Grey Bruce Makers Inc. upcoming events

MIG WELDING 101 - DAYTIME (Wednesday, August 05, 2026)

Wed, 05 Aug 2026 14:30:00 GMT

Learn to Weld – MIG Welding (GMAW)

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

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

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

Course Description

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

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

Key Learnings

Understand MIG welding equipment, shielding gas, and wire feed systems
Learn essential safety practices, PPE use, and fire prevention
Practice tack welds, butt joints, and fillet welds on steel
Control the welding arc, monitor weld quality, and troubleshoot common problems
Learn to recognize a good weld vs. a flawed weld

✅ Prerequisites

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

What to Wear

Long-sleeved, non-synthetic (cotton) clothing
Closed-toe leather or steel-toe shoes
No jewelry or exposed skin
Safety gear (helmet, gloves, jacket) is provided — feel free to bring your own

What to Bring

Water bottle
Notebook and pen (optional)
All welding tools and materials are provided

‍ About Your Instructor

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

CWB Level 1 Welding Inspector
TSSA certifications (6G position in SMAW & GTAW)
CWB tickets in SMAW, GMAW, MCAW, FCAW
Instructor in layout, blueprint reading, trade safety, and multiple welding processes

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

CNC ROUTER 101 (Monday, August 10, 2026)

Mon, 10 Aug 2026 22:30:00 GMT

**V-CARVE Course is a PREREQUISTE**

Intro to CNC Router

Cost: $189 + HST

https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6775628

Dates:

Monday, August 10th, 2026 6pm-9pm
Wednesday, August 12th , 2026 6pm-9pm
Saturday, August 15th , 2026 10am-1pm

Workshop: Classroom, Woodshop
Instructor: Dave Trimbee

Course Description

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

Key Learnings

By the end of this workshop, you will:

Understand the basics of CNC routers and how they work.
Learn the software tools used to design and program CNC router operations.
Safely and efficiently set up and operate a CNC router.
Apply techniques for creating complex designs and shapes.
Explore best practices for material selection, tooling, and finishing.
Troubleshoot and optimize CNC router operations.
Gain hands-on experience with Vectric’s VCarve Pro software.

Prerequisites

**V-CARVE Course is a PREREQUISTE**

What to Bring

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

Special Note – Axyz CNC Certification

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

About Your Instructor

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

WOODSHOP 101 - August (Tuesday, August 11, 2026)

Tue, 11 Aug 2026 22:00:00 GMT

WOODSHOP 101 - Basics Certification

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

https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6782908

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

Workshop: Woodshop
Maximum Participants: 6

Course Description

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

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

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

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

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

Key Learnings

Learn how to safely and effectively use common woodshop tools
Practice basic joinery, shaping, and assembly techniques
Read and follow project plans and tool setups
Understand the purpose and safe handling of key machines.

✅ Prerequisites

None — this is a CORE introductory course.

What to Wear

Closed-toe shoes (steel-toe preferred)
No loose clothing or jewelry
Safety glasses (bring your own or use a provided pair)
Hair tied back

What to Bring

Safety glasses
Notebook and pen
Water bottle
A positive Attitude and willingness to learn

‍ About Your Instructor

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

CNC ROUTER 101 (Wednesday, August 12, 2026)

Wed, 12 Aug 2026 22:30:00 GMT

**V-CARVE Course is a PREREQUISTE**

Intro to CNC Router

Cost: $189 + HST

https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6775628

Dates:

Monday, August 10th, 2026 6pm-9pm
Wednesday, August 12th , 2026 6pm-9pm
Saturday, August 15th , 2026 10am-1pm

Workshop: Classroom, Woodshop
Instructor: Dave Trimbee

Course Description

Key Learnings

By the end of this workshop, you will:

Understand the basics of CNC routers and how they work.
Learn the software tools used to design and program CNC router operations.
Safely and efficiently set up and operate a CNC router.
Apply techniques for creating complex designs and shapes.
Explore best practices for material selection, tooling, and finishing.
Troubleshoot and optimize CNC router operations.
Gain hands-on experience with Vectric’s VCarve Pro software.

Prerequisites

**V-CARVE Course is a PREREQUISTE**

What to Bring

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

Special Note – Axyz CNC Certification

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

About Your Instructor

WOODSHOP 102 - Advanced Certification August (Thursday, August 13, 2026)

Thu, 13 Aug 2026 22:00:00 GMT

WOODSHOP 102 - Advanced Certification

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

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

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

Workshop: Woodshop
Maximum Participants: 6

Course Description

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

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

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

Key Learnings

Learn how to safely and effectively use more advanced woodshop machines
Practice basic joinery, shaping, and assembly techniques
Understand the purpose and safe handling of key machines.

✅ Prerequisites

Woodshop 101 - Basics

What to Wear

Closed-toe shoes (steel-toe preferred)
No loose clothing or jewelry
Safety glasses (bring your own or use a provided pair)
Hair tied back

What to Bring

Safety glasses
Notebook and pen
Water bottle
A positive Attitude and willingness to learn

‍ About Your Instructor

Outdoor Summer Series - BLACKSMITHING 101 AM Class (Saturday, August 15, 2026)

Sat, 15 Aug 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Outdoor Summer Series: Blacksmithing 101

https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6743481

COST: $175

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

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

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

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

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

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

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

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

WHAT YOU'LL MAKE

Each participant

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

WHAT TO BRING

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

Please bring:

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

Safety glasses and hearing protection will be provided if needed.

ABOUT YOUR INSTRUCTOR

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

https://www.fortyhillsforge.com/

CNC ROUTER 101 (Saturday, August 15, 2026)

Sat, 15 Aug 2026 14:00:00 GMT

**V-CARVE Course is a PREREQUISTE**

Intro to CNC Router

Cost: $189 + HST

https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6775628

Dates:

Monday, August 10th, 2026 6pm-9pm
Wednesday, August 12th , 2026 6pm-9pm
Saturday, August 15th , 2026 10am-1pm

Workshop: Classroom, Woodshop
Instructor: Dave Trimbee

Course Description

Key Learnings

By the end of this workshop, you will:

Understand the basics of CNC routers and how they work.
Learn the software tools used to design and program CNC router operations.
Safely and efficiently set up and operate a CNC router.
Apply techniques for creating complex designs and shapes.
Explore best practices for material selection, tooling, and finishing.
Troubleshoot and optimize CNC router operations.
Gain hands-on experience with Vectric’s VCarve Pro software.

Prerequisites

**V-CARVE Course is a PREREQUISTE**

What to Bring

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

Special Note – Axyz CNC Certification

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

About Your Instructor

PRINTING 101 - August (Saturday, August 15, 2026)

Sat, 15 Aug 2026 17:00:00 GMT

️ Large Format Printing Made Easy

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

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

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

Course Description

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

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

Key Learnings

Basic operation of the HP Z6DR printer via the control panel
How to load both roll-fed and sheet-fed paper
Use of HP Click software to send, size, and align your prints
Understanding print borders, sizing, and layout
Safe trimming and finishing of prints
Introduction to basic colour systems and ICC Profiles
Overview of paper types and their effect on print quality

✅ Prerequisites

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

What to Wear

Comfortable indoor attire
Closed-toe shoes recommended

What to Bring

USB stick with at least one high-resolution image
Optional: additional photos for review
All materials provided, including frame and print paper

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

‍ About Your Instructor

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

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

Outdoor Summer Series - Blacksmithing 101 PM Class (Saturday, August 15, 2026)

Sat, 15 Aug 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Outdoor Summer Series: Blacksmithing 101

https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6779518

COST: $175

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

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

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

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

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

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

WHAT YOU'LL MAKE

Each participant

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

WHAT TO BRING

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

Please bring:

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

Safety glasses and hearing protection will be provided if needed.

ABOUT YOUR INSTRUCTOR

https://www.fortyhillsforge.com/

MACHINING 101 - August (Monday, August 17, 2026)

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 22:00:00 GMT

️Intro to Manual Machining – Lathe & Knee Mill

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

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

Course Description

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

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

Key Learnings

Safety & PPE:

Hazards of rotating machinery: flying debris, sharp edges, and noise
Proper use of safety glasses, steel-toe shoes, and hearing protection
Importance of fitted clothing — no loose sleeves, jewelry, or neckwear

Machine Overview & Parts:

Lathe: Headstock, chuck, carriage, cross slide, compound rest, tailstock, tool post
Knee Mill: Column, base, table, spindle, vise, hand wheels, vertical crank
Functions and controls of each component

Techniques You'll Practice:

Turning parts to precise diameter
Drilling with the tailstock
Parting off, cutting threads, machining tapers and angles
Calculating RPM using cutting speed formulas
Milling flat surfaces, keyways, and drilled holes in shafts
Cutting a flat surface on round stock

✅ Prerequisites

Basic understanding of shop safety recommended.

What to Wear

Steel-toe boots
Safety glasses (provided or bring your own)
Fitted, non-synthetic clothing (cotton or denim preferred)
Hair tied back; no jewelry or loose accessories

What to Bring

Notebook and pen
Water bottle
All tools and materials provided

‍ About Your Instructor

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

TABLE SAW 101 (Tuesday, August 18, 2026)

Tue, 18 Aug 2026 22:00:00 GMT

Table Saw 101

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

Workshop: Woodshop
Maximum Participants: 6

Course Description

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

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

Key Learnings

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

✅ Prerequisites

Completion of Woodshop 101 or equivalent experience is recommended.

What to Wear

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

What to Bring

Water bottle
Notebook and pen (optional)

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

About Your Instructor

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

MACHINING 101 - August (Wednesday, August 19, 2026)

Wed, 19 Aug 2026 22:00:00 GMT

️Intro to Manual Machining – Lathe & Knee Mill

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

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

Course Description

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

LASER ENGRAVING 101 - August (Thursday, August 20, 2026)

Thu, 20 Aug 2026 22:00:00 GMT

Laser Engraving Basics

https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6599959

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

Course Description

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

Key Learnings

Import and prepare designs in CorelDRAW
Set up and focus the Epilog CO₂ Laser
Understand engraving settings for different materials (wood, slate, acrylic, etc.)
Perform test runs, basic troubleshooting, and safety checks
Clean and maintain the laser system

✅ Prerequisites

None — this is a CORE introductory course.

What to Wear

Closed-toe shoes
No loose or flowing clothing
Safety glasses (provided if needed)
Tie back long hair

What to Bring

USB drive (optional for bringing custom artwork)
Notebook and pen (optional)
Your creativity and curiosity

‍

V-CARVE 101 - August (Saturday, August 22, 2026)

Sat, 22 Aug 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Intro to V-Carve with Iain Campbell

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

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

Course Description

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

Key Learnings

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

Prerequisites

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

What to Wear

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

What to Bring

A Windows laptop with V-Carve installed (trial or licensed version)
Notebook and pen for notes
Light lunch for break time

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

MACHINING 101 - August (Monday, August 24, 2026)

Mon, 24 Aug 2026 22:00:00 GMT

️Intro to Manual Machining – Lathe & Knee Mill

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

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

Course Description

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

VACUUM FORMING 101 - August (Monday, August 24, 2026)

Mon, 24 Aug 2026 22:30:00 GMT

Vacuum Forming 101

https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6779709

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

Workshop: Digital Fabrication Lab
Maximum Participants: 6

Course Description

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

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

Key Learnings

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

✅ Prerequisites

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

What to Wear

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

What to Bring

Water bottle
Notebook and pen (optional)

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

About Your Instructor

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

LASER ENGRAVING 102 (Thursday, August 27, 2026)

Thu, 27 Aug 2026 22:00:00 GMT

Laser Engraving 102

https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6781108

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

Course Description

Key Learnings

Import and prepare designs in CorelDRAW
Set up and focus the Epilog CO₂ Laser
Understand engraving settings for different materials (wood, slate, acrylic, etc.)
Perform test runs, basic troubleshooting, and safety checks
Clean and maintain the laser system

✅ Prerequisites

**Must have completed LASER ENGRAVING 101

What to Wear

Closed-toe shoes
No loose or flowing clothing
Safety glasses (provided if needed)
Tie back long hair

What to Bring

USB drive (optional for bringing custom artwork)
Notebook and pen (optional)
Your creativity and curiosity

‍ About Your Instructor

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

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

DECORATIVE WELDING w/ Daniel Alosio - August (Saturday, August 29, 2026)

Sat, 29 Aug 2026 14:00:00 GMT

DECORATIVE WELDING

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

https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6599954

Course Description

Artistic Welding Workshop

$379 + tax | 2 Sessions of Creative Firepower

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. A decorative garden stake

2. A Metal Bird Sculpture

3. A hanging metal Sculpture.

Key Learnings

Understand MIG welding equipment, shielding gas, and wire feed systems
Learn essential safety practices, PPE use, and fire prevention
Practice tack welds, butt joints, and fillet welds on steel

Prerequisites

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

What to Wear

Long-sleeved, non-synthetic (cotton) clothing
Closed-toe leather or steel-toe shoes
No jewelry or exposed skin
Safety gear (helmet, gloves, jacket) is provided — feel free to bring your own

What to Bring

Water bottle
Notebook and pen (optional)
All welding tools and materials are provided

About Your Instructor

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