The Design Lab at MOSAC

Welcome to the MOSAC’s maker space, where big dreams meet real tools. From quick Drop-ins to multi-day Maker Workshops, our programs are the perfect starting point to learn about making, tinkering, and creating.  

Kids, families, and beginner makers are invited to use our tools and technology to create unique take-home projects. 

Upcoming Programs

Drop-ins: Many Saturday and Sunday afternoons

Drop-Ins

When it comes to projects you can do as a family or group, you want the memories – not the mess! Our beginner and kid friendly Design Lab Drop-ins allow you to make and take a designated project that engages everyone involved. Tickets are available at the front desk.

Marble Maze 

Beginner and Family Friendly | Ages 6 and under must have adult assisting 

Design, build, and customize your own Marble Maze! This project combines simple tools and a high-tech laser cutter, culminating in a unique take-home toy that you can enjoy again and again.

Laser Cutter | Low–Temp Hot Glue Guns | Cardboard Scissors | Cardboard Creaser  

Available day-of at the front desk the day of the program. This 1-hour workshop takes place most weekends and holiday break weekday afternoons. When you get to MOSAC, check the wall on the right side of the lobby. Our Today at MOSAC signs will let you know if a Marble Maze Drop-in is happening.

Members: $5 per project | General Admission: $7 per project

Maker Workshop

Is your 5th – 8th grader looking for a way to join the world of making? Our in-depth, multi-day Design Lab Maker Workshops make it easy to build the knowledge, confidence, and skills needed to engineer a project from start to finish. Over the course of four weekly 2-hour sessions, your maker will dive deep into engineering, design, and fabrication using 3D printers, laser cutters, CAD software, and electronics. 

Rockets

For 5th – 8th graders | October 3, 10, 17, 24 (Saturdays 10am – 12pm)

Looking for an introduction to 3D printing? No need to look to infinity and beyond! In our Rockets workshop, participants will design and launch 3D printed rockets, learn about the engineering design process, and build basic data analysis skills as they test multiple iterations of their design. Rocket launches will occur outside, either on MOSAC’s Riverfront Patio or at Matsui Park, both located behind MOSAC.  

Laptops | Tinkercad | Bambu Studio + 3D Printers | Rulers | Scale | Alti-Trak

Register Here

Member Register Here

Robo-Challenge

For 5th – 8th graders | January 9, 16, 23, 30 (Saturdays 10am-12pm)

 Batteries, circuits, and wires, oh my! Are you up for the challenge? This workshop is an introduction to robotics and electrical engineering. Design Lab staff will help participants build their own Robo-Rollers and put them to the test in a soccer-like game. Makers will get hands-on experience with circuits by connecting batteries, gearbox motors, and a controller. Along the way, they’ll learn safe soldering techniques and practice using screwdrivers, nuts, and bolts. Finally, creativity and design skills will help your maker add attachments that drive their Robo-Roller to victory. 

Soldering Irons | Heat Gun | Wire Strippers | Crimpers | Screwdrivers

Registration for this round of Robo-Challenge has closed.

Member Price: $300 | General Price: $320 

Dress Code: Long pants | Closed-toed, closed-heel shoes | No jewelry  

A small robot on wheels with wires, placed on a floor next to a cardboard track, with red stools in the background.

Wind Turbines

For 5th – 8th graders

Want a workshop that offers a bit of everything? Our Wind Turbines program covers every tool our Design Lab has to offer, from screws and screwdrivers to design software and 3D printing. Makers design their own wind turbines, solder their own wires, and assemble their own functioning wind turbines and voltmeter circuits. Each of the four sessions focuses on a different set of tools and skills – it’s the perfect introduction to the Design Lab. 

Laptops | Tinkercad | Bambu Studio + 3D Printers | Laser Cutter | Soldering Irons | Heat Gun | Wire Strippers | Screwdrivers 

This program requires registration. Participants are expected to attend each of the four 2-hour sessions and arrive on time. Workshop dates will be posted in 2026.   

Member Price: $300 | General Price: $320 

Dress Code: Long pants | Closed-toed, closed-heel shoes | No jewelry  

Tools: Laptops | Tinkercad | Bambu Studio + 3D Printers | Laser Cutter | Soldering Irons | Heat Gun | Wire Strippers | Screwdrivers  

Children engaging in a computer-based design activity at the MOSAC.

Questions? Email registeredprograms@visitmosac.org or call (916) 674-5000. 

Interested in future sessions? Interested but don’t meet the grade requirements?