As Maker Faire draws near (only 4 days until Saturday, April 14!!!), I’m getting more and more excited about the faire. I’ve been thinking about why I like Maker Faire so much, and, being a maker at heart (I knit, sew, print, stitch, cook, and make music in my free time), I love that at the core of Maker Faire is the belief that technology is for everyone and the goal of getting together is to share our passions and teach others how to make things themselves.

Here is what I know you can learn how to do at Maker Faire (although I’m guessing there will be less formal learning going on as well):

• Learn to Solder–the robot you see at the top of this post is part of a learn-to-solder LED light kit that the good folks of Makerspace Urbana will be using to teach people how to use a soldering iron.
• Learn to Finger Knit–a cadre of volunteers (including some super rad high school students) will be in the house with yarn and fingers to teach you how to finger knit and, if you have awhile, how to knit with knitting needles.
• Learn to Repurpose your Old Clothes–the Shared Threads Sewing Collective will have a simple sewing tutorial to show you how to repurpose your old tshirts, pants, blankets, etc.
• Learn to Write a Letter–the Letter Writers Alliance will be there with stationary and typewriters to teach you (or remind you) how to write an analog letter.

Remember, the faire is FREE and open to kids of all ages. I would recommend that you bring the money you saved on the entrance fee to buy a soldering kit, purchase a snack, or buy some of the handmade goods that will be on display.