On a quiet block in Arvada, Colorado, the DIY 3D Printed Shoji Lamp Workshop offers a compact, hands-on introduction to modern maker craft. In this one-hour class led by 3D printer Andrew Jordan of SkullNook (https://skullnook.com/), participants assemble a Japanese Shoji-style lampshade printed in advance, learn sustainable printing practices, and leave with a finished piece that blends traditional form with contemporary fabrication.
The workshop opens with a short walkthrough of Shoji design principles — the lightweight grid frame and the way translucent surfaces diffuse light — then moves into guided assembly. Students select from curated design options, fit panels into a 3D-printed frame, and fasten connections with simple hand tools supplied by the instructor. The process highlights precise tolerances that make additive manufacturing ideal for repeatable decorative parts, while Andrew explains filament choices, waste-reduction strategies, and repair techniques so your lamp lasts.
What makes this class a standout for travelers is its mix of craft and conscience. Arvada sits west of Denver and is a convenient base for outdoor excursions across Jefferson County and the Front Range. After a morning on a nearby trail, the workshop provides a low-impact, creative afternoon activity for hikers, bikers, and families seeking shelter from afternoon storms or seasonal smoke. The session’s wheelchair accessibility and 10+ minimum age make it an inclusive option for multigenerational groups.
Key scene features are modest but distinct: the Shoji-inspired grid, translucent panels that mimic rice paper, and the precision of 3D-printed joints. Those elements make it a compact study in light, shadow, and material efficiency. Culturally, Shoji screens originated in Japan as sliding room dividers; this workshop reframes that aesthetic with plastic filament and digital tools — a small lesson in how tradition adapts to technology.
Practical notes: classes run about 60 minutes, groups cap at 16, and kids under 15 must attend with an adult. No advanced skills are required; the experience is designed for beginners and curious makers. Bring a phone to document progress, wear comfortable clothes, and arrive five minutes early to keep the session on schedule. Whether you’re a maker looking to expand your portfolio or a traveler seeking a hands-on urban craft stop, this workshop blends design literacy with a tangible souvenir — a lamp you built yourself that quietly carries the story of place and process home.
Bookings are handled through the referral link and the host asks attendees to arrive five minutes early. With a maximum of sixteen participants the class stays personal, and Andrew will answer questions about filament recycling, finishing techniques, or adapting designs for lamps you may want to scale later. The finished piece is a memorable travel memento and a springboard for future 3D projects. Reserve a spot before travel.