How old do you need to be to attend Guild events?
All Guild events are 16+, except for our All Ages Open Studio Hours, where folks under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Check Guild’s Calendar for upcoming All Ages Open Studio dates.
How do I know if an event is canceled or postponed at the last minute?
Since Guild is completely volunteer-run, we recommend double-checking Guild’s Instagram the day-of your event in case our volunteer-hosts need to cancel due to inclement weather or unforeseen circumstances.
Do I need to become a member to attend Guild?
Nope! There is no formal membership at Guild, and most events are drop-in friendly unless “sign-up required” is noted in an event description. If you interact with Guild in any capacity (attend an event, receive our newsletter, follow us @guildkalamazoo, make a donation), consider yourself part of the Guild community!
How much does Guild cost?
Nothing! Guild is free to attend, and our community-donated supplies and tools are available for everyone to use at no cost. We operate on the basis of radical generosity and are completely volunteer-run.
We may occasionally hold sliding-scale, donation-based, or ticketed events to pay our artist-instructors, cover specific costs, or support fundraising initiatives.
How do I donate funds to help Guild stay accessible and free to Kalamazoo?
We always welcome monetary donations of any amount to help us keep Guild free and accessible. We appreciate you contributing what you can, if and when you’re able!
What happens during Open Studio Hours?
Bring your own project, use materials from the studio, or simply show up and see what inspires you. Open Studio is a chance to make at your own pace while sharing space, tools, materials, ideas, and creative energy with other folks.
What if I’m nervous about showing up to a new space?
You’ll be in good company! We can’t tell you how often we hear, “I’ve been meaning to come to so many of your events I see on Instagram and just finally pushed myself to show up today—so glad I finally did… I’m about to be a regular here!!”
What if I show up at Guild with no idea what to work on or create?
No problem! There’s a lot to see, so your first visit can simply be about getting acquainted with the space. You could:
Browse the studio and see what catches your eye.
Use some of our donated materials to experiment.
Bring a project from home.
Ask a Guild host or fellow attendee for ideas or inspiration.
Can I bring my own supplies and tools to use at Guild?
Absolutely! Bring your own project, supplies, and tools—or use what we have on hand.
We just ask that you:
Treat Guild’s supplies, tools, and equipment with care.
Clean up your workspace when you’re finished.
Take home anything you brought with you.
We welcome makers of all skill levels and encourage folks to share skills and help one another learn.
Can I get training on the sewing machines and other tools?
Yes! We occasionally offer sewing workshops, and Guild hosts and community members are happy to help you get started with basic techniques and equipment operation. Google and YouTube are also our best friends…
**Some equipment may be off limits until you’ve been trained on it. If you’re unsure how to use something, please ask before using it!
Does Guild offer classes?
Guild offers beginner-friendly classes and guided workshops led by artists, makers, and community members. Some include all materials, while others encourage you to bring your own items or project.
Our guided event examples include Expressive Arts Therapy, Fermentation Workshops, and Basics of Sewing—and we look forward to adding more soon!
➔ Interested in teaching a skill, class, or guided workshop? Send us an email!
What kinds of clubs meet at Guild?
Our recurring clubs bring together people who enjoy creating alongside others. Current and past clubs have included fiber arts, collage, cosplay, ASL Craft & Chat, and more.
➔ Have an idea for a new club or an existing club you’d like to bring to Guild? Send us an email!
Do you have a cat at Guild?
Funny you ask! Yes, Jeri is our resident cat who lives at Jerico and spends a lot of his time at Guild. He has a bed in our glass case counter when you first walk in and is free to roam the building and outdoors.
He has his own cat door, but he really prefers someone to open the door for him. He is 3 years old and is a big, fluffy, friendly guy.
Should I subscribe to the Guild Kalamazoo email newsletter?
Definitely! Our newsletter is the best way to stay up-to-date on:
Upcoming events, classes, clubs, etc.
Supply donation & fundraising opportunities
Calls for volunteers (open studio hosts, instructors, space tidying & organization)
Other community needs, opportunities & things happening at Guild