Modern Approach
In 2026, Firsthand Framebuilding will open a modern, fully-equipped bicycle fabrication school in Portland, Oregon.
Last fall, we purchased a warehouse in the John’s Landing neighborhood of South Portland. After several months of planning and permitting, we’re now underway renovating the warehouse into a world-class framebuilding shop. In addition to the purpose-built frame shop, our new space will include a dedicated design & discussion classroom, computer lab, on-site apartment for our guest instructors, and—of course—our framebuilding supply & Reynolds warehouse.
The Firsthand school will include a wide variety of courses for new and experienced fabricators alike. Brazing & welding classes, manual machining instruction, CAD, 3DP & CNC workshops, frame fit & design courses, small business seminars, and full-fledged multi-week framebuilding experiences… We’re excited to share more about what we’ll be offering next year. All of our courses will be taught by invited guest instructors, supported by a passionate group of experienced in-house builders. The Firsthand school represents a new, modern approach to framebuilding education and professional development.
Stay in the loop
If you're interested in what we've got cooking, sign up to receive our monthly-ish newsletter, below. We'll be sharing progress photos and more details in the months to come.
Come pass the torch
Our goal is to cultivate a new generation of independent builders, stoking the coals of small-scale bicycle fabrication and traditional craft in the US and beyond.
If you're a career framebuilder or fabricator and are interested in passing your knowledge down to the next generation, get in touch. We'd love to share more details.
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chris@firsthand.bike