Author: Greg Maino

  • Makers In Action: Whistle Parties!

    Makers In Action: Whistle Parties!

    Get Involved: Volunteer Whistle Parties!

    Community is built through action, and Generator has two upcoming opportunities for you to show up, connect with neighbors, and make a real difference.

    #1 – Whistle Packing Party: Tuesday, March 3 from 4-7pm

    Generator has been busy 3D printing thousands of safety whistles to distribute across Vermont, helping communities stay protected. Now we need your help! Please consider volunteering with us to tie strings on whistles, fold instructional zines, and package everything up for mass distribution.

    The finished whistle packs will go to African Americans Living in Vermont (AALV), Vermont Professionals of Color (VT-POC), and other organizations in Burlington, Montpelier, and throughout the state.

    It’s simple, meaningful work — and a great chance to connect with our community and take care of our neighbors.

    Drop in anytime and stay as long as you’d like. Everyone and all ages are welcome.

    RSVP: March 3 Whistle Party, 4-7pm

    #2 – Whistles + Sign Making: Saturday, March 21 from 9am-Noon

    On Saturday, March 21st, ahead of the No Kings Protest on March 28th, we will be gathering again to build as many whistle packages as we can.

    This time, in addition to the whistle packaging work, we will also have a sign-making station to help everyone gear up for the No Kings Protest the following weekend. Please plan on bringing your own cardboard and any extra paint you might have! Generator will have paint, markers, stencils, and more on hand, and staff to assist with the laser and vinyl cutters if you interested in taking your poster to the next level!

    Whether you’re coming to package whistles, make a sign, or both, you’re welcome here.

    RSVP: March 21 Whistle & Sign Party, 9am-Noon

    Together, let’s keep our community safe!

    If you aren’t able to attend, but would like to support this effort please consider making at donation to our Makers-In-Action Fund to help cover the cost of supplies.

  • Wood Carving Series with Barbara Sauer-Davis

    Wood Carving Series with Barbara Sauer-Davis

    Wood Carving Kitchen Series with Barbara Sauer-Davis

    Join experienced woodworker Barbara Sauer-Davis of Wolf and Wood Thrush for an intimate exploration of traditional hand-tool wood carving.

    This five-workshop series invites you to slow down and reconnect with the meditative rhythm of hand carving. Whether you’re a complete beginner or have some woodworking experience, you’ll learn to create beautiful, functional kitchen utensils from locally sourced wood, guided by Barbara’s expert instruction and deep appreciation for the craft.

    Each workshop focuses on a different essential kitchen tool, building your skills as you master the fundamental techniques of wood carving—from initial shaping and hollowing to finishing touches that bring out the wood’s natural beauty. You’ll work with traditional carving knives and hook tools, learning proper hand positioning, grain direction, and the satisfaction of creating something useful and lasting with your own hands. Take one, or take them all… It’s up to you!

    Wood Carving Workshop Schedule:

    Each piece you create will become a treasured kitchen companion and a reminder of the craft tradition you’re now part of.

    All skill levels welcome. Tools and materials provided. Leave with a finished piece and the knowledge to continue carving at home. Individual workshops do not depend on each other, take any one, or any combination of workshops that make sense for you.

  • Upcoming Events: Methods & Means, and Make & Mend!

    Upcoming Events: Methods & Means, and Make & Mend!

    Join us at Generator for two evenings of sharing, learning, and making! Whether you’re curious about how things are made or passionate about fixing what’s broken, these community gatherings are designed to celebrate and share the knowledge, skills, and creativity contained within our maker community.

    A big thank you to Sophia DiLibero for helping us plan and host these events!

    Methods & Means – Thursday, February 26

    Ever wondered how different people approach certain tasks or projects? Methods & Means is a show-and-tell type of event where our community members are invited to pull back the curtain on their approach to a particular process.

    This is an experiment, and there are no rules or expectations on what should be shared, or how to share it. Take us through some slides, set up a demo, do an interpretive dance… It’s your choice!

    No Topic Is Off Limits
    Tell us about how you approach using 3D printing to create molds for slip casting ceramics… Walk us through the steps and ingredients necessary to make the most awesome cup of hot chocolate… Or explain the theory and reasoning behind how you organize files on your computer.

    The Format Is Simple
    Share your methods, reveal your means, and give us a little glimpse of your inner-nerd so we can appreciate the passion behind the maker/doer! Each person will have ~20 minutes to use however you want. We’re planning for 10-15 minute presentations followed by discussion… But please don’t let our lack of creativity limit your plan.

    Interested in Sharing?
    We are currently seeking ~6 community members interested in presenting. If you have a thing you’re passionate about—be it practical, whimsical, or anywhere in between—we’d love to hear from you.

    Please contact Sophia at [email protected] to share your theme and reserve a spot.

    Current Lineup

    1. Greg Maino – The Perfect Oreo Dunk
    2. Patrick Fahey – A Simpleton’s Guide to Sharpening Tools
    3. Bjorn Peterson – Design Rabbit Holes
    4. Neil Shah – Oru Woodstove Monitor
    5. Jim Hodson – Developing Agreement via App
    6. Sam Francis – Papier Mache Masks
    7. Lux – Creativity Through Spontaneity
    8. Aurora Calderon – Craft Switching Thru The Seasons
    9. Greg Maino – The Art of Making Good Bad Decisions

    What: Methods & Means Show & Tell Event
    Where: Generator Conference Room
    When: Thursday, February 26
    Time: 6-9pm
    Want To Present: Contact  [email protected]
    Cost: Free

    If you are planning to attend, you can just show up, but we’d prefer if you RSVP’d below… even if you are presenting. This will help us gauge whether this is a good idea or not and ensure we are properly prepared. Please also consider bringing some snacks to share.

    RSVP > Methods & Means
    Thursday, February 26

    Make & Mend – Thursday, March 19

    Bring your broken items and DIY gift ideas to our Make & Mend community gathering! This event is another experiment in coming together, connecting with each other, and exchanging ideas.

    The plan is to meet in the Great Hall and connect people with broken items to individuals with appropriate repair skills. This event is also an opportunity to show off previous fix-it victories, and share ideas and examples of projects that would make useful or meaningful gifts for friends and family.

    Whether you’re patching jeans, reviving electronics, or brainstorming your next homemade creation, this is your chance to learn from fellow makers and show off your repair wins. Come ready to share what you know and leave with new skills and inspiration.

    What: Make & Mend Repair & DIY Gift Event
    Where: Generator Great hall
    When: Thursday, March 19
    Time: 6-9pm
    Cost: Free

    If you are planning to attend, you can just show up, but we’d prefer if you RSVP’d below. This will help us gauge whether this is a good idea or not and ensure we are properly prepared. Please also consider bringing some snacks to share.

    RSVP > Make & Mend
    Thursday, March 19
  • Healing Through Making: FREE Sewing Workshop To Support Breast Cancer Patients

    Healing Through Making: FREE Sewing Workshop To Support Breast Cancer Patients

    Come help the Generator community fabricate shower bags for the UVM Medical Center Oncology Unit!

    Join us for a two-day community sewing event to support breast cancer patients recovering from surgery. Shower bags allow patients to shower hands-free while managing post-surgical drains—a small comfort that makes a meaningful difference.

    Dates: Saturday, December 13 & Sunday, December 14
    Time: 10:00am–2:00pm
    Cost: FREE

    Basic sewing experience is helpful but not required—there are tasks for everyone. We have limited sewing machines, so please bring one if you can.

    Donations needed: 100% cotton fabric, ribbon, thread, and sewing machine needles.

    This project was inspired by Lyn Coupal, a two-time breast cancer survivor. “After my second surgery, the hospital gave me a shower bag so I could bathe safely and independently,” Lyn shared. “These small items make a big difference—but they’re not always available.”

    Drop in anytime! We need volunteers to help sew, cut fabric, iron, assemble, and package bags.

    Sign Up To Volunteer

    Questions or Donations? Contact [email protected]

  • Membership Referral Program – November & December

    Membership Referral Program – November & December

    Refer a Friend and Earn Free Membership!

    Active Generator members can earn free membership by referring new and returning members during the months of November and December.

    Benefits:

    • Current Members: 2 weeks of free membership per referral
    • New Members: $40 off their first month

    How to Participate:

    Current Members
    Email [email protected] to request your personalized referral code.     Share it with potential members throughout November and December. We’ll track code usage and apply your rewards during the first week of January.

    New Members
    Use a referral code when signing up to save $40 off your first month. Only one code per person is allowed.

    Eligibility Requirements:

    • Current members must maintain continuous membership through the promotional period to receive rewards. Memberships that expire or lapse during November-December are not eligible for rewards.
    • Any non-member can use a referral code whether they are a new member, or a returning member.
    • Referral discount can only be used in conjunction with our standard monthly membership. Student memberships, volunteer memberships, and rental products are not eligible.

    Email [email protected] to request your personalized referral code today!

    If you have any questions please reach out to [email protected], or [email protected].

  • Community Survey Fall 2025

    Community Survey Fall 2025

    Help Us Improve the Generator Experience!

    At Generator Makerspace, our community is at the core of everything we do. As we continue to grow and evolve, we want to make sure we’re providing the tools, resources, and programs that matter most to you—our members, visitors, and the wider maker community.

    That’s why we’re reaching out today to ask for your help.

    Why Your Input Matters

    Generator exists to serve the diverse needs of makers, artists, entrepreneurs, hobbyists, and curious minds throughout our community. Whether you spend multiple hours each week at our facility, are someone who drops in occasionally for a specific project, or are a curious neighbor who’s been thinking about exploring what we offer—your perspective is invaluable.

    Your feedback will help us understand:

    • Which tools and equipment are most essential to your projects
    • What types of classes and trainings you’d like to see offered
    • How we can better support your creative and professional goals
    • What barriers might be preventing you from using the space more fully
    • What new programs or resources would enhance your maker journey

    Take Our Brief Community Survey

    We’ve created a short survey that should only take a few minutes to complete. You’re welcome to fill it out anonymously if you prefer, but we hope you’ll consider sharing your contact information because we’re offering some fantastic prizes as a thank you for your time.

    Enter to Win Amazing Prizes

    Everyone who provides basic contact information will be automatically entered into our raffle to win the prizes listed below:

    • (1) Six Months of FREE Generator Membership
    • (2) Three Months of FREE Generator Membership
    • (1) Free Generator Tool Training
    • (1) Free Generator Workshop
    • (1) PinBox 3000: DIY Cardboard Pinball Game

    Our survey period ends Sunday, October 19th. Prizes will be awarded shortly thereafter.

    Take Generator’s Community Survey

    Thank you for being part of the Generator community. We can’t wait to hear your ideas so we can make this space even better. If you have questions about the survey or want to share additional feedback please rreach out to us at [email protected].

  • Ribbon Cutting Celebration: Generator’s Upgraded Electronics Lab

    Ribbon Cutting Celebration: Generator’s Upgraded Electronics Lab

    Upgraded Electronics Lab Ribbon Cutting!

    Join us for the grand opening of our newly upgraded Electronics Lab, made possible through funding from the U.S. Small Business Administration in partnership with LaunchVT.

    The enhanced lab features state-of-the-art tools, expanded workstations, improved safety features, and specialized power supplies designed to support innovators, entrepreneurs, and hobbyists working on cutting-edge electronic projects—including those utilizing GaN (gallium nitride) semiconductors for energy-efficient power electronics.

    Come celebrate this milestone in Vermont’s growing tech and maker communities!

    The event will include guided tours of the new lab and networking opportunities with members of Vermont’s manufacturing, creative, and entrepreneurial communities.

    Event Details

    Date: Thursday, October 16, 2025
    Time: 2:30 PM
    Location: Generator Makerspace, 40 Sears Lane, Burlington, VT
    Cost: Free and open to the public
    Refreshments: Cash bar provided by Zero Gravity Brewery

    RSVP Today
  • Artist-In-Residence Showcase: Andrew Dudka

    Artist-In-Residence Showcase: Andrew Dudka

    Join the maker and artist community at Generator Makerspace during the South End Art Hop for our Artist-In-Residence Showcase with Andrew Dudka!

    Andrew is a local artist and designer who creates digital, two-dimensional and three-dimensional pieces to encourage playful reflection and offer poignant societal commentary. His work speaks through vibrant, rounded forms and dynamic negative space—colloquially dubbed “blobs”—and a deceptive simplicity that belies deeper meaning.

    Andrew will be unveiling a two-part exhibit for Art Hop: “Rorschach Tests For How Much Fun You’re Having” is an interactive, multimedia culmination of over two years of exploratory abstract drawing and printmaking, driven by free association and loosely interpreted tenets of art psychology. “It Takes All Kinds” is an extension of the same creative process, expanded through the variety of mediums and resources made possible by Generator Makerspace. Both bodies of work pose questions about the relationship between meaning, humanity, and belonging.

    Andrew’s installation will be on display at Generator for all three days of Art Hop, and Andrew will be present in his studio from 6-9pm on Saturday and 10am-12pm on Sunday.

    What: Artist-In-Residence Showcase
    Who: Andrew Dudka
    When: Fri-Sun during Art Hop
    Cost: FREE

    Learn more about Andrew on his website at www.andrewdudka.com.

  • Summer Sewing Sesh: Thursday, July 17th

    Summer Sewing Sesh: Thursday, July 17th

    Join Generator at Old Spokes Home located at 331 N Winooski Ave in Burlington for an evening of hands-on DIY fun! Generator will be leading a sewing workshop where anyone who shows up can make a small cycling utility pouch for FREE.

    The world is made of fabric and learning to sew unlocks a whole world of possibilities. Maybe off the shelf pants and shirts never fit quite right… Sewing can fix it! Maybe you’re looking for the perfect handlebar bag for your bike, but just can’t find something with the right features in the right color… Sewing can make it! Maybe you have an idea for a piece of clothing or a bag that doesn’t exist yet… Sewing can manifest it!

    While sewing is not a difficult skill to learn, and many projects don’t require high level expertise… Sewing is something that needs to be learned.

    During this workshop participants will receive a basic introduction to sewing with technical fabrics by making a simple cycling utility pouch perfect for protecting your phone in a sweaty jersey pocket, for storing some basic tools, or for protecting a spare tube while it bounces around in your saddle or frame bag. The process involves cutting out the pattern, sewing the seams, and adding the snap closure.

    Generator staff will provide guidance and support during every step. All materials are provided, and all ages are welcome.

    We do ask that younger kids—and maybe some adults (your friends know who you are)—be accompanied by a mature person that can support them while learning new skills that might not come very easily at first.

    So, clear your schedule and consider joining us at Old Spokes Home on Thursday, July 17th to get your learn on!

    What: Free Cycling Sewing Workshop
    When: Thursday, July 17th
    Time: 4:00-7:00pm
    Where: Old Spokes Home (Map)
    Cost: FREE

    Questions… Please contact [email protected] or [email protected] and we will get back to you ASAP!

  • Bike & Gear Repair Fair – Tuesday, June 24th

    Bike & Gear Repair Fair – Tuesday, June 24th

    Join Generator, Local Motion, and The Sandbox at Zero Gravity for a fun, FREE, hands-on, community powered Bike & Gear Repair Fair from 4-8pm on Tuesday, June 24th! 

    Have a bike that needs a little TLC, a torn jacket, broken buckle, or a pack that’s seen better days? Let us help you fix it! Throwaway culture has become widespread and repairing what you can is a powerful act of sustainability. Every patch, stitch, and fix helps keep useful gear out of the landfill. Rather than extracting additional resources to make something new, let’s focus on extracting as much life as possible from what we already have. It’s a simple shift with a big impact—and we’re here to help!

    Here’s what’s on deck:

    Bike Repair

    We will have stations set up for basic bike tune-ups. Volunteer mechanics from Generator and Local Motion will be focusing on safety checks and making sure brakes and shifting work as well as possible. We won’t have spare parts on-hand, so it’s more tune-up than overhaul. Shout out to Local Motion for providing bike parking and additional mechanic support! 

    EZ Breezy Bike Ride with Local Motion

    Join Local Motion for a special edition of their community bike ride ending at Zero Gravity for the Bike & Gear Repair Fair!

    The ride will meet at 6 PM at Local Motion’s Trailside Center (1 Steele St) for a leisurely spin around Burlington’s streets. The pace will be relaxed so you can chat with neighbors, groove to music, and pick up local riding tips along the way. As always, we stick together – no one gets left behind!

    Bring your bike and any gear that could use some love. Local Motion will provide the tunes, safety volunteers, and the community spirit that makes these rides special – Learn More!

    Gear & Clothing Repair

    Generator & The Sandbox will be on-site with sewing machines, scrap fabric, and other supplies. Whether it’s a torn jacket, busted strap, or frayed pack, bring it by — we’ll fix what we can on-site and can help make arrangements for more complicated repairs.

    We can offer free patches, snaps, and other basic repairs. For more complex repairs, representatives from The Sandbox will be able to provide advice and make arrangements to have the repairs completed at The Sandbox. These more complicated repairs will likely not be free, however any repairs that come into The Sandbox through this event will receive a $10 discount.

    The Sandbox also has a supply of old construction garments that we can deconstruct… aka cut up… and use to decorate and enhance your riding clothing, bags, or packs!

    Design & 3D Printing Fun

    While you wait come learn more about 3D printing, and design. We’ll be printing some fun projects and will have custom stickers available for the taking. Repairing gear is fun, but customizing your gear is the ultimate upgrade!

    Hang Out & Hydrate

    This whole thing will take place at Zero Gravity, and they have some of the best beer and food in the area. So, come for the fixes, but stick around for the food and friends.

    This event is totally FREE!

    So clear your schedule, grab all of your broken stuff, and join us at Zero Gravity on Tuesday, June 24th for a fun evening of giving good gear new life!

    What: Bike & Gear Repair Fair
    When: Tuesday, June 24th
    Time: 4:00-8:00pm
    Where: Zero Gravity Brewery (Map)
    Cost: FREE