Client spotlight: Create Makerspace
- Community Futures Howe Sound
- 9 hours ago
- 4 min read
The Sea to Sky is a mecca for outdoor adventure, but what about creative indoor pursuits?
Create Makerspace has quickly become a hub for indoor adventures – for woodworking, pottery, metalwork, digital fabrication, textiles, and a little bit of everything in between. It’s there for creatives looking to try a new hobby just as much as it is for tourists looking for things to do, artists needing a space to work, and businesses looking for fun teambuilding activities.
We recently spoke to Oscar Radevsky, Founder of Create Makerspace, to learn more about what led to the business’ origins, their biggest challenges, how Community Futures has played a role, and more.
How did Create Makerspace get started?
Create Makerspace was born out of a personal need and a passion for hands-on learning. I was previously a member of the CoLab, a makerspace in East Vancouver, where I learned woodworking and metalworking and even launched a small side business making furniture. Beyond the skills, I experienced the power of community and shared resources.
When I moved to Squamish, I quickly realized how much I missed having access to that kind of space—and how there wasn’t anything like it here. So I decided to build it. Judging by the enthusiastic response from the community, it was something that was sorely needed.
What is the product or service you’re most proud of?
It’s hard to choose just one. Our classes have empowered so many people to learn new skills in woodworking, pottery, digital fabrication and more—seeing that growth and confidence is incredibly rewarding.
On the design and fabrication side, we’ve created everything from custom signs to branded products and local souvenirs, which showcase the creative potential of the space. But if I had to pick, I’d say I’m most proud of the growing community of members at Create. The sense of connection, collaboration, and support that’s forming here is really special.
What do you love most about living and working in the Sea to Sky?
I originally moved here for the mountains and the outdoors, but what’s really stood out to me is the incredible community. People here are genuinely open, engaged, and supportive—it’s an honour to be able to contribute to that spirit. The arts and culture scene in Squamish has historically been undernourished, so it’s been exciting to see that side of the community growing and coming to life.
What business advice do you wish someone gave you when you got started?
Budget way more than you think you’ll need—everything takes longer and costs more than expected.
Take an accounting or bookkeeping course early on; it’ll save you countless headaches. - Trust experts to do their job. Trying to do everything yourself often leads to mistakes that cost more to fix later.
And most importantly, make sure your team feels valued. A motivated, appreciated team makes all the difference.
What has been your biggest challenge so far, and how have you overcome it?
One of the biggest challenges was navigating the bureaucracy—especially working with the fire department and ensuring compliance for a space that spans so many disciplines. Each area, from woodworking to digital fabrication, comes with its own set of protocols, and aligning everything took time and persistence.
Another major lesson was realizing the danger of trying to do too much at once. In the beginning, I was spreading myself thin across multiple revenue streams. I’ve learned to start simple, focus on one area at a time, and build solid foundations before expanding.
Do you have any exciting plans for Create Makerspace you can share?
Absolutely! We're exploring the potential to add individual studios for artists and makers who need dedicated space to grow their practice. We're also excited about expanding into new areas like jewelry making, which has been a popular request.
And looking further ahead, there’s a blue-sky vision of franchising Create Makerspace in other communities across the province—bringing the same creative energy and collaborative spirit to new places that could really benefit from it.
How has Community Futures Howe Sound helped your business?
Community Futures Howe Sound has been an incredible support. Their business and financial advice has been invaluable, especially in the early stages of getting Create off the ground.
They’ve also been, hands down, the nicest lender you could ever hope to work with—approachable, supportive, and genuinely invested in our success. On top of that, they’ve sponsored events we’ve hosted that support local entrepreneurs, helping us foster a stronger, more connected small business community.
Do you have any other local businesses you particularly admire?
Some of our clients have been so supportive. Obsidian Athletic Club, Mons Royale, Mountain Fitness Centre, Alex Fowkes, The Wilder and Sleestak are just a few that spring to mind. Each of them is excelling and inspiring in their own ways. Also the Squamish Arts Council has been very supportive to us in different ways so I want to give a shout out to them.
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