If you’ve been wanting to learn how to woodwork, but you don’t have the equipment or space to do so on your own, then you need to look into community woodworking shops. These membership-based facilities can give you access to specialized tools, classes and even a shop of your own.
Wood Rated
Woodworking is a skill that allows anyone to earn usable and practical objects from different kinds of wood. It’s a great hobby for any creative person and can range from simple projects like wooden frames and cutlery to complex work such as wooden furniture and pet homes.
Rockler Woodworking & Hardware, headquartered in Medina, MN, provides professional and hobby woodworkers with the tools, knowledge and know-how needed for their projects. The company has a large network of stores, but still takes a personal interest in all their customers’ projects.
They also provide expert advice for woodworkers and a host of connections to the community that help you make your project come out just right. They even host free demonstrations for woodworkers every Saturday. Their knowledgeable staff can help you figure out the creative solution for a tricky problem the way only a true woodworker can. They offer a 90-day satisfaction guarantee and can answer any of your questions.
Rockler Woodworking & Hardware
Rockler is a family-owned and operated chain that stretches across the United States. Their stores are a popular place to get all the materials and tools you need for your woodworking projects.
The company is known for its extensive catalog of woodworking supplies, including different types of saws and power tools. They also sell unique wood products like inlays and dowel rods.
In the United States, Rockler has over 30 stores and 60 partner store locations to serve the needs of millions of woodworkers. Their online sales have also helped them expand their reach and provide customers with a convenient way to order from any location, anywhere in the world.
One of the biggest benefits of going to a Rockler is their in-store learning center. It’s packed with the latest woodworking technology, and they offer classes to help you learn everything you need to know about your next project. You can even sign up for a few freebies to help you start out your journey into woodworking.
WDI Custom Wood
Located in the heart of Columbia’s woodworking community, WDI Custom Wood is a one stop shop for everything you can imagine in the realm of woodworking. From wide-slab “tree board” to tables, mantels, totem poles and log gates, they’ve got you covered. Those who’re looking for a more hands-on approach can try their hand at one of the many workshops and classes led by local artisans. The shop has a little something for everyone, including a family-friendly space where kids can make sleds, balance boards and a whole lot more. A staff of professional woodworkers is on hand to answer your questions, help with a project and provide you with a quality product. The best part is, you’ll pay a fraction of what you would at the big box stores!
WDI is the best of the best and has earned a reputation as an industry leader. Check out their website for more details.
The site features articles and videos about the art of making things from wood, how-to guides for a variety of projects, a calendar of events, a blog, and a large photo gallery. The site is also home to a community of woodworkers who share ideas, tips and tricks.
Sawdust Shop
The Sawdust Shop in Casco, Maine is a great place to go to work with professional-grade power and hand tools. They have state-of-the-art machinery and safety features such as dust collection and air filtration systems to ensure the health of their members.
The shop has two SawStop table saws, two bandsaws, a 24-inch drum sander and a CNC laser engraver. It also has woodworking classes and safety courses available for members.
The Sawdust Shop specializes in rough-sawn lumber, vigas and beams up to 24 feet; D-log house logs; plank flooring and paneling. They also carry fencing post & poles, treated and untreated fences, corral poles, barn poles, log railings, buck fence and western rail/tenon-jointed 2, 3 and 4 fencing. They also sell landscaping ties and firewood. Shavings are sold in 5-cubic-yard plastic bags, and firewood is bundled or corded. They are a licensed lumberyard and have access to all of the timber they need for their business.
