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CORE ORIENTATION AND CERTIFICATION CLASSES

Our Safety & Orientation classes review basic safety and proper operation of each tool area, and are required for tool access regardless of previous experience. After taking these classes, students have the option to sign up for a membership.

Upcoming events

  • LEARN TO WELD with Jeff Mills - Oct 10th DAYTIME

    • Friday, October 10, 2025
    • 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
    • 1130 8th Street East, Owen Sound, ON N4KV1
    • 2
    Register


    Learn to Weld – MIG Welding (GMAW)

    https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6323386

    Cost: $189 + HST
    Date(s): Friday, Oct 10th, 2025 — 11am–2pm PM
    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

  • Sculpted In Steel w/ Daniel Alosio

    • Saturday, October 11, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
    • 1130 8th St East Owen Sound, ON N4K 5N8
    • 2
    Register


    Sculpted in Steel

    Cost: $199 + HST
    Date: Saturday, October 11th, 2025 — 10:00 AM–2:00 PM
    Workshop: Metal Shop (Weld Bay)
    Maximum Participants: 4

    https://www.greybrucemakers.ca/event-6354710

    Course Description

    Unleash your creativity while learning the fundamentals of welding in this hands-on workshop. In Sculpted in Steel, participants will cut, grind, and weld steel sheets into cubes, then assemble them into a striking metal sculpture to take home. Along the way, you’ll gain the skills and confidence to work safely with MIG welding equipment, grinders, and the metal band saw — balancing technical know-how with artistic expression.

    Whether you’re brand new to welding or eager to explore the artistic side of metalwork, this CORE introductory course is the perfect place to spark your creativity.

     

    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.

    Show details

  • LEARN CAD - FUSION 360 with Mike Jones Oct 14, 16, 21st

    • Tuesday, October 14, 2025
    • Tuesday, October 21, 2025
    • 3 sessions
    • 1130 Street E Owen Sound
    Register


    LEARN CAD DESIGN – Autodesk Fusion 360

    https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6323310

    Cost: $150 + HST
    Date(s): Tuesday Oct 14th, Thursday Oct 16th, Tuesday Oct 21st 6:00–9:00 PM
    Workshop: Classroom
    Maximum Participants: 8

    Course Description

    Ready to design smarter and build better? In this beginner-to-intermediate course, you'll learn how to use Autodesk Fusion 360 to model, visualize, and prepare your projects for the shop. Whether you're creating something artistic or engineering a complex assembly, Fusion 360 helps reduce material waste and avoid costly mistakes by giving you control over every design detail.

    This course is ideal for makers, designers, and entrepreneurs looking to bring precision and clarity to their creative workflow.

    Key Learnings

    • Understand 3D modeling fundamentals: planes, sketches, constraints, and reference lines

    • Use the Sketch Tool for accurate drafting and dimensioning

    • Create shop-ready drawings: drill guides, sanding templates, cut lists, and more

    • Assemble multiple parts into a single, cohesive 3D model

    • Navigate the Fusion 360 interface with confidence

    ✅ Prerequisites

    Basic computer skills required. No prior CAD experience necessary.

    What to Wear

    • Closed-toe shoes

    • Safety glasses (for shop access or demos)

    • Comfortable clothing for working at a laptop

    What to Bring

    • Laptop with Autodesk Fusion 360 installed (free personal use license available)

    • External mouse (strongly recommended)

    • Notebook and pen

    • Safety glasses

    ‍ About Your Instructor

    Mike Jones holds an M.S. in Electrical Engineering and a B.S. in Mechanical & Electrical Engineering. His professional career spans cutting-edge innovation at companies like Disney Engineering and Delphi Automotive. Now based in Owen Sound, Mike co-founded Knot Audio with his wife Sarah, creating stunning picture frame speakers crafted from locally-sourced tonewoods.

    Mike uses Grey Bruce Makers as his innovation hub and is passionate about teaching others to build with purpose and precision. His teaching style blends technical rigor with creativity, making Fusion 360 approachable for all skill levels.

    Show details

  • INTRO TO MACHINING w/ Iain Campbell Oct 15th & 16th

    • Wednesday, October 15, 2025
    • Thursday, October 16, 2025
    • 2 sessions
    • 1130 8th St E Owen Sound, ON N4K5N8
    • 3
    Register


    ️Intro to Manual Machining – Lathe & Knee Mill

    https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6323259

    Cost: $199 + HST
    Date(s): Wednesday, Oct 15th & Thursday, Oct 16th, 2025 — 6:00–8:30 PM
    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

  • LASER Engraving Basics w/ Mark Brown - Oct 16th

    • Thursday, October 16, 2025
    • 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • 1130 8th Street E Owen Sound, ON
    Register

    Laser Engraving Basics

    https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6323145

    Cost: $65
    Date(s): Thursday, October 16th, 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

    ‍ 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


    Show details

  • LEARN TO WELD with Jeff Mills - Oct 17th DAYTIME

    • Friday, October 17, 2025
    • 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
    • 1130 8th Street East, Owen Sound, ON N4KV1
    • 4
    Register


    Learn to Weld – MIG Welding (GMAW)

    https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6323386

    Cost: $189 + HST
    Date(s): Friday  - DAYTIME, Oct 17th, 2025 — 11am–2 PM
    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

  • 3D Printing Basics w/ Fred DeBoard - Oct 22nd

    • Wednesday, October 22, 2025
    • 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • 1130 8th Street E, Owen Sound, ON
    Register

    3D Printing Basics with Fred Deboard

    https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6323163

    Cost: $65 + HST
    Date: Wednesday, October 22nd, 2025 — 6:00–9:00 PM
    Workshop: Digital Fabrication Lab
    Maximum Participants: 6

    Course Description

    Curious about 3D printing? This hands-on class with 3D printing expert Fred DeBoard introduces you to the fundamentals of FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) 3D printing. You’ll learn how to safely operate the 3D printers at Grey Bruce Makers and gain the skills needed to prepare, launch, and troubleshoot your own prints. Completion of this course certifies you to use GBM’s 3D printers independently as a member.

    Key Learnings

    • Load and unload filament correctly

    • Calibrate the build plate for consistent prints

    • Select, prepare, and download 3D model files

    • Understand slicer basics and print settings

    • Troubleshoot failed prints and improve quality

    ✅ Prerequisites

    None — this is a CORE introductory course.

    What to Wear

    • Closed-toe shoes

    • Avoid loose clothing or accessories

    • Safety glasses are optional

    What to Bring

    • USB drive (optional for storing print files)

    • Notebook and pen

    • A design idea or STL file (optional)

    ‍ About Your Instructor

    Fred DeBoard is a long-time 3D printing enthusiast and problem solver who has helped hundreds of makers get started with additive manufacturing. With a practical, patient teaching style, Fred brings deep knowledge and a passion for experimentation to every class. Whether you’re printing your first model or looking to troubleshoot your prints, Fred is the go-to mentor for learning the ins and outs of 3D printing at GBM.


    Show details

  • Intro to V-Carve w/ Iain Campbell

    • Saturday, October 25, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
    • 1130 8th Street East, Owen Sound, ON N4K 5N8
    • 10
    Register


    Intro to V-Carve with Iain Campbell

    Cost: $99
    Date(s): Saturday, October 25th, 2025 10:00 AM- 4:00PM
    Workshop: Classroom
    Instructor: Iain Campbell
    Max Students: 10

    https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6368242

    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

  • MAKE WOODEN PUB GAMES w/ Will Elliot Oct 28th & 30th

    • Tuesday, October 28, 2025
    • Thursday, October 30, 2025
    • 2 sessions
    • 1130 8th Street East Owen Sound, ON
    • 6
    Register


    Learn Woodworking – PUB GAMES

    https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6323184

    Cost: $140 + HST
    Date(s): Tuesday Oct 28th, Thursday Oct 30th, 2025 — 6:00–9:00 PM

    Workshop: Woodshop
    Maximum Participants: 6

    Course Description

    Looking for a fun and social woodworking project? Join us in the woodshop for two creative evenings building classic wooden pub games — the kind you’ll want to keep out on the table long after the sawdust settles.

    You’ll learn hands-on woodworking techniques as you cut, shape, and assemble your own set of handcrafted games that combine skill, luck, and a touch of friendly competition. Each project is designed to build confidence with tools and materials while leaving plenty of room for creativity and personal flair.

    No experience? No problem. Whether you’re new to woodworking or just looking for a relaxed project to share with friends, this course is all about craftsmanship, conversation, and a good time in the shop.

    Key Learnings

    • Safely operate core woodshop tools and equipment

    • Practice accurate measuring, marking, and joinery

    • Learn shaping, sanding, and finishing techniques

    • Follow project plans and tool setups confidently

    • Leave with one or more completed wooden games ready for play

    ✅ 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
    All materials are provided for the project

      ‍ 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 Basics w/ Mark Brown - Oct 30th

      • Thursday, October 30, 2025
      • 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
      • 1130 8th Street E Owen Sound, ON
      Register

      Laser Engraving Basics

      https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6323147

      Cost: $65
      Date(s): Thursday, October 30th, 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

      ‍ 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


      Show details

    • LASER Engraving Basics w/ Mark Brown - Nov 13th

      • Thursday, November 13, 2025
      • 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
      • 1130 8th Street E Owen Sound, ON
      Register

      Laser Engraving Basics

      https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6323149

      Cost: $65
      Date(s): Thursday, November 13th, 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

      ‍ 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


      Show details

    • 3D Printing Basics w/ Fred DeBoard - Nov 19th

      • Wednesday, November 19, 2025
      • 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
      • 1130 8th Street E, Owen Sound, ON
      Register

      3D Printing Basics with Fred Deboard

      https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6323165

      Cost: $65 + HST
      Date: Wednesday, Novenber 19th, 2025 — 6:00–9:00 PM
      Workshop: Digital Fabrication Lab
      Maximum Participants: 6

      Course Description

      Curious about 3D printing? This hands-on class with 3D printing expert Fred DeBoard introduces you to the fundamentals of FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) 3D printing. You’ll learn how to safely operate the 3D printers at Grey Bruce Makers and gain the skills needed to prepare, launch, and troubleshoot your own prints. Completion of this course certifies you to use GBM’s 3D printers independently as a member.

      Key Learnings

      • Load and unload filament correctly

      • Calibrate the build plate for consistent prints

      • Select, prepare, and download 3D model files

      • Understand slicer basics and print settings

      • Troubleshoot failed prints and improve quality

      ✅ Prerequisites

      None — this is a CORE introductory course.

      What to Wear

      • Closed-toe shoes

      • Avoid loose clothing or accessories

      • Safety glasses are optional

      What to Bring

      • USB drive (optional for storing print files)

      • Notebook and pen

      • A design idea or STL file (optional)

      ‍ About Your Instructor

      Fred DeBoard is a long-time 3D printing enthusiast and problem solver who has helped hundreds of makers get started with additive manufacturing. With a practical, patient teaching style, Fred brings deep knowledge and a passion for experimentation to every class. Whether you’re printing your first model or looking to troubleshoot your prints, Fred is the go-to mentor for learning the ins and outs of 3D printing at GBM.


      Show details

    • PRINT & FRAME Large Format Printing w/ Ed Matthews Nov 22nd

      • Saturday, November 22, 2025
      • 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
      • 1130 8th Street E Owen Sound, ON N4K5N8
      Register

      ️ Large Format Printing Made Easy

      https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6323364

      Cost: $75 (includes instruction, one 16"×20" print, and frame)
      Date: Saturday, Nov 22nd, 2025 — 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

    • LASER Engraving Basics w/ Mark Brown - Nov 27th

      • Thursday, November 27, 2025
      • 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
      • 1130 8th Street E Owen Sound, ON
      Register

      Laser Engraving Basics

      https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6323152

      Cost: $65
      Date(s): Thursday, November 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

      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

      ‍ 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


      Show details

    • PRINT & FRAME Large Format Printing w/ Ed Matthews Dec 6th

      • Saturday, December 06, 2025
      • 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
      • 1130 8th Street E Owen Sound, ON N4K5N8
      Register

      ️ Large Format Printing Made Easy

      https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6323369

      Cost: $75 (includes instruction, one 16"×20" print, and frame)
      Date: Saturday, Dec 6th, 2025 — 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

    • LEARN CAD - FUSION 360 with Mike Jones Dec 9th, 11th, 16th

      • Tuesday, December 09, 2025
      • Tuesday, December 16, 2025
      • 3 sessions
      • 1130 Street E Owen Sound
      Register


      LEARN CAD DESIGN – Autodesk Fusion 360

      https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6323315

      Cost: $150 + HST
      Date(s): Tuesday Dec 9th, Thursday Dec 11th, Tuesday Dec 16th 6:00–9:00 PM
      Workshop: Classroom
      Maximum Participants: 8

      Course Description

      Ready to design smarter and build better? In this beginner-to-intermediate course, you'll learn how to use Autodesk Fusion 360 to model, visualize, and prepare your projects for the shop. Whether you're creating something artistic or engineering a complex assembly, Fusion 360 helps reduce material waste and avoid costly mistakes by giving you control over every design detail.

      This course is ideal for makers, designers, and entrepreneurs looking to bring precision and clarity to their creative workflow.

      Key Learnings

      • Understand 3D modeling fundamentals: planes, sketches, constraints, and reference lines

      • Use the Sketch Tool for accurate drafting and dimensioning

      • Create shop-ready drawings: drill guides, sanding templates, cut lists, and more

      • Assemble multiple parts into a single, cohesive 3D model

      • Navigate the Fusion 360 interface with confidence

      ✅ Prerequisites

      Basic computer skills required. No prior CAD experience necessary.

      What to Wear

      • Closed-toe shoes

      • Safety glasses (for shop access or demos)

      • Comfortable clothing for working at a laptop

      What to Bring

      • Laptop with Autodesk Fusion 360 installed (free personal use license available)

      • External mouse (strongly recommended)

      • Notebook and pen

      • Safety glasses

      ‍ About Your Instructor

      Mike Jones holds an M.S. in Electrical Engineering and a B.S. in Mechanical & Electrical Engineering. His professional career spans cutting-edge innovation at companies like Disney Engineering and Delphi Automotive. Now based in Owen Sound, Mike co-founded Knot Audio with his wife Sarah, creating stunning picture frame speakers crafted from locally-sourced tonewoods.

      Mike uses Grey Bruce Makers as his innovation hub and is passionate about teaching others to build with purpose and precision. His teaching style blends technical rigor with creativity, making Fusion 360 approachable for all skill levels.

      Show details

    • LASER Engraving Basics w/ Mark Brown - Dec 11th

      • Thursday, December 11, 2025
      • 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
      • 1130 8th Street E Owen Sound, ON
      Register

      Laser Engraving Basics

      https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6323156

      Cost: $65
      Date(s): Thursday, December 11th, 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

      ‍ 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


      Show details

    • 3D Printing Basics w/ Fred DeBoard - Dec 17th

      • Wednesday, December 17, 2025
      • 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
      • 1130 8th Street E, Owen Sound, ON
      Register

      3D Printing Basics with Fred Deboard

      https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6323168

      Cost: $65 + HST
      Date: Wednesday, December 17th, 2025 — 6:00–9:00 PM
      Workshop: Digital Fabrication Lab
      Maximum Participants: 6

      Course Description

      Curious about 3D printing? This hands-on class with 3D printing expert Fred DeBoard introduces you to the fundamentals of FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) 3D printing. You’ll learn how to safely operate the 3D printers at Grey Bruce Makers and gain the skills needed to prepare, launch, and troubleshoot your own prints. Completion of this course certifies you to use GBM’s 3D printers independently as a member.

      Key Learnings

      • Load and unload filament correctly

      • Calibrate the build plate for consistent prints

      • Select, prepare, and download 3D model files

      • Understand slicer basics and print settings

      • Troubleshoot failed prints and improve quality

      ✅ Prerequisites

      None — this is a CORE introductory course.

      What to Wear

      • Closed-toe shoes

      • Avoid loose clothing or accessories

      • Safety glasses are optional

      What to Bring

      • USB drive (optional for storing print files)

      • Notebook and pen

      • A design idea or STL file (optional)

      ‍ About Your Instructor

      Fred DeBoard is a long-time 3D printing enthusiast and problem solver who has helped hundreds of makers get started with additive manufacturing. With a practical, patient teaching style, Fred brings deep knowledge and a passion for experimentation to every class. Whether you’re printing your first model or looking to troubleshoot your prints, Fred is the go-to mentor for learning the ins and outs of 3D printing at GBM.


      Show details

    Grey Bruce Makers is a not-for-profit organization supported by membership fees, course fees, sponsorships and donations. We are a proud regional centre for creativity and community.

    Executive Director

    Dan Herrick

    226-974-7399

    info@greybrucemakers.ca

    1130 8th Street East, Owen Sound, ON
    N4K 5N8
    Directions

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