Nova Labs

Nova Labs makers traveled to Philadelphia for 3D Printopia 2026, a celebration of 3D printing, innovation, and maker culture. From Death Racer competitions and cutting-edge 3D printing technology to winning a charity trivia contest, the Nova Labs crew connected with makers from around the world. Read about their adventures, creative projects, and behind-the-scenes visit to Prusa USA, one of the leading manufacturers of 3D printers.

Meet Alex Rennie, a talented costume maker and member of Nova Labs Makerspace in Fairfax, Virginia. From intricate armor to larger-than-life characters, Alex brings his favorite video game characters to life through cosplay, combining sewing, sculpting, painting, digital fabrication, and creative problem-solving. Discover how he developed his skills, tackles ambitious costume projects, and uses the tools and community at Nova Labs to turn his imagination into reality.

Woodworking Boot Camp helps Nova Labs members move beyond tool sign offs and gain the skills and confidence to tackle woodworking projects independently.

New collaboration connects entrepreneurs, makers, and future technology talent through hands-on innovation and workforce development. Fairfax, Virginia – Nova Labs, Northern Virginia's nonprofit makerspace dedicated to hands-on learning, innovation, and entrepreneurship, today announced a strategic collaboration with SEED Technologies LLC through the launch of its new Entrepreneur in Residence (EIR) Program. The initiative is designed to strengthen the region's innovation ecosystem by...

When the Town of Vienna Youth Players needed a custom cityscape backdrop for their summer production of Guys & Dolls, Nova Labs members and volunteers stepped up. Using Big Blue, our large-format CNC router, the team transformed twelve sheets of plywood into a glowing Broadway-inspired skyline.

Our first week of Summer Camp is in the books! From 3D printing and laser cutting to resin art, soldering, and cardboard engineering, campers explored the Nova Labs makerspace while creating projects that showcased their creativity and new skills.

Nova Labs is proud to congratulate Mary Thompson, Director of our FIRST Robotics program, on being recognized with the She Leads FIRST Women in STEM Award at the 2026 FIRST Chesapeake District Championship.

Nova Labs is bringing makers to the Fairfax Funky Flea! Visit our shared booth on the last Saturday of each month to shop handmade goods from local makers, meet members of the Nova Labs community, and learn more about our makerspace.

Nova Labs Kinetic Sculpture Team (NLKST) captured the highest honor at the Baltimore Kinetic Sculpture Race, earning the title of Grand East Coast National Mediocre Champion for its outstanding performance aboard Meep Meep and Meyond, a human-powered amphibious vehicle that impressed judges and charmed spectators during the day-long event.

What happens when a public artist shifts focus from transforming city spaces to creating moments of quiet reflection? Nova Labs resident maker Tamao Nakayama shares her journey back to her Japanese roots, preserving traditional arts through hands-on workshops, cultural experiences, and the launch of her new venture, Tamao Atelier.