Classes & Teaching

How classes work at Loveland CreatorSpace — and how members can teach, learn, and share skills.

Loveland CreatorSpace is a community built on learning, creativity, and shared knowledge. Classes, workshops, and informal training sessions help members develop new skills, get authorized for tools, and connect with other makers. This page explains how classes work, how to teach at CreatorSpace, and how members can participate.

1. Purpose of Classes & Workshops

Classes at Loveland CreatorSpace exist to:

• Teach new skills

• Support tool authorization

• Help members work safely

• Build community

• Encourage collaboration

• Share expertise across all skill levels

Classes are offered by volunteers, area leads, instructors, and subject‑matter experts from the community.

2. Types of Classes

CreatorSpace offers several types of classes:

Introductory Classes

Beginner‑friendly sessions that teach fundamentals:

• Intro to Woodshop

• Intro to Laser Cutting

• Intro to CNC

• Soldering Basics

• 3D Printing 101

• Electronics Basics

These classes are ideal for new members.

Tool Authorization Classes

Required for restricted tools:

• Table saw (SawStop)

• CNC router

• Laser cutters

• Metal lathe

• Milling machine

• Welders

• Kiln

Authorization classes ensure members can use tools safely and confidently.

Skill‑Building Workshops

Hands‑on sessions focused on specific techniques:

• Joinery

• Welding practice

• CAD/CAM design

• Arduino or Raspberry Pi

• Wood finishing

• Metal fabrication

Community Classes

Open to the public:

• Community nights

• Youth workshops

• Outreach events

• Partner organization classes

These help grow the community and introduce new people to the space.

3. How to Find Classes

Members can find upcoming classes through:

• Slack (#events, #general, shop‑specific channels)

• The Loveland CreatorSpace website

• The Loveland CreatorSpace Classes

• Posted flyers in the space

• Announcements during open shop nights

Classes may require registration, payment, or RSVP depending on the instructor.

4. Teaching at CreatorSpace

Members are encouraged to teach classes — it’s one of the best ways to contribute to the community.

Who Can Teach

• Anyone

• Area leads

• Experienced members

• Subject‑matter experts

• Volunteers

• Community partners

You do not need to be a professional instructor to teach.

You just need knowledge, patience, and a willingness to help others learn.

We thrive on sharing knowledge.   We encourage you to consider teaching a class.   

How to Propose a Class

To teach a class:

1. Contact the Director or an area lead

2. Share your class idea

3. Discuss required tools, materials, and safety considerations

4. Choose a date and time

5. Create a Slack announcement or event listing

6. Prepare any handouts or materials

The Director or area lead will help ensure the class is safe, appropriate, and well‑supported.

Instructor Responsibilities

Instructors must:

• Have fun

• Teach safe tool use

• Follow all shop rules

• Ensure students wear required PPE

• Supervise students closely

• Prevent unauthorized tool use

• Clean up after the class

• Report any issues in #machinedown

Instructors set the tone for learning and safety.

5. Class Fees & Materials

Some classes may include:

• A small fee for materials

• A fee for consumables (wood, metal, electronics parts)

• A donation to support the space

• A fee for specialized instruction

Fees are determined by the instructor and approved by the Director.

Members should never be surprised by costs — fees must be clearly posted in advance.

6. Tool Authorization Through Classes

Many restricted tools require formal training.

Authorization may be granted through:

• Intro classes

• One‑on‑one training

• Area lead evaluation

• Instructor sign‑off

Authorization is recorded by the Director and added to your fob permissions.

If you’re unsure whether a class grants authorization, ask the instructor or area lead.

7. Expectations for Students

Students must:

• Arrive on time

• Wear required PPE

• Follow instructor directions

• Respect tools and equipment

• Ask questions when unsure

• Clean up their workspace

• Avoid unsafe behavior

Classes are collaborative — everyone is responsible for safety.

8. Youth Classes

Youth classes may be offered for:

• Electronics

• 3D printing

• Crafting

• Robotics

• Maker projects

Youth classes follow strict supervision and safety rules.

Minors may only participate with a guardian present unless the class is specifically designed for youth.

9. Cancellations & Rescheduling

Classes may be canceled or rescheduled due to:

• Instructor availability

• Safety concerns

• Equipment issues

• Low enrollment

Updates will be posted on Slack and the website.

10. Questions or Help

If you want to take a class, teach a class, or learn more:

• Ask in Slack (#events or shop‑specific channels)

• Talk to an area lead

• Contact the Director

• Attend open shop nights

Loveland CreatorSpace thrives when members share knowledge, teach skills, and help each other grow.