Selecting a Venue

We recommend contacting community centers or schools to find workshops, labs, or classrooms where you can host your event.

If you are at a college or university, using a classroom or lab space from the engineering department could have the added benefit of access to soldering irons and other equipment you will need.

If you are holding an event in your home, consider the following when you set up your space.

Here are some things to look for in a potential venue:

Enough table space

Make sure every pair of workers will have plenty of space to spread out their materials, and for people to solder without bumping elbows.

Enough outlets

You can use extension cords, but make sure you will be able to plug in a soldering iron at every workstation. You will usually need one soldering iron for every two people.

A sink (or two)

Soldering lead is toxic, so everyone must wash their hands well after soldering, and in between soldering and eating or drinking anything.

A separate space for food

If you will be providing lunch or snacks, make sure they are separated from where people will be working. People should never eat while soldering. Having a separate room for food will make it easier for you to enforce this.

If you are holding a toy hack at home, make the kitchen off-limits while you hack.

The option to set up beforehand

Setting up the day or night before your event will save you a lot of stress, so ask if you will have this option.

If you are based in the Chandler area, we recommend reaching out to the Si Se Puede Foundation about collaborating with them to use their STEM Center, pictured below. It includes a large warehouse space as well as a classroom, and manufacturing equipment such as 3D printers.

Another option in the Phoenix area is the Arizona Science Center. They have a workshop area, and can provide tables and soldering irons. In the past, they collaborated with Makers Making Change to host a Holiday Hackathon in 2019.