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AREAS OF LEARNING

WOODWORKING

METAL WORKING

DIGITAL FABRICATION

DIGIAL MEDIA PRODUCTION

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

  • INTRO TO MACHINING w/ Iain Campbell Jan 12th & 14th

    • Monday, January 12, 2026
    • Wednesday, January 14, 2026
    • 2 sessions
    • 1130 8th St E Owen Sound, ON N4K5N8
    • 3
    Register


    ️Intro to Manual Machining – Lathe & Knee Mill

    https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6480413

    Cost: $199 + HST
    Date(s): Monday, Jan 12th & Wednesday, Jan 14th, 2026 — 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

  • Woodshop 101 - Basics Certification Jan 13th

    • Tuesday, January 13, 2026
    • 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • 1130 8th Street East Owen Sound, ON
    • 1
    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-6483679

    Cost: $65 + HST
    Date: January 13th 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

  • 3D Printing Basics w/ Fred DeBoard - Jan 14th

    • Wednesday, January 14, 2026
    • 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • 1130 8th Street E, Owen Sound, ON
    Register

    3D Printing Basics with Fred Deboard

    https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6485739

    Cost: $65 + HST
    Date: Wednesday, Jan 14th, 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

  • Build a Picture Frame w/ Ron Farino Jan 15th

    • Thursday, January 15, 2026
    • 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • 1130 8th Street E Owen Sound, ON N4K 5N8
    • 3
    Register


    Build a Picture Frame with Ron Farino

    https://www.greybrucemakers.ca/event-6489695

    Cost: $65
    Date: Thursday, January 15, 2026
    Time: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
    Workshop: Woodshop

    Course Description

    A well-built picture frame does more than hold art—it elevates it. In this hands-on workshop, participants will learn the fundamentals of building high-quality wooden picture frames using professional woodworking techniques. Led by experienced woodworker Ron Farino, this class walks you through the full process, from material selection and precise measuring to cutting clean mitres and assembling a strong, square frame.

    Whether you’re framing artwork, photographs, or keepsakes, this course will give you the confidence and skills to produce frames that look polished, intentional, and built to last.

    Key Learnings

    • Selecting appropriate wood for picture frames

    • Accurate measuring and layout for frame construction

    • Cutting clean, tight mitre joints

    • Assembling and clamping frames for strength and squareness

    • Tips for achieving a professional finish

    Prerequisites

    • No prior woodworking experience required

    • Woodshop Orientation is recommended but not mandatory

    What to Wear

    • Closed-toe shoes

    • Comfortable clothing suitable for a workshop environment

    • Tie back long hair and avoid loose jewelry

    What to Bring

    • All tools and materials are provided

    • Participants are welcome to bring a small artwork or photo (optional) for sizing reference

    About Your Instructor

    Ron Farino is a skilled woodworker with years of hands-on experience crafting furniture and fine woodworking projects. Known for his practical approach and attention to detail, Ron enjoys helping others build confidence in the shop while learning techniques they can apply to their own creative projects.

    Show details

  • Woodshop 102 - Advanced Certification Jan 15th

    • Thursday, January 15, 2026
    • 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • 1130 8th Street East Owen Sound, ON
    • 5
    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://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6483707

    Cost: $65 + HST
    Date: January 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

  • LASER Engraving Basics w/ Mark Brown - Jan 15th

    • Thursday, January 15, 2026
    • 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • 1130 8th Street E Owen Sound, ON
    Register

    Laser Engraving Basics

    https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6485746

    Cost: $65
    Date(s): Thursday, Jan 15th, 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

  • Intro to V-Carve w/ Iain Campbell Jan 17th

    • Saturday, January 17, 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
    • 1130 8th Street East, Owen Sound, ON N4K 5N8
    • 9
    Register


    Intro to V-Carve with Iain Campbell

    https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6481582

    Cost: $99
    Date(s): Saturday, January 17th, 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

  • LEARN THE CNC PLASMA CUTTER - Jan 19th

    • Monday, January 19, 2026
    • Saturday, January 24, 2026
    • 3 sessions
    • 1130 8th St E Owen Sound
    • 6
    Register

    Learn the CNC Plasma Cutter – Design to Cut

    https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6485757

    Cost: $199 + HST
    Date(s):  Monday January 19th, Wednesday January 21st, Saturday 24th 10am-1pm

    Workshop: Classroom & Metal Shop
    Maximum Participants: 6

    NOTE: PREREQUISITE - INTRO to V-Carve

    Course Description

    Ready to turn digital designs into sparks and steel? This hands-on course introduces members to the powerful world of CNC Plasma Cutting using the metal shop’s precision CNC table and Vectric V-Carve Pro software.

    Over three guided sessions, you’ll learn how to prepare your files, safely operate the plasma cutter, and create high-quality metal parts, signs, and projects. This course is a required certification for independent use of the CNC Plasma Cutter at Grey Bruce Makers.

    Whether you’re designing brackets, art, signage, or components, this class will give you the knowledge and confidence to bring your ideas to life in metal.

    Key Learnings

    • Introduction to CNC plasma technology and its capabilities

    • Create and prepare cut paths using Vectric V-Carve Pro

    • Understand kerf, pierce points, and toolpath planning for plasma

    • Material types and how they affect settings and edge quality

    • Machine setup, safety checks, and G-code export

    • Safe operation of the GBM CNC Plasma Cutter

    • Troubleshooting tips and post-processing your cut parts

    ✅ Prerequisites

    PC (Windows laptop) required
    Basic computer skills necessary.

    What to Wear

    • Steel-toe boots

    • Flame-resistant, non-synthetic long-sleeved clothing (e.g., cotton, denim)

    • Safety glasses (provided or bring your own)

    • Welding gloves (provided or bring your own)

    • No jewelry or loose clothing

    What to Bring

    • Laptop with Vectric V-Carve Pro installed (trial available at vectric.com)

    • USB stick for file transfers

    • Notebook and pen

    • Water bottle

    • All other materials provided

    ‍ About Your Instructor

    David Trimbee is a builder, educator, and digital fabrication specialist with a passion for teaching precision tools to creative minds. With experience in both woodworking and metal fabrication, David brings patience, humor, and clarity to every class — helping you cut clean, cut smart, and cut safe.


    Show details

  • Build a Picture Frame w/ Ron Farino Jan 22nd

    • Thursday, January 22, 2026
    • 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • 1130 8th Street E Owen Sound, ON N4K 5N8
    • 4
    Register


    Build a Picture Frame with Ron Farino

    https://www.greybrucemakers.ca/event-6489719

    Cost: $65
    Date: Thursday, January 22, 2026
    Time: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
    Workshop: Woodshop

    Course Description

    A well-built picture frame does more than hold art—it elevates it. In this hands-on workshop, participants will learn the fundamentals of building high-quality wooden picture frames using professional woodworking techniques. Led by experienced woodworker Ron Farino, this class walks you through the full process, from material selection and precise measuring to cutting clean mitres and assembling a strong, square frame.

    Whether you’re framing artwork, photographs, or keepsakes, this course will give you the confidence and skills to produce frames that look polished, intentional, and built to last.

    Key Learnings

    • Selecting appropriate wood for picture frames

    • Accurate measuring and layout for frame construction

    • Cutting clean, tight mitre joints

    • Assembling and clamping frames for strength and squareness

    • Tips for achieving a professional finish

    Prerequisites

    • No prior woodworking experience required

    • Woodshop Orientation is recommended but not mandatory

    What to Wear

    • Closed-toe shoes

    • Comfortable clothing suitable for a workshop environment

    • Tie back long hair and avoid loose jewelry

    What to Bring

    • All tools and materials are provided

    • Participants are welcome to bring a small artwork or photo (optional) for sizing reference

    About Your Instructor

    Ron Farino is a skilled woodworker with years of hands-on experience crafting furniture and fine woodworking projects. Known for his practical approach and attention to detail, Ron enjoys helping others build confidence in the shop while learning techniques they can apply to their own creative projects.

    Show details

  • DECORATIVE WELDING w/ Daniel Alosio Jan 24th, 25th

    • Saturday, January 24, 2026
    • Sunday, January 25, 2026
    • 2 sessions
    • 1130 8th St East Owen Sound, ON N4K 5N8
    • 3
    Register


    DECORATIVE WELDING

    Cost: $379 + HST
    Date: Saturday, January 24th & 25th, 2026 — 10:00 AM–2:00 PM
    Workshop: Metal Shop (Weld Bay)
    Maximum Participants: 4

    https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6483814

    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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  • PRINT & FRAME Large Format Printing w/ Ed Matthews Jan 24th

    • Saturday, January 24, 2026
    • 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • 1130 8th Street E Owen Sound, ON N4K5N8
    Register

    ️ Large Format Printing Made Easy

    https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6481654

    Cost: $75 (includes instruction, one 16"×20" print, and frame)
    Date: Saturday, January 24th, 20265 — 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 THE RASPBERRY PI PICO

    • Tuesday, January 27, 2026
    • Thursday, February 19, 2026
    • 8 sessions
    • 1130 8th Street East Owen Sound, ON
    • 9
    Register

    MASTERING THE RASPBERRY PI PICO

    https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6483604

    4 INSTRUCTION SESSIONS - Tuesday Evenings 6pm-8:30pm

    January 27th, February 3rd, 10th, 17th

    3 HANDS-ON LAB SESSIONS - Thursday Evenings 6pm-8:30pm 

    January 29th, February 5th, 12th

    PRICE $ 250.00 plus Tax

    INCLUDES RASPBERRY PI PCIO KIT! A $95 Value! 

    Introduction to Digital Electronics and Microcontrollers

    This program allows you to learn, build, and experience digital electronics using Python programming and learn about the Internet of Things. Things that measure the world around us, turn things on and off, and display the results. The Raspberry Pi Pico was developed in the UK to advance the knowledge and understanding that people have for the IoT.

    You are provided with and get to keep the “Euler Kit for Raspberry Pi Pico” with access to more than 50 experiments. The circuits and programming are provided.

    Pre-requisites:

    • Basic computer skills (Internet: browsing, e-mail, keyboarding, files and storage, downloading and setting up applications)
    • Access to a Lap Top computer (MAC or PC) to bring to class ( we have a few available but you must have access to a computer at home if using one of ours in class)
    • Patience as you will be working with small devices and wires on a breadboard.

    Bring a notebook

    What you will Learn:

    • Digital electronics – On & Off, Binary numbers, Voltage, Resistance and Current, circuits and the breadboard
    • Raspberry Pi Pico – features, limits and connection to various pins on the device
    • Integrated Development Environment – Thonny, loading Micropython into the Pico, 1.6 Micropython basic syntax
    • Building Circuits – from the simple to the complex
    • Connecting your project to the internet



    Show details

  • LEARN CAD - FUSION 360 with Mike Jones Feb 2nd

    • Monday, February 02, 2026
    • Monday, February 09, 2026
    • 3 sessions
    • 1130 Street E Owen Sound
    Register


    LEARN CAD DESIGN – Autodesk Fusion 360

    https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6485298

    Cost: $150 + HST
    Date(s): Monday Feb 2nd, Wednesday Feb 4th, Monday Feb 9th 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.

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  • INTRO TO MACHINING w/ Iain Campbell Feb 9th & 11th

    • Monday, February 09, 2026
    • 6:00 PM
    • Wednesday, February 11, 2026
    • 8:30 PM
    • 1130 8th St E Owen Sound, ON N4K5N8
    • 4
    Register


    ️Intro to Manual Machining – Lathe & Knee Mill

    https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6480423

    Cost: $199 + HST
    Date(s): Monday, Feb 9th & Wednesday, Feb 11th, 2026 — 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

  • Woodshop 101 - Basics Certification Feb 10th

    • Tuesday, February 10, 2026
    • 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • 1130 8th Street East Owen Sound, ON
    • 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-6485890

    Cost: $65 + HST
    Date: Feb 10th 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 Feb 12th

    • Thursday, February 12, 2026
    • 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • 1130 8th Street East Owen Sound, ON
    • 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://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6485900

    Cost: $65 + HST
    Date: Feb 12th 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

  • Intro to V-Carve w/ Iain Campbell Feb 14th

    • Saturday, February 14, 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
    • 1130 8th Street East, Owen Sound, ON N4K 5N8
    • 10
    Register


    Intro to V-Carve with Iain Campbell

    https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6481586

    Cost: $99
    Date(s): Saturday, February 14th, 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

  • 3D Printing Basics w/ Fred DeBoard - Feb 18th

    • Wednesday, February 18, 2026
    • 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • 1130 8th Street E, Owen Sound, ON
    Register

    3D Printing Basics with Fred Deboard

    https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6485742

    Cost: $65 + HST
    Date: Wednesday, Feb 18th, 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

  • LASER Engraving Basics w/ Mark Brown - Feb 19th

    • Thursday, February 19, 2026
    • 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • 1130 8th Street E Owen Sound, ON
    Register

    Laser Engraving Basics

    https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6485750

    Cost: $65
    Date(s): Thursday, Feb 19th, 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 Feb 21st

    • Saturday, February 21, 2026
    • 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • 1130 8th Street E Owen Sound, ON N4K5N8
    Register

    ️ Large Format Printing Made Easy

    https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6481654

    Cost: $75 (includes instruction, one 16"×20" print, and frame)
    Date: Saturday, February 21st, 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

  • LEARN CAD - FUSION 360 with Mike Jones March 2nd

    • Monday, March 02, 2026
    • Monday, March 09, 2026
    • 3 sessions
    • 1130 Street E Owen Sound
    Register


    LEARN CAD DESIGN – Autodesk Fusion 360

    https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6485285

    Cost: $150 + HST
    Date(s): Monday March 2nd, Wednesday March 4th, Monday March 9th 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 March 9th & 11th

    • Monday, March 09, 2026
    • 6:00 PM
    • Wednesday, March 11, 2026
    • 8:30 PM
    • 1130 8th St E Owen Sound, ON N4K5N8
    • 4
    Register


    ️Intro to Manual Machining – Lathe & Knee Mill

    https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6480429

    Cost: $199 + HST
    Date(s): Monday, March 9th & Wednesday, March 11th, 2026 — 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

  • Woodshop 101 - Basics Certification March 10th

    • Tuesday, March 10, 2026
    • 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • 1130 8th Street East Owen Sound, ON
    • 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-6485890

    Cost: $65 + HST
    Date: March 10th 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 March 12th

    • Thursday, March 12, 2026
    • 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • 1130 8th Street East Owen Sound, ON
    • 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://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6485907

    Cost: $65 + HST
    Date: March 12th 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

  • Intro to V-Carve w/ Iain Campbell March 14th

    • Saturday, March 14, 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
    • 1130 8th Street East, Owen Sound, ON N4K 5N8
    • 10
    Register


    Intro to V-Carve with Iain Campbell

    https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6481587

    Cost: $99
    Date(s): Saturday, March 14th, 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

  • 3D Printing Basics w/ Fred DeBoard - March 18th

    • Wednesday, March 18, 2026
    • 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • 1130 8th Street E, Owen Sound, ON
    Register

    3D Printing Basics with Fred Deboard

    https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6485742

    Cost: $65 + HST
    Date: Wednesday, March 18th, 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

  • LASER Engraving Basics w/ Mark Brown - March 19th

    • Thursday, March 19, 2026
    • 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • 1130 8th Street E Owen Sound, ON
    Register

    Laser Engraving Basics

    https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6485753

    Cost: $65
    Date(s): Thursday, March 19th, 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


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  • PRINT & FRAME Large Format Printing w/ Ed Matthews March 21st

    • Saturday, March 21, 2026
    • 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • 1130 8th Street E Owen Sound, ON N4K5N8
    Register

    ️ Large Format Printing Made Easy

    https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6481654

    Cost: $75 (includes instruction, one 16"×20" print, and frame)
    Date: Saturday, March 21st, 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.

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  • LEARN CAD - FUSION 360 with Mike Jones April 13th

    • Monday, April 13, 2026
    • Monday, April 20, 2026
    • 3 sessions
    • 1130 Street E Owen Sound
    Register


    LEARN CAD DESIGN – Autodesk Fusion 360

    https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6485303

    Cost: $150 + HST
    Date(s): Monday April 13th, Wednesday April 15th, Monday April 20th 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.

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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
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