Studio Guidelines Specific to Wood Studio Members

HCS Wood Studio Member Guide

This guide outlines expectations, access, safety protocols, and shared responsibilities for members of the Wood Studio at Hamilton Craft Studios.

Membership Overview

  • Members must be in good standing and have signed all relevant waivers and documentation.

  • Completion of a studio orientation and safety testing is required prior to access.

  • Access is limited to designated drop-in hours unless otherwise approved.

  • Members may not access the studio during scheduled class times. Please refer to the studio calendar online.

Drop-In Hours

The Wood Studio may only be accessed during designated drop-in hours:

  • Thursday: 5:00pm – 9:00pm

  • Friday: 5:00pm – 9:00pm

  • Saturday: 9:00am – 5:00pm

  • Sunday: 9:00am – 5:00pm

Accessible Areas & Equipment

  • Members may access the four benches located in the common bench room.

  • Tools and supplies located in the shared cabinets and shelving are available for member use.

  • Lumber, sheet goods, and consumables can be purchased from HCS. Please consult the posted materials list or speak with a technician.

  • Shorts and scrap bins are available at no cost and clearly labeled.

  • Members may only use equipment they have been trained on and approved to operate.

Machines available with member access include:

  • SawStop Station

  • 16-inch and 6-inch Jointers

  • 15-inch Planer

  • 18-inch and 14-inch Bandsaws

  • Router Table

  • Edge Sander

  • Drum Sander

  • Radial Arm Saw

The following machines are reserved for Directors and Full-Time Members with explicit approval:

  • SCM Panel Saw

  • AXYZ CNC

  • Felder Resaw

Studio Etiquette & Safety

  • Check in with the Studio Technician upon arrival to review your work plan for the day.

  • Wear all required PPE during machine use – safety glasses are mandatory, hearing protection strongly recommended.

  • Closed-toe shoes only. No sandals, loose clothing, or jewelry.

  • Only use tools and machines you are trained on. Ask for support if unsure.

  • Clean all tools and machines after use. Reset machine settings to neutral and lower blades.

  • Sweep and tidy your workspace, including under and around your bench.

  • Dispose of offcuts and return accessories and clamps to their designated storage.

  • Do not remove or disturb tools, materials, or projects beyond designated member areas.

  • Non-members may not assist or work in the studio. Visitors must check in with HCS staff.

Storage & Projects

  • Storage is available for a monthly fee. A storage agreement must be in place to store any tools or materials on site.

  • All glue-ups must be completed and unclamped by the end of your session unless otherwise arranged.

  • Long-term or complex projects requiring extended use of communal space must be pre-approved by studio staff.

Shared Responsibility & Stewardship

As a wood studio member, you are expected to actively contribute to the upkeep and function of the studio. This includes general maintenance, extended equipment care, and participation in studio-wide cleaning efforts. Your commitment to stewardship supports a respectful, productive, and safe studio for all members.

Please refer to the Member Handbook for additional information (available soon)


Thank you for contributing to a collaborative and caring community at HCS. Together, we build a studio space where everyone can thrive.

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