We provide easy access to tools and knowledge for artists and artisans.
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About
Atelier Bon Train is an inclusive woodworking studio that seeks to provide affordable access to woodworking tools and machinery for artisans and artists, and offer specialized services to visual artists. Established in the fall of 2020 by Rafaël Khoury, Kevin Husereault and Elizabeth Xu, Bon Train originated from a modest basement studio in the Plateau-Mont Royal. Khoury, Huserault and Xu set out to foster a unique, diverse and inclusive space for artists and woodworkers to share skills and knowledge. We welcome anyone to join us in our mission to serve the community better.
Machinery
We are equipped with all essential machinery for furniture and cabinetry fabrication. Click HERE for a detailed list.
Workshops
We are open to host workshops throughout the year. Please reach out if you would like to be involved or if you'd like to lead your own session. Follow us on instagram to keep up to date on upcoming events.
Stage
Atelier Bon Train periodically accepts stagieres. This internship allows eligible candidates to develop various skillsets from woodworking to community organizing.
Co-founders
Liz Xu is a Montreal-based woodworker and educator, specializing in the support and fabrication of artistic projects within the creative community. She holds a BFA in Print Media from Concordia University, and a DEP in Cabinetmaking from Rosemount Technology Centre. She is passionate about using her skills to facilitate the visions of artists, as well as sharing her skills with beginners in the woodworking field to empower them within the often male-dominated trade.
Rafaël Khoury is an artist and cabinetmaker dedicated to helping others in navigating the world of woodworking. He balances his contract work with sculptural projects and collaborations with fellow artists. Through his efforts to build bridges between art and trade he aims to foster relationships between artists, designers and builders. He holds a DEP in Cabinetmaking from Rosemount Technology Centre.
Kevin Husereault is a woodworker based in Tiohtià:ke/Montreal. With a background in community organizing and social work, Kevin brings a passion for accessibility and inclusivity to his woodworking craft. He studied at L'École Nationale du Meuble et de l'Ébénisterie, as well as Concordia and UQàM.
Services
Rentals
Daily - $15/hour $75/day
Our space is available for hourly or daily rentals from Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm
Monthly - $400/part-time $500/full-time
Includes 24/7 access
A half month’s rent + $50 insurance fee is required to join as a monthly member.
Consultation
Support and expert advice on the fabrication aspects of projects for artists, woodworkers, and artisans. - $20/half hour
Craftsfolk for hire
We have curated a list of builders in Montreal. Whether you're seeking custom construction services or professional consultation, we invite you to browse our list and reach out. If you’re a maker and would like to be added to the directory, please fill out our form:
Directory
Application form
Testimonials
"I joined Atelier Bon Train in 2019, looking for a woodworking space. The queer-friendly environment and convenient location were perfect for me. Currently, I'm restoring an antique grand piano here."
-Jean-Paul Corbeil, Woodworker
"The woodshop at Atelier Bon Train has all the necessary tools and a welcoming, communal atmosphere. It's where I'm bringing my university sculpture project to life, and the support from Atelier Bon Train's team is invaluable."
-Myriam Simard-Parent, Artist & Woodworker
"Atelier Bon Train's friendly atmosphere and flexible pricing per hour made it a fantastic choice for me. It's a safe and accessible space, and their commitment to prioritizing the BIPOC community is commendable."
-Melissa Visitacion, Woodworker
"I discovered the shop on Facebook and was drawn by its welcoming atmosphere, cleanliness, and affordability. It's a communal space where I made friends while working on my art, and I highly recommend Atelier Bon Train."
-Shauna Gass, Artist
"I decided to go to Atelier Bon Train because a friend suggested going, and the location was really ideal for me. The shop is spacious and well-organized, with great lighting, making it a pleasure to work there. All of my needs were met, and I would suggest that anyone go work there; the rate was really reasonable, and the team is really pleasant."
-Henry Acteson, Designer
"The shop at Atelier Bon Train is clean, well-organized, and equipped with everything one would need for almost any woodworking project. Being able to ask for assistance from Rafaël or Kevin at Atelier Bon Train is a huge plus, they are very knowledgeable and sometimes you just need an extra hand with bigger projects and cuts. I felt that Atelier Bon Train provided all that was necessary and more. They offered flexibility in use as well as the option to store materials which is a huge convenience. I would quickly recommend Atelier Bon Train to anyone seeking a workshop, temporary or otherwise."ˆ
-Nick Howe, Artist