Projects

Launch into Engineering 5th Iteration

By Workshop Team 24 June 2026

It’s June, it’s hot outside, as it is in the Workshop… welcome back to our Blog!

We have proudly just completed our 5th iteration of Launch into Engineering. Whilst the week is fresh in our minds, we thought now would be a good opportunity to share the project and give a bit more information about the details of the week.

Launch Into Engineering

Wardwick Signs

The Wardwick, over at the Museum and Art Gallery, has seen many improvements in the last few years since its former life as Derby Central Library in 2018.

‘The Museum on The Wardwick is a 19th century grade II listed building that has long stood as one of Derby’s most iconic buildings. The Wardwick, with its striking arched entrance, beautiful glass atrium and ornate mezzanine balcony full of curiosities, is a unique and stylish venue available for hire, located in the heart of the city.

The classic Gothic architecture is a spectacular backdrop for a wedding, and also makes for a versatile space suitable for a range of events, including award ceremonies, birthday parties, conferences, trade shows and live performances.’

Last year, we were approached by our Derby Museums colleagues to help them make some custom signage for the space. They already had a clear vision for the project and wanted something in the style of the signage they were putting on display in the Wardwick cabinets. These vintage museum signs are full of hand-painted character and craftsmanship, and it was up to us to reverse-engineer the style.

From the Shadows | Interactives

We recently worked with Derby Museum’s learning team to create a set of interactives. The purpose of these was to be an aid to learning and enhance visitor engagement. Together we developed the idea that elements could be selected from Joseph Wright’s paintings. These act like a visual treasure hunt, which leads to prompts on the back of the board.

The learning team selected some items and shapes from the paintings and provided prompts for each. We then started making digital drawings which interpret each. We aimed for clear silhouettes with simplified details.

We aimed for an average size that fit around A4. Once happy with the drawings, we laser cut them out and used a deep engraving setting for the details and writing on the back. We also made an appropriate opening for a ribbon to go through so they could be hung on a peg. The final touches were some sanding and (many) layers of a darker varnish. We are really happy with how these interactives came out and hope many visitors to the show get enjoyment from them.

We also cut the main sign that greets you to the From the Shadows, Joseph Wright exhibition. We used the logo from exhibition, converted this to an appropriate digital drawing and cut the letters on our CNC machine. We also worked on some stationary boxes used part of the learning area in the show. Its great to bring the Workshop into such an important exhibition at Derby Museums!

Updates & Information

Upcoming Maker Saturdays:

In addition to our regular weekday hours, we are opening the Workshop on selected Saturdays to Makers!
Every second Saturday of the month.
10am – 4:30pm

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