Not every family can afford the space, equipment, and materials to unleash imagination, letting creativity run wild. Thankfully, makerspaces are all across the metro area where you and the family can utilize their studios to create what you want without worrying about cleanup and storage in your home. Below is a list of kid-friendly makerspaces offering after-school classes to teach your children any skill of their choice: painting, sewing, pottery, robotics, glass-blowing, baking, 3D printing, and more! Many makerspaces include opportunities to rent a whole studio for the day, whether you are hosting a pinch-pot birthday party or want to get back into an old hobby.
1. MINDCRAFT Makerspace
Discover a world of creativity and innovation at Mindcraft Makerspace, the ultimate destination for families also seeking after-school tutoring for reading, math, ACT/SAT prep, or specialized tutoring for students with dyslexia or dysgraphia. From 3D printing to arts and crafts, science, coding, and game design, their diverse programs foster skill development in a fun and engaging way. Families looking for flexible options can drop in between 3 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. any day at an affordable rate of $70, which even includes the convenience of bus pickup with 24-hour notice. With extended hours from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. (and 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays), Mindcraft Makerspace is here to ignite young minds and empower creativity at every turn. mindcraftmakerspace.com
2. Furnace Glass Works
Join the creative excitement at Furnace Glass Works, where families can come together and unleash their artistic flair. Their studio offers family classes suitable for ages 10 and older, allowing everyone to craft unique glass pieces and experiences. From creating stunning glass mosaics for windows to diving into a comprehensive beginners’ class covering all the fundamentals, there’s something for every aspiring artist. As the holiday season approaches, participate in a delightful ornament-making class, adding a personal touch to your festive celebrations. furnaceglassworks.com
3. Craftsman & Apprentice
Embark on a journey of imagination at Craftsman & Apprentice, where family bonding meets artistic adventures. Drop into open workshops on Saturdays and Sundays for a spontaneous crafting experience suitable for ages four and up. Mark your calendars for Kids Night Out on the second Saturday of each month, featuring a delightful crafts and pizza party from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Engage in quality family time during special Family Workshops every third Saturday, held from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Creators ages four to seven, let loose in the Mini-Makers workshops tailored to nurture their budding creativity. craftsmanandapprentice.com
4. ideaLAB
Unlock your family’s creativity at ideaLAB in your local Denver Public Library, a haven for makers of all ages. Enjoy the freedom to craft and innovate in this communal space, open to everyone, whether or not you have a library card. With a wide schedule, they can accommodate your busy lives, welcoming you from Sunday to Saturday. Immerse yourselves in cutting-edge technology at theDenver location, where 3D printing, laser cutting, engraving, and recording studio equipment await your imaginative touch. Equipment ranges from location to location. denverlibrary.org
5. Ceramics in the City
Experience the joy of ceramics at Ceramics in the City, your creative haven open six days a week. From Monday to Saturday, immerse yourself in the world of clay from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., sculpting your artistic vision between your fingers. Walk-ins are warmly welcomed, providing the perfect opportunity to create spontaneously. Book a table to craft your unique pieces using hand clay-making techniques, or learn the art of shaping pottery on a spinning wheel. Once your masterpiece takes form, bring it to life with a burst of color as you glaze and personalize your creations. ceramicsinthecity.com
6. Children’s Museum of Denver
The Children’s Museum boasts an innovative makerspace, a dynamic hub where young minds can explore, create, and innovate. This space is designed to inspire children’s creativity through hands-on activities and interactive experiences. Children can collaborate on projects, tinker with different concepts, and turn their imaginative ideas into tangible creations, all under the guidance of skilled facilitators, both in-person and online. Available for the next generation of thinkers as young as Pre-K. mychildsmuseum.org
7. Clyfford Still Museum
The InStill Program offered by the Clyfford Still Museum is an educational initiative aimed at engaging educators, students, and families. Programs will have participants explore Still’s artworks, gain a deeper understanding of abstract expressionism, enhance their critical thinking skills, and develop social self-awareness and perseverance. The InStill Program offers artistic resources and tools for students to understand art and tap into their own creativity among peers. The museum offers programs for learners grades K-12, as well as resources and tools for educators to bring the experience into the classroom. clyffordstillmuseum.org
