Our Mission
Empowering our community through accessible tools, shared knowledge, and collaborative spirit
To provide Newport and the Northeast Kingdom with an accessible community workshop where residents can learn, create, repair, and innovate together through shared tools, knowledge, and collaborative spirit.
Our Three-Pillar Approach
Tool Library
Community members borrow tools like library books. Eliminates individual purchase costs for occasional-use items with sliding scale fees to ensure accessibility across income levels.
Shared Workshop
On-site workspace with supervision and training. Safe environment for learning new skills with expert guidance and access to stationary equipment like table saws, 3D printers, and welding stations.
Knowledge Exchange
Intergenerational skill sharing where local craftspeople teach traditional techniques, tech-savvy members lead digital fabrication workshops, and "Fix-it Cafés" bring the community together.
Why Newport Needs This
Limited Access to Tools
High cost of quality equipment for occasional use prevents many from pursuing creative and repair projects.
Skill Gaps
Declining traditional trades knowledge and limited tech training opportunities in our rural community.
Economic Opportunity
Few resources available for prototyping small business ideas and supporting local entrepreneurship.
What We Offer
Comprehensive resources for makers, creators, and entrepreneurs
Core Offerings
Tool Lending Library
Borrow tools for 2-week periods with flexible checkout. Access quality equipment without the cost of ownership.
- Carpentry & woodworking tools
- Automotive repair equipment
- Hand tools & power tools
- Specialty equipment
Open Workshop Hours
Access our fully-equipped workspace during supervised hours. Safe environment with expert guidance available.
- Evening & weekend access
- Trained supervision on-site
- Safety equipment provided
- Community project space
Skills Workshops
Learn from experienced makers and craftspeople. Hands-on classes for all skill levels.
- Beginner to advanced courses
- Traditional & modern techniques
- Safety certifications
- Youth STEM programs
Tool Library Categories
Carpentry & Woodworking
Table saws, miter saws, routers, planers, sanders, drills, clamps, measuring tools, and hand tools for fine woodworking.
Automotive Tools
Socket sets, wrenches, jacks, diagnostic tools, air compressors, impact drivers, and specialty automotive equipment.
Hand Tools
Hammers, screwdrivers, pliers, wrenches, levels, squares, chisels, files, and comprehensive hand tool sets.
Power Tools
Drills, impact drivers, circular saws, jigsaws, angle grinders, sanders, nail guns, and cordless tool systems.
Arts & Crafts
Sewing machines, cutting tools, heat presses, vinyl cutters, painting supplies, and crafting equipment.
Electronics & Tech
Soldering stations, multimeters, oscilloscopes, 3D printers, laser cutters, and prototyping equipment.
Dedicated Workspace Areas
Woodworking Center
Workbenches, stationary tools, and dust collection for furniture making and carpentry projects.
Metalworking Station
Welding area, metal lathe, grinders, and fabrication tools for metal projects and repairs.
Electronics Lab
Soldering stations, testing equipment, and prototyping area for electronics projects.
Arts & Crafts Studio
Multi-purpose creative space for painting, sewing, crafting, and artistic projects.
Digital Fabrication
3D printers, laser cutters, CNC equipment, and design software for modern making.
Music & Audio
Audio equipment work and small-scale music production projects.
Programs & Services
Business Incubation
Support for local entrepreneurs with prototyping resources, mentorship, and workspace to develop product ideas into viable businesses.
Mentoring & Development
One-on-one guidance from experienced makers, skill development programs, and project consultation to help you succeed.
Rapid Prototyping
Access to 3D printing, CNC machining, and fabrication tools to quickly iterate designs and test product concepts.
Educational Workshops
Regular classes on woodworking, metalworking, electronics, 3D design, and traditional crafts taught by skilled instructors.
Youth Programs
After-school STEM activities, summer camps, and hands-on learning experiences to inspire the next generation of makers.
Expert Collaboration
Connect with volunteer experts, share knowledge across generations, and collaborate on community projects and repairs.
Our Goals
Get Involved
Join us in building something remarkable for Newport
Founding Members
Help us launch with startup stability and be part of our founding team.
Equipment Donors
Donate tools and equipment to help us build our shared workshop affordably.
Volunteer Instructors
Share your expertise by teaching workshops and mentoring community members.
About Us
Newport, Vermont & The Northeast Kingdom
Newport is a vibrant community in Vermont's Northeast Kingdom, known for its resilient spirit, creative residents, and strong sense of community. The Newport Community Maker Space represents an investment in our region's future, combining traditional Yankee ingenuity with modern technology.
Founder
Jeff Ramen
Email: jeff@ncmsvt.org
The Newport Community Maker Space is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening our community's self-reliance, fostering entrepreneurship, and bridging generational knowledge gaps.
Contact Us
Interested in learning more or getting involved?
Email: jeff@ncmsvt.org
We're looking for founding members, equipment donors, volunteer instructors, and anyone interested in supporting this community initiative.