Intro to MIG Welding at MakerspaceCT

Discover the art of welding in our beginner 3-hour class in Downtown Hartford! This is your chance to delve into MIG welding techniques step-by-step. Our workshops are tailored for newcomers but familiarity with power tools is recommended. For safety, wear natural fiber clothing, long pants, closed-toed leather shoes, tie back long hair, and avoid loose clothing. We provide safety gear, but you can bring your own if you have it. It's highly recommended that you mask up for this workshop! Our small class sizes mean that you'll get individualized attention from our instructor. Once you sign up, you'll be sent some prerequisite virtual material, which you must review before attending the workshop.

The course content includes:

• Proper attire and safety

• Basics of welding

• Purpose of MIG welding

• LOTS of hands-on practice

PLEASE NOTE! Welding is close, detailed work. If you need corrective lenses to see close objects, such as reading glasses or bifocals, please bring them.

About MakerspaceCT:
The mission of MakerspaceCT is to positively impact lives by enabling access, innovation, and education. Our vision uses 'making' as a vehicle to lift up individuals and communities at the 28,000-square-foot innovation lab in Downtown Hartford, Connecticut. A non-profit that opened in 2019, MakerspaceCT is positioned to bridge the gap between traditional skills and advanced technologies. Classes are offered in metal, wood and plastic fabrication, facilitating education in prototype and manufacturing techniques. Students and members can also explore high-tech specialties with access to the latest electronics, Internet of Things (IoT), computer-aided design (CAD), 3D printing and CNC-driven machinery. MakerspaceCT has relationships with local manufacturers that are committed to interviewing graduates of our programs.

Why should you learn how to weld?

MIG welding offers numerous advantages for both professionals and hobbyists:

Advantages for Professionals:

1. Efficiency: MIG welding is relatively faster compared to other welding processes. This efficiency can be crucial in industrial settings where time is a significant factor in production.
2. Versatility: Professionals benefit from MIG welding's capability to work with various materials, thicknesses, and joint configurations. It's applicable in industries ranging from automotive manufacturing to construction.
3. Quality of Welds: MIG welding often produces high-quality, clean welds, which is imperative in industries where structural integrity is paramount.
4. Reduced Cleanup: The process generates minimal spatter and slag, reducing the need for extensive cleanup after welding, which saves time and effort.
5. Ease of Use: While skill and practice are necessary, MIG welding is considered more straightforward to learn and execute compared to some other welding techniques. This allows professionals to train new welders relatively quickly.

Advantages for Hobbyists:

1. Accessibility: MIG welding is often recommended for beginners due to its ease of use. Hobbyists can quickly learn the basics and start welding on personal projects.
2. Cost-Effectiveness: MIG welding machines are available at various price points, offering hobbyists the opportunity to invest in equipment suitable for their needs without breaking the bank.
3. Versatility in Projects: Whether it's crafting metal sculptures, repairing vehicles, or creating custom furniture, MIG welding enables hobbyists to work on diverse projects and materials.
4. Quick Setup: MIG welding machines are relatively easy to set up, allowing hobbyists to spend more time welding and less time preparing equipment.
5. Professional-Level Results: With practice, hobbyists can achieve welds that are structurally sound and aesthetically pleasing, giving them a sense of accomplishment and pride in their work.

In summary, MIG welding offers efficiency, versatility, and accessibility, making it a valuable skill for both professionals and hobbyists in various industries and personal projects.