Open Shop Membership

IMPORTANT – READ BEFORE PURCHASING:

After purchasing for the first time, you will receive an email from Bull City Woodshop with instructions and a link to sign up for your required Open Shop Orientation + Tool Proficiency Check.

YOU MUST COMPLETE THIS PROFICIENCY CHECK BEFORE USING OPEN SHOP.
Do not purchase this membership and then show up expecting immediate shop access.

The proficiency check is designed to make sure you can safely and independently use core shop tools. During this check, you will be given a block of wood and asked to mill it so it matches a pre-fabricated sample piece of lumber. This process may include using tools such as the chop saw, planer, table saw, router, and various hand tools.

If you do not feel comfortable using these tools independently, you will likely need to complete one of our beginner or entry-level classes before using Open Shop.

Proficiency checks are typically offered once per month, though some scheduling flexibility may be available if needed.

Community Open Shop is intended for members who can work safely and independently in a shared woodshop environment.

Community Open Shop gives members access to Bull City Woodshop’s staffed woodshop hours to work on their own projects. Members supply their own lumber and hardware, while BCW provides access to the machines, tool maintenance, basic shop support, and guidance from woodworking volunteers as needed.

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.

Current Open Shop Hours:
• Sundays: 9:00 AM–12:00 PM
• Mondays: 6:30–9:30 PM
• Tuesdays: 6:30–9:30 PM
• Thursdays: 6:30–9:30 PM

Important:
Before using Open Shop, all members must complete a one-time orientation and hands-on tool proficiency check. This orientation is required before using the space or tools.

Available tools include table saws, planer, jointer, miter saw, router table, drill press, lathe, scroll saw, bandsaw, palm sanders, downdraft table, workbench space, and other general woodshop equipment.

Volunteer staff are available during staffed Open Shop hours to help you find what you need around the shop and provide guidance on tools or projects as needed. This is not a formal class, so members should come prepared to work independently with support available when needed.

Storage may be available as an add-on if you need to leave a project at the shop between sessions, depending on project size and available space.

Please Note:
Open Shop may close due to inclement weather or extreme cold. BCW follows City of Durham office closures, and the shop may close if air temperatures are below 30 degrees.

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