Workshops
The WMU Office for Sustainability hosts in-person and virtual workshops throughout the year. These workshops are designed for communities to share knowledge related to sustainability. Workshops are led by those with knowledge in the topic and are open to anyone interested coming in at any skill level. If one of the workshops focuses on something you want to learn more about, reserve your spot today! Detailed information about each workshop is listed below.
All workshops and chats will be held on WMU's campus. These events are for WMU students, staff and faculty. Please see location details under each listed event. WMU students can register for these workshops at no cost. Bring your Bronco ID card for verification. Cycling is encouraged.
SCOBY Doo, Where Are You?
Facilitator: Andon D. (Studio Coordinator)
Date and Time: Friday, Feb. 6 at noon to 1 p.m.
Format: In-person (15 spots)
Location: The Office for Sustainability
Details: Learn the art of crafting kombucha using locally sourced ingredients. This hands-on workshop covers kombucha's history, the brewing process, and flavor experimentation. Participants will create their own kombucha batch, sample different varieties, and receive a SCOBY to continue brewing at home.
What the Duck?
Facilitator: Finn W. (Bike Mechanic)
Date and Time: Friday, Feb. 27 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Format: In-person (10 spots)
Location: Office for Sustainability (Studio)
Details: Discover woodcarving, where you will craft a wooden duck by using traditional hand tools! Participants will learn about wood anatomy, while mastering the process of shaping a raw block into a finished piece of duck art. You will be able to take home handcrafted duck at the end of the session.
Sustainable Fashion Swap
Facilitator: Cameron C. (Communication Ambassador) with Students for a Sustainable Earth and MODA
Date and Time: March 25 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Format: In-person
Location: The Student Center: Student Organization Center (SOC)
Details: This collaborative workshop combines a clothing swap with a mending workshop. Participants can refresh their wardrobes for free by exchanging items collected during SSE’s week-long clothing drive. At the MODA table, members will teach "visible mending" techniques like decorative stitching and darning to help you repair or personalize your finds. It is a one-stop shop to learn new craft skills, reduce textile waste, and build a more sustainable campus community.
Sustainable Suds
Facilitator(s): Yusuf R. (Communication Ambassador) and Allison S. (Graphic Designer)
Date and Time: Tuesday, April 14 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Format: In-person (15 spots)
Location: Office for Sustainability (main room)
Details: This workshop offers a practical and affordable introduction to making your own eco-friendly soap. You'll learn the basic principles of soapmaking using natural, plant-based ingredients that are gentle on your skin and the environment. We'll focus on sourcing sustainable oils and butters and using essential oils for fragrance instead of synthetic chemicals. By the end of the workshop, you'll have a batch of handmade soap!