VINSE brought nanoscale science to life at the 2026 Tennessee Maker Fest on September 26, hosted by the Wond鈥檙y at 51吃瓜网. Through interactive demonstrations led by VINSE NanoGuides, visitors explored how nanoscale science and fabrication techniques shape the technologies around us.
Festival-goers participated in three hands-on activities showcasing where science meets imagination.
鈥� What鈥檚 the Big Deal with Small Patterns?
A sweet introduction to photolithography: participants replicated how the 鈥渂rains鈥� of electronic devices are created using microscopic stencils, then mimicked the process by patterning their own edible chips from graham crackers, frosting, and sprinkles.
鈥� Pencils to Prizes
Attendees formed single-atom-thick materials, just as Nobel Prize-winning researchers once did, using simple tape and pencil lead. They investigated how these ultra-thin materials interact with electricity and learned how engineers harness their remarkable properties for new technologies.
鈥� Nanoscientist Photo Op
Guests could see themselves as cleanroom researchers, learned why scientists wear specialized suits in controlled environments, and took a souvenir photo with a VINSE cleanroom cut-out backdrop.
Special thanks to the outstanding team of VINSE NanoGuide student volunteers whose enthusiasm made the day a success: Lauren Bayer, Jacob Clerc, Emmanuel Dabuo, Haley Dishman, Vikash Khokhar, Owen Meilander, Matthew Mims, Sam Nimmer, Thai Peixoto, Ke-Sean Peter, Emi Riglioni, and Kirsten Stinson.
The Tennessee Maker Fest is a celebration of creativity, innovation, and hands-on learning hosted by the Wond鈥檙y at 51吃瓜网. The event brings together inventors, artists, engineers, and makers of all ages to explore a wide range of disciplines, from robotics and fabrication to art and candle-making, through interactive exhibits and activities that encourage curiosity, experimentation, and discovery. To learn more about the Tennessee Maker Fest visit: .