What's a Blinkie, you ask? Why those cool badges made of circuit boards and LEDs. Never built one before? Don't fear, the blinkie wizards of General Technics are ready to help you build a blinkie for free! Other blinkie kits are available, including new ones introduced especially for MuseCon; see the descriptions on the blinkie page

Consider a moment the 5x7 Matrix. How can it be made better? Well, we like to think that's always a tough question given our designs, but how about a few more rows. You got it! A better message programming interface via USB? You got it. A better power system via both CR2032s an USB? We have a trifecta! And it comes with all the goodies - user selectable messages and patterns.
(expect approximately one hour for completion)

A Christmas Tree in August? Of course! One must plan ahead... And if seems early, it can moonlight as a rearview mirror ornament until you decide it time bring the tree indoors. And like any well lit tree, there are multiple patterns to choose. A special thanks to MSkirvin for the artwork! (expect approximately one hour for completion)

2DKits fired up the power tools and created another wood kit project, a table-top catapult! We typically think of a catapult being used in the Middle Ages to destroy the walls of a castle, but catapults have a very long history dating long before the time of castles. Catapults were developed in many different ways by many different cultures over the centuries (Yawn). Ok, enough history, we know we all just want to build one to launch mini marshmallows and dominate in cubicle wars!

Start work on one or more pieces of doll-sized Japanese-style clothing. Doll clothing will be hand-sewn, using a simple running stitch, so younger kids may need some help from an adult. Cut out your doll garment, then take it with you to finish sewing as you attend other sessions! You can drop back in almost any time during the weekend for help if you get stuck.

You may find small scissors for snipping threads & pinking shears useful, but some will be available to borrow in-room as well.

If not purchasing a kit please bring two "fat quarters" of quilting or similar lightweight cotton, a needle, and thread.

Note: attendance at the "Easy Japanese Costuming" session is not required

Using silver wire, see how to turn any pond stone or even arrowheads into appealing jewelry. Each stone has its own way of being bound. The angles of the basket make it truely beautiful. All you need are wire, pond stones or arrowheads, and basic jewelry tools such as round nose pliers and wire cutters. (Demonstration; tools will be available to try technique on-site only).

Note:Friday only

Learn to safely make the basic cuts and how to sharpen knives. Tools will be provided for on-site use, and various tools and material kits are available for purchase. I have worked with students anywhere from age 5 and up--Parental permission required for minors.

From the world of Tron to neon art, electroluminescent wire can add a fun and futuristic look to many things. We’ll walk you through the steps involved in working with this glowing, bendy, but sometimes tricky material. Fee includes inverter and wire as well as connective supplies; loaner tools will be available. (expect approximately one hour for completion)

Oooh - shiny and colorful! And, as a bonus, requires molten metal to build! You get a kit with the glass already cut for the pattern, copper foil, brass wire, and lead-free solder. A short class to get you going, and then as much (or as little) help as desired.

We have four different kits to choose from:

• a simple 2" by 2" diamond (free) that you can use as a suncatcher or wear as a pendant
• a roughly 5" by 5" rainbow heart ($15)
• an 8-1/2" by 11" rectangular panel with bevelled diamond inset ($45)
• a 14" square panel with beveled insets ($45).

Learn how to add a Turkish Braid to your knitting. This embellishment usually used with circular knitting is simple, requires nothing more complicated than a purl stitch, and gives the appearance of an applied braid. Bring your own needles and yarn if you want to take a sample home, or use ours if you just want to try it.

Sometimes referred to as "sailors bracelets" or "friendship bracelets", these are circular braids tied in cotton twine using a printed guide wrapped around a form. Open to all, but suggested for ages 8+. Plain string is free, fancy string may be provided to enhance the more successful results. Bonus projects for the dedicated enthusiasts.