Welding Shop Access Through a Makerspace

Searching for a "welding shop Kalamazoo" or "welding rental Kalamazoo"?

Kalamazoo Makerspace is a nonprofit community workshop with a shared metal shop and welding area. Instead of renting a welding booth by the hour, you become a member, complete safety training, and then use the welding tools as part of the shared makerspace.

How Our Welding Shop Model Works

Membership-based access instead of pay-per-hour welding rental.
Required safety orientation and adherence to shop rules.
DIY-first mindset – we help you learn to weld your own projects.
Community environment with other metalworkers and makers.
Integration with the full metal shop including mills, lathes, and cutting tools (see the main Metal Shop page for details).

Good Fit For

DIY welders without a home shop.
Startup teams building prototypes and fixtures.
Auto, motorcycle, or equipment hobbyists.
Students who want hands-on fabrication experience.
Makers who want access to both welding and industrial laser cutters, 3D printing, and more.

Safety, Training & Expectations

Training Required

All welding and hot work access is subject to training and approval by experienced members. We emphasize safe setup, PPE, ventilation, and equipment care.

Community Standards

Because this is a shared welding shop, everyone is responsible for cleanup, safe material choices, and respecting posted rules and limits.

Not a Job Shop

If you need production welding done for you, we’re probably not the right fit. Our focus is on members learning and doing their own welding work.

Welding Rental vs. Makerspace Membership

If You’re Looking for Hourly "Welding Rental"

Traditional welding rental in Kalamazoo might mean:

Renting a booth, welder, and gas by the hour.
Bringing everything prepped and ready for a quick job.
Limited flexibility if you need to iterate or return frequently.

What Kalamazoo Makerspace Offers Instead

Ongoing access to a welding shop as part of membership.
Time and space to learn, practice, and refine your skills.
Access to the broader metal shop, laser shop, 3D printing lab, and more.
Community support for startup prototyping, DIY repairs, and creative projects.

Next Step: See the Full Metal Shop

This page is a quick overview for people searching for a welding shop in Kalamazoo. For full details on mills, lathes, and metalworking capabilities, visit our main metal shop page.

View Metal Shop Details View Membership Options Schedule a Tour

Welding Shop FAQ

Can you weld my project for me?

We generally do not take on contract welding work. Our mission is to provide space, tools, and community so you can learn to weld your own projects safely.

What kinds of welding are available?

Available processes and equipment may change over time. Visit the metal shop page or contact us for the most current list of welders and capabilities.

Do I need prior welding experience?

Prior experience helps, but is not strictly required. You must, however, complete orientation and follow the guidance of trainers and posted safety information before using welding equipment independently.

Can students or younger makers weld here?

Age and supervision requirements apply for all hot work areas. Reach out through the contact page to discuss student or youth projects in the welding and metal shop areas.

Where should I start if I’m totally new?

A good path is to schedule a tour, become a member, start with basic metal shop tools, then work up to welding. Our metal shop and how-to pages for the Bridgeport mill and metal lathe can help you build a foundation in machining and fabrication.

Welding Shop in Kalamazoo