A new workshop studio in Detroit’s Midtown district is loaning do-it-yourself landscaping and home improvement tools free of charge as the COVID-19 pandemic continues and people wait to hire professional help.
Carhartt, a workwear clothing manufacturer founded in Detroit in 1889 that today is based in Dearborn, has launched the Carhartt Workshop, a collaborate community space located on the second floor of its flagship store at 5800 Cass Ave. in Detroit’s Midtown neighborhood.
Through the workshop, community members will have free access to tools and landscaping equipment needed for home improvement. The workshop also will offer space to rent for meetings, training sessions, and workshops. Anyone can use the workshop’s resources.
The Carhartt Workshop Tool Bench rental service opened its doors to the community on Thursday, allowing individuals to choose from 150 different tools cost free. Other services will open in phases due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“As a company that is committed to serving and protecting hardworking people, we thought that providing a space where the community could gather would allow them to foster relationships with others and feel empowered to build and create,” says Gretchen Valade, director of sustainability for Carhartt and a fifth generation Carhartt family member
Those interested can visit Carhartt.com/workshop to reserve tools. Once users register, they can secure the tools online and pick them up. During pick up, users can receive on-site guidance and training or use curbside pickup.
The workshop is implementing a multi-level cleaning regimen for all of its tools, including a spray disinfectant, UVC-virus killing lights, handling all tools with clean gloves, and using a sanitizing tagging system.
Hours of operation are from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday.
The new space also will offer two community rooms and feature a space dedicated to Carhartt’s history. Opening dates for these have yet to be determined.
