Learn to Make Cool Things at NextFab

NextFab is a collaborative, membership-based makerspace that provides access to tools, technology, education, events, and services to help people turn their ideas into products. The business was founded by Evan Malone in 2009 and was originally part of the University City Science Center’s business incubator. After a stint in South Philadelphia, NextFab settled into its current location in Norris Square in 2020.

Here are three hobbies you can pick up at NextFab:

1. 3D Printing

Have you ever wanted to learn how to use consumer-grade 3D printers? Now you can, and you can pick and print a design from NextFab’s curated project files. The course will teach you how to set up the printers for clean, precise prints, as well as how to troubleshoot common issues.

1. Leatherworking

You’ll finish this two-hour course with a brand new custom belt that you made yourself. Get step-by-step guidance in safe splitting, beveling, burnishing, and hand punching.

1. Machine Sewing

Be the most popular person in your friend group once you learn to sew, stitch, and hem on a consumer-grade sewing machine. Once you complete the course, you’ll have made your very own tote bag and can keep practicing on NextFab’s Singer home sewing machines.