Barrel of Makers is hosting free classes for teen makers

Teenagers these days, right? Their cellular devices may as well be an extension of their bodies, their faces are always glued to their laptops and they just won’t stop making out in public parks.
Luckily, Delaware’s favorite nomadic makerspace, Barrel of Makers, and a team of volunteers have conjured up a productive solution to all three of those nuisances: free two-part classes for teens ages 13 and up that teach soldering and 3D print design. The next (and last) series will take place on Oct. 26 and Nov. 2.
“The objective is to give teens the means to create, rather than only consume technology,” said BoM cofounder Jessi Taylor. “Participants will also be more aware of the access to new technologies available at their local libraries, such as free access to 3D printers.”

Attendees will learn how to build a device called a “decision maker” and design a 3D case for it.
“It’s a sort of electronic magic eight ball,” said Taylor. “You ask it a question and push the button, and after a bit of back and forth deliberation — shown with flashing LEDs — it gives you a ‘Yes’ or ‘No.'”
Taylor said these classes have been a trial run of sorts for a six-part series BoM is hoping to run at libraries throughout New Castle County next year, wherein teens will be introduced to a plethora of maker-related practices such as micro-processing, electronics, soldering, programming, 3D design and 3D printing — all through engaging, hands-on projects and experimentation.
Good news, olds: Participation is not limited to teens — Taylor said adults interested in participating are also welcome to attend. Interested parties should contact the Bear Library to nab a spot in the classes.
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