Urban Boatbuilders

05/19/2026

We'll be at American Craft Council's Craft Fest in St. Paul at Union Depot from June 13-14. Free and open to all. Get your tickets below!

That's right, folks. Link in bio to register your *free* tickets for American Craft Fest – St Paul and to get all of the details about this annual ACC craft show. We can't wait to see you in MN in June!

05/13/2026

We recently kicked off our longboard partnership program with MIGIZI! Students began their builds by choosing their woods, finding the centerline, and getting their hands dirty with lots of gluing. We're excited to see how their longboards come together!

05/12/2026

Come ! Join Urban Boatbuilders this Thursday at Silver Lake for a free community event celebrating canoes, connection, and time on the water. We'll be bringing our youth-built canoes and offering free rides to the public. Canoes, safety vests, and paddles will be provided- just bring yourself and some friends for a fun evening out on the lake!

This is a great opportunity to experience these beautiful handcrafted canoes firsthand, enjoy an afternoon on the lake, and learn about our youth programs. All ages and paddling levels welcome!

🕰️ When: Thursday, May 14, 5-7PM
📍 Where: Silverwood Park, 2500 County Rd E, St Anthony, MN 55421
🔗 RSVP here: https://go.levitate.ai/?s=0c62LWIjrI&source=event

04/18/2026

Our paddle-making classes are hands-on and beginner-friendly, a relaxed way to connect with others, and a welcoming entry point into our mission with youth.

When you join a class, you’re supporting programs that empower young people through woodworking and experiential learning.

See upcoming paddle-making classes and sign up here: https://www.urbanboatbuilders.org/woodworking-classes

04/01/2026

📣We are excited to announce a new staff position and member of the Urban Boatbuilder staff! We have recently hired a paddling instructor who will teach the young people we serve how to become proficient paddlers on their hand built boats, and we couldn't have been luckier than to have Hadley Wong (she/her) take on this new role. 🛶

Hadley has been a familiar face in the Urban Boatbuilders community for some time, and, despite having no thumbs, she brings an impressive background in paddling and has boated across many iconic bodies of water, including the Boundary Waters. Just goes to show how she can overcome anything! She is also passionate about water safety, working with young people, and exploring the outdoors. In her free time, Hadley enjoys walks, lamb toys, and treats. (Disclaimer: In order to keep everyone safe, neither treats nor lamb toys will be allowed during on-water teaching sessions.)

Join us in congratulating Hadley on her new position! 🥳

03/28/2026

Our paddle-making classes are coming up on April 2 and 4.

You’ll step into the shop, use real tools, and watch a simple board slowly become a paddle you can be proud of. No experience needed.

If that sounds like your kind of project, you can find details and sign up here: https://www.urbanboatbuilders.org/woodworking-classes

03/25/2026

Tonight! We hope to see you there!

Looking for a midweek pick-me-up? Join us NEXT Wednesday for Boardgames with Boatbuilders—an evening of , , and some fun friendly competition. Games (and pizza!) will be provided- but feel free to bring your own. We’d love to see you there! 🎲🎮

When: Wed, March 25th, 6-7:30PM
Where: Urban Boatbuilders workshop, 2288 University Ave W, St. Paul, MN 55114
RSVP here: https://secure.lglforms.com/form_engine/s/CddYD7wTxik5b-kfYzELpA

03/24/2026

Spring has a way of quietly reminding us that growth can be steady and gentle. The same is true in our shop. With each project, young people are building skills, confidence, and a sense of belonging that lasts.

This spring, if you’re looking for a way to support that kind of growth, you can learn more about what guides our work or take a next step here: https://www.urbanboatbuilders.org/our-mission-values

02/06/2026

Congratulations to the class of Fall/Winter 2025! Apprentices built two gorgeous Wilderness Traveler and celebrated their accomplishments and the end of the cohort with their family and friends. (Take a close look at the stunning yoke and thwart art, showcasing flowers from different cultures!) 🎉🌻🛶