Tucked away at the end of Jackson Terminal is a studio/workshop that, while easy to miss if you’re not looking, is an incredible asset to the Maker community in Knoxville. When many shops were shuttering their doors in 2020, Spencer and Melody Ratliff were setting out to make their dream of opening a space that could be a communal workshop offering woodworking tools to share and spaces for more small businesses and hobbyists to pass each other in the hallway every day with that needed human interaction instead of working alone. Spencer already owned and operated Old North Designs but believed there could be more. Able Trade opened at 203 Jackson Ave. on the far left of the Jackson Terminal building in a 16,000 sqft space in July 2020.
Fast-forward four and a half years, and they have not only increased their physical footprint from 16,000 to 24,000 sqft, but they have also added an extensive metal working space with over 20 tools that members have access to, 30 tools for woodworking, a photography studio space, a dedicated showcase space for artists, class offerings, lumber storage, several new private studio spaces, a conference room and more.
I had never visited Able Trade’s space despite my love for First Friday Art Walks, so I reached out to Melody, who runs the operations side of the business, to tour the space and chat about the opportunities they offer the Knoxville community.
One of the most impressive things I have seen while interviewing business owners and creatives in Knoxville with this blog is that everyone I have met with has a vested interest in making Knoxville a great city to live in, with makers supporting makers and businesses supporting businesses. Spencer and Melody are no different. They believe that providing a communal space for creatives to come together, whether working together or not, gives inspiration and energy to their work. This blurb from their website says it best.
Instead of prioritizing the culture of “mine,” Able Trade believes in the age-old concept of sharing.
Instead of isolating in a shop with only piles of sawdust to talk to we believe an awkward smile and nod while you pass by the same people day after day in the long warehouse hallway is best.
Instead of trying to do everything on your own, we think asking for advice, getting help, and working together creates greater success.
Able Trade is a membership based shared wood and metal shop designed for the industrial entrepreneur. We are here to make it easier to enjoy woodworking, metalworking and other art ventures by providing resources, knowledge, tools, space, community and exposure.
There are various ways to get involved at Able Trade.
Take a class! They have several coming up: crafting Carolina Snowflakes, an Introduction to Woodworking and a Wood Turning class. Spencer will teach an introduction to woodworking class for couples, where attendees can make a beautiful cutting board to take home. Sign up for their mailing list to learn about upcoming classes and events.
Attend a First Friday Art Walk, check out their artist studio (the next one for them is in March!) and meet the featured artist. If you want to be featured at Able Trade, reach out HERE. You can also get involved with a membership or studio space to create your own spiffy textiles!
Able Trade offers memberships and private studio spaces in Downtown Knoxville. It is a place for creatives to collaborate with individuals in similar industries while operating and growing their own businesses in private studios. It is flexible enough to cater to hobbyists, beginners, and professionals. There are currently only FOUR available.
Weekend Member
Friday-Sunday 7 am – 9 pm
$100/month
Full-Time Member
Sunday-Saturday 7 am – 9 pm
$200/month
Pro Member
24/7 Access
$200/month + $2.50/sq. ft. studio space
Studios are 150 sq ft and larger
Membership Includes Access To:
Woodworking machine shop
Metal machine shop
Finishing Room
Photography studio
Loading dock
Forklift services
Lumber storage (additional fees apply)
Discounts on classes & workshops
Break room & full kitchen
Conference room
Internet & Utilities
Community of really cool people
Present Able Trade Members:
Thomas Noggle Studios
