Here are a few tips while attending The Castskill Mountain Maker Camp 2026. Be properly dressed! That means have PPE (personal protective equipment). Eye protection is a must! Hearing protection, gloves, boots (with steel toes), head cover and maybe a dust mask are all suggested depending on your activity. A bandana is always helpful as a face covering, a rag or just as a handkerchief.

If you are new, there are many makers who swap stickers if you are interested. You sticker may be your logo or your Instagram handle or your contact info. Not required but fun. to trade.

Maintain your health! Stay hydrated! Have lots of water and electrolytes. Be sure to eat when necessary so you do not become "hangry". Keep you medication close especially if you are diabetic, have food allergies, bee allergies or just under a care of a doctor!!! Sun protection is important while out in the field. Dress appropriately for the weather. It can be very hot, very cold even very wet. Plan accordingly. Sun block, hat, extra clothes and even rain clothes are good ideas.

If you are interested in gathering with Friends of Bill W. then please reach out to me Tom @the_phoenix_woodshop or

Adam @uncle_sam_metalworks

Crafting a Maker Community: Insights from Austin Handel

Welcome back to Create and Connect, the podcast where craft meets conversation. I'm your host, Tom from the Phoenix Wood Shop. In this episode, we dive into the inspiring journey of Austin Handel, a cornerstone of the EStorm community and the driving force behind the Blackthorne Makers Camp. His family's Blackthorne Resort has been transformed into a vibrant hub for makers, uniting craftsmen in a collaborative environment. Today, we explore how Austin is reshaping the landscape of hands-on creativity and the importance of community in the maker movement.

http://www.catskillmountainmakerscamp.com/

Some Makers you may know or have heard before:
Ethan Carter

Dennis Forrester

Papa Chad

Pat Reynolds
Jimmy DiResta