – 2:00 PM): Jewelry Orientation – Create a pet name tag, pair of earrings, or keychain.
📅 May 10th (12:00 – 2:00 PM): Jewelry Torchwork I (Part 1) – Make a bangle bracelet and a sterling silver ring.
📅 May 17th (11:00 AM – 2:00 PM): Jewelry Torchwork I (Part 2) – Continue refining your bangle bracelet and sterling silver ring.
📅 May 24th (11:00 AM – 2:00 PM): Stone-Setting I: Basic with Bezels – Craft a sterling silver bezel-set ring.
📅 May 31st (11:00 AM – 2:00 PM): Group Session – Learn to make a tube-set faceted stone-setting and discuss your next designs!

Join us for this hands-on jewelry-making journey and bring your creative visions to life!

ENROLL HERE.

Building Furniture: MCM-Inspired Storage Unit with Stewart

Mid-century modern design meets practical storage in this hands-on class. In this course, you’ll design and build a sleek, functional piece of furniture that embodies the clean lines and timeless aesthetic of MCM design. Throughout the series, you’ll gain hands-on experience with precision joinery, cabinet construction, and door installation, crafting a storage unit that balances style and practicality. Learn essential woodworking techniques, including mitered joints, dado cuts, and veneer application, to create a piece that is both durable and visually striking. Whether you’re looking to refine your skills or build your first statement furniture piece, this class will provide expert guidance and a solid foundation in modern furniture craftsmanship.

THIS COURSE IS CURRENTLY FULL. In the meantime, be sure to sign up for our Maker Series Waitlist!

Why Join the Spring Maker Series?

• Expert-Led Instruction: Learn directly from skilled craftspeople with years of experience.
• Small Class Sizes: Get hands-on support and guidance as you work.
• High-Quality Materials: We provide access to the tools and space needed to complete your project.
• Community & Creativity: Connect with fellow makers and build something truly unique.

Spots fill up quickly, so secure your place in these workshops now! Stay tuned for upcoming new maker series releases, and let’s make this season one to remember.

Explore the full lineup and sign up today!

***

In Partnership with FORMATION. Media