Ignite your creativity and unleash the maker in you! Join us at the Innovation Lab for STEM learning experiences where creativity knows no bounds. Dive into the world of endless possibilities, learn cutting-edge skills, and be part of a community that's shaping the future. Don't just dream it, build it – the Innovation Lab awaits your genius!
What is the Innovation Lab?
The Innovation Lab is a dynamic maker space where creativity meets technology. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, you'll gain hands-on experience in robotics, laser cutting, AI, coding, and more. Our mission is to spark problem-solving, fuel creativity, and foster collaboration for learners of all ages. Join us to explore, experiment, and bring your ideas to life in an environment where innovation has no limits!
Open Hours
Open Hours in the Innovation Lab is a drop-in event that is included in the price of admission to the Science Center of Iowa. Regular Open Hours are typically held on Fridays, from 1:00-3:00 pm, and Saturdays, from 10:00 am-Noon and 1:00-3:00 pm. Summer Open Hours are held on Saturdays from 10:00 am-Noon and 1:00-3:00 pm.
The Open Hours theme changes weekly and ranges from sewing to Lego to robots! Showcasing an array of high-tech to low-tech activities, all ages and skill levels can find something to enjoy during Innovation Lab’s Open Hours.
Monthly Schedule
December 5 & 6: Board Games for All Ages
December 13 (Saturday only): Lets Craft with Paper
December 19 & 20: Build, Challenge, and Discover with Legos
December 22 & 23: Build, Challenge, and Discover with Legos
December 26 (Friday only): Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Plastics
December 29 & 30: Coding for Everyone
January 1, 2, & 3: What you see when you look up
Workshops
Student Workshops
When the Innovation Lab is not open to the public, we run private workshops for schools and clubs. We even take these workshops on the road using our mobile Spark Lab.
If your student group is interested in a private workshop in the Innovation Lab, contact innovationlab@sciowa.org
Adult Workshops (Ages 18+)
The Innovation Lab hosts Adult Workshops on the second Tuesday of each month from 5:30-7:00 pm. Space is limited, and attendees must pre-register to participate in the event. Registrants should have the ability to work independently on complex projects. Workshop fee is $20 per registrant.
Laser Cut Jack-O-Lanterns – Tuesday, October 14, 5:30-7:00 PM
In this festive fall workshop, you’ll design and build your own jack-o'-lantern-inspired wooden lantern using the GlowForge laser cutter in our Innovation Lab. Whether you're into spooky skulls, classic grins, or intricate autumn patterns, we’ll guide you through the basics of laser cutting to create personalized glowing decor that’s perfect for Halloween (or year-round cozy vibes).
Sew a Personalized Apron – Tuesday, November 11, 5:30-7:00 PM
Stitch up something practical and personal in this beginner-friendly sewing workshop! You’ll create your own custom apron—perfect for cooking, crafting, gardening, or holiday hosting. Using our sewing machines and a curated selection of fabrics and patterns, you’ll learn how to measure, cut, pin, and sew your way to a finished, wearable project.
Whether you’re new to sewing or just want a relaxing evening of making with others, this is a great chance to slow down, learn a new skill, and leave with something made by hand and made by you.
3D Design a Snowman Friend – Tuesday, December 9, 5:30-7:00 PM
Do you want to build a snowman? In this cozy winter workshop, you’ll learn the basics of 3D modeling using Tinkercad, a beginner-friendly design tool used by makers, engineers, and artists around the world.
Your challenge: design your very own custom ornament or winter-themed decoration. After the workshop, we’ll 3D print your creation at SCI and mail it right to your door.
Whether you’re new to digital design or looking to level up your maker skills, this workshop is a great way to explore the world of 3D modeling while creating something you can actually hold in your hands.
Learn to Solder: Make & Take – Tuesday, January 13 – 5:30-7:00 PM
In this hands-on workshop, you’ll learn the essential maker skill of soldering—melting metal to create strong, conductive bonds in electronic assemblies. We’ll cover the basics of using a soldering iron safely and effectively, then guide you through a series of practice techniques. Once you’ve got the hang of it, you’ll solder your own light-up pin to take home and wear.
3D Design a Plant Pal – Tuesday, February 20 – 5:30-7:00 PM
Keep your indoor plants company this winter with a little friend made by you! In this beginner-friendly workshop, you'll learn how to design a custom plant pal using TinkerCAD, a 3D modeling tool. Whether you want to create a lounging lizard, a smiley snail, or a plant-themed robot, we’ll help bring your idea to life. After the workshop, we’ll 3D print your design using our Makerbot printers and mail it straight to your door, ready to put in your favorite pot and brighten your indoor garden.
Make a Custom Puzzle – Tuesday, March 10 – 5:30-7:00 PM
Bring your creativity to life—then cut it into pieces! In this hands-on workshop, you’ll design and build your very own wooden jigsaw puzzle, starting with a drawing, digital artwork, or even an AI-generated image. We’ll show you how to turn your image into a laser-ready file, then guide you through the cutting process as your design is transformed into a real wooden puzzle using our laser cutter. Choose the complexity, number of pieces, and even customize the shape of the pieces themselves. Whether your image is heartfelt, hilarious, abstract, or just plain weird—it’s yours to puzzle over again and again.
Carry a Piece of SCI – Upcycled Wallets – Tuesday, April 14 – 5:30-7:00 PM
Make something that’s not just practical—but personal. In this special upcycling workshop, you’ll transform retired Science Center of Iowa vinyl banners into custom wallets, card holders, or pouches using sewing machines and a little creative flair. Whether you’ve been coming to SCI for years or are new to the space, this is your chance to own piece of the Science Center's history!
Make a Tote Bag from Recycled Plastic – Tuesday, May 12 – 5:30-7:00 PM
Give plastic a second life—styled by you. In this after-hours workshop for adults, you’ll explore creative ways to transform everyday plastic waste into something beautiful and useful. Using recycled plastic from packaging, bags, and more, you’ll design and sew your own one-of-a-kind tote bag. Learn how to safely fuse plastic layers into sturdy, sewable material, then use our sewing machines to assemble a tote that’s equal parts art and function. Whether you go bold, minimalist, or experimental, your design is entirely your own—and built with sustainability in mind.
Team-Building Workshops
Team Building Workshops in the Innovation Lab are highly customizable to fit the size, skills, and interests of your group. Come together and exercise your creativity though a group activity led by our innovation lab staff.
Featured Resources in the Innovation Lab
- Arduinos
- Cutebot Robots
- Glowforge Laser Cutter
- Microbits
- Microsoft Surfaces
- Power Tools
- Sewing Machines
- Virtual Reality Headsets
- Yarn and Fiber Arts Supplies