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• MIG WELDING 101 - DAYTIME

  • When
    Wednesday, August 05, 2026
  •  
    10:30 AM - 1:30 PM
  • Location
    1130 8th Street East, Owen Sound, ON N4KV1
  • Spaces left
    1

  Register

  
  

  Learn to Weld – MIG Welding (GMAW)

  https://www.greybrucemakers.ca/event-6775613

  Cost: $189 + HST
  Date(s): Wednesday, August 5th 2026 10:30AM - 1:30PM

  Workshop: Metal Shop (Weld Bay)
  Maximum Participants: 4

  Course Description

  MIG Welding — also known as Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) — is one of the most versatile and beginner-friendly welding processes used in metal fabrication, construction, and manufacturing. In this three-hour hands-on workshop, you’ll learn welding fundamentals and gain practical experience making strong, clean welds.

  Led by professional welder and educator Jeff Mills, this workshop is designed for total beginners or hobbyists looking to take the first step into metalworking. You’ll leave with the foundational skills needed to weld safely and confidently.

  Key Learnings

  • Understand MIG welding equipment, shielding gas, and wire feed systems

  • Learn essential safety practices, PPE use, and fire prevention

  • Practice tack welds, butt joints, and fillet welds on steel

  • Control the welding arc, monitor weld quality, and troubleshoot common problems

  • Learn to recognize a good weld vs. a flawed weld

  ✅ Prerequisites

  None — this is a CORE introductory welding course. No prior experience required.

  What to Wear

  • Long-sleeved, non-synthetic (cotton) clothing

  • Closed-toe leather or steel-toe shoes

  • No jewelry or exposed skin

  • Safety gear (helmet, gloves, jacket) is provided — feel free to bring your own

  What to Bring

  • Water bottle

  • Notebook and pen (optional)

  • All welding tools and materials are provided

  ‍ About Your Instructor

  

  Jeff Mills is a certified welder/fabricator with nearly two decades of industry experience across residential, industrial, automotive, aerospace, and energy sectors. He’s taught welding and fabrication for Georgian College’s Red Seal Millwright Program and currently serves as an Academic Technologist with deep credentials, including:

  • CWB Level 1 Welding Inspector

  • TSSA certifications (6G position in SMAW & GTAW)

  • CWB tickets in SMAW, GMAW, MCAW, FCAW

  • Instructor in layout, blueprint reading, trade safety, and multiple welding processes

  Jeff brings a positive, practical, and deeply knowledgeable approach to his teaching and looks forward to building skills and confidence with each new class.

  Show details
• CNC ROUTER 101

  • Start
    Monday, August 10, 2026
  •  
  • End
    Saturday, August 15, 2026
  •  
  • Schedule
    3 sessions
  • Location
    1130 8th Street East, Owen Sound
  • Spaces left
    6

  Register

  
  

  **V-CARVE Course is a PREREQUISTE**

  Register for V-Carve Here: https://www.greybrucemakers.ca/event-6779542

  Intro to CNC Router

  Cost: $189 + HST

  https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6775628

  Dates:

  • Monday, August 10th, 2026 6pm-9pm

  • Wednesday, August 12th , 2026 6pm-9pm

  • Saturday, August 15th , 2026 10am-1pm

  Workshop: Classroom, Woodshop
  Instructor: Dave Trimbee

  Course Description

  CNC routers are computer-controlled machines widely used in woodworking and other industries for precision cutting, drilling, and more. This four-session workshop provides a comprehensive introduction to CNC routers, from design to production. Perfect for hobbyists and professionals alike, you’ll gain the knowledge and confidence to use this powerful technology effectively.

  Key Learnings

  By the end of this workshop, you will:

  • Understand the basics of CNC routers and how they work.

  • Learn the software tools used to design and program CNC router operations.

  • Safely and efficiently set up and operate a CNC router.

  • Apply techniques for creating complex designs and shapes.

  • Explore best practices for material selection, tooling, and finishing.

  • Troubleshoot and optimize CNC router operations.

  • Gain hands-on experience with Vectric’s VCarve Pro software.

  Prerequisites

  **V-CARVE Course is a PREREQUISTE**

  Register for V-Carve Here: https://www.greybrucemakers.ca/event-6779542

  What to Bring

  • Windows laptop with Vectric VCarve Pro installed.
    (If you do not have a laptop, please contact us in advance to arrange accommodations.)

  Special Note – Axyz CNC Certification

  During the second class, you will schedule your time slot for the Axyz CNC Certification Session, which takes place on the fourth day of the course.

  About Your Instructor

  Dave Trimbee is a skilled maker and educator with extensive experience in woodworking and CNC technology. He is passionate about helping students unlock the potential of digital fabrication and bring their projects to life.

  
  

  Show details
• WOODSHOP 101 - August

  • When
    Tuesday, August 11, 2026
  •  
    6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
  • Location
    1130 8th Street East Owen Sound, ON
  • Spaces left
    6

  Register

  
  

  WOODSHOP 101 - Basics Certification

  NOTE: Woodshop 101 is a pre-requisite for any person looking to use the woodshop no matter the skill or experience level.

  https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6782908

  Cost: $65 + HST
  Date: August 11th 2026 6:00–9:00 PM

  Workshop: Woodshop
  Maximum Participants: 6

  Course Description

  Woodshop 101 covers the safe operation of the core tools in the Grey Bruce Makers woodshop. Members must take this orientation before using the woodshop.

  The tools covered in this class include the chop saw, table saw, small bandsaw, table router, drill press, and smaller hand tools. 

  Students will learn basic tool operation and safety but will not complete a project during this class.

  Prior experience is not necessary but may be helpful. This orientation is also a precursor to our Woodshop 102, Table Saw 101, and Lathe classes.

  We require that students must bring their own safety glasses or they will be available for purchase at the front desk for $5

  Key Learnings

  • Learn how to safely and effectively use common woodshop tools

  • Practice basic joinery, shaping, and assembly techniques

  • Read and follow project plans and tool setups

  • Understand the purpose and safe handling of key machines.

  ✅ Prerequisites

  None — this is a CORE introductory course.
  

  What to Wear

  • Closed-toe shoes (steel-toe preferred)

  • No loose clothing or jewelry

  • Safety glasses (bring your own or use a provided pair)

  • Hair tied back

  What to Bring

  • Safety glasses

  • Notebook and pen

  • Water bottle

  • A positive Attitude and willingness to learn

  ‍ About Your Instructor

  

  Will Elliot has nearly 30 years of experience in the wood furniture manufacturing industry — and even more as a passionate self-taught woodworker. Having grown up in a hardware store, tools have always been a natural part of his life. Will brings patience, clarity, and a back-to-basics teaching approach to the shop. His goal is to help every student feel confident, safe, and inspired to keep building.

  Show details
• WOODSHOP 102 - Advanced Certification August

  • When
    Thursday, August 13, 2026
  •  
    6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
  • Location
    1130 8th Street East Owen Sound, ON
  • Spaces left
    6

  Register

  
  

  WOODSHOP 102 - Advanced Certification

  NOTE: Woodshop 102 is a pre-requisite for any person looking to use the woodshop planer, jointer and re-sawing bandsaw.

  https://www.greybrucemakers.ca/event-6779522

  Cost: $65 + HST
  Date: August 13th 2026 6:00–9:00 PM

  Workshop: Woodshop
  Maximum Participants: 6

  Course Description

  In this class, you'll learn about working safely in a woodshop environment and how to operate the jointer, planer, and re-saw bandsaw.

  You'll perform various operations to become comfortable and proficient with the safe usage of these tools. 

  We require that students must bring their own safety glasses or they will be available for purchase at the front desk for $5

  Key Learnings

  • Learn how to safely and effectively use more advanced woodshop machines

  • Practice basic joinery, shaping, and assembly techniques

  • Understand the purpose and safe handling of key machines.

  ✅ Prerequisites

  Woodshop 101 - Basics 

  What to Wear

  • Closed-toe shoes (steel-toe preferred)

  • No loose clothing or jewelry

  • Safety glasses (bring your own or use a provided pair)

  • Hair tied back

  What to Bring

  • Safety glasses

  • Notebook and pen

  • Water bottle

  • A positive Attitude and willingness to learn

  ‍ About Your Instructor

  Will Elliot has nearly 30 years of experience in the wood furniture manufacturing industry — and even more as a passionate self-taught woodworker. Having grown up in a hardware store, tools have always been a natural part of his life. Will brings patience, clarity, and a back-to-basics teaching approach to the shop. His goal is to help every student feel confident, safe, and inspired to keep building.

  Show details
• Outdoor Summer Series - BLACKSMITHING 101 AM Class

  • When
    Saturday, August 15, 2026
  •  
    10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
  • Location
    1130 8th street East Owen Sound, ON N4K5N8

  Register

  

  Outdoor Summer Series: Blacksmithing 101

  https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6743481
  

  COST: $175

  WHEN: Saturday, August 15th, 2026 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

  WHERE: Outdoor Forge Area, Grey Bruce Makers 1130 8th Street E, Owen Sound, ON

  
  

  Step into one of the world's oldest trades and experience the thrill of shaping red-hot steel with hammer and anvil.

  This hands-on introductory blacksmithing course is designed for complete beginners and anyone curious about traditional metalworking. Under the guidance of experienced blacksmith Brian Clowes, you'll learn the fundamentals of working at the forge while creating your own forged project to take home.

  Throughout the day you'll discover how steel behaves under heat, develop confidence using traditional blacksmithing tools, and experience the satisfaction of transforming raw metal into something both useful and uniquely your own.

  By the end of the course, you'll leave with foundational blacksmithing skills and a handcrafted item—such as a decorative hook or bottle opener—that reflects your own craftsmanship.

  WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

  • Forge safety and proper PPE
  • Fire management and heating steel
  • Hammer control and striking techniques
  • Basic forging techniques including drawing out, tapering, bending, and scrolling
  • How to use the anvil, forge, tongs, and blacksmithing hammers
  • Techniques for creating clean, functional forged pieces
  • Finishing your project for years of use

  WHAT YOU'LL MAKE

  Each participant

   will forge and finish a small personalized project to take home, such as a decorative hook, bottle opener, or similar beginner-friendly forged piece.

  WHAT TO BRING

  This course takes place outdoors as part of our Outdoor Summer Series.

  Please bring:

  • Water bottle
  • Sunscreen
  • Closed-toe shoes (required)
  • Long pants made from natural fibres (cotton or denim recommended)
  • Weather-appropriate clothing that you don't mind getting dirty

  Safety glasses and hearing protection will be provided if needed.

  ABOUT YOUR INSTRUCTOR

  Brian Clowes has worked in the metal trades since 1996 and has been blacksmithing since 2004. His career has taken him from Alberta, where he specialized in architectural ironwork, design, and installation, to the United Kingdom, where he spent two years studying traditional joinery techniques within contemporary ironwork. In 2018, Brian founded Forty Hills Forge, where he continues to design and create handcrafted forged works. His practical, hands-on teaching style makes this an ideal first experience for anyone interested in the timeless craft of blacksmithing.

  https://www.fortyhillsforge.com/

  Show details
• PRINTING 101 - August

  • When
    Saturday, August 15, 2026
  •  
    1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
  • Location
    1130 8th Street E Owen Sound, ON N4K5N8

  Register

  
  

  ️ Large Format Printing Made Easy

  https://www.greybrucemakers.ca/event-6779527

  Cost: $75 (includes instruction, one 16"×20" print, and frame)
  

  Date: Saturday, August 15th, 2026 — 1:00–4:00 PM
  Workshop: Marketing Lab
  Maximum Participants: 6

  Course Description

  Want to turn your photos into stunning, gallery-worthy prints? This hands-on workshop teaches you how to use GBM’s 44" HP DesignJet Z6DR large format printer to create beautiful, high-quality posters, technical drawings, or wall art. No photography background required — just basic computer skills and a great image on a USB stick.

  Whether you're printing for your home, business, or a creative project, this workshop will guide you through every step of the process — from paper loading to trimming and framing. You’ll leave with a professionally printed and framed 16"x20" image you created yourself.

  Key Learnings

  • Basic operation of the HP Z6DR printer via the control panel

  • How to load both roll-fed and sheet-fed paper

  • Use of HP Click software to send, size, and align your prints

  • Understanding print borders, sizing, and layout

  • Safe trimming and finishing of prints

  • Introduction to basic colour systems and ICC Profiles

  • Overview of paper types and their effect on print quality

  ✅ Prerequisites

  Basic computer skills required.
  No photography or graphic design experience necessary.

  What to Wear

  • Comfortable indoor attire

  • Closed-toe shoes recommended

  What to Bring

  • USB stick with at least one high-resolution image

  • Optional: additional photos for review

  • All materials provided, including frame and print paper

  Participants are encouraged to send their image ahead of time to:
  ed@edmatphoto.com

  ‍ About Your Instructor

  

  Edward Matthews is a retired professional photographer and former engineer with a passion for precision, creativity, and sharing knowledge. His technical background includes work with Texas Instruments, Dell, OnStar, and MetaSolv, followed by formal photography studies at Austin Community College.

  Ed has worked across multiple photography genres — from portraits and real estate to sports and landscapes — and now calls Lake Charles, Ontario home. At GBM, he combines his engineering mindset and photographic artistry to help members get the most out of the Marketing Lab’s powerful printing tools.

  Show details
• Outdoor Summer Series - Blacksmithing 101 PM Class

  • When
    Saturday, August 15, 2026
  •  
    2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
  • Location
    1130 8th street East Owen Sound, ON N4K5N8

  Register

  

  Outdoor Summer Series: Blacksmithing 101

  https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6779518

  COST: $175

  WHEN: Saturday, August 15th, 2026 | 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM

  WHERE: Outdoor Forge Area, Grey Bruce Makers 1130 8th Street E, Owen Sound, ON

  
  

  Step into one of the world's oldest trades and experience the thrill of shaping red-hot steel with hammer and anvil.

  This hands-on introductory blacksmithing course is designed for complete beginners and anyone curious about traditional metalworking. Under the guidance of experienced blacksmith Brian Clowes, you'll learn the fundamentals of working at the forge while creating your own forged project to take home.

  Throughout the day you'll discover how steel behaves under heat, develop confidence using traditional blacksmithing tools, and experience the satisfaction of transforming raw metal into something both useful and uniquely your own.

  By the end of the course, you'll leave with foundational blacksmithing skills and a handcrafted item—such as a decorative hook or bottle opener—that reflects your own craftsmanship.

  WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

  • Forge safety and proper PPE
  • Fire management and heating steel
  • Hammer control and striking techniques
  • Basic forging techniques including drawing out, tapering, bending, and scrolling
  • How to use the anvil, forge, tongs, and blacksmithing hammers
  • Techniques for creating clean, functional forged pieces
  • Finishing your project for years of use

  WHAT YOU'LL MAKE

  Each participant

   will forge and finish a small personalized project to take home, such as a decorative hook, bottle opener, or similar beginner-friendly forged piece.

  WHAT TO BRING

  This course takes place outdoors as part of our Outdoor Summer Series.

  Please bring:

  • Water bottle
  • Sunscreen
  • Closed-toe shoes (required)
  • Long pants made from natural fibres (cotton or denim recommended)
  • Weather-appropriate clothing that you don't mind getting dirty

  Safety glasses and hearing protection will be provided if needed.

  ABOUT YOUR INSTRUCTOR

  Brian Clowes has worked in the metal trades since 1996 and has been blacksmithing since 2004. His career has taken him from Alberta, where he specialized in architectural ironwork, design, and installation, to the United Kingdom, where he spent two years studying traditional joinery techniques within contemporary ironwork. In 2018, Brian founded Forty Hills Forge, where he continues to design and create handcrafted forged works. His practical, hands-on teaching style makes this an ideal first experience for anyone interested in the timeless craft of blacksmithing.

  https://www.fortyhillsforge.com/

  Show details
• MACHINING 101 - August

  • Start
    Monday, August 17, 2026
  •  
  • End
    Monday, August 24, 2026
  •  
  • Schedule
    3 sessions
  • Location
    1130 8th St E Owen Sound, ON N4K5N8
  • Spaces left
    4

  Register

  
  

  ️Intro to Manual Machining – Lathe & Knee Mill

  https://www.greybrucemakers.ca/event-6779530

  Cost: $199 + HST
  Date(s): Monday, August 17th, Wednesday, August 19th & Monday, August 24th 2026 — 6:00-9:00PM
  Workshop: Metal Shop (Machine Bay)
  Maximum Participants: 4

  Course Description

  Curious about the art and precision of machining? This hands-on course introduces you to the manual metal lathe and vertical knee mill, two essential tools for shaping and fabricating custom metal parts. You’ll gain a foundational understanding of how these machines work and learn to safely turn, drill, mill, and cut components to size.

  Whether you're exploring machining for prototyping, repair, or creative builds, this course gives you the confidence and skill to take your ideas into the world of precision metal shaping.

  Key Learnings

  Safety & PPE:

  • Hazards of rotating machinery: flying debris, sharp edges, and noise

  • Proper use of safety glasses, steel-toe shoes, and hearing protection

  • Importance of fitted clothing — no loose sleeves, jewelry, or neckwear

  Machine Overview & Parts:

  • Lathe: Headstock, chuck, carriage, cross slide, compound rest, tailstock, tool post

  • Knee Mill: Column, base, table, spindle, vise, hand wheels, vertical crank

  • Functions and controls of each component

  Techniques You'll Practice:

  • Turning parts to precise diameter

  • Drilling with the tailstock

  • Parting off, cutting threads, machining tapers and angles

  • Calculating RPM using cutting speed formulas

  • Milling flat surfaces, keyways, and drilled holes in shafts

  • Cutting a flat surface on round stock

  ✅ Prerequisites

  Basic understanding of shop safety recommended.

  What to Wear

  • Steel-toe boots

  • Safety glasses (provided or bring your own)

  • Fitted, non-synthetic clothing (cotton or denim preferred)

  • Hair tied back; no jewelry or loose accessories

  What to Bring

  • Notebook and pen

  • Water bottle

  • All tools and materials provided

  ‍ About Your Instructor

  Iain Campbell is a retired mechanical engineer with over four decades of experience in machining and engineering design. He cut his first CNC project 40 years ago and has since built a career that bridges hands-on manufacturing with technical training. For 25 years, Iain worked as a Technical Trainer at IBM, where he taught operating systems, systems and network administration, Python, SQL, and server security. Now CNC Manager at Upper Canada Stretchers — a company serving professional artists worldwide — he continues to combine precision, creativity, and practical instruction. Iain’s deep knowledge of machining fundamentals and approachable teaching style make him an excellent guide for anyone starting out in the machine shop.

  Show details
• TABLE SAW 101

  • When
    Tuesday, August 18, 2026
  •  
    6:00 PM - 9:00 PM

  Register

  
  

  Table Saw 101

  https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6779694
  Cost: $65 + HST
  Date(s): Tuesday, August 18th 2026 | 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM

  Workshop: Woodshop
  Maximum Participants: 6

  Course Description

  Learn to safely and confidently operate one of the most essential tools in any woodshop. This hands-on introductory course covers table saw safety, machine setup, blade selection, and proper cutting techniques for a variety of woodworking applications. Under the guidance of an experienced instructor, you'll practice making accurate rip cuts, crosscuts, and other common operations while developing the skills needed to work efficiently and safely.

  This course is required before independently using the table saw at Grey Bruce Makers and is ideal for anyone looking to build confidence with one of the shop's most versatile woodworking tools.

  Key Learnings

  • Table saw safety and safe operating procedures
  • Machine setup and pre-use inspections
  • Blade types and selecting the right blade
  • Making accurate rip cuts and crosscuts
  • Using the fence, miter gauge, and push sticks
  • Preventing kickback and other common hazards
  • Basic maintenance and blade changes
  • Best practices for precision, accuracy, and efficiency

  ✅ Prerequisites

  Completion of Woodshop 101 or equivalent experience is recommended.

  What to Wear

  • Closed-toe shoes
  • Long pants
  • Avoid loose clothing and jewelry
  • Long hair must be tied back
  • Safety glasses and hearing protection are provided

  What to Bring

  • Water bottle
  • Notebook and pen (optional)

  All tools, materials, and safety equipment required for the course are provided.

  About Your Instructor

  Will Elliot has nearly 30 years of experience in the wood furniture manufacturing industry — and even more as a passionate self-taught woodworker. Having grown up in a hardware store, tools have always been a natural part of his life. Will brings patience, clarity, and a back-to-basics teaching approach to the shop. His goal is to help every student feel confident, safe, and inspired to keep building.

  Show details
• LASER ENGRAVING 101 - August

  • When
    Thursday, August 20, 2026
  •  
    6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
  • Location
    1130 8th Street E Owen Sound, ON

  Register

  
  

  Laser Engraving Basics

  https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6599959

  Cost: $65
  Date(s): Thursday, August 20th, 6:00–9:00 PM
  Workshop: Digital Fabrication Lab
  Maximum Participants: 6

  Course Description

  Learn how to set up and operate the Epilog CO₂ Laser Engravers at Grey Bruce Makers. In this hands-on course, you’ll be introduced to the fundamentals of CorelDRAW for preparing artwork, explore materials suitable for laser engraving, and master the setup and safety procedures for using the machine independently. This class is a required certification for members who wish to use the laser engravers on their own.

  Key Learnings

  • Import and prepare designs in CorelDRAW

  • Set up and focus the Epilog CO₂ Laser

  • Understand engraving settings for different materials (wood, slate, acrylic, etc.)

  • Perform test runs, basic troubleshooting, and safety checks

  • Clean and maintain the laser system

  ✅ Prerequisites

  None — this is a CORE introductory course.

  What to Wear

  • Closed-toe shoes

  • No loose or flowing clothing

  • Safety glasses (provided if needed)

  • Tie back long hair

  What to Bring

  • USB drive (optional for bringing custom artwork)

  • Notebook and pen (optional)

  • Your creativity and curiosity

  ‍ 

  
  

  Show details
• V-CARVE 101 - August

  • When
    Saturday, August 22, 2026
  •  
    10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
  • Location
    1130 8th Street East, Owen Sound, ON N4K 5N8
  • Spaces left
    10

  Register

  
  

  Intro to V-Carve with Iain Campbell

  https://www.greybrucemakers.ca/event-6779542

  Cost: $99
  Date(s): Saturday, August 22nd, 2026 10:00 AM- 4:00PM
  Workshop: Classroom
  Instructor: Iain Campbell
  Max Students: 10

  Course Description

  Learn the fundamentals of V-Carve, the software that powers CNC design for both routers and plasma cutters. Guided by Iain Campbell, CNC Manager at Upper Canada Stretchers, this course introduces you to the essential functions needed to take a design from screen to machine. Through hands-on practice, you’ll gain the confidence to create, edit, and prepare projects for CNC production.

  Key Learnings

  • Creating a new file
  • Understanding sheets and layers
  • Basic geometry, lines, circles, ellipses
  • Editing entities, trimming, chamfers, fillets
  • Understanding vectors and bitmaps- Intro to simple 3D shapes

  Prerequisites

  No previous CNC or V-Carve experience is required. Beginners welcome.

  What to Wear

  Comfortable clothing suitable for a workshop environment. Safety glasses will be provided if required for demonstrations.

  What to Bring

  • A Windows laptop with V-Carve installed (trial or licensed version)

  • Notebook and pen for notes

  • Light lunch for break time

  Iain Campbell is CNC Manager at Upper Canada Stretchers, where he oversees the production of custom panels and structures for artists around the globe. A retired mechanical engineer, he cut his first CNC project 40 years ago and has since built expertise in blending design with advanced fabrication. His 25 years as an IBM Technical Trainer sharpened his ability to make complex systems clear and approachable, whether teaching shell scripting, Python, SQL, or digital workflows. Author of Reliable Linux (Wiley & Sons, 2002), Iain brings the same clarity and precision to his V-Carve instruction — guiding learners through design setup, toolpaths, and the skills needed to confidently turn digital ideas into physical creations.
  

  Show details
• VACUUM FORMING 101 - August

  • When
    Monday, August 24, 2026
  •  
    6:30 PM - 9:00 PM

  Register

  
  

  Vacuum Forming 101

  https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6779709

  
  Cost: $65 + HST
  Date(s): Monday, August 24th 2026 | 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM

  Workshop: Digital Fabrication Lab
  Maximum Participants: 6

  Course Description

  Discover the basics of vacuum forming and learn how to create durable plastic parts from custom molds. In this hands-on introductory workshop, you'll learn the complete vacuum forming process, from material selection and mold preparation to machine operation and finishing techniques. You'll produce your own formed parts while gaining practical knowledge of a manufacturing process commonly used for prototyping, packaging, product design, props, costume making, and small-scale production.

  Whether you're a maker, designer, artist, or entrepreneur, this course provides the foundational skills needed to confidently begin working with vacuum-formed plastics.

  Key Learnings

  • Understand vacuum forming safety and machine operation
  • Learn about common thermoplastic materials and their applications
  • Design and prepare molds for successful forming
  • Heat and form plastic sheets using professional equipment
  • Trim and finish vacuum-formed parts
  • Identify and prevent common forming defects
  • Handle materials safely and efficiently
  • Explore applications in prototyping, packaging, product design, and fabrication

  ✅ Prerequisites

  None — this is a CORE introductory course. No previous experience is required.

  What to Wear

  • Closed-toe shoes
  • Comfortable clothing suitable for workshop environments
  • Long hair must be tied back
  • Safety glasses are provided

  What to Bring

  • Water bottle
  • Notebook and pen (optional)

  All materials, equipment, and safety gear required for the course are provided.

  
  

  About Your Instructor

  Dave Trimbee is an experienced maker and educator with a strong background in digital fabrication and manufacturing technologies. Passionate about hands-on learning, he enjoys helping students understand material properties, and develop the skills to create with confidence.
  

  
  

  Show details
• LASER ENGRAVING 102

  • When
    Thursday, August 27, 2026
  •  
    6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
  • Location
    1130 8th Street E Owen Sound, ON

  Register

  
  

  Laser Engraving 102

  https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6781108

  Cost: $65
  Date(s): Thursday, August 27th, 6:00–9:00 PM
  Workshop: Digital Fabrication Lab
  Maximum Participants: 6

  Course Description

  Learn how to set up and operate the Epilog CO₂ Laser Engravers at Grey Bruce Makers. In this hands-on course, you’ll be introduced to the fundamentals of CorelDRAW for preparing artwork, explore materials suitable for laser engraving, and master the setup and safety procedures for using the machine independently. This class is a required certification for members who wish to use the laser engravers on their own.

  Key Learnings

  • Import and prepare designs in CorelDRAW

  • Set up and focus the Epilog CO₂ Laser

  • Understand engraving settings for different materials (wood, slate, acrylic, etc.)

  • Perform test runs, basic troubleshooting, and safety checks

  • Clean and maintain the laser system

  ✅ Prerequisites

  **Must have completed LASER ENGRAVING 101

  What to Wear

  • Closed-toe shoes

  • No loose or flowing clothing

  • Safety glasses (provided if needed)

  • Tie back long hair

  What to Bring

  • USB drive (optional for bringing custom artwork)

  • Notebook and pen (optional)

  • Your creativity and curiosity

  ‍ About Your Instructor

  

  Mark Brown is a lifelong maker and student of all things creative. After taking the Intro to Laser class himself in 2024, he became fascinated with the possibilities the Epilog laser engravers offered. Mark now works in slate, anodized aluminum, wood, acrylic, and porcelain tiles. He has a knack for turning complex skills into clear, digestible lessons.

  With support from Grey Bruce Makers and the Business Enterprise Centre, Mark founded Fire and Shadow Alchemy — a laser art business focused on personal expression and technical precision.
  www.fireandshadowalchemy.ca
  Follow him: @fireandshadowalchemy on Facebook & Instagram

  
  

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• DECORATIVE WELDING w/ Daniel Alosio - August

  • Start
    Saturday, August 29, 2026
  •  
    10:00 AM
  • End
    Sunday, August 30, 2026
  •  
    2:00 PM
  • Location
    1130 8th St East Owen Sound, ON N4K 5N8
  • Spaces left
    4

  
  

  DECORATIVE WELDING

  Cost: $379 + HST
  Date: Saturday, August 29th &  Sunday August 30th, 2026 — 10:00 AM–2:00 PM
  Workshop: Metal Shop (Weld Bay)
  Maximum Participants: 4

  https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6599954

  Course Description

  Artistic Welding Workshop

  $379 + tax | 2 Sessions of Creative Firepower

  Get ready to spark your imagination (and a few arcs)! In this 2-session intensive workshop, you’ll dive into the world of artistic welding—where heat, steel, and creativity collide. Whether you’re brand new to metalwork or already a maker looking to level up, this hands-on experience will leave you fired up and full of new skills.

  Here’s what you’ll be playing with (safely, of course):
  

  - MIG welding basics and beyond
  - Metal shaping and texturing using hammers, and jigs
  - Cutting, grinding, fitting, and bending steel into creative form
  - Proper and safe use of power tools and welding equipment

  This is not a certification course—this is where your metal art journey begins. You’ll walk away with new skills, new confidence, and probably a few sparks on your boots (okay, hopefully not literally).

  Small group size = plenty of instructor time and guidance tailored to your experience level. Let us know your background when you register—we’ll meet you where you’re at and help you grow from there.

  Prerequisites: No prior welding experience is necessary. This workshop is suitable for beginners who want to learn basic welding techniques in a short amount of time.

  Equipment: All necessary welding equipment and materials will be provided, including a MIG welder, welding helmet, gloves, and welding wire. Participants are encouraged to wear long-sleeved cotton clothing and closed-toe shoes for safety.

  Participants will be given the choice from 3 fun artistic projects to create. 

  1. A decorative garden stake

  2. A Metal Bird Sculpture

  3. A hanging metal Sculpture.

   
  

  Key Learnings

  • Understand MIG welding equipment, shielding gas, and wire feed systems

  • Learn essential safety practices, PPE use, and fire prevention

  • Practice tack welds, butt joints, and fillet welds on steel

  Prerequisites

  None — this is a CORE introductory welding course. No prior experience required.

  What to Wear

  • Long-sleeved, non-synthetic (cotton) clothing

  • Closed-toe leather or steel-toe shoes

  • No jewelry or exposed skin

  • Safety gear (helmet, gloves, jacket) is provided — feel free to bring your own

  What to Bring

  • Water bottle

  • Notebook and pen (optional)

  • All welding tools and materials are provided

  About Your Instructor

  Daniel Aloisio is a certified welder and instructor who blends technical skill with creative vision. With experience in MIG, TIG, and stick welding, as well as CNC machining and fabrication, he helps beginners see welding not just as a trade but as an art form. Daniel’s approachable teaching style and focus on safety empower students to transform raw steel into expressive works of sculpture.
  

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