Instructional Shops

Welcome to SAIC's Instructional Shops! Do you need to borrow a screwdriver? Build a stretcher? Carve foam or plaster? Weld together a steel frame? No matter the scale of your project, our knowledgeable staff are easy to find and ready to help you make it happen.

The Columbus Wood and Columbus Metal Shop are general access facilities that offer a generous array of wood and metal working equipment and are open to all undergraduate and graduate students.

The Sharp Instructional Shops support the Contemporary Practices Department with woodworking facilities, plaster mold-making, and sewing construction areas.

The Sullivan Fabrication Studio supports the Department of Architecture, Interior Architecture, and Designed Objects.

Our shops provide the tools and expertise you need to work in wood, metal, plastics, mold making, and most other physical media. Our world-class staff and team of student employees look forward to working with you!

Workshops & Authorizations

The shops offer a wide range of instructional workshops and equipment authorizations to help you learn the ins and outs of creating with industrial machines. In order to access shop facilities, you will need to first attend an authorization.

The Nuts & Bolts

It is important to come to the shops dressed appropriately to work. Closed-toe shoes are required. Don't wear heels, sandals or Crocs. Steel-toe boots are the best!

We require you to wear safety glasses at all times in the shop, so go straight to Tool Checkout when you come in. Remember to bring your student ID with you!

Tool Checkout

A wide selection of hand tools are available for daytime or overnight check out. Please be kind and return your tools on time. Fines accrue if tools are returned late.

Resale and Specialized Materials

Resale materials are sold in the shop to facilitate student projects.
Please contact the shop managers in advance if you need to order large quantities of materials. Visit Resale