Where Makers Come to Create.

A fully equipped shop space for makers and creators to work independently, access tools, and bring their projects to life.

AKU Makers Club

Welcome to the AKU Bladesmithing Club – a space designed for makers who dream big but lack the tools, space, or environment to bring their projects to life.

At AK University, you’ll have access to a fully equipped shop with professional-grade machinery and materials, primarily tailored for bladesmithing and knife making. Whether you’re working on knives or other creative projects, this program gives you the freedom to focus entirely on your craft.

This isn’t a class – it’s your shop time. You’ll work independently on your projects at your own pace. Our instructors and shop helpers are here to ensure you’re comfortable with the equipment, answer questions about machine operation, and guide you on shop safety. Beyond that, it’s all about your creativity and time to create.

If you’ve been held back by limited space, tools, or equipment, the AKU environment provides the perfect solution. And while our setup is primarily for bladesmithing, we’re open to coordinating other projects with a quick consultation.

Come unleash your ideas, immerse yourself in the work, and enjoy the camaraderie of a creative space built just for makers like you.

How to Join the Club

The AKU Bladesmithing Club is a private and exclusive space designed for makers who are serious about creating. To ensure everyone is familiar with the shop environment and tools, we’ve created a simple process for new members:

1. Submit an Application
All new members are required to apply before gaining access to the club. This ensures we maintain the safety, quality, and exclusivity of the space.

2. Complete Orientation
New members must attend a one-day orientation session to:

  • Learn shop rules, safety protocols, and proper equipment operation.
  • Ensure you’re confident and comfortable working independently.

3. Approval
Once you’ve completed the orientation, we’ll finalize your approval for club access.

Our Shop & Equipment

Take a look inside the AKU Makers Club – a fully equipped shop with professional tools and machinery ready for your next project.

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– More Hours, More Savings –

Shop Access Plans

Choose the Plan That Works for You:

  • Explorer Plan ($120): 3 hours minimum at $40/hour – perfect for short-term projects.
  • Craftsman Plan ($350): 10 hours at $35/hour – ideal for makers with ongoing projects.
  • Artisan Plan ($600): 20 hours at $30/hour – the best value for dedicated creators.

Our plans are designed to offer flexibility and savings based on your needs. Each option includes full access to professional-grade equipment and shop advice, while materials and consumables are available separately.

basic plan

Explorer

$120

  • 3 Hours Minimum

  • Includes shop advice

  • Shop Full Access

  • Materials Not Included (Steel & Handle Materials)

  • Consumables Not Included (Abrasives & Adhesives)

starter plan

Craftsman

$350

  • 10 Hours

  • Includes shop advice

  • Shop Full Access

  • Materials Not Included (Steel & Handle Materials)

  • Consumables Not Included (Abrasives & Adhesives)

Advanced plan

Artisan

$600

  • 20 Hours

  • Includes shop advice

  • Shop Full Access

  • Materials Not Included (Steel & Handle Materials)

  • Consumables Not Included (Abrasives & Adhesives)

frequently asked questions

Got questions? We’ve got answers. Below, you’ll find everything you need to know about materials, shop time options, and how to make the most of your experience at AKU Bladesmithing Club.

No. Your hours are exclusive to you. We do not share or overlap shop time with other individuals to ensure you have the space and focus needed for your projects.

Choose hourly if you need occasional shop time and prefer flexibility at $40 per hour. If you’re working on larger projects and want better value, the membership plans offer bundled hours and savings. For example, the Explorer Plan costs $300 for 10 hours, lowering the hourly rate to $30.

No, the AKU Bladesmithing Club is not a teaching class. Your time in the shop is independent, and you are responsible for working on your own projects. Our instructors and staff are available only to:

  • Answer questions about machinery and equipment operation.
  • Ensure safety guidelines are followed.

If you are looking for instruction or teaching, you will need to book a separate class.

We have a limited selection of materials in-house, including:

  • Steel: Available carbon steel (primarily 80CRV2) in specific sizes. We do not carry stainless steel.
  • Handle Materials: Limited options available for selection.

You are welcome to use what we have or bring your own materials. If you require anything outside of what’s available in-house, you must purchase and bring it yourself.

No. We do not prepare any materials in advance outside of what is already available in-house. You can purchase or bring your own materials as needed.

Yes, you are allowed to bring one person with you as a partner to hang out while you work. To avoid overcrowding, we ask that you inform us ahead of time so we know how many people are coming. All guests must sign a release of liability before entering the shop.

  • 18 and above: You are welcome to join freely.
  • Under 18: A parent or guardian must sign a consent form, and they must be present in-house at all times during your shop time.

Unused hours do not roll over to the next month. If you don’t use your hours, you lose them. Make sure to plan and schedule your shop time to get the most value from your membership.

Absolutely! You’re welcome to use the shop for filming or videography at the same hourly rate. We always appreciate it when you tag us in any video content that comes out of the AKU Bladesmithing Club.

Safety is a top priority at AKU Bladesmithing Club. Members must:

  • Follow all shop rules and safety protocols during their time in the shop.
  • Wear appropriate safety gear, including gloves, goggles, and closed-toe shoes.
    Failure to comply may result in loss of access to the club.

We offer:

  • Bundles for purchase in-house, which you can take home for future visits.
  • Individual options if you prefer to buy only what you need during shop time.

At this time, we do not offer storage for personal materials or projects. All items must be taken with you at the end of your shop time.

While the AKU Bladesmithing Club is designed primarily for bladesmithing and knife making, we are open to other projects. If you’re working on something outside of bladesmithing, please consult with us beforehand to ensure we can accommodate your needs.