New Hours. New Tools. More Classes. Here’s What’s Next at Phoenix Forge
As we come to the end of the 2026 school year, we’re looking back on nearly 5 years of operation and celebrating the more than 2,000 members who have been a part of the makerspace since our humble beginnings. And we’re looking forward to the future of the Forge.
This year we surveyed 800 of our most active members, including students from across the Maricopa Community College district, small business owners and inventors, and artists and artisans shaping the creative community in the Valley. And we heard you loud and clear: you want more shop time, more classes, and more tools to bring your ideas to life.
To continue serving the needs of this growing community, we’re excited to announce new hours of operation on Saturdays, new classes to meet makers of all skill levels, and new tools to expand what’s possible here at the space.
Weekend hours are here
Starting July 7th, the Makerspace will be open Tuesday through Saturday. During the week, we’ll maintain our 1pm–9pm schedule. Saturday hours will be 10am–6pm.
Saturdays will be a mix of reservation time, orientations, and new programming. We hope the earlier start and weekend availability will help more members make the most of their membership.
Learn. Make. Master.
In the next year, we’re developing a new curriculum model that meets makers wherever they are, including:
- New introductory classes that will allow makers of all skill levels to learn creative fundamentals, such as project planning.
- New project classes with alternative schedules, letting members develop their techniques over time and explore more of what each area has to offer.
- Advanced classes with an emphasis on design, developing individual style, and fine craftsmanship.
New tools and a safer workspace
We’re always adding new tools and equipment to the makerspace, and we’re planning even more. Here’s what’s new, what’s coming, and one new piece of equipment that finally lives up to our name.
Expanded Textiles Area
More sewing machines and textile equipment to meet the demand of our fast-growing textiles community.
Prusa XL 3D Printer
Larger build volume and multi-color printing capability for more advanced makers.
Induction Forge (coming soon)
Yes, you’ll finally be able to forge at the Forge. The metal shop is getting an induction forge alongside the Arc Droid we added this year.
Improved Dust Collection (coming soon)
A new dust collection system for the wood shop means a cleaner, safer environment for everyone working in that space.
An update to membership pricing
In order to keep up with rising costs and a changing economic environment, our standard Public Membership will be increasing to $80 per month, a $5 increase. Our Small Business Membership will increase to $160 per month. These new new prices will be effective July 1st for new members. Existing members will see the increases on their renewal in August.
We know a price change is never the most exciting news. We’re grateful for your support, and we’re committed to making it worth it.
