For the third year in a row, the Pajama Factory is hosting the annual week long gathering of the American Lutherie Institute (ALI) Restoration Workshop the week of June 16.

According to a news release from the Pajama Factory, founded and incorporated in 2024, ALI was established to continue the legacy of the internationally renowned violin restoration workshops formerly held at Oberlin College in Ohio.

“Following a successful transition to Williamsport in 2024, the Pajama Factory has proven to be an ideal long-term home for this prestigious event,” the news release said. “This year’s workshop will bring together over 70 luthiers from around the world, creating a dynamic environment of collaboration, skill-sharing, and technical exploration. Participants ranged from emerging professionals to master restorers, all engaged in a weeklong, hands-on think tank focused on the most advanced restoration techniques in the field.”

The public is welcome to visit the workshop between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m., provided they check in with workshop staff upon arrival.

Jerry Lynn, Williamsport native and ALI co-founder, recognized the potential of the Pajama Factory to support this world-class initiative. With the support of Mark Winkelman and Becca Berry, the building will be transformed into a fully equipped restoration studio.

Additional community involvement included catering by Jason Matty of the Sticky Elbow and the crucial contributions of Jeffrey Aurand and the Factory Works Community Woodshop, who constructed 60 custom-designed benches for the workshop. These modular benches — easily assembled without power tools — were made possible through a grant from the Violin Society of America.

ALI is led by an expert administrative team including Jerry Lynn, Jeff Holmes, Jerry Pasewicz, and David Orlin, who annually curate a distinguished lineup of guest instructors and seasoned staff to guide participants.

Guest instructors include Tom Croen, anaward-winning violin maker known for teaching instrument setup and Mark Norfleet, a 40-year industry veteran recognized for solving complex restoration challenges.