Beginner Maker Lab: Tools
Build. Measure. Fasten. Create.
Kickstart Your Student’s Hands-On Confidence!
Join us for a focused 6-week hands-on workshop where students learn to use real tools with skill, precision, and confidence. Beginning April 9th at 1:00 pm, students will step into the workshop and begin building foundational mechanical skills that prepare them for robotics, engineering, and real-world problem solving.
In Beginner Maker Lab: Tools, students won’t just “make projects” — they’ll develop essential tool skills through structured mini-builds that intentionally progress toward a final functional tool caddy they’ll assemble and take home.
Throughout the 6 weeks, students will learn how to:
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Measure accurately and mark with precision
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Sand for smooth, professional finishes
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Drive screws correctly using pilot holes
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Hammer with control and alignment
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Drill straight and understand proper fit
This workshop is designed for students who are ready to build real-world capability from the ground up. Whether they plan to move into robotics, combat robotics, or advanced engineering builds — or simply want greater confidence working with their hands — this lab provides the physical foundation every maker needs.
Led by experienced mentors, students will work in a structured, skill-focused environment where safety, precision, and craftsmanship come first. Each session builds intentionally toward mastery.
Every class follows the Edison Engineering Design Process (E²DP):
Explore. Envision. Engineer. Execute. Evaluate. Explain.
Students won’t just use tools — they’ll learn how to think before building, measure before drilling, and assemble with purpose and accuracy.
This is more than a woodworking class.
It’s a confidence-building experience that helps students realize they are capable of building real, functional projects with professional standards.
What’s Included?
Measuring & Layout Skills – Read a tape measure, mark accurately, find center, and plan builds with precision.
Surface Prep & Finish – Learn sanding techniques, grit progression, and the importance of clean finishing.
Screwing & Structural Assembly – Drill pilot holes, drive screws properly, and build square, stable joints.
Nailing & Alignment – Develop hammer control and spacing precision through structured pattern builds.
Drilling & Tolerance – Practice perpendicular drilling and proper fit through a tic-tac-toe peg board project.
Final Build: Personal Tool Caddy – Combine all learned skills to assemble a functional wooden tool caddy.
Take-Home Tool Kit – Each student receives a starter tool set to place inside their completed caddy.
Small Group Instruction – Hands-on coaching in a focused environment designed to build real skill, not just complete projects.
All materials and tools provided.
Workshop Details
Start Date: April 9th
Time: 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Length: 6 Weeks
Location: Edison Kids Innovation Center
9300 Normandy Blvd, Suite 508
Jacksonville, FL 32221
Cost: $500 per student
Edison Kids is a Step Up For Students direct provider.
Ideal for ages 9–16 (mature 8-year-olds welcome).
No prior experience required.
Spaces are limited — register today and give your student the skills to build with confidence.
Measure with precision.
Build with purpose.
Think like a maker.