The Shop is available to students, staff, and faculty from Penny W. Stamps School of Art & Design and the Taubman College of Architecture and Urban Planning for work on class projects and research only. Potential users from other academic disciplines must be receiving credit for a class taught by a faculty member from the Art or Architecture schools. All users must attend a Woodshop Orientation before gaining access to the space. Additionally, all users must receive Proficiency Training on each piece of equipment before use.
Orientation covers basic information about the Shop (hours, policies, storage, equipment, etc.) as well as an overview of safety rules and concepts to help you navigate the space safely and effectively. It does NOT give you access to use the machinery.
Proficiency Training (PT) is required for each machine before using it. PT covers basic operation and safety concerns specific to each machine. This training is offered for groups of tools (for example, Woodworking Basics includes the five most commonly used machines), or by request for individual machines (for example, the vacuum former). Almost all new users should plan to attend Woodworking Basics as a starting point after Orientation.
Remember that training in the Shop is an ongoing process; our staff is always on hand for consultation, reminders, and suggestions as to the safest and most effective way to proceed. Users must always inform staff of their intentions before beginning work.
Beginning in Fall 2023 the Shop has new training requirements and policies. The Shop must document that all users, regardless of previous qualification, have received updated safety training and demonstrated a basic level of proficiency with the use of equipment and tools before being allowed access.
Please bring your phone (make sure you are logged into your UM account) and MCard (or at least your ID number) when you attend training. Be prepared to spend a minute or two filling out forms.
For Proficiency Training, keep in mind that you will be operating the equipment. Please observe the Safety Dress rules, or you will not be able to attend the session:
Wear sturdy closed-toe shoes.
No loose clothing, accessories, or jewelry that may be caught in moving equipment.
Wear short sleeves, or roll long sleeves above the elbows.
Tie back long hair.
PPE like safety glasses and hearing protection are provided, or you may bring your own.
If you would like to schedule training for your class, please contact aashopinfo@umich.edu. If possible, include a class roster, intended dates, and details about project and materials.
All new students receive Shop Orientation during their first year as part of their coursework: Stamps students during 3D Foundations, and Taubman students during general orientation. For individuals who need to arrange training outside of a specific class, please sign up below. Questions? Contact Ken and Carly at aashopinfo@umich.edu.
Orientations are regularly added to the calendar--if there are none upcoming, check back later.
PT sessions are regularly added to the calendar--if there are none upcoming, check back later.