What we’re about
As our city's first and oldest makerspace, HackPGH has served Pittsburgh and its creative community for nearly fifteen years – the earliest days of the Maker Movement. We steadfastly believe that being part of this 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! Our focus is on collaboration, education, inclusion, and community.
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 2023): - $55/month for 24/7 RFID access and communal training on almost all tools and machines. A $35/month discounted rate is available for students, seniors (60+), active armed services/veterans, and persons with disabilities. We offer paid classes and 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 ten.
HackPGH is all about community, and that transcends 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 (4+)
See all- Candle-Making 101: Create Your Own Scented Candle!HackPGH, Pittsburgh, PA$63.00
Have you always wanted to create your own scented candle but didn't know how to get started? Would you like to make a homemade gift for someone special? We've got the class for you! Join us at HackPGH and learn how to pour your own 8oz soy-based scented candle. We will go over candle-making basics such as:
- wax types
- hot and cold throw techniques
- wick placement
- fragrance load
- candle maintenance
- choosing & cleaning containers
- application of crystals and stones
Students will be able to choose from over two dozen popular and seasonal (autumn) scents, from apple cinnamon and pumpkin spice to leather and sandalwood.
Date and time: Thursday, September 26th from 6:30pm-9:30pm
Requirements: No experience needed. All supplies, tools, and PPE (personal protective equipment) will be provided.
Safety notice: Participants will be working with very hot wax! Please tie back any long hair, and we recommend wearing long pants and shirts with long sleeves.
Allergy notice: Soy wax is used in this class. Gloves and eye protection are provided, and we have a small amount of alternative candle waxes for those with minor allergies to soy. However, HackPGH cannot guarantee an allergen-free environment.
Instructor: Katyyh "Kat"
Cost: $65 for non-members, $55 for HackPGH Members. No-shows will NOT be refunded. If you need to cancel, please contact HackPGH at least 48 hours before the class date!
You must register and pay using this link!
Class Size: 12 students max
Age Requirement: 12+, minors MUST be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Separate tickets must be purchased for adults accompanying their children who wish to make their own candle. Contact us with any questions at info(at)hackpittsburgh.org!
- MIG Welding 101: Make & Take Your Own Chain Lamp!HackPittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA$175.00
Join us at HackPGH for an intensive but fun and informative MIG welding class, intended for complete beginners and/or those looking to brush up on rusty skills while building something fun and functional.
Structure: This class provides the foundation for basic fabrication techniques using a MIG (Metal Inert Gas) welder. Students will learn to tack-weld into place and fully weld steel. Each student will make and take home an industrial lamp made from heavy duty chain with an Edison-style bulb. Several breaks will be offered throughout the day, including a long break for a group takeout lunch. Lunch will be provided, but please advise if you have any allergies or food restrictions!
Requirements: No experience required. Ages 16+, minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. All PPE and materials will be provided.
Safety requirements: Work boots preferred. No open toed shoes (canvas is acceptable, but no cloth athletic shoes). Long hair should be tied back, and we recommend wearing natural fiber clothing (denim, cotton, etc.). Long hair should be tied back for safety purposes!
Cost: $175 for non-members, $155 for HackPGH Members
Please register and pay here to reserve your spot in the class! NOTE: No-shows will NOT be refunded. If you need to cancel, please contact HackPGH at least 48 hours before the class date so that we may contact any people on the wait list!
Instructor: Kiefer Mansfield
Class limit: 6 students