A note from Member and Volunteer, Ankit Patel

Guest Contributor: Member/Volunteer Ankit Patel

Technology is woven into every part of our lives—smartphones, computers, wireless internet, electric vehicles, and so much more. It’s become almost impossible to live without it. But as these tools become more advanced, fewer people truly understand how they work.

This gap between use and understanding creates a kind of disconnect. We become passive users—relying on technology without questioning it, without knowing what’s under the hood. But when we begin to understand how things work, everything changes. We shift from being passive consumers to active participants, capable of shaping how we use technology instead of letting it shape us.

That’s why I advocate for learning and teaching electronics at the Mixxer.

Electronics is a gateway—it helps people demystify the tools they use every day.

It builds confidence. It sparks curiosity. And perhaps most importantly, it fosters a mindset of creativity and problem-solving. When someone learns how a circuit works, how to solder a wire, or how to program a microcontroller, they’re not just learning skills—they’re gaining power over the technology that surrounds them.

And this kind of learning doesn’t end with one person!

The goal is to share that knowledge, to create a ripple effect. One person teaches another. Projects are built together. Ideas are exchanged. In that way, the makerspace becomes more than just a workshop—it becomes a community of makers, learners, and explorers.

Imagine a world where people don’t just consume technology—they build it, shape it, and share their knowledge freely. That’s the kind of community I believe we can create at Mixxer.

Thanks,

Ankit

Mixxer Member/Volunteer

A Note from Savannah Shanley, Events Manager

Guest Contributor: Savannah Shanley

Hey Mixxer Makers! 

Spring is the time for renewal, and there is nothing I love more than seeing you all with the new projects you come out with from our classes every day at Mixxer! Whenever I think I’ve seen all the ways a particular class project can turn out, someone creates something completely unique during the next class. No matter how simple a project might start out I’m amazed by how our class takers transform it into their own. 

When someone takes a class here at Mixxer, they get to experience a little package full of the maker magic I see happening all day, every day. In just a few short hours, a collection of raw materials or a blank computer screen, or an unused machine transforms into something cool and unique. Classes give folks the opportunity to play, something adults so rarely get to do! With the encouragement of our fantastic instructors, folks have the freedom to get creative and, most importantly, make mistakes. 

As counterintuitive as it may sound, the best instructors encourage mistakes as part of learning. They guide their students through the process of working through the mistakes that get made and end up with a gorgeous and unique project nonetheless. Maybe I’m biased, but I do think our instructors are some of the best at this. Even when things go off the rails, they work through it with grace and humor. Some of my favorite moments watching classes is when laughter erupts from a mistake getting worked through! 

If you want to come make some mistakes with us, sign up for our NEW Classes Newsletter to get our latest classes right to your inbox! AND if you really want to make my day take the short survey after subscribing to the newsletter. 

Class Newsletter

Don’t forget that if you see a class that doesn’t fit your schedule, reach out about requesting the class on your time!

Want to become an instructor and help folks get through the mistakes they make? Reach out to me at savannah@wsmixxer.org! 

Happy making!

-Savannah Shanley, Events Manager

Director’s Note: March 2025

Spring Tool Sale: Building Community, One Tool at a Time

Spring is here, and so is Mixxer’s Spring Tool Sale! More than just a fundraiser, this event is about strengthening our creative community—ensuring that everyone, regardless of financial means, has access to the tools and resources they need to bring their ideas to life.

Every tool, every supply, and every dollar raised helps support Mixxer’s mission: providing a space where people of all backgrounds can learn, create, and innovate together. Whether you’re an experienced maker looking to upgrade your shop or a beginner eager to start a new craft, this sale is the perfect opportunity to find quality tools at great prices—all while supporting Mixxer’s programs and workshops.

What Can You Donate?

We’re accepting new and gently used tools and materials across multiple creative disciplines, including:🔹 Woodworking & Metalworking🔹 3D Printing & Electronics🔹 Leatherworking & Sewing Supplies🔹 Jewelry Making & Metalsmithing🔹 Art & Crafting Tools and Supplies

Not sure if your items are a good fit? Give us a call at (336) 265-7362 or check out our donation list on our website: www.wsmixxer.org/toolsale.

By donating and shopping, you’re not just investing in tools—you’re investing in the creativity and ingenuity of makers right here in Winston-Salem. We can’t wait to see you at the sale—let’s build something great together!

– Elaine Lamson, Executive Director