Beginner Video Editing Classes

Lesson 1 • Project Planning Basics

Introduces scope definition, material lists, and time estimation for maker projects. Links planning skills to successful execution in later chapters.

Lesson 2 • Core Maker Tools Overview

Introduces hand tools, power tools, and digital fabrication equipment at a conceptual level. Connects tool categories to project types covered later.

Lesson 3 • Creative Problem-Solving Frameworks

Teaches structured ideation methods such as design thinking and iterative prototyping. Provides a repeatable process for approaching any making challenge.

Lesson 4 • Makerspace Layout and Safety

Covers physical organization of a makerspace and essential safety protocols. Prepares learners to work responsibly before touching any equipment.

Lesson 1 • Shaping and Finishing Surfaces

Introduces files, rasps, sandpaper, and scrapers for refining cut edges and surfaces. Surface quality directly affects assembly fit and final appearance.

Lesson 2 • Measuring and Marking Accurately

Covers rulers, calipers, squares, and marking tools for precise layout. Accuracy here underpins quality in every subsequent fabrication step.

Lesson 3 • Joining Methods Without Power

Covers mechanical fasteners, adhesives, and hand-driven joinery for assembling parts. Establishes joining principles extended by power tools in the next chapter.

Lesson 4 • First Fabrication Project

Applies measuring, cutting, shaping, and joining in a guided build exercise. Reinforces all hand-tool skills through a complete, tangible outcome.

Lesson 1 • Drilling and Boring Operations

Covers drill press and handheld drill use for accurate hole placement and sizing. Drilling is a prerequisite skill for fastening and assembly chapters.

Lesson 2 • Sanding and Grinding Machines

Introduces belt sanders, disc sanders, and angle grinders for rapid material removal. Connects to surface finishing standards established in the hand-tools chapter.

Lesson 3 • Working with Multiple Materials

Applies power tool skills to wood, metal, and plastic in a comparative exercise. Highlights how material properties change tool settings and technique.

Lesson 4 • Power Tool Safety Fundamentals

Establishes guarding, lockout procedures, and body positioning for all power equipment. Safety habits learned here apply to every power tool introduced afterward.

Lesson 1 • Introduction to 3D Modeling

Introduces parametric solid modeling using sketch-based extrusions and revolves. 3D models feed directly into 3D printing and CNC workflows covered next.

Lesson 2 • Dimensioned Technical Drawings

Covers orthographic projection, dimension lines, and tolerances for fabrication blueprints. Dimensioned drawings communicate intent to both machines and collaborators.

Lesson 3 • Designing for Manufacturability

Applies design rules such as wall thickness, kerf compensation, and draft angles. Prevents common file errors before sending designs to fabrication equipment.

Lesson 4 • 2D Vector Drawing Fundamentals

Teaches nodes, paths, and layers in vector software for laser-cutter and vinyl-cutter files. Vector accuracy directly determines cut quality in the next chapter.

Lesson 1 • Material Selection and Properties

Compares PLA, PETG, ABS, resins, and flexible filaments by strength and application. Material choice affects slicer settings and post-processing steps.

Lesson 2 • Printer Calibration and Setup

Covers bed leveling, nozzle height, and first-layer adhesion for reliable prints. Proper calibration prevents the majority of print failures encountered in practice.

Lesson 3 • 3D Printer Types and Components

Compares FDM, resin, and powder-bed technologies by capability and cost. Understanding machine types guides material and process selection throughout the chapter.

Lesson 4 • Slicer Settings and Print Quality

Teaches layer height, infill, supports, and temperature tuning for quality outcomes. Connects slicer knowledge from the design chapter to physical print results.

Lesson 1 • CNC Router Fundamentals

Introduces spindle, collet, and axis movement for routing wood, plastic, and soft metal. Builds on power-tool safety habits with computer-controlled precision.

Lesson 2 • Toolpath Strategies and Feeds

Teaches profile, pocket, and drill toolpaths with appropriate feeds and speeds. Toolpath strategy determines cut quality, tool life, and machining time.

Lesson 3 • Laser Cutter Principles and Safety

Explains laser types, focal length, and fume extraction requirements for safe operation. Safety and optics knowledge is prerequisite to all laser cutting exercises.

Lesson 4 • Finishing and Fitting CNC Parts

Covers deburring, sanding, and test-fitting CNC-cut parts for assembly. Connects digital precision to physical fit tolerances established in earlier chapters.

Lesson 1 • Microcontroller Programming Basics

Introduces digital I/O, analog reads, and PWM using a beginner-friendly microcontroller platform. Code skills here enable sensor and actuator control in later sections.

Lesson 2 • Breadboard Prototyping Techniques

Teaches component placement, power rails, and jumper wiring on a solderless breadboard. Breadboarding allows rapid circuit iteration before permanent soldering.

Lesson 3 • Electronics Fundamentals for Makers

Covers voltage, current, resistance, and Ohm's law at a practical, project-focused level. Provides the electrical foundation needed for all circuit-building exercises.

Lesson 4 • Actuators and Output Devices

Teaches servo motors, DC motors, relays, and displays as project output components. Combines with sensor knowledge to produce fully interactive prototypes.

Lesson 1 • Fabrication Execution and Quality

Covers sequencing fabrication tasks, managing tolerances, and maintaining quality standards. Applies all tool and machine skills from previous chapters in one build.

Lesson 2 • Documentation and Project Presentation

Teaches build logs, schematics, and presentation techniques for sharing maker work. Professional documentation enables replication, collaboration, and portfolio use.

Lesson 3 • Project Scoping and Proposal

Guides learners through defining a problem, selecting fabrication methods, and writing a project brief. A clear proposal prevents scope creep and guides all subsequent work.

Lesson 4 • Prototyping and Iteration Cycles

Applies rapid prototyping to test form, fit, and function before final fabrication. Iteration cycles reduce rework and improve final prototype quality.