Maybe you’ve walked past the workshop and wondered what actually happens inside. Maybe you’ve got a project idea that you’ve never started. Or maybe you’ve taken a class and just want to keep making, without filling your flat with sawdust.
Whatever brings you here – welcome.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about becoming a member at Edinburgh Open Workshop (EOW), from what membership actually means, to how inductions work, what to expect on your first visit, and how to get started using the space confidently.
The short version? It’s much simpler than you probably think.
Ways to access the space:
- Standard PAYG Membership
- Concession Membership
- Textile Membership
First things first: what is Edinburgh Open Workshop?
Edinburgh Open Workshop is a community makerspace in Leith with shared access to professional woodworking, metalworking, textiles, DIY and fabrication facilities.
Instead of needing your own workshop, expensive machinery or garage full of tools, members can access everything they need in one shared space, along with technical support, courses and a welcoming community of makers.
Some members are professional artists, designers or tradespeople. Others are complete beginners who just want to learn how to make things.
All belong here.
So… what does PAYG membership actually give you?
An annual membership gives you access to the workshop on a Pay-As-You-Go basis.
That means:
- You become part of the EOW community
- You can book and pay for 4-hour workspace slots as needed
- You have access to our wood, metal and textile workshops and dedicated paint floor
- You can complete machinery inductions
- You can access member discounts and facilities
- You can work on your own projects with duty technicians on-hand to give advice
Step-by-step: how to become a member
Step 1: Book a Free Tour
If you’re nervous or curious, this is the best place to start.
EOW offers free tours where you can see the workshop spaces, ask questions, talk through your project ideas and get advice on what membership or induction you might need.
It’s very informal and there’s zero pressure.
You can book one here: Book a Tour
Step 2: Choose Your Membership
Once you’re ready, you can purchase the membership option that suits your needs.
Most people start with a standard PAYG membership.
This gives you access to the workshop community and allows you to complete inductions for the spaces and machinery you want to use.
Step 3: Complete Your Induction
Before using machinery independently, you’ll complete an induction.
This is basically a practical introduction showing you:
- How the machinery works
- How to use it safely
- Workshop rules and procedures
- What you can and can’t use
- How bookings and access work
- Inductions are there to build confidence, not catch you out.
Some people do a basic workshop induction first, then add machine-specific inductions later as they need them.
Step 4: Start Making
Once inducted, you can begin booking workspace and getting stuck into your projects.
This might mean building furniture, trying out welding and metal work, sewing and textiles, completing DIY and home projects, prototyping, creating art installations, carrying out repair work, set building, Laser cutting or CNC work.
Some members pop in occasionally for one project. Others become regulars and spend several days a week in the workshop.
There’s no “right” way to use the space.
Is there help available if I need it?
Workshops can feel overwhelming at first, especially if you’ve never been in one before. But one of the things people consistently say about EOW is how supportive and welcoming it feels.
There are technicians around if you need guidance, other members are often happy to share knowledge, and the atmosphere is much more community-focused than competitive.
You are absolutely allowed to be a beginner here.
A Few Questions People Often Ask
Do I need to bring my own tools?
No – the workshop already has professional tools and machinery available. Each bay comes with a hand-tool kit and our duty technicians are on hand to help you use our machines.
Will there be materials to buy on-site?
We often have off-cuts of materials in the workshop but you are best to order what you need depending on the project. We can give you advice on where to buy your materials, which can be delivered straight to the workshop.
Can I become a member even if I only want to use textiles?
Yes. Textile Memberships are available, giving access to the textile room only and inductions specifically for domestic and industrial sewing machines.
Can beginners join?
Absolutely. EOW runs courses and workshops for all skill levels, from beginner to advanced. This is a great first step to starting your making journey.
Do I need experience to use the machinery or become a member?
A lot of people assume you already need experience before becoming a member, but EOW is designed to support all levels, including complete beginners. Many people start with taking a course, a machine induction or a simple DIY project, and learn as they go.
What if I don’t know what project to start with?
EOW offers supported “Post Induction Projects” designed specifically to help new makers build confidence after their induction.
Is it only for professional makers?
Not at all. The community includes hobbyists, artists, students, freelancers, tradespeople and complete beginners.
Is there a cafe on site?
We have a kitchen situated beside the workshop where you are welcome to make a hot drink, eat lunch or just hang out and chat with other makers.
Can I park close to the workshop?
We have limited free parking in front of the workshop which is allocated on a first come basis. We do rent out outdoor bays for larger projects that can’t be completed in the workshop. Otherwise you can take advantage of the free parking at Ocean Terminal.
More Than Just a Workshop
One of the biggest benefits of becoming a member isn’t actually the machinery.
It’s the people.
EOW has grown into a huge multi-skilled creative community where people share ideas, help each other out, collaborate on projects and learn new skills together.
For many it provides a creative outlet, a place to meet like-minded people, a way to develop a business doing something you love, and a reason to finally start making things.
And because EOW is a not-for-profit social enterprise, profits are reinvested back into improving the workshop, maintaining equipment and expanding learning opportunities.
Ready to Get Started?
You don’t need to know everything before walking through the door.
You just need to start somewhere.
Whether you’re looking to learn a new skill, finally tackle a project idea, or simply spend more time making things with your hands, EOW is built to help people begin.
Take a tour, ask questions, and see where it leads.
Because everyone starts somewhere.
