Tinkerers listen up, TechShop Portland is now open!

TechShop originated in California with the simple idea of a large facility with all of the expensive wood and metal shop equipment and expertise that you would find in a pro shop all available to the community for a reasonable membership fee.  They call it “Kinko’s for builders”.  By having this common workarea and common tools, TechShop provides machines and tools that are not normally available to home users.  Have you ever wanted to show your son how to lathe a dowel to replace that broken bannister piece at home?  Now you can! TechShop has all of the equipment that you do not have at home because of size, cost, or just lack of use.  It’s like wood or metal shop in school, only this time its for the big boys.

The shop includes a growing set of tools including electronics, welders, powder coating, grinding, and sheet metal cutting.  Classes are also available on various tools and skills including an upcoming Intro to Upholstery that I was thinking of taking.

The membership is a steep $125/mo but bear in mind that this gives you complete access to the members part swap as well as the facility and machines.  Daily rates and yearly rates are available as well.  Please note that open toed shoes and children under 12 are not allowed because of the possible danger the machines present.  Safety classes may be required before you can use certain machinery, and be sure to bring safety goggles.

See the Portland TechShop website for more information including a class schedule, and shop hours.

10100 SW Allen Blvd

Beaverton, OR  97005

1-(503)-643-SHOP