Community Open Shop

The Bull City Woodshop’s Community Open Shop is a members-only shop space for people who already have some woodworking experience and want to work on their own projects. Open Shop is not a beginner class or guided instruction time; members are expected to work independently and safely with support from shop volunteers as needed.

Before using Open Shop, members must complete an orientation and pass a proficiency check. The proficiency check helps confirm that members can safely make their way through common shop tools and processes with minimal assistance.

Members provide their own lumber and hardware. BCW provides access to the shop space, machines, tool maintenance, and volunteer support during scheduled Open Shop hours.

  • One-Time Use

    Just need occasional shop access? Purchase a single Open Shop session for one staffed shift. Great for small projects or occasional use.
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    All Open Shop users must first complete the Orientation + Tool Proficiency Check before reserving shop time.

  • Monthly Use

    Planning to use the shop regularly? Monthly memberships give you ongoing access to staffed Open Shop hours.
    The longer the membership term, the lower the monthly cost.

    All Open Shop users must first complete the Orientation + Tool Proficiency Check before reserving shop time.

Step 1

Before using Bull City Woodshop’s Community Open Shop independently, all new Open Shop members are required to complete a one-time Orientation + Tool Proficiency Check.

Learn More / Sign-Up

Step 2

This is a great option if you need to make a few quick cuts, want access to a full woodshop for a personal project, or want to use the space on an ongoing basis.

Learn More / Buy Time Here

Step 3

Members can use the calendar below to view upcoming Open Shop hours and reserve time in the shop. To sign up, use the “Members: Reserve Shop Time” button above the calendar.

Only members with an active Open Shop membership who have completed the proficiency check will be able to find their name in the signup form. If your name does not appear, please contact us through the membership form so we can look into it.

Available Tools

12" Dewalt Planer
Bandsaw
Rigid 6" Jointer
Router Table and Standing Drill Press
Lathe
Compound Sliding Miter Saw
Table Saw
Table Saw
Orbital Sanders and Downdraft Table
Portable Tools
Workbench space
Woodshop necessities
Storage available for rent
Resaw Bandsaw
XTool Laser Engraver
Tech Room

Tools available for use:

  • Table Saw

    Planer (12" wide)

    Jointer (6" wide)

    Miter Saw

    Router Table

    Drill Press

    Lathes

    Scroll Saw

    Bandsaw

    Palm Sanders with downdraft table

Need a Locker?

Need space to store tools, wood, or a project between shop visits? Rent an Open Shop locker below. Green lockers are available. Red lockers are currently rented.

Small lockers: 24" W x 23" H x 28" D — $30/month
Medium lockers: 40" W x 23" H x 28" D — $50/month
Locker 1
Small
24" W × 23" H × 28" D
$30 / month
Available
Locker 2
Small
24" W × 23" H × 28" D
$30 / month
Available
Locker 3
Medium
40" W × 23" H × 28" D
$50 / month
Available
Locker 4
Medium
40" W × 23" H × 28" D
$50 / month
Available
Locker 5
Small
24" W × 23" H × 28" D
$30 / month
Available
Locker 6
Small
24" W × 23" H × 28" D
$30 / month
Available
Locker 7
Small
24" W × 23" H × 28" D
$30 / month
Rented
Locker 8
Small
24" W × 23" H × 28" D
$30 / month
Available
Locker 9
Medium
40" W × 23" H × 28" D
$50 / month
Rented
Locker 10
Medium
40" W × 23" H × 28" D
$50 / month
Available
Locker 11
Small
24" W × 23" H × 28" D
$30 / month
Available
Locker 12
Small
24" W × 23" H × 28" D
$30 / month
Available
Locker rentals are for active Open Shop members. Bull City Woodshop is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged materials. Any items left in a locker after the rental period may be removed and forfeited if not claimed in time.

Community Open Shop FAQ's

What are the hours of Open Shop?

Currently, we offer Sundays 9:00-12:00pm and Monday, Tuesdays, Thursdays 6:30-9:30pm

What does it cost to be a member?

  • You must attend an orientation and tool proficiency check which costs $50. 
  • Current membership options are $50 for a one-time pass or $130 for a monthly pass.
  • There are discounts available for purchasing multiple month packages.

Are there any prerequisites to becoming an Open Shop Member?

Yes. You will need to attend an orientation and tool proficiency check BEFORE you can use the space or tools. Please look at step 1 above to auto registered for a proficiency check.

Is someone available to help me if I need it?

Yes! We have volunteer staff who are readily available to help you find what you need around the shop and guide you through any help on the tools or your projects as needed.

Do I provide my own safety gear?

You are welcome to bring your own gear, but we do offer all necessary Personal Protective Equipment.

Can I store my project there between sessions?

You may purchase an Monthly locker if you would like to keep your work at the shop. However, depending on the size of your project, we may be limited on space.

What is your inclement weather policy?

The BCW will close based on the City of Durham office closures. In addition, due to the lack of climate control in the woodshop, if air temps are lower than 30 degrees, the BCW will close.

Once you’ve completed all the steps — use the calendar below to reserve your Open Shop time.

Volunteer Open Shop Portal →
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