Teased at MADE last month, Firsthand Framebuilding has plans to open a modern, fully equipped bicycle fabrication school in Portland, Oregon, with classes starting next year. Learn more about this exciting project here…

Firsthand Framebuilding has plans to launch a comprehensive suite of framebuilding classes in 2026, picking up where the United Bicycle Institute (UBI) left off after their last framebuilding class in 2022. From the first cut to the finished frame, the Firsthand team will not only support builders with physical resources to fabricate, but they’re also heavily vested in education, with plans for classroom areas, a metalworking shop, event areas, and more. This is exciting news following Firsthand’s founder, Chris Blandford, who took over the distribution contract for Reynolds tubing in North America.

  • firsthand framebuilding school
  • firsthand framebuilding school

Chris has purchased a building for the school and Firsthand’s permanent HQ, and renovations are currently in progress. The 8,000-square-foot framebuilding “hub” is set to open in 2026, offering classes and events for aspiring builders, veteran fabricators, and enthusiasts alike. Rotating guest instructors will pass down decades of experience in a welcoming and supportive environment, with resident builders present to assist students every step of the way. The newly renovated space will include a 3,000-square-foot metalworking shop along with a dedicated classroom and discussion space, computer lab, indoor and outdoor event areas, an on-site apartment for our guest instructors, and house Firsthand’s supply shop and warehouse.

Chris explains, “It’s been 10 years since I took UBI’s (now shuttered) framebuilding course here in Portland. In that time, the scene in Portland and beyond has changed significantly. I’ve observed what was once a fire slowly burn itself out. I’m more convinced than ever, however, that there’s a strong enthusiasm and curiosity for framebuilding still out there. The strongest part of a fire is so often its embers; I’m excited to stoke the framebuilding coals a bit here in town. Attending UBI truly changed my life; now I want to give others a similar, Firsthand experience within this unique craft.”

firsthand framebuilding school
  • firsthand framebuilding school
  • firsthand framebuilding school

Classes will vary in length and focus, offering blocks of instruction suitable for both enthusiasts and master builders. With multiple “Resident Builders” on staff to assist students, Firsthand’s Framebuilding School provides a new and innovative approach to bicycle fabrication, ensuring the craft is passed on to future generations. Those interested in learning more about Firsthand’s schedule and enrollment can register their interest here.

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