OpenShop 2025-2026
AGES 9 TO 18
OpenShop is a self-directed offering for makers to work at their own pace.
Sessions are Open!
Dream It. Plan It. Build It!
Without the time or theme constraints that our camps may have, OpenShop allows your child to work on their own idea at their own pace.
What is OpenShop?
This is our independent time for self-driven study and exploration—try things out, learn from mistakes, and try again. Enjoy the freedom to work at your own pace and find your own path as you go.
Guides are available for check-ins, tips, safety checks, and more, but this time is really yours to work independently.
Who is OpenShop for?
This offering is for kids 9+ who want more freedom in their building time or teens who need access to a makerspace.
Schedule
📅Thursdays (3:30pm – 6:30pm)
📅Saturdays & Sundays (10:00am – 1:00pm)
Location: 2541 W Lawrence Ave.
Phone: 773.654.1691
**Please note, there will be no OpenShop during Summer.
OpenShop sessions do not roll over.
All sessions must be used before the end of May 2026
as we begin preparations for Summer Camp.
What OpenShop Provides
Basic materials needed for your child’s project*
Access to cutting-edge tools and technology (e.g. 3D printers, programmable electronics, virtual reality integration, and so much more.)
Traditional woodworking skills and use of power tools
Inquiry-based design thinking and valuable skills like brainstorming, research, time management, and determination.
Support from expert guides (real-life architects, designers, and makers)
Students get to take home their work with them!
*We supply materials fit for smaller, short-term projects. If material above that is requested, we can provide extra or specialized items and send an invoice. If you prefer, you may also bring in your own materials.
Sign Up
Sign up for a package or purchase one session.
More sessions = a bigger discount!
⚠️ HEALTH & SAFETY
Please know that we have the following guidelines in place for everyone’s health and safety:
■ No open-toed shoes (this includes Crocs).
■ Masking is encouraged at BitSpace during high-dust activities to protect students from airborne particles in the workshop.
■ If your child shows any symptoms of illness (even mild symptoms), please cancel their session and stay home. You can join us in another OpenShop session during the season.
Frequently Asked Questions
When you purchase any of our packages, you’ll receive a code that you can use to sign up for available sessions on our OpenShop calendar.
We do not currently accept walk-ins.
Drop off and pick up times are flexible! Your child can take the time they need to work on their project whether that’s an hour or the whole session.
OpenShop is completely free form and is totally up to your child’s schedule. There’s no obligation to stay for a specific time.
OpenShop is for kids ages 9-18 who are looking for more independence in the workshop while expanding their knowledge through research and trial and error.
-If your child has joined BitSpace camps in the past, we can briefly go over the skills they’ll need in the workshop.
-If your child is brand new to BitSpace, please be aware the first session will include an in-depth walkthrough of tool safety and shop expectations.
-If your child is younger than 9 years old, please do not sign them up for OpenShop.
Open Shop is flexible! You have until the end of May 2026 to use your sessions. If you need to reschedule, please e-mail dana@bitspacechicago.com or call 773.654.1691.
If you still want to cancel your purchase, please contact cherry@bitspacechicago.com to work something out.
If our facility closes down due to COVID-19, you will be refunded on a pro-rated basis.
We know things come up unexpectedly. We kindly request a call at 773.654.1691 to let us know you’re unable to make your session. However, we are unable to reschedule or refund sessions due to no call/no show.
You can access the Shop for as many sessions as you like. If you think you might not use up all your sessions, try our A La Carte option to test the waters!
Please note, all sessions must be used by the end of May 2026 as we begin preparations for Summer Camp.
We supply materials fit for smaller, short-term projects. If material above that is requested, we can provide extra or specialized items and send an invoice. If you prefer, you may also bring in your own materials.