Tool Training and Safety Orientation
Some tools require mandatory training or a safety orientation before use because they involve higher risks, specialized techniques, or proper setup. Training helps protect yourself and others, keeps tools in good condition, and helps ensure successful projects.
The table below lists commonly used tools that require or recommend training, how to request it, and any known time or cost requirements.
This is not an exhaustive list.
We understand that members have different levels of experience and comfort when working with tools. Please do not hesitate to ask for help or a demo, even if you have already completed the required training.
When in doubt, ask on Slack or Talk.
For paid training sessions, a sliding scale may be available for members experiencing financial hardship. Please contact the instructor or committee running the session.
| Area | Tool / Equipment | Training / Safety Orientation | Time | Cost | How to Request | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3D Printing | FDM Printers | Required | — | — | Request training | FDM = Fused Deposition Modeling, a 3D printing technology that builds physical objects by melting and extruding plastic filament layer by layer. |
| 3D Printing | Advanced FDM Printers (Voron / Sovol) | Required | — | — | Request training | |
| 3D Printing | Resin Printers (Form 1 / Photon Mono) | Required | — | — | Request training | |
| CNC | Wood CNC / Metal CNC | Required | — | $100 | Request training | Price includes the wood CNC and, optionally, the metal CNC if the member feels ready. |
| Laser | Laser Cutter | Required | 2.5–3 hours | $30 | Request training | See the Laser Training page for details. 100% of the fee goes to the Laser Cutter Committee for laser upkeep. |
| Machine Shop | Mini Lathe | Required | — | — | Request training | |
| Machine Shop | Metal Lathe | Required | — | — | Request training | |
| Machine Shop | Manual Mill | Required | — | — | Request training | |
| Sewing | Brother Embroidery Machine | Optional but recommended | — | — | Post in this Talk thread | |
| Sewing | Industrial Sewing Machine | Ask for training/help | — | — | Post in #sewing on Slack | |
| Woodshop | Planer / Jointer | Required | — | — | Ask in #woodworking on Slack | |
| Woodshop | Table Saw | Required | — | — | Ask in #woodworking on Slack | |
| Woodshop | Other woodworking tools | Ask if unsure | — | — | Post in #woodworking on Slack | Some tools may have additional training requirements. |
| Welding | Welding Shop Safety Orientation | Required | ~30 minutes | $0–20, pay what you can | Post in #welding on Slack | 100% goes toward shop upkeep and consumables. |
| Welding | Member-offered MIG or TIG lesson | Required (included in lesson) | 2–3 hours | $15–100, pay what you can | Post in #welding on Slack | $15 goes to materials. Of the remainder, 50% goes to the instructor and 50% goes toward material costs for building out the welding shop. |
Not sure if you need training?
If you are unsure whether a tool requires training, or you would simply like someone to show you how to use it safely:
- Ask in the relevant channel on Slack.
- Ask on Talk.
- Check the tool's wiki page for tool-specific requirements.
- Ask another member for help before using unfamiliar equipment.
When in doubt, ask before using the tool.