In this hands-on maker class, students will learn the basics of 3D design, 3D printing, and laser cutting while creating their own custom projects. Kids will use beginner-friendly design software to turn their ideas into real objects. Their designs will be brought to life using both a 3D printer and a laser cutter. By the end of the class, each student will complete several projects they can take home and show off.
In this exciting hands-on maker class, students will explore the world of 3D design, 3D printing, and laser cutting. Using beginner-friendly design software, kids will learn how to turn their ideas into real digital designs that can be manufactured with modern maker tools.
Students will design objects that can be 3D printed, such as small models, tools, or creative figures, and also create designs that can be laser cut from wood or other materials. Along the way, they will learn how digital files are prepared for each machine and how different fabrication methods are used to create different kinds of projects.
Throughout the class, students will develop creativity, problem-solving skills, and confidence using real maker technology. They will experiment with shapes, layers, and customization to create unique projects of their own design.
By the end of the course, each student will complete multiple 3D printed and laser-cut projects they can take home and share with family and friends.
MONTHLY TOPIC BREAKDOWN:
1st Month: Laser Cutting
2nd Month: 3D Design & Printing
3rd Month: 3D Printing and Use of Cricut Machine
SKILLS TAUGHT IN THIS CLASS:
Students will know how to use Procreate and Nomad on iPad devices. They will learn problem-solving in 3D design. They will understand the basic process of taking a design from the iPad and turning it into a real-world object.
SUPPLIES/ATTIRE:
We provide all the supplies for kids classes. We do recommend that your child wears activity appropriate clothing as art can get messy!
THERE WILL BE NO CLASSES THE WEEK OF THANKSGIVING!!!!
LOCATION:
Visual Art Institute 2900 S 300 W, South Salt Lake, Utah
Please park on the NORTH side of the building and enter up the ramp to the front office. It is the really colorful side of the building. Students should be escorted in and out of the building by parents as the parking lot gets very busy.
INSTRUCTOR:
This class is taught by Daniel Johnson. Learn more about our instructor sat https://www.visualartinstitute.org/art-faculty
DROP-INS:
We recognize that families may not always be able to commit to weekly class attendance. To ensure proper planning and staffing, all modified schedules must be arranged in advance through our front office. Families are required to provide a clear attendance schedule for their child, and tuition will be prorated accordingly based on the approved schedule.
Trial classes and drop-in attendance are available on a limited basis and must also be scheduled in advance with the front office. We do not accommodate same-day, unscheduled drop-ins.
Failure to arrange attendance or drop-in requests ahead of time may result in the student being unable to participate in class.
REFUND POLICY:
We are only able to offer refunds up to 2 weeks before the start of class. We do not offer refunds or credits or make-up classes to students who miss class.
TRANSFER POLICY:
We may be able to transfer you to a different class depending on space availability.
CLASS CANCELLATION:
We find that students learn better in larger groups. If we feel the number of registrations is too low to promote a good learning environment, we may cancel the class. In the event we cancel a class, we will reach out to you as soon as possible.
TUITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM:
We try to make our classes as accessible to everyone as possible. We are able to offer a limited number of tuition assistance scholarships each term. You can complete an application on our website or call our office for assistance applying. Applications are available in Spanish and English.
MULTI-CLASS DISCOUNT:
When you register for more than one class, you can receive a discount up to 10% per class! You must call and register through the front office for this discount.
ADA ACCESSIBILITY & ACCOMMODATIONS:
Our classrooms are ADA accessible. Some courses may involve tasks or activities that may be difficult for individuals with limited strength, difficulty bending over, and sitting or standing for long periods of time. We are happy to work with students to find solutions to make their experience positive and doable. For example, wheel throwing takes arm strength and bending over the wheel. Students may work on hand-building projects instead of throwing. Please reach out to our office to discuss your needs.
DIFFICULTY REGISTERING?
Please call our main office for assistance! 801.474.3796 or email us at [email protected]
Participants must be 8 years to 11 years old when the program starts.
Registration starts on 04/15/2026 and ends on 09/24/2026.
Please contact Visual Art Institute if you have any questions.