FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions):

• How many total members will there be?

  • ~12 members.  The goal of this isn’t to make money. The goal is to break even which will require ~12 members.  I don’t want to commit to more than that so that equipment/tools are available when needed.

• Who will be invited to be a member?

  • While this will be an inclusive group, it will still be a private invitation only group.  

  • Potential members will need to complete a questionnaire, background check, and have the recommendation from 2 existing members.

• What happens if I can’t keep my year-long commitment? 

  • Life happens, please make every effort to give as much notice as possible before leaving or finding a suitable replacement.

• Can I contribute my own tools to the Community?

  • Of course…this is encouraged.  We are hoping that we will have a good mix of tools and knowledge. If you are a metal worker and have a decent welder to contribute, great!  The hope is that between 10-12 people we will have a very diverse set of tools, equipment, and knowledge for any project.

• If I leave, can I take my stuff with me?

  • Of Course.  We will have Asset Tags and an Asset Tracking system to track who owns which tools and replacement values for insurance purposes.

• What happens if someone breaks one of my tools?

  • If you break it, you fix it or pay to have it fixed.  If it’s major damage we will need to discuss it as a group.

• Do we have…? How do I find…?

  • We will have an Asset Tracking system available via mobile app and shop computer that will have the name, description, photos, and location of all major tools and equipment in the shop.

• Will you have insurance?

  • Yes, we will have commercial liability insurance and coverage for any equipment in the shop.

• Will I need to sign a liability waiver?

  • Yes.

• I’m a professional woodworker, welder, mechanic, etc…can I use this space to operate out of full time?

  • No.  In an effort to maximize the availability of equipment for everybody, we would prefer to keep this as a short term hobby/project space.  

  • This is obviously a gray area and we will need to continually evaluate this.

• Can I bring guests/family?

  • Yes, provided you accompany them to the shop.  Keys are not to be given to others at any time.

• Can I bring my kids?

  • Maybe, this is a place for people to learn how to build and fix all kinds of cool things and work with your hands.  Older kids (>= 12) are welcome provided they are well supervised.

  • This will NOT be a safe space for younger (< 12) to run around and we reserve the right to prohibit younger poorly supervised kids and members. 

• What if I don’t know how to use a: Table Saw, Forklift, Welder, Etc?

  • That’s the cool part…we will teach you.  One of the member responsibilities will be to run an informal workshop on something they are familiar with.

  • These aren’t expected to be professional training, but rather, “Here is what I know and some of the things I’ve learned over the years.”  Operating equipment in a safe manner will need to be highlighted in any workshop.

• How will Supplies/Consumables be managed?

  • The shop will maintain a supply of General hardware and consumables.  I.e. Screws, nails, common bolts/nuts, paint, finishes, brushes, rollers, towels, drill bits, gloves, ear plugs, safety glasses, filter masks, tape, zip ties, etc.

  • Specialized hardware and consumables for your project will need to be provided at a member’s own expense.

  • We will have a Google Doc of needed supplies and work to make weekly runs to keep everything stocked

  • Any excess funds will be used to buy new equipment for the shop.

• Can I just hang out at the shop and do nothing?

  • Yes…I’m hoping this will be a fun social place to hang out and see what everyone is working on.

• What if I have a question not listed here?

  • Lots of questions and issues will come up in the future.  We will work together to evolve and adjust as things come up.