Hands-on workshops for school students, teenagers and young adults
NHAL-CNC-Workshop-Webseite-und-Infoblatt
Hands-on workshops for school students, teenagers and young adults
Discover CNC – from idea to finished piece
How does a drawing on a computer become a wooden object? At New Hope and Light e. V., we combine digital design with practical craftsmanship. Our CNC workshops make technical processes easy to understand and give participants the opportunity to develop their own ideas.
Whether through an introductory session, a school project or a series of workshops, participants learn step by step how to plan a piece, create a digital design and produce it using a computer-controlled CNC router. No previous experience is required for our introductory workshops.
What will participants learn?
Developing their own designs
An initial sketch becomes a digital design, such as a nameplate, lettering or a geometric pattern. Participants use the CNC design software Easel.
Measuring and planning accurately
Participants explore dimensions, spacing and material thickness. They discover why a design must match both the size of the wooden workpiece and the cutting tool being used.
Understanding materials and tools
What is the difference between a fine engraving and a wide recess? Why are different cutting tools needed? Practical examples help participants understand how tool shape and machining methods affect the finished result.
Understanding and checking toolpaths
Before machining begins, the design is simulated on screen. Participants examine which areas will be removed, how the tool will move and whether the design needs to be adjusted.
Experiencing the machining process
With expert guidance, participants learn how a CNC machining operation is prepared and carried out. This includes securing the workpiece, setting reference points and working safely. Their involvement in operating the machine depends on their age, learning progress and the applicable safety requirements.
Evaluating and improving results
Finally, participants compare their design with the finished piece. Are the dimensions correct? Is the lettering readable? What could be improved next time?
Learning through practical experience
Our workshops develop technical understanding, spatial thinking and careful working habits. Mathematics and computing become tangible through a practical task. Participants also practise explaining their decisions, sharing responsibilities and finding solutions together.
Turning an idea into something visible helps participants build confidence in their abilities. The workshop also introduces activities related to design, woodworking, technical drawing and digital fabrication.
Flexible formats for your group
We adapt the content and duration to the participants’ age, previous experience and learning goals. Available formats include:
- Introductory discovery sessions
- Project days and multi-day school projects
- Project weeks and extracurricular clubs
- School holiday programmes
- More in-depth learning opportunities for young adults
An introductory session focuses on a simple design and a guided machining demonstration. We recommend several sessions for more extensive projects and additional individual practice.
Enquire about a CNC workshop
Would you like to give your class or group a practical introduction to digital design and craftsmanship? We will work with you to develop a suitable workshop.
Please include the participants’ age range, group size, preferred dates and learning goals in your enquiry. We will provide an individual proposal outlining the programme, duration and costs.
New Hope and Light e. V.
Berlin Global Village
Am Sudhaus 2 · 12053 Berlin, Germany
Email: moc.thgildnaepohwen@ofni
Telephone: +49 30 54 83 34 76

