Here you’ll find a list of all the frequently asked questions we receive. Do you have further questions? Contact us!
Status: 11.01.2026
What are you actually?
We are an open workshop that wants to give everyone interested access to machines and tools. You can work on your own projects with us, but also realise larger projects together with other association members or help further expand the workshop. We were founded by students at RWTH Aachen who were looking for suitable premises and tools for various craft projects. What started as a small idea back then has since developed into a well-equipped workshop.
What are you not?
We are not a service provider. All team members are volunteers and work in the workshop without financial compensation, which is why we place great value on mutual consideration and personal initiative.
Who is allowed to use the workshop?
The workshop is organised as a non-profit association and can therefore be used by any association member. Whilst we are primarily aimed at students from Aachen’s colleges and universities, we are also delighted to welcome new members from other backgrounds. Everyone who enjoys tinkering, building and making is warmly welcome with us.
Do I have to be an association member to use the workshop?
To work in the workshop, you must become a member with us.
Furthermore, for working on large machines (e.g. our lathe), completion of a workshop is required.
How expensive is membership?
You can find the current costs in our membership fees regulations. It is not possible to operate the workshop free of charge, but we try to keep the costs as low as possible for everyone. The workshop does not generate profits; all income is used to cover ongoing costs or is reinvested during the current year.
What can I use the workshop for?
The workshop can be used for all private projects, but commercial purposes are excluded.
How are you organised?
We are organised as a non-profit association and do not generate profits. We have a four-person association board as well as a dedicated workshop team, which takes care of all tasks and carries out supervision.
Our current board consists of:
- Lennart Wilde (Chair)
- Jonas Wilhelm (Vice Chair)
- Christian Toenneßen (Treasurer)
- Christian Sambol (Workshop Manager)
You can find the entire team here: Team
Can I repair my car, motorcycle or bicycle with you?
Bicycles can be worked on with us at any time, and we have specialist tools for this. Minor work on motorised two-wheelers can also be carried out by arrangement. Working on cars is not permitted due to lack of parking spaces.
Can I park at the location?
Space for motorcycles and bicycles is available. Unfortunately, parking a car is not possible with us. However, the workshop can be accessed for loading and unloading. You can usually find free parking spaces around the Ostfriedhof or alternatively in the numerous car parks in our surrounding area.
What equipment do you have and what is planned?
By now we have a fully equipped wood and metal area. You can find more details about the individual areas in the “Workshop” tab.
Is it possible to reserve machines?
A reservation system was planned, but has not proved to be necessary.
Do I need prior knowledge to use all the equipment in the workshop?
On first use of the workshop, there will be a brief introduction to the workshop regulations and the most important rules of conduct.
However, special instruction is required for the use of selected equipment and machines. Such instruction can be a relatively brief introduction or a one to multi-day course, which is regularly offered by the workshop. The exact scope of the instruction depends on the complexity and hazard potential of the machine in question.
Currently we offer workshops or further instructions for the following equipment:
- Lathe
- Welding equipment
- Table saw
- Laser cutter
- CNC milling machine
How does it work with consumables and wear materials?
In principle, of course, everyone is free to bring their own materials and process them with us. In addition, the workshop also has a small store with some materials (wooden boards and strips, sheet metal, pipes, etc.), which can be used free of charge or for a small fee. This also applies to wear materials (e.g. mills, drills, sandpaper, etc.). For larger projects, we would ask you to purchase your own wear materials.
Does the workshop belong to RWTH or FH Aachen?
The association is accredited through RWTH Aachen. However, non-RWTH members can also become members.
What if something goes wrong or I or a member gets injured?
There is insurance cover for all accidents caused by the association.
The workshop is basically not liable for any self-inflicted injuries or damage resulting from use. It is therefore recommended that each member take out personal liability insurance. For selected machines (e.g. lathes), the existence of liability insurance is a requirement for use.
Do you have protective equipment in the workshop?
Yes, in the workshop we have a PPE cupboard (personal protective equipment):
- Hearing protection
- Safety glasses
- Various gloves
Please always ensure proper footwear or safety shoes. Please also note that you may be prohibited from working if the supervising person present considers your clothing insufficient and/or if it poses a hazard to other members.
Are you active on social media platforms?
Yes, you can find us on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.