Blog

October is packed at Makers Mill with hands-on classes, youth programs, community gatherings, and practical skill-building. From sewing, metalsmithing, terrariums, and leatherwork to Repair Café, Death Café, WorkReadyNH, and more, there are plenty of ways to make, learn, and connect this fall.

September is shaping up to be a busy month at Makers Mill! From fiber arts and metalsmithing to youth art, leatherworking, sewing, electronics, and a handful of free community gatherings, there are plenty of ways to learn something new, meet some people, and make something this fall. Here’s what’s happening at the Mill this September. […]

Makers Mill is excited to welcome Casey Szmyt as our new Program Director. As Casey steps into this leadership role, we also take a moment to celebrate the incredible contributions of outgoing Program Director Carol Holyoake, whose work helped shape the Makers Mill community we know today. Read more about this meaningful transition and the next chapter for Makers Mill.

Paint, build, design, and create all summer long! Makers Mill's Youth Vacation Arts & Crafts Series offers a different hands-on project nearly every weekday in July for youth ages 7–13. With small class sizes and plenty of creative exploration, it's the perfect way to make this summer both fun and memorable.

Join us May 15 for a relaxed morning of coffee and conversation at Makers Mill, where we’ll explore thoughtful, tax-smart ways to support the causes you care about.

From the first potluck to a fully realized makerspace, Carol Holyoake has helped shape Makers Mill at every stage. Her legacy of leadership, care, and community building will continue to guide the organization for years to come.

Kids ages 8–13 can explore painting, printmaking, mixed media, leatherworking, and more during Makers Mill’s April Vacation Arts & Crafts Camp. Join for one day or the full week of creative workshops.

March is bringing fresh energy to Makers Mill! From woodworking and sewing to jewelry, painting, and free community gatherings, this month is full of opportunities to create, connect, and belong. Explore hands-on classes, open studios, and welcoming public events — and find your next creative adventure.

This winter and early spring, Makers Mill’s Jewelry & Metalsmithing Shop is offering a series of hands-on classes led by Deborah Ryan and Joy Raskin. From stacking rings and forged cuffs to colorful resin inlay, these workshops invite you to shape, torch, and create jewelry of your own.

Making time for creativity isn’t always easy — especially when life is busy, expectations are high, or inspiration feels just out of reach. This winter, Makers Mill is offering a new two-part workshop designed to help makers reconnect with their creative practice in a way that feels sustainable, joyful, and grounded. Creative Strength Training for […]

Many people are surprised to learn that tax-smart giving is far easier than it sounds. A gift of stock, an IRA distribution, or a grant from a donor-advised fund often requires nothing more than a quick request to your financial institution—sometimes just a single online form. These giving methods can take only a few minutes to complete, yet they allow supporters to make a larger impact while receiving potential financial benefits. In other words, it’s a simple step that can make a meaningful difference for both you and Makers Mill.

Inside the sunlit rooms of Makers Mill, something powerful is happening. Sawdust mixes with laughter. Sewing machines hum beside soldering irons. Ideas become real in the hands of everyday people discovering what they’re capable of. But it’s not just about what’s being made—it’s about what’s being remade:confidence, connection, and community. In just three years of operation, […]

When André deBeer grafted a small apple tree at a G.A.L.A. workshop years ago, he couldn’t have imagined the wood from that same tree would one day be turned on a lathe inside Makers Mill. His story mirrors the makerspace’s own journey — rooted in learning, creativity, and care — and reminds us that with time and community, the things we nurture can grow into something truly lasting.

This fall, Makers Mill is opening its doors to young homeschool artists for a hands-on journey through creativity and self-expression. Led by mixed-media artist and educator Martina Cyr, the new five-part Visual Arts for Youth series invites students to explore drawing, collage, color theory, and printmaking — all while learning to see and think like artists. Designed to support homeschool learning, these small-group sessions encourage curiosity, confidence, and creative problem-solving.

We built it together — now let’s celebrate! Join us on Sunday, October 19, from 3–6 PM at Makers Mill, 23 Bay Street, Wolfeboro, for our Phase Two Celebration! Enjoy live music, a food truck, guided tours, and makers in action as we celebrate our growing community and beautiful new spaces. Free and family-friendly! RSVP at makersmill.org/celebrate

Help Us Get Ready to Celebrate! We’re sprucing up before our Phase 2 Celebration, and we’d love your help. Join us for Fall Cleanup Day this Friday, October 10, 8 AM–4 PM at Makers Mill. Come for an hour or stay all day — we’ll provide the pizza, drinks, and friendly faces! Sign up here 👉 https://makersmill.volunteerlocal.com/volunteer/?id=104969

There’s something timeless about a painted landscape — the way color, light, and brushstrokes can capture the feeling of a place. This September, Makers Mill is excited to host its first-ever oil painting class, a two-session workshop, where you can learn to create your own landscapes and lakescapes under the guidance of artist and teacher Ann Xavier. What […]

This fall, Makers Mill is launching a brand-new Sunday Art Group Series with local artist Martina Cyr. Over five consecutive Sunday mornings, participants will explore a mix of fine arts mediums—like printmaking, collage, drawing, and more—while enjoying a supportive, community-focused environment. It’s the perfect way to slow down, reconnect with your creativity, and make time for your own art journey.

Add some color to your Sunday! Join artist Martina Cyr at Makers Mill on August 10 for two beginner-friendly classes: Alcohol Inks (9 AM) and Intro to Watercolors (11 AM). Spots are limited! Sign up: Alcohol Inks – https://www.makersmill.org/events/?eid=13847 Watercolors – https://www.makersmill.org/events/?eid=13848

Three unique dyeing workshops with Jeanne Flanagan, August 20–22 If you’ve ever wanted to experiment with fabric dyeing—or just need an excuse to get a little messy in the name of creativity—this is your week. Our very own fiber arts extraordinaire Jeanne Flanagan is leading not one, not two, but three hands-on dyeing workshops right […]

Makers Mill’s Community Visioning Night on Monday, June 16th at Wolfeboro Town Hall drew a strong and passionate turnout of community members, volunteers, and partners. The evening was marked by rich dialogue, dynamic breakout groups, and a shared sense of purpose as attendees helped shape the future of Makers Mill.   Participants were the first to […]

Today Is NH Gives — And You're Invited! Help us win the Power of Community Prize! Starting at 5 PM today, June 10, and running through 5 PM tomorrow, June 11, we’re participating in NH Gives, the state’s largest day of giving—a 24-hour celebration of community generosity that brings together hundreds of nonprofits and thousands of donors across New Hampshire.

Makers Mill is mapping out its next five years, and your voice is essential! Join us for a community visioning night on Monday, June 16 from 4–7 PM at Wolfeboro Town Hall to help shape the future of this growing makerspace. Whether you’re a longtime member or have never stepped through the doors, everyone is welcome. Share your ideas, explore survey results, enjoy refreshments, and be part of the next chapter.

Join Our Beginner-Friendly Crochet Workshop Series Makers Mill is excited to offer “Get Hooked on Crocheting,” a hands-on, four-part workshop series designed especially for beginners and those curious about crochet. Whether you want to pick up a new hobby or add a creative skill to your toolkit, this class will guide you step-by-step.

Join Robert “Doc” Dougherty at Makers Mill for hands-on workshops! Learn to use essential tools in Basic Handtools: Hammers and Drivers on May 20th, and check out other classes like Sourdough Basics, Map & Compass Reading, and Women’s Workshop: Faucet Repair. Build skills, resilience, and community—sign up today!

This is a rare chance to work side-by-side with one of the region’s most admired jewelry artists. If you’re ready to dive deeper into your craft, explore the movement in your metalwork, and spend the day learning with a community of creatives, register today before it fills up!

Do you ever feel stuck in the middle of a painting, unsure of what to do next? Are you a painter who’s learned some of the basics—values, color mixing, brushwork—but still feels overwhelmed by all the decisions involved in creating a finished piece? Join award-winning artist Debbie Mueller at Makers Mill in Wolfeboro, NH, for a transformative two-day […]

Looking for a fun and creative way to keep your child busy during April break? Makers Mill’s Arts & Crafts Camp offers hands-on workshops for kids ages 8–11, from sewing monster plushies to building wooden yoyos. Each day sparks imagination and creativity in a small, supportive group setting!

Makers Mill is returning to its roots this spring with a weekend packed full of hands-on homesteading classes designed to empower individuals, strengthen community ties, and promote sustainable living. From April 25–27, 2025, the community makerspace in Wolfeboro, NH will host a curated lineup of workshops for anyone looking to learn practical skills and reconnect […]

Early this February, Makers Mill eagerly welcomed Sarah Souliere, a 22-year-old Mechanical Engineering junior at UNH, as part of an innovative three-month internship via the UNH Sustainability Semester for Impact program. This 400-hour experiential learning opportunity connects passionate students like Sarah with community organizations making meaningful social impact, like Makers Mill! Inspired by her family […]

Join Makers Mill on April 5 & 6, 2025, for a two-day beginner jewelry workshop with renowned artist Betsy Keeney. Learn sawing, soldering, texturing, and bezel setting to create your own wearable art. **Limited spots—sign up today at https://www.makersmill.org/events/?eid=13622

Do you love beautiful stones? Are you drawn to their colors, textures, and energy? Then get ready for something brand new and totally unique—the first-ever Rock Lovers Open Studio at Makers Mill on March 6th!

On Monday, February 3rd, from 6:30 to 7:30 PM, join us for Hobbyist to Pro, an inspiring presentation and Q & A session by the award-winning artist Debbie Mueller at Makers Mill in Wolfeboro, NH.

For many neurodivergent individuals, public spaces can feel overwhelming, making it difficult to engage in recreational activities others might take for granted, like attending an art class and connecting with the broader community. Sensory sensitivities, communication challenges, and social expectations can turn seemingly ordinary situations into daunting experiences. Schools, like Kingswood High School, provide essential […]

When Nolan Gorg, a multitalented individual with a rich background in video game design, digital design, and welding, sees an opportunity for improvement, he takes initiative and delivers results. Since attending the first Makers Mill member orientation in October of 2022, Nolan has become an invaluable contributor to the community. In addition to regularly baking […]

Looking for a unique way to make your holiday season extra special this year?

Get ready for a pumpkin carving experience that will take your jack-o’-lantern game to the next level! Makers Mill is hosting its exciting Hack-o’-Lantern Party on October 20th from 12 PM to 3 PM, and it’s perfect for families looking to add some serious creativity to their Halloween fun. This isn’t your typical pumpkin carving event. At the […]

Makers Mill is excited to highlight Jeanne Flanagan, Fiber Arts Circle Lead and instructor, as she brings her passion for fiber arts to the local community this fall.

What makes this season especially unique is the chance to learn from two of the most distinguished artists in the field—Paulette Werger and Joy Raskin.

Students show off their paper rockets in 4H Summer Science of Fun.

Wolfeboro, NH – This summer, Makers Mill announces a series of fun and engaging Cricut classes aimed at helping local DIY enthusiasts tap into their creativity. Get the most out of your Cricut and create some summer swag at Makers Mill! Tuesday, August 6 from 4:30 to 7:30 PM or Wednesday, August 14 from 9 […]

This fall, children in Wolfeboro will take a step up toward greater independence thanks to an innovative partnership between leaders with common values: empowering young women. Thirty area businesses will receive footstools, allowing young children to practice independence. Handcrafted by middle school girls, these stools uplift little ones, like Wren Arnold, to reach the sink […]

Makers Mill invites guests to an exclusive benefit dinner at East of Suez restaurant on Monday, July 29, 2024, at 5:30 PM. Enjoy an unforgettable evening of delicious food and community spirit! The event features the renowned flavors of East of Suez, with options for vegetarians and gluten-free diners, plus build-your-own ice cream sundaes. Guests […]

Wolfeboro, NH – The story of Makers Mill is one of passion, community, and the belief that even the smallest initiatives can have a monumental impact. What started as a simple vision has grown into a bustling hub of creativity and innovation, thanks to the unwavering dedication of volunteers, donors, and partners. Now, as we […]

Are you looking to dive into the world of traditional crafts and learn something new? Makers Mill, the pioneering Makerspace & Vocation Hub in Wolfeboro, NH, is weaving passion, creativity, and tradition with its exciting new lineup: Basket Weaving and Traditional Rug Hooking. Intro to Basket Weaving with Anne Bertucci Join us on June 29, […]

Wolfeboro, NH – Makers Mill, a hub of creativity in Wolfeboro, is excited to announce the launch of two new workshops dedicated to sewing and jewelry making. These workshops are designed to spark creativity and elevate technical skills among participants. Craft Your Adventure: Sewing 102 Workshop  May 16 and May 23 from 6:00 PM to […]

In 2017, our local nonprofit, Makers Mill, which was then known as GALA, made a significant move. We acquired the former Wolfeboro Power Equipment building at 23 Bay St. with the vision of establishing the county’s inaugural dedicated community makerspace and vocation hub. We thought converting a small engine repair shop into a makerspace would […]

Creator Camp, a new adaptive arts programs for the neurologically diverse population, ages 13-23.

On Saturday, January 13 2024, local mixed media artist and educator, Martina Cyr, will take those of you who are willing and curious, on a vibrant journey where artistry meets innovation at Makers Mill in Wolfeboro, NH.  Martina’s upbeat Drawing Class for Makers will transform your ideas and blank canvases into dynamic expressions of your […]

Makers Mill, the new community makerspace at the forefront of empowering creators, inventors, and entrepreneurs, proudly announces an all-encompassing program designed to uplift aspiring and established business leaders. With a profound commitment to fostering entrepreneurial endeavors, Makers Mill is now positioned as a key catalyst for business development through its collaborative partnership with the Small […]

Are you sitting on a bunch of tools collecting dust in your basement? Do you keep tripping over that air compressor (or is it the chain saw?) you used that one time three years ago? Are you looking to Marie Kondo your man-cave or she-shed? Are you holding onto a handful of tools just because […]

Makers Mill wins Plan NH's Merit Award of Excellence which recognizes outstanding projects in NH that have a positive impact on their respective communities.

Makers Mill, in partnership with Carroll County 4-H, has received a generous $10,000 Charitable Grant from Eversource Energy.  The grant will support the implementation of “4-H Movers and Makers”, a 4-H club where kids learn to be empowered makers and apply those skills to problem-solving in their communities.  Participants in 4H Movers & Makers will […]

Transform your trash to treasure in this fun and upbeat upcycled jewelry class.

With your help on Saturday, May 6th, the roads around Wolfeboro and Ossipee could be litter free!  So round up family members and friends and come have some rewarding fun at the annual Town Clean Up Day. This community roadside litter clean up event is organized by Makers Mill (formerly GALA) in collaboration with the […]

The future of the electric vehicle charging station is being revolutionized right here in Carroll County, NH.  The first in the nation Pedal-Powered EV charging station will be operational this spring at Makers Mill in Wolfeboro, NH.   “This changes everything, or should I say, charges everything,” says Makers Mill Executive Director, Josh Arnold. “While EV’s […]

A bitter wind coming off Lake Winnipesaukee could not hinder the enthusiasm of those gathered on January 27th for the official ribbon-cutting ceremony for Makers Mill. The image above: Pictured from left to right, Makers Mill Executive Director, Josh Arnold’s family, Wren Arnold and Molly Arnold, Makers Mill Board Member Martha Trepanier, Executive Director of […]

The Upcycled Fashion Show returns this spring. Sign up to participate and enter a design, or register to attend.

February may be a short month, but the lineup of classes at Makers Mill during February is definitely not: an extensive menu of class options awaits your selection! You’ll find a list and calendar online at makersmill.org/events and that’s the place to register too. Or, if you’d prefer to register for a class over the […]

Why a scholarship? We fundamentally believe that everyone has gifts to share with the world. Our mission is to help people discover and cultivate those gifts. As such, we are honored to offer scholarships that help offset the cost of membership and classes at Makers Mill. If you are interested in utilizing Makers Mill to […]

Take a tour, take a class, take out a membership - Makers Mill is open! What an opportunity to hand-make your holiday gifts and cards here at the makerspace, have some fun, meet people, and learn something new.

Together we did it! After five years of visioning, designing, building, outfitting, and lots of fundraising, grant writing and red tape in between, Carroll County’s first dedicated makerspace and vocation hub, Makers Mill, has opened its doors for membership and classes at 23 Bay St., Wolfeboro.  Every mile of this journey has been accomplished with […]

Functional Art When you walk in the front door at Makers Mill, the community makerspace and vocation hub opening soon at 23 Bay St. Wolfeboro, NH, you will be standing in front of a collaborative, functional piece of art that reflects the mission and values of this nonprofit organization. The front desk and main staircase […]

Help us get our makerspace stocked, and ready for opening day with all the tools and equipment that makers love to create with!

Almost a year to the day since the renovation construction began, Makers Mill received its certificate of occupancy from the Town of Wolfeboro’s Planning and Development department for their community makerspace and vocation hub at 23 Bay Street. 

Makers Mill is nearly ready to open and we're looking for instructors!

There is a lot hinging on this year's NH Gives day for Makers Mill - Carroll County's first dedicated community makerspace and vocation hub. The success of this year's campaign will have a big impact on our readiness to open our doors this August.....

Join us for the Upcycled Fashion Show on Saturday, April 23 in the Wolfeboro Town Hall Great Room at 7pm.

From time to time we'll spotlight one of our awesome volunteers and share the story of how we connected around mission-related values...

A driving influence behind the Makers Mill solar installation is the support and vision it shares with the Town of Wolfeboro’s Master Plan to have 50% of the town’s energy come from renewable resources by 2029. 

Makers Mill and Governor Wentworth Arts Council are collaborating to offer a series of four fun and creative workshops during February and March that focus on making a wearable clothing item made from recycled or repurposed materials.

A donation to our Tool Kitty Campaign this #GivingTuesday will help us secure some very specialized items such as a laser cutter, CNC router, 3D printer, some of the bigger items for the wood and metal shops, and lots of supplies.

“Watching this vision come to life has been surreal. I couldn’t help but think of all the people who’ve contributed to making this a reality, whether it was money or time, or more often both. I was overcome by gratitude for all it has taken to get this far, and giddy with excitement for what’s to come."

Looking to put a spark of creativity in your life? Well, sign up for for the first Upcycled Fashion Show in Wolfeboro hosted by Makers Mill in collaboration with the Governor Wentworth Arts Council (GWAC). Individuals and groups of all ages are invited participate and have some fun over the winter months!

Makers Mill and the Governor Wentworth Arts Council (GWAC), two local organizations with a shared mission of fostering creativity, are collaborating on the production of The Upcycled Fashion Show:  an event that is designed to celebrate ingenuity, environmental awareness, and community spirit.

Contribute your feedback on the programs you'd like to see at Makers Mill by completing a short 5-question survey. Respondents go into a draw for the prize of a FREE 6-Month Membership!

The position has been made available thanks to a grant from AmeriCorps VISTA and the Makers and Mentors Network. The position is funded for the year November 2021 through November 2022.  Applications are due by October 12, 2021. 

"The building is already transforming so fast. It seems whenever I walk into the building there is a new wall, or a new rough opening for windows and doors..... " Josh Arnold

After three years of diligent visioning, planning, and fundraising, grounded in a decade of sustainable community building, GALA’s Makers Mill has officially broken ground on Phase 1 of building renovations. Phase 1 is forecast to take six months as long as the supply chains cooperate, and will result in an efficient, code-compliant building ready for […]

On a recent tour through New Hampshire’s First District, Congressman Chris Pappas dropped in for a hard-hat tour to see the renovation underway at Makers Mill on Bay Street.

NH Gives Day is back! Remember last year, when we received the award for most donors in the Lakes Region/White Mountains/North Country Region with 160 individual donations? Well, starting June 8th at 5pm sharp, NH Gives will kick off a 24 hours of statewide giving to celebrate and support the NH nonprofit community.   The NH Charitable Foundation is […]

Makers Mill is searching for an enthusiastic and self-motivated person to add to its team who has knowledge of the makerspace community, and the ability to collaborate with local partners and staff to design and build new maker-centered learning programming and systems.

Makers Mill continues its line up of virtual online workshops with Intro to 3D Printing presented by Elizabeth Helfer on Thursday, May 20th from 6-8pm

There has been good news and not-so-great news for Makers Mill (formerly G.A.L.A.) this month.

Gather friends, family, neighbors, or participate as a group with one of the local service organizations, and clean up your street!

One of our online classes being offered this spring is Mothers Day Card Making on Saturday, May 1st between 3pm-4pm, led by artisan and entrepreneur Margaret Donnelly.

There are so many great reasons to get your hands in the dirt just now, not the least of which is that spring has arrived and it’s time to prepare our yards and gardens for another growing season - and it’s so much fun!

The Makers Mill building design continues GALA’s commitment to sustainability, creating the conditions that foster a healthy community, economy, and environment.

Makers Mill Wolfeboro celebrates the sale of all $275,000 worth of tax credits from local businesses.

Construction bids for the makerspace renovation publicly opened 2/22.

Makers Mill has successfully raised 94% of its projected Phase I building renovation budget and is preparing to start construction early this spring.