Makers Studio: Real World Inventions

What You'll Do

Make an array of uniquely useful inventions in this hands-on weeklong class. Become a master maker as you use cardboard, duct tape and a little hot glue to transform your awesome ideas into fun, functional objects that light up, stand tall, hold tight and walk strong.

Start with a bright idea for a luminous nightlight crafted from a simple tissue box. Create a stained glass-inspired design for your light and BE REFLECTIVE as you draw bold lines with hot glue, color the “panes” between them and find ways to improve your technique. Practice cardboard cutting skills, then build a sturdy stand to support your phone, tablet or favorite book. BE DETERMINED to master the tricky, sticky basics of duct tape construction as you make a secure carrying case for a special object and a pair of durable DIY sandals. Wind down the class by amping up your creations, decorating your stand or adding straps, pockets and decals to your duct tape designs to make them entirely your own.

Note: This weeklong class is more than just innovation-igniting projects—it’s an immersive experience full of delightful details, including interactive games, silly traditions, snacks (see Materials, below) and more! designed to build community, bolster confidence and deliver loads of camp-away-from-camp fun.

The curriculum includes some of our most popular DIY projects. If you’ve taken our single-session Cool Cases or Summer Sandals classes, your child will be familiar with some of the week’s activities—and have the chance to put a new spin on a project they’ve done before.