Originally published in 2018. Updated July 2025 for context.
The North Forge FabLab played a pivotal role in helping Ava Foster bring her woodworking passion to life. As the founder of what was once Bow & Arrow Furniture Co., Ava transformed her creative drive into a successful artisan brand that blended woodworking craftsmanship with contemporary design. The North Forge FabLab gave her the tools and community she needed to grow, both creatively and professionally.
A lifelong love of woodworking
Ava’s journey began with a childhood fascination for carving and building. That early curiosity eventually led her to study metalsmithing and jewelry design before transitioning into hairstyling. While working in that field, her love for furniture resurfaced, and she dove into refinishing and repurposing pieces.
With a desire to build more than just restore, Ava attended an artisan furniture program in Ontario. After returning to Winnipeg, she sold her home to fund her vision and needed access to equipment to bring her ideas to life.
Finding the right space at the FabLab
A friend introduced Ava to the North Forge FabLab. After one tour, she knew it was the perfect place.
“Not having access to machines means I would only be refinishing furniture,” she said. “I wouldn’t be able to build. I wouldn’t be able to even cut out a cutting board.”
Beyond the equipment, the FabLab community gave Ava something more: confidence and camaraderie.
“Being around entrepreneurs helped me get rid of some self-limiting beliefs,” she shared. “If I have a difficult client or customer, I know the North Forge entrepreneurs have my back.”
A storefront, a legacy, and continued community
Though her retail storefront is no longer open, Ava Foster continues to create handcrafted home goods under her own name and brand. The transition from Bow & Arrow to Ava Foster reflects her evolution as a maker, an entrepreneur, and an individual. You can explore her work online at avafoster.art.
She’s still a familiar face at the North Forge FabLab. While Ava’s ultimate dream is to open a shop with her own equipment, she values the mentorship and entrepreneurial support at North Forge too much to walk away. She credits former Director Marney Stapley and fellow FabLab member Matt Olson for much of her early success.
Paying it forward
Now, Ava hopes to support emerging entrepreneurs in the same way others supported her. Her journey is a reminder that the right tools, mentors, and spaces, like the North Forge FabLab, can help transform passion into business and personal growth.
Are you ready to start your maker journey like Ava did?
Learn how the North Forge FabLab can help turn your ideas into reality. Book a tour today.
