Virtual Open Works is intended to help out returning students. This program provides projects, step by step instructions, and helpful tips and reminders that will help you make the most of our tools and your time.
VOW offerings are available here on the wiki, as well as on Teachable. On the wiki, it is easier to move around between topics. Teachable provides a more orderly lesson progression and tracks your progress. The materials may also be available offline in certain locations- look for a binder or packet in the area. The material is the same in all formats, within the limitations of the format.
There are two paths through the VOW offerings.
Some tools are designed to be used with little to no experience, such as the Cricut Vinyl Cutter and the Glowforge Laser Cutter. The materials for these tools start out with an easy project to get you familiar with the basics of using the tool. Then there are additional projects to demonstrate some of the capabilities, nuances, and limitations of the tools. Alongside the projects is a collection of step by step instructions, helpful tips, and reminders that can be referenced at any time.
Other tools are more difficult to use, substantially more dangerous, or the costs of making a mistake are much higher. These tools require that a safety class be taken at Open Works prior to being able to use the machine or even entering the area it is in. That safety class covers Project 1. After that, two more projects are available. Alongside the class and projects is a collection of step by step instructions, helpful tips, and reminders that can be referenced at any time.