The Factory is a space for people to make, design, prototype and manufacture. It is located at Filwood Green Business Park in Knowle West, Bristol.
We support a diverse community of residents, small businesses and creatives to develop new skills, test prototypes, create products, and connect with others.
In neighbourhoods that have historically been over-consulted and had social infrastructure removed, building these skills to transform ideas into reality is essential for building community wealth and showing how things could be different.
Innovate UK Workshop (2021). Image credit: Ibi Feher.Image Credit: Ibi Feher.
Factory Open Day for Women (2022). Image credit: Ania Shrimpton.Image Credit: Ibi Feher.
For Individuals
Our membership programme grants access to excellent digital fabrication facilities including: laser cutting, vinyl cutting, UV printing, 3D printing, digital embroidery, and more. We also offer technician support with product development and prototyping services.
Membership costs just £5 per month – a small subscription that helps support our work. Additional charges for equipment hire and inductions are based on usage. As a member, you can book our equipment and inductions throughout the week (Monday-Friday, 9:30 AM–5:00 PM), subject to availability.
Everyone is welcome to join our membership programme, there are no restrictions on location. Minimum age for membership is 18 years, if you are younger then check out our young peoples programme.
To learn more about the benefits of membership, check out our membership handbook and explore our kit list. If you want to sign up or find out more, contact us or email: factory@kwmc.org.uk.
Alongside this, we often host courses and one-off workshops, which you can find on our What’s On page.
For Organisations or Groups
We can run social and environmental actionworkshops or activities for groups and organisations. Please get in touch to find out more and have a chat with one of our team to explore how you can make the most of the space. Visit here for more information about hiring the space.
Woodworking & Commissions
We have a woodworking space and CNC machine. Head to our commissions page to find out more. We particularly welcome creative, social or environmental justice commissions that align with KWMC’s mission.
