The Forge

Science, technology, engineering and math are at the heart of making things. The Museum’s new permanent makerspace, The Forge, harnesses the power of the maker movement, celebrates innovation and encourages guests to roll up their sleeves to create. Part showroom and part workshop, The Forge both celebrates and demonstrates the process of design and fabrication.

The WestRock Gallery in The Forge is a showroom. Featuring inventive product displays and interactive stations such as a 500 multi-colored programmable lighting piece, the WestRock Gallery introduces guests to tools and materials while inspiring them to work with their hands. A workshop nestled within The Forge comprised of the Sharp Design Studio, a workroom and a machine shop takes guests to the next level by giving them the chance to participate in hands-on workshops that emphasize tool utilization and skill development.

Sleek, clean, modern and bright, The Forge is sure to spark new ideas and instill the idea that anything is possible.

Activities in The Forge 

All Museum guests can enjoy the WestRock Gallery during Museum operating hours. The workshop portion of The Forge will have scheduled hours. Below is an upcoming schedule of activities in The Forge. 

Museum staff will host simple, open exploration-style engineering activities in the morning called Maker Challenges. No registration is required for Maker Challenges and guests can arrive anytime during the activity to participate. 

In the afternoon, Museum staff will host two skill-building Maker Workshops, which are longer, facilitated experiences with limited guests that result in a take-home item. Advance registration is required for Maker Workshops and can be done in person at the Guest Services desk the day of the workshop. Detailed descriptions of the Maker Workshops, including tools and skills used can be found here. 

Members, it’s time to create! Work on your own projects or become safety certified for direct access to Forge tools and machinery.

Open making time is available to members only. Tools will be available on a project-based need and first come, first served basis. Bring your supplies and create in our space.

If you’re interested in safety certification to learn how to use the SawStop table saw and JET bandsaw, please register for which session you’d like to attend. Each class will last approximately 45 minutes. 

When: Monday, September 23, 2019; 3 pm or 4 pm

            Monday, September 30, 2019; 3 pm or 4 pm

Members must be 18 or older to receive safety certifications alone. Minors 15 and up may receive safety certifications with the accompaniment of a parent/guardian. Minors under 15 are welcome to make things in The Forge, but certain age restrictions may apply. For a complete list of tools, equipment, and machinery age requirements please talk with a Forge staff member.