The Shop is a fully equipped, air-conditioned woodworking facility for On Top of the World, Ocala residents who are Wood Shop Club members.
Where is the shop located?
We’re at the west end of the Hobby Building on SW 98th Street.
When is the Shop open?
Members can use the shop from 6:30 AM to 10 PM, 7 days a week. If the shop is closed for any reason, we’ll notify members by email.
What equipment is available?
We have worktables, stationary power equipment, hand tools, and most everything you need for woodworking. Most stationary tools have dust collection. For details, just ask us on the Contact Us page.
Can I bring my pet into the Shop?
Sorry, pets aren’t allowed. Service animals are welcome.
How is the Wood Shop Club managed?
We’re managed by a Board of Directors (President, VP, Secretary, Treasurer, and 3 Members At Large). Elections are held at the annual meeting in December. Board meetings are open to all members. See our By-Laws for more info.
Absolutely! Fill out the Contact Us form and we’ll set up a tour and answer your questions.
Guests & Shop Use
Can I bring a guest to work on a project?
Yes, guests are welcome! They’ll need to fill out a Guest Agreement waiver (at the sign-in kiosk). Guests must be supervised and can’t use equipment or hand tools. Please make sure your guest follows all safety rules.
Can I buy materials at the Shop?
We don’t sell materials or tools. The shop supplies machine materials (except scroll saw blades), but you’ll need to bring your own sandpaper, glue, finishes, and hardware. See Shop Rule 13 for details.
Can I bring my own tools?
Yes! Bring your own saw blades, power tools, turning tools, or hand tools. Just remember, your tools are your responsibility.
Can I borrow tools from the Shop?
Many tools can be borrowed by members. Sign them out and back in using the Tool Sign-Out Form at the sign-in kiosk.
Can I store my projects at the Shop?
There’s limited space for project storage. Only active projects can be left for a short time (usually less than a week). Please keep things tidy and out of the way of others. See Shop Rule 9 for more info.
Is there a finishing room or spray booth?
No, and no aerosols are allowed in the shop due to fumes. See Shop Rule 10.
Can I use the Shop to make items I sell?
Yes, as long as you don’t prevent other members from using the equipment.
Learning & Safety
I’m new to woodworking. Can I get training?
Definitely! We have training videos and YouTube links on our Education page that members have access to. For hands-on help, just ask a member or Board member—someone will be happy to help. We also have a lending library of DVDs.
I’d like to teach a class or workshop. Can I do that?
We love it when members share their knowledge! See the Shop Education Policy and talk to the Education Committee Chair or a Board member about your idea.
Do you accept donations?
We sometimes accept donations of wood or tools. Please talk to a Board member first. For significant donations, there’s a release form to sign. We generally don’t purchase items from individuals.
What if I see something unsafe or someone abusing equipment?
Please address unsafe acts right away—be polite, explain the issue, and show a safer way if you can. You can always notify a Board member or leave a note in the Drop Box at the sign-in kiosk.
What should I do in a medical emergency?
There’s a first aid kit and an emergency call box next to the shop’s side door. For anything serious, call 911.
Do I have to clean up after myself?
Yes! Everyone is responsible for cleaning up their area and equipment. The shop is also cleaned weekly, and you may be asked to help out.