Frequently Asked Questions
Q: I've looked over the list of installed and proposed equipment at Portland Techshop but I didn't see a [Name a piece of equipment] on the list. Is there any chance you will get one of those?
A: Yes! The types of tools and equipment we choose to install is really dictated by the demand for it, the space available, and the cost. If there is something you feel is missing from our list please let us know at techshoppdx@mac.com so we can add it to our wish list.
Q: Looking at the pictures of your tools it looks like a lot of them are used, why aren't you installing all new tools?
A: Our goal at techshop is to provide the best equipment we can to our members. Most machine tools are now being made in China or other low cost countries. The resulting machines are made to a price point and the ones that are imported are significantly lower quality than machines produced in the USA or Europe in the past. Through extensive searching we have found sound, accurate, high quality machines that will produce parts you will be proud to show off. Ultimately Portland Techshop will offer a mix of new and used tools that we feel provides the best quality and value to our members.
Q: Where is Portland TechShop Located?
A: Our address is TechShop LLC, 10100 SW Allen Blvd., Beaverton, OR 97005. It is located just east of Hwy 217 and is very easy to find. Head East from 217, first building past the railroad tracks on the right. Look for the big red gear!
Q: What will Porland TechShop's Operating Hours be?
A: That hasn't been determined for sure yet, most likely we will start with 10am to 9pm 7 days a week and then expand our hours from there.
Q: Can You Show Me How To Use the Tools and Equipment?
A: YES! We will offer 60 to 90 minute "SBU" (Safety and Basic Usage) classes to get you up to speed quickly with the basic safety and operational information for that tool or machine. You do NOT have to be a TechShop member to take classes at TechShop! Everyone is invited.
Q: What Classes will you Offer?
A: We will offer several types of classes:
"SBU" (Safety and Basic Usage) classes are designed to provide you with safety training and get you up-to-speed on a specific tool or machine safely in about an hour.
"Pathway" and "Project" classes offer instruction in more extensive concepts and techniques.
Q: Do I Have To Be a TechShop Member To Take Classes at Portland TechShop?
A: No! Anyone will be able to take classes at TechShop. Taking a class is a great way for you to see if you want to make TechShop a regular part of your life and start making all your project ideas into realities.
Q: As a member, can I Use Any Tool or Machine in the Shop?
A: For the most part, Yes, as soon as you have passed the SBU (Safety and Basic Usage) class that covers that tool or equipment. Lots of the tools and some of the machines at TechShop do not require an SBU class checkout, but any machine that can injure you or can be damaged requires you to pass an SBU before you can use it. Once you take the SBU class, you can use that tool or machine as much as you want with your active TechShop membership. There are a few select pieces of equipment that can only be used by Supervisors or under Supervision due to safety concerns.
Q: How Much Does a TechShop Membership Cost?
A: Please see the Membership page for current pricing on Monthly, 6-Month, and Annual TechShop memberships.
Q: How Can I Buy a TechShop Gift Certificate for Myself or Someone Else?
A: A TechShop Gift Certificate is a great present for the person who has everything! We offer TechShop Gift Certificates in denominations from $100 to $1,000. The certificates can be redeemed for memberships, classes, special events, member storage, or anything from our Maker Shed retail store. You can buy TechShop Gift Certificates on the Membership page.
Q: Will My Kids Be Able to Work on Projects With Me at Portland TechShop?
A: Yes! Kids and young adults (under 18) can work on projects at Portland TechShop under the direct supervision of a parent or legal guardian if they are included in your membership (call or visit us for details). Most classes at TechShop will be open to kids as young as 12 years of age when taken with their parent or guardian. There are some tools and machines that kids are not permitted to operate at any time, including the milling machines and lathes.
Q: Does TechShop Carry Liability Insurance?
A: Of course, we have liability insurance and we require members and people who take classes at TechShop to sign a Liability Release Waiver. We also require members to receive safety training on machines and equipment before they can use it. We don't want anyone to experience an injury. We always strive to build a safety-conscious culture at TechShop.
Q: What Clothing and Shoes Should I Wear to TechShop?
A: When you come to work on your project or take classes at TechShop, please wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes. If you are going to use the welding equipment, CNC plasma cutter, or take the metal casting class, we also recommend that you wear long natural fiber pants and a natural fiber long-sleeved shirt (synthetic clothes can melt and cause burns). If you are planning to use other equipment such as milling machines or lathes, please wear a short-sleeved shirt, tie back any long hair, and leave loose jewelry at home.
Q: I'm confused, I have seen two different websites for Portland Techshop, http://portland.techshop.ws and http://portlandtechshop.com, which one is the real site?
A: Well, they both are the "real" site. The portland.techshop.ws is set up and maintained by the original location in Menlo Park (http://www.techshop.ws). In order to provide more up to date information, we have started our own site: Portlandtechshop.com. Eventually we we will transition to a single website. In the mean time, please bare with us and we will try to keep the information on both websites as accurate as possible.