What we’re about
As our city's first and oldest makerspace, HackPGH has served Pittsburgh's creative community for fifteen years. We steadfastly believe that the Maker Movement should be accessible to anyone, regardless of their prior level of experience and irrespective of their socioeconomic background. HackPGH is a life-changing place where creative exploration, professional development, and socializing are actively encouraged.
Our secure workshop caters to a wide variety of interests and is open 24/7 to members. Over the years, we have built dedicated workspaces for woodworking, welding, machining & metalworking, electronics, laser cutting, CNC routing, sewing & embroidery, 3D printing, and many more!
HackPGH is a 501(c) non-profit organization with no paid employees. We keep fees as low as possible and in return, all members are required to regularly volunteer at the organization in some way - training others, contributing to a group project, cleaning the shop, and more.
Membership Model (as of 2024): - $75/month for 24/7 RFID access and communal training on almost all tools and machines. Discounts rates are available for students, seniors (60+), active armed services/veterans, and persons with disabilities. We offer paid classes as well as free clubs and events that are open to the public. While memberships are limited to adults (18+), many of our classes welcome children above the age of twelve.
HackPGH is all about collaboration, education, inclusion, and community. These goals transcend the boundaries of our workshop to the streets of Pittsburgh. As a charitable organization, outreach has always been a vital part of our past and present, from our free vaccination clinics to our food & clothing drives to constructing PPE during the COVID pandemic. Our primary goal for the future: further community involvement through classes, clubs, outreach events, and social engagements, all open to everyone regardless of membership status.
http://www.hackpgh.org
Upcoming events (1)
See all- Hand Tool Repair & Maintenance with Ben!HackPGH, Pittsburgh, PA$75.00
This class takes HackPGH back to its "Right to Repair" roots!
Description: This class will instruct students on the maintenance, repair, and diagnosis of hand tools such as chisels, hammers & mallets, small hatchets, shafted punches, small sledges, and more. Attendees are encouraged to bring used one used hand tool under 12" that is either need of repair or determination of its continued usefulness and integrity. If you are unsure if a tool is appropriate for this class, please contact us via the email address at the bottom of this class description.
Should attendees bring an item to be repaired, steel for wedges and a small selection of wood types will be provided for fabricating new handles. Possible species include include ash, hickory, beech, mahogany, white limba, and others. The proper wood choice is dependent on the item being repaired, and the instructor will help guide students through the process!
Don't have a tool to bring? No problem. We have a few things in need of repair, plus several ball pein hammers that can be used for practice. Whatever the choice, the student will take something home at the end of class.
Be advised: Not all damages will be or can be fixed during this class, nor is this a course on complete restoration of old tools.
Requirements: No experience required. Must be 16 or older; minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. As this is the first class, any feedback for the instructor and organization would be appreciated after the class session.
Safety requirements: No open-toed or cloth shoes. Long hair should be tied back, and dangling jewelry should be removed. Any necessary PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) such as eye and ear protection will be provided.
Date & Time: Saturday, August 23rd from 10:30am-2:30pm
Ben will be available after class is finished. Please note that we are trying to work out how long to make future sessions.Office hours: Students can return to HackPGH for an optional weekend appointment if further work is necessary - by appointment only!
Breaks: Several breaks will be taken throughout the class. Bottled water, coffee, tea, and hot chocolate are available for free from our coffee bar. Light snacks will be provided for the breaks during this class session. Other snacks and drinks can be purchased from our vending machines.
Cost: $75 ($70 for HackPGH members) - discounted cost for this first-ever session.
- YOU MUST REGISTER AND PAY USING THIS LINK!
- Payment is due at registration to save your spot in the class!
- If you plan to pay with cash, you must contact us at the email below to make payment arrangements. If payment has not been received within four days of the class, your spot will be forfeited and we will activate the waitlist.
- No-shows will NOT be refunded. If you need to cancel, please contact HackPGH at least 48 hours before the class date!
Instructor(s): Ben Kranking
Class limit: 4 students
Contact email: info(at)hackpittsburgh.org
