Woodworking 'Gym' Celebrates First Anniversary

Michael Vogel went to school for architecture, but, like many, that’s not where his career path would take him.

It took him into finance. 

He didn’t like it.

He thought back to when he was the happiest.  He thought back to his time as an architecture student.  He thought back to his time in the workshop.

He decided to open Philadelphia Woodworks in Manayunk.

Philadelphia Woodworks has been open for a whole year now, and business manager Emily Duncan describes the place as half-gym half-workshop.

“People pay a membership fee, and then they can use any of the machines in the shop for whatever project they're working on.”

Philadelphia Woodworks contains all of the tools and toys that would make any at-home carpenter jealous.

“We have over 2,500 square feet of workshop space,” Duncan said.  “All of them are hooked up to a dust vacuum so it stays clean in here.”

Besides the tools you’d expect (saws, hammers, clamps) the shop also has:

• 10-foot SawStop Cabinet Tablesaw
• 12-foot Powermatic Jointer (helical cutting head)
• 20-foot Grizzly Planer
• 2 bandsaws
• 3 drill presses
• Dozens of clamps
• Lathes

“We make everyone that comes here get safety certified,” Duncan said.  “Everyone does their part to keep this space safe and clean.”

Besides being open for the woodworking enthusiast, Philadelphia Woodworks also has class available for beginners and classes just for women.

“People come here and think they can’t do it,” Duncan said.  “But then somewhere along the way they have an ‘Eureka’ moment and everything comes together.”

Besides classes, there are always expert staffers on hand to help with any questions a member might have, whether they are a beginner or a master carpenter.

“Yes, this is a membership woodshop,” Duncan said.  “But it’s really about getting people in the same space, making cool things and getting inspired.

For more information, visit Philadelphia Woodworks' website or Facebook page.