Log in


Upcoming events

    • October 24, 2024
    • 18:30 - 21:30
    • 1936 Fifth Avenue Pittsburgh PA 15219
    • 8
    Register


    Welcome to Intro to Laser Crafting  - Halloween Edition! In this hands-on, family-friendly workshop, you’ll learn the fundamentals of operating HackPGH's laser cutter and the basics of designing and working from templates in LightBurn.  Students will be able to create their own Halloween or Autumn acrylic lamp using laser crafting techniques. Thereafter, participants will be ready to get to work on their own independent laser craft projects.

    Itinerary:
    Part one: Demonstration and Choosing Templates
    Our instructor will showcase the standard operating procedures for the laser cutter, then invite students to follow along and create one one of their own, working from a template. 

    Part two: Guided Workshop:
    After the demonstration, students will learn the basics of executing simple customization tasks in our laser design software and get one-on-one assistance from the instructor on personalizing their acrylic lamps. 

    Part three: Open Workshop:
    Students will be able to work independently to finalize their designs in LightBurn. Participants will each get a turn to operate the laser on their own. Our instructor will be present throughout the duration of the Open Workshop to provide one-on-one guidance and answer questions.

    Prerequisites: No experience required. All tools and equipment will be provided. 

    Age Requirement: 10+, minors under 14 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Buy one adult or child ticket, get the second one half off! Email us for details. 

    Instructor: Morgan

    Day and time: Thursday, October 24th from 6:30pm-9:30pm 
    Instructor will be available until 10:30pm to offer extra assistance and to demonstrate other lamp designs. 

    Cost: $75 for non-members, $70 for HackPGH members. No-shows will NOT be refunded. If you must cancel, please notify HackPGH at least 72 hours before the class start date! Attendance and participation are required for training clearance at instructor's discretion.

    Class size: 3-8 students (not including adult/guardians accompanying minors)

    HackPGH Membership Discount: Participants interested in using the laser and other shop resources after completing the class will have access to a special discounted month of HackPGH membership! 

    • October 26, 2024
    • 11:00 - 17:00
    • 1936 Fifth Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
    • 1
    Register


    Join us at HackPGH for an intensive but fun and informative MIG welding class, intended for complete beginners and/or those looking to brush up on rusty skills while building something fun and functional.

    Structure: This class provides the foundation for basic fabrication techniques using a MIG (Metal Inert Gas) welder. Students will learn to tack-weld into place and fully weld steel. Each student will make and take home an industrial lamp made from heavy duty chain with an Edison-style bulb. Several breaks will be offered throughout the day, including a long break for a group takeout lunch. Lunch will be provided, but please advise if you have any allergies or food restrictions!  

    Requirements: No experience required.  Ages 16+, minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. 

    Safety requirements: Work boots preferred.  No open toed shoes (canvas is acceptable, but no cloth athletic shoes). Long hair should be tied back, and and we recommend wearing natural fiber clothing (denim, cotton, etc.). 

    Date & Time: (Date moved from 10/5!) Saturday, October 26th from 11:00am-5:00pm

    Cost:  $175 for non-members, $155 for HackPGH Members

    You must register and pay to save your spot in the class! NOTE: No-shows will NOT be refunded. If you need to cancel, please contact HackPGH at least 48 hours before the class date!

    Instructor: Kiefer

    Class limit: 6 students

    • October 26, 2024
    • 18:30 - 21:30
    • 1936 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
    • 10
    Register


    Looking for something creative and fun to enjoy this autumn and Halloween season? Have you always wanted to create your own scented candle but didn't know how to get started? We've got the event for you! Join us at HackPGH and learn how to pour your own 12oz soy-based scented color candle, while enjoying some seasonal beverages**, snacks, and movies!  During this special session, participants can apply Halloween charms, stones, autumn flowers, and spices to their candles!

    We will go over candle-making basics such as:

    • wax types
    • hot and cold throw techniques
    • wick placement
    • fragrance and dye load
    • candle maintenance
    • choosing & cleaning containers
    • application of stones, charms, and dried flowers
    Students will be able to choose from over two dozen popular and seasonal (autumn) scents, from apple cinnamon and pumpkin spice to leather and sandalwood. 

    Date and time: Saturday, October 26th from 6:30pm-9:30pm

    Requirements: No experience needed. All supplies, tools, and PPE (personal protective equipment) will be provided.

    Safety notice: Participants will be working with very hot wax! Please tie back any long hair, and we recommend wearing long pants and closed-toed shoes. 

    Allergy notice: Soy wax is used in this class. Gloves and eye protection are provided, and we have a small amount of alternative candle waxes for those with minor allergies to soy. However, HackPGH cannot guarantee an allergen-free environment. 

    Instructor: Katyyh "Kat"

    Cost: $50 for non-members, $45 for HackPGH Members. No-shows will NOT be refunded. If you need to cancel, please contact HackPGH at least 48 hours before the class date! 

    Class Size: 10 students max

    **Age Requirement: Must be 21+ Both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages will be served at this event, and IDs will be checked! A selection of fall beers and wine will be  served, as well as soft drinks and apple cider. But feel free to BYOB! 

    • November 03, 2024
    • 13:00 - 15:00
    • 1936 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh PA 15219
    Register


    Protect yourself and others this autumn and winter by getting yourself, family, and friends vaccinated at our Fourth Annual FREE Vaccine Clinic! 

    Join us on Sunday, November 3rd at HackPGH and enjoy some seasonal movies, beverages, bagels, donuts, and other treats while Hilltop Pharmacy's team administers the following vaccines:

    • COVID/COVID booster
    • Flu 
    • RSV (60+ and pregnant women)
    • Shingles
    • Pneumonia (65+ and any adult with a weakened immune system)
    • TDAP - Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis
    • Hepatitis A&B 

    Important: This clinic is open to anyone over five years old, including the uninsured and underinsured. However, all must bring identification. If you have insurance, PLEASE bring your insurance card! This helps us streamline aid to those who need it most! Thank you!

    Date & Time: Sunday, November 3rd from 1:00pm - 3:00pm

    Registration: Recommended but not required. Please let us know which vaccines you'd like to receive. Questions? Email us at info(at)hackpittsburgh.org 

    Location: HackPGH is located in the the basement level of 1936 Fifth Avenue. Our entrance is on Jumonville Street; look for the blue signs! Map of our building, entrances, public transit stops, and parking.

    Parking: There is free street parking on both sides of Jumonville Street and the fenced side of Watson Street. HackPGH has a small gravel lot off Watson. 

    • November 07, 2024
    • 18:30 - 21:30
    • 1936 Fifth Avenue Pittsburgh PA 15219
    • 8
    Register


    Let’s admit it - many tech conference badges have become rather complex over the years. Our instructor Anool would know - having helped build several over the years. On the other hand, options for office and children's name tags are incredibly dull.  If you're thinking: "Badges? We don't need no stinkin' badges..." we are here to change your mind with something fun and functional!

    Join us at HackPGH to create a simple but attractive, multi-colored light-up badge that can be assembled in a jiffy: no soldering or microcontrollers required! Participants can customize their badges with both laser cut designs and chalk markers. Along the way, students will also learn the basics of how laser cutters work!

    Materials used:

    • clear acrylic sheet
    • two multi-color LEDs (Light Emitting Diode)
    • brass wire
    • wire cutters
    • chalk markers
    • lanyards and clips (participants will have their choice)

    Prerequisites: No experience required. All tools and equipment will be provided.

    Age Requirement: 10+, minors under 14 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Buy one adult or child ticket, get the second one half off! Email us for details. 

    Instructor: Anool Mahidharia

    Day and time: Thursday, November 7th from 6:00pm-9:00pm 
    Class will not take the full three hours. Extra time will be used for one-on-one help from the Instructor. 

    Cost: $35 for non-members, $30 for HackPGH members. No-shows will NOT be refunded. If you must cancel, please notify HackPGH at least 72 hours before the class start date! Attendance and participation are required for training clearance at instructor's discretion.

    Class size: 8 students max (not including adult/guardians accompanying minors)

    HackPGH Membership Discount: Participants interested in using the laser and other shop resources after completing the class will have access to a special discounted month of HackPGH membership! 

    • November 09, 2024
    • 13:30 - 16:30
    • 1936 Fifth Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
    • 12
    Register


    FreeCAD is one of the most popular and advanced CAD (Computer-Aided Design) & BIM (Building Information Modeling) software programs. It is free, open-source software with a huge user-supported development community. FreeCAD can be used for a variety of applications – design, architecture, prototyping, engineering, art, 3D-printing, and more. This class will provide information and experience to lessen the learning curve for using FreeCAD and give an introduction to the capabilities of the software. Students will learn the following topics:

    • User interface & workbenches
    • Sketches, solids & dress up
    • Parametric control
    • Export  for rapid prototyping

    Prerequisites: No experience necessary. This class is aimed for complete beginners aged 16+! It is recommended that you bring a computer or laptop with FreeCAD 1.0 (RC2) installed on your machine. Use the link below to download the appropriate version of this free software for Windows, MacOS, or Linux.. 

    Click here to download FreeCAD 1 (RC2)

     We understand that not everyone has their own laptop or portable computer! HackPGH has six lab computers that can be used for this class. Please select the "I Need A Computer" option when registering to reserve one of our PCs.

    Disclaimer: This class will not cover all aspects, features, or uses of FreeCAD.  It will not teach advanced modeling techniques. Because time will be tight, having the software loaded and running on your machine will be greatly appreciated.

    Cost: $45 for non-members, $40 for HackPGH members
    Note: No-shows will NOT be refunded. Please contact HackPGH within 42 hours of the class time if you need to cancel! 

    Date & Time: Saturday, November 9th from 1:30pm-4:30pm

    Instructor: Anool M.

    • November 09, 2024
    • 18:00 - 21:00
    • 1936 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
    • 7
    Register


    In this fun and interactive workshop, participants will learn basic chainmail and jewelry-making techniques. These skills will then be used to make two items:

    • a European four-in-one chainmail bag (with or without drawstring); and
    • A dual-color Byzantine chain. These beautifully patterned chains can easily be turned into an attractive bracelet or necklace with clasps from our jewelry-making bench!

    Students will leave class with a bag, their choice of Byzantine chain jewelry, and/or the tools to complete both!

    Date and time: Saturday, November 7th from 6:00pm-9:00pm

    Requirements: No experience necessary.

    Instructor: Brian "Beebe" Esch

    Cost (non-members): $45

    Cost (HackPGH members): $40

    Note: No-shows will NOT be refunded. If you need to cancel, please contact HackPGH at least 48 hours before the class date!

    Class Size: 8 people

    Age Requirements: Must be 11+ (Minors must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the class!)

    • November 10, 2024
    • 10:30 - 16:30
    • 1936 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
    • 0
    Join waitlist

    THIS CLASS INCLUDES A ONE-MONTH HACKPGH MEMBERSHIP! 
    This class will educate students on the fundamental concepts of woodworking and the safe use of HackPGH's woodshop equipment. If you have absolutely no woodworking experience, than this is the class for you! It is designed to give the student a foundation for their journey into the hobby and profession of woodworking. Topics covered will include measuring and cutting, lumber basics, how to safely use different woodworking equipment, basic joints, basic finishing and more.  Students will leave with an understanding and safety training on the following equipment:

    • Table Saw
    • Miter Saw
    • Band Saw
    • Router Table
    • Combination and Orbital Sanders
    • Jointer
    • Planer
    • Cordless drill
    • Pocket hole jig
    • Finishes and stains

    Structure: This class will have one intensive group session, where the entire cohort will work through constructing a step stool collectively.  A break for a takeout lunch will be taken during the session. Please notify HackPGH if you have any allergies or dietary restrictions. 

    Free Month Membership: All participants will get one month of HackPGH membership (with 24/7 RFID access) to work on their own woodworking project(s), and plans will be provided after the class so each student can create their own step stool. 

    We urge students to bring personal projects to work on at HackPGH during this membership period, and support those who wish to continue their membership after the free month ends. The HackPGH membership is not limited to the woodshop area! Students will gain access to the entire shop including the 3D printers, CNC, laser cutter, soft arts, gaming computers, and much more. 

    Date and time: 10:30am-4:30pm Sunday, November 10t, 2024. Lunch will be provided!

    Requirements: No woodworking experience needed. All supplies and safety equipment will be provided. Please remove dangling jewelry, wear long pants, wear closed-toed shoes, and tie any long hair back for your safety!

    Before independent use of the space, students must complete HackPGH's standard shop tour and orientation to cover safety and logistics pertaining to the space. You have the option of completing this orientation directly after the initial class, and/or the following Monday (October 14th) at 7:30pm. 

    Support: Please reach out if you need assistance after the class.  Instructor can provide limited online support via Slack and email, and HackPGH's Wood Shop Leads can be contacted in the #woodworking channel.

    Instructor: Zachary Amend

    Cost: $160 (includes materials, lunch, instruction, and one-month HackPGH Membership) No-shows will NOT be refunded. If you need to cancel, please contact HackPGH at least 48 hours before the class date! Note: There is no special ticket price for Members because the class includes a discounted month of membership. If you are an active HackPGH member, we will extend your existing membership for an additional 30 days.

    Class Size: 5 people

    Age Requirements: Must be 13+ (Minors must be accompanied by an adult!)

    • November 14, 2024
    • 18:30 - 21:30
    • 1936 Fifth Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
    • 12
    Register


    FreeCAD is one of the most popular and advanced CAD (Computer-Aided Design) & BIM (Building Information Modeling) software programs. It is free, open-source software with a huge user-supported development community. FreeCAD can be used for a variety of applications – design, architecture, prototyping, engineering, art, 3D-printing, and more. This class will provide information and experience to lessen the learning curve for using FreeCAD and give an introduction to the capabilities of the software. Students will learn the following topics:

    • User interface & workbenches
    • Sketches, solids & dress up
    • Parametric control
    • Export  for rapid prototyping

    Prerequisites: No experience necessary. This class is aimed for complete beginners aged 16+! It is recommended that you bring a computer or laptop with FreeCAD 1.0 (RC2) installed on your machine. Use the link below to download the appropriate version of this free software for Windows, MacOS, or Linux.. 

    Click here to download FreeCAD 1 (RC2)

     We understand that not everyone has their own laptop or portable computer! HackPGH has six lab computers that can be used for this class. Please select the "I Need A Computer" option when registering to reserve one of our PCs.

    Disclaimer: This class will not cover all aspects, features, or uses of FreeCAD.  It will not teach advanced modeling techniques. Because time will be tight, having the software loaded and running on your machine will be greatly appreciated.

    Cost: $45 for non-members, $40 for HackPGH members
    Note: No-shows will NOT be refunded. Please contact HackPGH within 42 hours of the class time if you need to cancel! 

    Date & Time: Thursday, November 14th from 6:30pm-9:30pm

    Instructor: Anool M.

    • November 17, 2024
    • 10:30 - 16:30
    • 1936 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
    • 3
    Register


    THIS CLASS INCLUDES A ONE-MONTH HACKPGH MEMBERSHIP! This class will educate students on the fundamental concepts of woodworking and the safe use of HackPGH's woodshop equipment. If you have absolutely no woodworking experience, than this is the class for you! It is designed to give the student a foundation for their journey into the hobby and profession of woodworking. Students will make and take home their own cutting board, bread board, or table tray from a selection of locally sourced hardwoods. Topics covered include safety in the woodshop, measuring and cutting, lumber characteristics, basic joints, applying stains and finishes, and more.  Students will leave with an understanding of the following equipment:

    • Table Saw
    • Miter Saw
    • Band Saw
    • Router Table
    • Combination and Orbital Sanders
    • Jointer
    • Planer
    • Cordless drill
    • Pocket hole jig

    Structure: This class will have one intensive group session, where the entire cohort will work through the steps of making a project collectively.  Afterwards, the instructor will help each student make and take home one of the following items: breadboard, cutting board, or table tray. Participants can use their HackPGH membership to return and work on their projects if they cannot be completed during the class session. A break for a takeout lunch will be taken in the middle of the class. Please notify HackPGH if you have any allergies or dietary restrictions. 

    Free Month Membership: All participants will get one month of HackPGH membership (with 24/7 RFID access) to work on their own woodworking project(s), and plans will be provided after the class so each student can create their own step stool. 

    We urge students to bring personal projects to work on at HackPGH during this membership period, and support those who wish to continue their membership after the free month ends. The HackPGH membership is not limited to the woodshop area! Students will gain access to the entire shop including the 3D printers, CNC, laser cutter, soft arts, gaming computers, and much more. 

    Date and time:  Sunday, November 17th, 2024 from 10:30am-4:30pm . Lunch will be provided!

    Requirements: No woodworking experience needed. All supplies and safety equipment will be provided. Please remove dangling jewelry, wear long pants, wear closed-toed shoes, and tie any long hair back for your safety!

    Before independent use of the space, students must complete HackPGH's standard shop tour and orientation to cover safety and logistics pertaining to the space. You have the option of completing this orientation directly after the initial class, and/or the following Monday (November 18th) during the public tour time.

    Office Hours: Optional and by appointment. Please reach out if you need assistance after the class.  Instructor can also provide online support via Slack and email.

    Instructor: Cass Griger

    Cost: $120 (includes materials, lunch, instruction, and one-month HackPGH Membership) No-shows will NOT be refunded. If you need to cancel, please contact HackPGH at least 48 hours before the class date! Note: There is no special ticket price for Members because the class includes a discounted month of membership. If you are an active HackPGH member, we will extend your existing membership for an additional 30 days.

    Class Size: 5 people max

    Age Requirements: Must be 13+ (Minors must be accompanied by an adult!)

    • November 17, 2024
    • 18:00 - 21:00
    • 1936 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
    • 4
    Register


    Want to make a unique holiday gift for someone special? You can do that while learning about different lathes and turning basics in this introductory woodworking class at HackPGH! We will focus on the concepts and safe use of the wood lathe while creating something fun and functional to take home: a pen kit!  Students will learn the basics of turning with carbide tools as well as how to prep, turn and assemble their pen kits. Different types of wood will be available for selection. Each student will have their choice of three gift boxes for their pens - just in time for the holiday season! 

    Using carbide tools is very easy, forgiving, and beginner-friendly. However, their application is not limited to the novice woodworker! The use of carbide tools is a great, low-investment way to learn to turn wood while building a foundation for techniques needed for advanced applications, such as turning with HSS (High Speed Steel) chisels.

    Date and time: Sunday, November 17th from 6:00pm-9:00pm (class can go later for those needing additional help)

    Requirements: No experience needed. All supplies and safety equipment will be provided.  Please wear closed-toed shoes and tie any long hair back for your safety!

    Instructor: Zachary Amend

    Cost: $95 for non-members, $85 for HackPGH Members. No-shows will NOT be refunded. If you need to cancel, please contact HackPGH at least 48 hours before the class date! 

    Class Size: 4 people

    Age Requirements: Adults only, 18+

Powered by Wild Apricot Membership Software